Hearing the Word
Sermon 31 in Series
Luke 8:16-21
[16] “No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light. [17] For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light. [18] Take care then how you hear, for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away.”
[19] Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him because of the crowd. [20] And he was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you.” [21] But he answered them, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.”
DEEP SHEET: Sermon Study Questions
1. How does this passage/set of passages continue the theme of the Parable of the Sower? What is Luke’s overarching point as he pulls this material together?
2. How does the language of vv. 16-18 show that these are not loosely related sayings? What is the logic of this section?
3. Where else throughout Scripture do we see this emphasis on being a careful hearer of the Word? What is the effect of not hearing carefully?
4. How does this passage warn both the unbeliever and the believer? How does it challenge you to be more attentive and receptive when you encounter the Scriptures?
5. How does Jesus’ response to his family’s arrival highlight his priorities? How does it emphasize the eternal significance of knowing/belonging to Jesus?
6. What does it look like to be a hearer but not a doer? How does this show up in the day-to-day life of a Christian?
References: Matthew 7:15-27 (corporate reading); Luke 24:44; Matthew 5:15-16; 1 Corinthians 4:5; Ecclesiastes 12:14; Romans 2:16; Deuteronomy 4:9; 32:46-47; Proverbs 2:1-2; Hebrews 2:1; Matthew 25:28; Luke 1:35; Matthew 13:55-56; Mark 3:21; John 7:5; Acts 1:14; Galatians 1:19; Hebrews 2:11; 1 John 3:23; Galatians 5:6; James 1:22; 2:17; Romans 2:13; 8:4; Luke 6:46
