Lessons Learned:Lesson 4- New Testament
Unit 2:
Choice 2: Luke 16:1-12, 19-31; 17:11-19; 18:1-14. Parables and Accounts That Teach Eternal Truths.
1. Study the following parables and accounts along with the accompanying commentary from the institute student manual. Describe in writing what you feel is the major principle the Lord wants us to understand from each of the parables:
a. Luke 16:1-12, the parable of the unjust steward. “The Children of This World Are in Their Generation Wiser than the Children of Light” (p. 124).
It is important to prepare wisely for the future and be aware of the consequences of our decisions.
b. Luke 16:19-31, the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. “What Do we Learn About the Spirit World from the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus? (pp. 124-125).
Listen to the prophets, study the scriptures, do the things you need to do in this life so that you can be comforted and not tormented in the life to come.
c. Luke 17:11-19, the ten lepers. “Why Were the Ten Lepers to Show Themselves to the Priests?” and “Were There Not Ten Cleansed?” (p. 130). See also the Bible Dictionary, “Leprosy” (p. 724).
We need to go and do what we are asked in faith, even if we don’t completely understand it, and make sure to be grateful for all that we receive.
d. Luke 18:1-8, the parable of the unjust judge. “Why Did the Lord Give the Parable of the Unjust Judge?” (p.131).
Trust that God hears our prayers and will answer them, and understand that we are required to ask Him for help when we need it.
e. Luke 18:9-14, the parable of the Pharisee and the publican. “Why Did the Lord Give the Parable of the Pharisee and Publican?” (p. 131).
Beware of being self-righteous and judgmental, as well as becoming complacent in spiritual things.
My Tho
ughts
I love reading the scriptures and finding principles that we can apply in our daily lives even now. Many people might believe that the Bible is too old for us to learn any applicable lessons for our lives today, but I completely disagree. If you take the time to think and ponder while you read, you will be able to find a wealth of valuable advice and information that you can apply to your life to help you to be happier, and to guide you through your trials and everyday experiences. I know that the scriptures will help us and enrich our lives with its wisdom if we but take the time to learn from it and apply it’s teaching to our lives.
