Plucking Grain on the Sabbath

Mark 2:23–28

The Pharisees accuse Jesus' disciples of violating the Sabbath.
Jesus reminds them that David ate the consecrated bread when he was hungry.
The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath.
Human interpretations must not overshadow God's purpose.
Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath.

Healing the Man with the Withered Hand

Luke 6:6–11

The Pharisees watch Jesus, looking for grounds to accuse him.
Jesus asks whether it is lawful to do good or harm on the Sabbath.
Jesus heals the man, and his opponents are filled with fury.
Mark 3:6 records that the Pharisees begin plotting to destroy Jesus.
The conflict is moving from criticism toward deadly opposition.

Jesus Heals the Multitudes

Luke 6:17–19; Matthew 12:16–21

Crowds come to hear Jesus and receive healing.
Jesus heals those who come to him.
Isaiah describes God's chosen servant as gentle toward the weak.
Jesus continues healing while his opponents plot against him.
The Messiah brings justice and hope to the Gentiles.

Sermon on the Plain

Luke 6:20–49

Closely parallels Matthew's Sermon on the Mount.
Scholars differ on whether these were the same occasion.
Luke gives a shorter, concentrated presentation of Jesus' teaching.
Blessings and woes, love for enemies, mercy, and judging others.
True discipleship requires putting Jesus' words into practice.

The Widow's Son at Nain

Luke 7:11–17

Jesus sees a widow grieving the death of her only son.
Moved by compassion, Jesus raises the young man from death.
The people glorify God and recognize Jesus as a great prophet.
Compare Elijah and the widow's son in 1 Kings 17:17–24.
Jesus demonstrates compassion and authority over death.

The Woman with Ointment

Luke 7:36–50

Simon provides a meal, but the woman demonstrates extraordinary love.
Jesus contrasts her actions with Simon's lack of hospitality.
Two debtors are forgiven; neither could repay his debt.
Recognizing forgiveness produces love and gratitude.
Jesus emphasizes the woman's faith: “Your faith has saved you.”

The Ministering Women

Luke 8:1–3

Women accompany and support Jesus' traveling ministry.
Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and many others.
They provide for Jesus and the Twelve from their own resources.
Having received healing, they respond through service.
Ministry includes practical support, not only public teaching.

Accusations Against Jesus

Matthew 12:22–24

Jesus heals a demon-oppressed man who is blind and mute.
The crowds wonder whether Jesus is the Son of David.
The Pharisees attribute his power to Beelzebul.
This repeats their earlier accusation in Matthew 9:34.
They acknowledge the exorcism but challenge the source of Jesus' power.

A House Divided

Matthew 12:25–37

A kingdom divided against itself cannot stand.
Jesus challenges the Pharisees' double standard.
Jesus casts out demons by God's Spirit, demonstrating the arrival of God's kingdom.
Jesus is stronger than Satan and frees people from his power.
Our allegiance, our fruit, and our words reveal what is in our hearts.