This week’s sermon series, The Gospel of Luke, Part II: A Journey through Galilee, A Mission of Mercy Towards Sinners, signifies a great transition in the ministry of Jesus Christ from His authentication to His mission of mercy. Up through this point in the book of Luke, the emphasis has been on the authentication of Christ in various ways: His genealogy and life, His own testimony, the testimony of God The Father, others’ testimonies, and through many miraculous signs and wonders. In Luke 9:51-56, Jesus pivots towards Jerusalem to fulfill the final acts of His earthly life and His ascension into heaven. In this passage, Jesus reveals His purpose, rebukes the two disciples, and extends the invitation of acceptance and involvement in His mission of mercy.
