The bull of St Luke

THE GOSPEL OF LUKE

Bearing Fruit: Lk 12,54-13,9

As noted earlier, Jesus is now addressing his speech to the crowds. It's worth considering the role of the crowd as the audience. What word is used in 12,56 and 13,15? Note how this is different to Matthew, Mt 15,7 or Mt 23,13 for example.

Note that there are three teachings and a parable in this part of the speech, one teaching coming in two parts. Look at the theme of each teaching.
Note just how much of these verses is unique to Luke.

Then look at my response.

Interpreting Signs: 12,54-46

We have seen that there is a change of audience in verse 54 and that this will continue to be the audience through to 13,10. In 12,56 and again in 13,15, Jesus speaks of "hypocrites": how does this refer back to 12,1?

Judge rightly: 12,57-59

What is Jesus' point here?

It is interesting to compare 12,57-59 with Mt 5,25-26. This is one of the many times when evangelists have used the same sayings for quite different purposes. How is Luke preparing for what follows, 13,1-9?

Repent: Lk 13,1-5

"At that very time.." in verse 1 provides continuity with the preceding, the last verses of chapter 12 (12,54-59). Consider how the warnings there lead into the theme of repent and repent now.

In verses 1-5 we hear about two accidents. Where do they take place and why is that significant? What are the key phrases in both? See, for example, Job chapter 2 and 4,7-8. Compare Psalms 37 and 73. What does Jesus say about those involved in the accidents?
Note how these verses reflect chapter 12, look at verses 20.37.40.46.

Bearing Fruit: Lk 13,6-9

Note how in verse 6, the parable is connected to the call to repentance by "then".

Vines and figs have a rich Biblical background. Take a look at Micah 4,4, Zechariah 3,10 or Joel 2,22. See also Lk 3,9.

The vineyard features in the song of Isaiah 5. Who is the owner of that vineyard?

What therefore is the message of the parable? How does it bring the preceeding teachings to a conclusion?

Now, have a look at my response.

We now continue with Jesus' teaching arising from a sabbath healing, 13,10-21.