A Leper Cleansed
Sermon 15 in Series
Luke 5:12-16
[12] While he was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy. And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged him, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” [13] And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him. [14] And he charged him to tell no one, but “go and show yourself to the priest, and make an offering for your cleansing, as Moses commanded, for a proof to them.” [15] But now even more the report about him went abroad, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities. [16] But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.
DEEP SHEET: Sermon Study Questions
1. As we reflect on Advent, what does it mean to say that we are a remembering and waiting people? How does the Lord’s Supper remind us of these realities?
2. How does Luke describe the leper’s condition and his attitude towards Jesus? In contrast to the leper, how do we sometimes relate to the Lord with an entitlement mentality?
3. What does this story show us about Jesus? Where do we see his compassion and authority in particular?
4. How does leprosy serve as a picture/symbol of sin? How does this increase our appreciation for Christ’s atonement?
5. What instructions does Jesus give the man? What do these instructions communicate about Jesus’ mission?
6. As we think about the man’s disobedience (mentioned in Mark 1:45), what does it look like for enthusiasm to trump obedience in our lives? How have you seen this play out?
7. How does this passage emphasize prayer? How does it motivate you to re-prioritize prayer in your daily life?References: 1 Corinthians 11:25-26; Mark 1:40-45; Matthew 8:1-4; Luke 4:43; John 4:34; Luke 17:12; Colossians 4:14; Leviticus 13-14; Luke 7:22; John 6:15; Galatians 4:4.
