READ | SERMON NOTES
Summary l Society’s view of freedom contrasts with the freedom that Jesus speaks about – a freedom that is spiritual, wholistic and transformative. The freedom that Jesus gives is integral to the theology of mission. We need to understand the context of what took place in Luke chapter 4.
The Setting (vv.16-17)
Jesus had returned to Nazareth and went to the small synagogue that he had always been attending on the Sabbath day. Everyone attending would likely know each another.
The Declaration (vv18-21)
Jesus read scripture and was invited to preach. He read from Isaiah 61:1-2. The Jewish rabbis would have understood the passage to refer to the Messiah, who declares the arrival of divine salvation for the nation.
The Messiah is anointed by the Spirit and preaches the gospel to the poor and the captives. He ministers to and heals the broken hearted, gives sight to the blind, liberates those who are oppressed. The Messiah proclaims the year of the Lord’s favour, the year of jubilee and age of salvation.
The declaration by Jesus emphasises freedom and restoration. After reading the passage, Jesus declared that “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing”. The crowd was stunned. Jesus was not pointing to the coming Messiah, but had clearly identified himself as the promised Messiah!
Jesus made three points. He is anointed by the Spirit, He is a prophetic figure who declares the arrival of the new era, and He will bring about the release that he proclaims. Jesus functions as both prophet and Messiah. (Darrel L. Bock)
Discipleship lesson: When God calls us, He also anoints and equips the messenger with His Spirit. We too are called to preach the gospel and minister to the brokenhearted, blind and oppressed. Our church has many outreach initiatives where we can minister and bring the presence and hope of Christ to others in need.
The Reaction (vv22-30)
The crowd was initially amazed at his eloquence and the power of his message. But their opinion quickly changed when Jesus identified himself as the Messiah. They took offense that a local carpenter’s son would dare claim to be the Messiah. When the crowd demanded proof, Jesus knew their thoughts. He said to them “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his hometown”. Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will never believe. (Jn4:48) All in the synagogue were filled with wrath, but Jesus courageously continued with His mission. Discipleship lesson: Freedom in Christ requires courage to step beyond our comfort zones to serve others, especially the marginalised.
Jesus recalled two well-known stories. Elijah and the widow and Elisha and Naaman. (vv25-27) The crowd became angrier because Jesus highlighted God’s work in helping gentiles. Both the widow’s and Naaman’s hearts were turned toward God. Jesus offers freedom to those who accept God. This transcends culture and national boundaries. Jesus is merciful to those whose hearts are turned to him. Not just to the Jews, who profess to be God’s people. In the new covenant, God’s salvation is for all. (Eph2:11-22).
We must turn from our prideful ways toward Jesus who liberates us from sin, shame, fear and brokenness. Discipleship lesson: Salvation is more than just a profession of faith. Our hearts must be turned toward God in repentance and we must accept Christ in order to experience true freedom in Him.
God challenges us to be courageous. We may need to take a step of faith beyond our comfort zone. Jesus did so even though He knew he would be rejected.
Today Jesus’ mission continues through His disciples. We too can bring the freedom of Christ to others — a freedom that is wholistic, transformative and available to all who turn to Christ in faith.
(Sermon notes by Denis Koh)
PONDER | REFLECTION QUESTIONS
- In Luke 4:16-21, Jesus reads from Isaiah 61 and declares, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” What does this statement tell us about His mission?
- Why do you think the people of Nazareth were initially amazed at Jesus’ words but later rejected Him (vv. 22-30)?
- What does freedom in Christ mean to you, and how have you experienced it in your walk with Christ?
- Who in your life might be “broken-hearted, blind, or oppressed” and in need of this love of Christ? What practical ways can you bring this love of Christ to someone in need this season?
- What are some fears or obstacles that keep you from stepping out of your comfort zone to minister to others?
- Share a time when you took a courageous step to help someone. How did it affect you and the other person?
- How can your group or community encourage each other to live out the freedom Jesus gives?
