CFC HOME STUDY QUESTIONS & MESSAGE SUPPLEMENT

INDEPENDENCE SUNDAY 6/30/24 “The Lord’s Favor” – Luke 4:16-21

Think about it:

In the story of “Robin Hood,” King Richard has left the country for war. His younger brother, Prince John, assumes the throne and rules as an oppressive dictator. The Sheriff of Nottingham enforces the narcissistic wishes of Prince John on the people and punishes all who declare ongoing loyalty to King Richard. There are some who remain loyal to King Richard, and many who subject themselves to Prince John for the hope of appeasing his selfish appetite and living in relative peace. In the end, King Richard returns and assumes his throne. He delivers appropriate punishment on all who participated in the oppression of the people in his kingdom.

Now, we know that God never leaves us, but the worldly are separated from Him by sin. He has us still here in this fallen flesh and in this fallen world for a purpose. We who declare our loyalty to Him are His kingdom here. We now live in an environment that is oppressive and in a flesh that can only see the spiritual reality “through a veil.” So, let’s think about this:

• What are some similarities between King Richard’s kingdom in the story and God’s Kingdom here on earth?

READ: Luke 4:16-21

• What is Jesus declaring to the people in this moment?
• How was that promise “fulfilled” that very day “in (their) hearing?”
• Then, why does so much oppression and persecution still take place?

READ: Isaiah 61:1-2

• Jesus’ quote of this passage stopped at a curious point, in mid-sentence. What is the very next line in this passage?
• How did Jesus bring the “day of vengeance of our God?”
• How/when does God’s vengeance manifest itself?
  • Deuteronomy 32:35

READ: Romans 12:17-21

• How are we to live in loyalty to God’s Kingdom here on earth?

THE LORD DEMONSTRATED HIS “FAVOR” TO ALL MANKIND IN CHRIST!

LET’S DWELL IN HIS FAVOR THROUGH LOYALTY TO HIS KINGDOM!

PRAY: Thank God that He is sovereign and on the “throne” of all “thrones!” Praise Him that He IS LOVE. True love demands true justice. Everyone is subject to His kingdom, whether they believe it or not. Declare your loyalty to Him and walk in His favor now and forever! 

     Welcome to “Crossroads Family Church… where life meets faith”

• BEING a welcoming, loving FAMILY of God
• GROWING as followers of Jesus, enabled by the Holy Spirit through worship, prayer, and the study of God’s Word.
• SHARING God’s message of salvation with our community and world.