STUDY GUIDE – The Compassion of Jesus

Icebreaker: How do you define compassion? Share an example of a compassionate act.

Sermon Title – The Jesus Platform – “The Compassion of Jesus” – Luke 13:10-17

Group Discussion

Read John 1:14, John 14:9-11, and 1 John 4:9-11 – When you see Jesus, you see God. How can the fact that “the Word” came into this world so that we might live through Him influence our understanding of God’s love and compassion towards us? Does recognizing Jesus as the “exact representation” of God impact your walk as His disciple? How can this reality equip us to share both grace and truth in our relationships with others?

Read Luke 13:10-13 & Psalm 103:8 – Jesus saw her; He noticed her; He picked her out of the crowd. What does this passage teach us about Jesus’ compassion and attention to individual needs? How do Jesus’ life and actions reflect the qualities described in Psalm 103:8? How can we apply these lessons as disciples?

Read Luke 13:14 – How can we avoid being so focused on manmade religious or societal systems that we miss opportunities to show Jesus’ compassion and love? Can you think of situations today where we might be tempted to put manmade systems or traditions above helping others in need?

Read Matthew 22:37-40 – In what ways does this commandment contradict the verse above from Luke 13:14? Discuss some specific relationships or areas in our lives where we could do a better job of living out these commandments; and share strategies for avoiding legalistic attitudes and behaviors: provide examples.

Read Luke 13:15-17 & Matthew 9:35-36 – The power of compassion can “change the world.” How can acts of compassion, both big and small, make a significant impact on the lives of others? Can you share a personal experience where either giving or receiving compassion made a difference?

Spiritual Discipline: Review our additional sermon resources that support this message located on our Church Center app at: Church Center / Home / Sermon Resources. And as we come off Baptism Sunday, there is a brief video by Jeff Faull titled “What is Baptism” that you can view and share with friends and family who may be interested or have questions about baptism. It is also a great tool when sharing the gospel.

Action Steps: This week, focus on intentionally practicing compassion by identifying a person in your life who may need extra care, attention, or grace: (1) Take time to pray for this person, asking the Lord to help you see them through His eyes, (2) demonstrate both grace and truth in your relationship with them, reflecting on, and prioritizing, Jesus’ love and compassion, and (3) reflect on how these intentional acts of compassion impacted you and the other person. Share your experience with a trusted friend or your small group members.