A Joyful Return

Sermon 44 in Series

Luke 10:17-24

[17] The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!” [18] And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. [19] Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. [20] Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

[21] In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. [22] All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”

[23] Then turning to the disciples he said privately, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see! [24] For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.”

DEEP SHEET: Sermon Study Questions
1.  Why were the disciples probably surprised as they carried out their mission? How would this have contributed to their joy as they returned?
2.  How does Jesus affirm the words of his disciples in this passage? How does he further clarify their relationship to Satan and demons?
3.  How does Jesus correct his disciples? What does this imply for us as we think about our own misdirected or wrongly prioritized joy?
4.  How have you seen joy in salvation fuel holiness and good works in your life? What happens when they are not fueled by joy?
5.  How does Jesus’ joyful prayer emphasize humility and God’s wisdom? How does it challenge your pride?
6.  How does Jesus describe himself as the Mediator? Where do we see doctrines like the Trinity, Christ’s two natures, and election in this passage?
7.  What comparison does Jesus draw in v. 24? How do these words increase your gratitude?

References: 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (corporate reading); Ephesians 6:10-11, 12; Isaiah 14:12; Luke 11:20; John 12:31; Colossians 2:15; Romans 16:20; Genesis 3:15; Revelation 12:9; Exodus 32:32; Philippians 4:3; Revelation 20:15; Matthew 7:22-23; Luke 4:14, 18; John 1:18; 1 Peter 1:10-12.