Daily Bible Reading–January 2021 God's Word of LifeEsimerkki

January 17

Introduction

Jesus gives his disciples power and sends them out to preach and heal. He gives them instructions, and they go through all the villages preaching the Good News. Herod hears what is happening and is confused. [The Herod mentioned here is Herod Antipas, who was governor of Galilee from 4 B.C. to A.D. 39. He was one of the sons of Herod the Great, king of Judea, who died shortly after Jesus was born, as noted in Matthew 2:19.] When the apostles return, crowds gather and Jesus feeds five thousand with five loaves of bread and two fish. [You may wish to compare Luke’s account of this event with the one recorded in John 6:1-15, which was part of the reading for January 8.] 

Today's Scripture Reading 

Luke 9:1-17 

Today’s Key Verse: Luke 9:2

Then he sent them out to preach the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick.

Reflect

What instructions does Jesus give to his disciples (verses 3-5)? Are such instructions relevant for evangelism efforts today? Why or why not? What would you do if you received similar instructions? In what ways do you tell the Good News?

Pray

Lord Jesus, you have empowered us to tell the Good News through our words and actions. Thank you for your Holy Spirit. Help me to be an agent of your love and grace. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Missionaries

Tomorrow’s Reading

Luke 9:18-27: Peter declares Jesus to be the Messiah, and Jesus speaks about his suffering and death.