2. Week Two—The Ministry Begins

Words To Live By But I say to you who are listening: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. To the person who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other as well, and from the person who takes away your coat, do not withhold your tunic either. Give to everyone who asks you, and do not ask for your possessions back from the person who takes them away. Treat others in the same way that you would want them to treat you. Jesus in Luke 6:27-31 You’re probably familiar with the verses quoted above even if you’re new to Bible study. Despite the fact that we know Jesus’ words, it’s so easy to dismiss them as irrelevant in our culture. These are hard commands, requiring a close walk with the Lord and the filling of the Spirit to obey. There is no situation that overrides these commands. Jesus doesn’t say “unless it’s too hard” or “unless your enemy is winning.” So as we begin this week’s study, let’s begin with a prayer: Father God, thank you for providing your Spirit to give your followers the power to obey the most difficult commands, even loving and praying for those who hate us, curse us, mistreat us and forcibly take ...