GOSPEL READING
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE
John the Baptist: Lk 7,18-35
These verses give us the main commentary in this Gospel about John the Baptist. Luke however just mentions the fate of John in prison (3,20 & 9,9) which is described in detail by Mark (Mk 6,14-29).
This presentation of John is told by both Luke and Matthew (Mt 11,2-19). The two versions are quite similar, though look for the two comments unique to Luke. The two Gospels also have different contexts for this scene. Look at how Luke has this scene following on from the preceeding scene.
Can you find the bracket marking the beginning and end of this section? Then look for the three subdivisons within.
Before we read in detail, take a look at my response.
Witness to the Ministry of Jesus: 7,18-23
John the Baptist was last mentioned in 3,20. The sending of two disciples recalls Deuteronomy 19,15 and anticipates 10,1. Note how the scene is set up in verses 19 & 20. See also 3,15-18.
How has Jesus' reply in verses 21-22 been fulfilled so far in the Gospel?
Note 7,23 compared to 6,20.
The Ministry of John the Baptist: 7,24-30
Jesus now speaks about the role of John, in terms which echo 3,1-20. How does Jesus describe John's role? How does Jesus compare John to himself? See also Acts 19,3-4
For the quotation in verse 27, look at 3,4 and then Mk 1,2. For background, look at Malachi 3,1 and Is 40,3.
What is the importance of the evangelist's own comment in verse 29 and especially verse 30? Where is the evidence for the statement in verse 30? See 3,10-14.
John and Jesus - Reactions: 7,31-35
Jesus now addresses the reactions he and John have aroused. In verse 32, he quotes a proverbial saying. For the application in verse 33, see 1,15. For verse 34, see 5,29-30 and there will be further examples later in the Gospel.
Compare 7,35 with Mt 11,19 and notice Luke's words. See also Wisdom 6,16-20.
Then go to my response.
This has prepared us to read the next episode where we meet a Pharisee and a sinner, Lk 7,36-50.