discussion questions 10/11/26

1. Re-read Luke 7:36-50. What thoughts and questions come to mind as you read?

2. Sam points out that Luke's gospel consistently highlights the poor, the marginalized, and the discounted. Why do you think Jesus made it a point to move into these social spaces rather than staying exclusively with the religious elite?

3. Contrast Simon the Pharisee's posture at the dinner party with the unnamed woman's posture. How did their differing views of their own spiritual state impact the way they treated Jesus?

4. Simon struggled to see past his own assumptions and viewed the woman with judgment and disdain. In what ways do we sometimes find ourselves wearing "Simon's glasses" when looking at people outside the faith today?

5. The sermon notes that people often need to hear the gospel multiple times (research suggests between 7 and 20 times) before accepting Christ. How does knowing this statistic change your expectations or frustrations when talking about your faith with friends or family?

6. Life's daily burdens and hardships often cause us to lower our eyes and turn inward. What are some practical ways you can lift your head and open your eyes to the spiritual needs around you this week?

7. Sam mentions that faith doesn't happen through "osmosis"—someone actually had to speak the gospel to you. Who was that person in your own story, and how can their example encourage you today?

8. What was God telling you in this sermon? What are you going to do about it?