Bent Oak Church

Upon Jesus's death, Luke introduces us to a new and unexpected character: Joseph of Aramethia. A Jewish leader, Joseph, took a risk in requesting Jesus's body. Having received approval from Pilate, Joseph hurried to bury Jesus with dignity before the Sabbath. In our study, we take a closer look at Joseph and why Luke sees him as an important figure. 

Dive into the poignant final moments of Jesus as explored in a powerful passage from Luke. Feel the darkness and symbolism surrounding His death and the tearing of the temple curtain, signifying a deep spiritual awakening. Discover the profound implications of Jesus' last words, revealing themes of suffering and grace. Witness the varied emotional responses of those at the crucifixion, from detachment to deep recognition of His sacrifice, ultimately leading to messages of hope and redemption.

As we continue our study of Luke's gospel, we come to Jesus' crucifixion. We take a closer look at the two stories: the perspective of Rome and the Jewish leaders and the deeper story of what Christ was accomplishing. Through these two perspectives, we learn to understand better how God is working in our own lives and suffering. 

The religious leaders sought Jesus's death, but they didn't have the power to carry out that sentence. They needed Rome. So they handed Jesus over to Pilate. Jesus's death came as the leaders of the world coalesced around his execution. We take a closer look at Jesus's interrogation before Pilate and Herod Antipas. 

Jesus had predicted that Peter would deny him three times. Peter protested that he was ready to face arrest and even death with Jesus. But once Jesus was under arrest, Peter began his denials just as Jesus had predicted. We take a closer look at the passage and how it was Jesus' look that finally brought Peter back to himself. 

Jesus faces his impending betrayal at the Mount of Olives, grappling with intense emotional turmoil. He emphasizes the importance of prayer for himself and urges his disciples to stay awake and pray despite their struggles. The podcast explores how heartfelt communication with God in moments of agony can transform our experiences, highlighting the contrast between Jesus' deep submission to divine will and the disciples' distractions. This poignant reflection on prayer serves as a powerful reminder of its strength in times of trial.

At the Passover table, Jesus warns his disciples of the testing they will face, emphasizing their tendency to overestimate their faith. The metaphor of sifting wheat illustrates the challenges ahead, particularly for Peter. As temptations arise, the conflict between divine intention and earthly struggles is highlighted. Jesus's intercessory role offers assurance, encouraging reliance on God's faithfulness. The focus shifts to Jesus's sacrifices, urging humility and openness to His message as the audience prepares for Easter.

The time came for Jesus to celebrate the Passover with his disciples. Jesus served them the meal, but his disciples' minds quickly shifted to which of them was the greatest. Jesus explained that leading in his kingdom is not like leading in the world. We take a closer look at the Passover elements and how they model Christ's kingdom leadership. 

As Jesus' final hours approach, Luke prepares us with two stories of preparation. While Jesus' disciples prepare for the Passover meal, Judas prepares with the chief priests to betray Jesus and arrange his death. We look at both stories and discover how they offer us an image of true discipleship.

Having warned those worshipers in the temple of its coming destruction, Jesus turned his attention further into the future to warn of the last days but also to give his disciples hope of his return. We take a closer look at Jesus' words and how we should think about the end times.