Luke 24 on 10/9 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 24 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

The resurrection changes everything. On the first day of the week, the women discovered the empty tomb, reminded by angels that Jesus had risen just as He said (vv. 1–8). Though the apostles first doubted, Peter saw the evidence and marveled (vv. 9–12). On the road to Emmaus, two disciples met the risen Jesus without recognizing Him until He broke bread with them. He explained how all of Scripture pointed to His suffering and glory, and their hearts burned as they understood (vv. 13–35). Later, Jesus appeared to the disciples, showing His hands and feet, eating with them, and commissioning them to proclaim repentance and forgiveness in His name to all nations, promising the Spirit’s power (vv. 36–49).

Luke closes with Jesus blessing His disciples and ascending into heaven. Their sorrow was turned to joy as they worshiped Him and continually praised God in the temple (vv. 50–53). The story that began in Bethlehem with the birth of Jesus ends in glory with His exaltation—and continues in the church’s mission to proclaim that Christ is risen and reigns forever.

🌀 Reflection:
Jesus’ resurrection is not just an event to know but a reality to live in. Because He lives, our doubts can turn to faith, our despair to joy, and our fear to peace. Where do you need to rest in the power of His living presence today?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Share the good news of Jesus’ resurrection with someone this week. Like the women at the tomb or the disciples on the road, don’t keep silent—proclaim that Jesus is alive and offers forgiveness and new life to all who believe.

Luke 23 on 10/8 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 23 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

Jesus was brought before Pilate and Herod, though both declared Him innocent (vv. 4, 14–15). Yet the crowds demanded Barabbas’s release instead, and Pilate gave in, handing Jesus over to be crucified (vv. 18–25). On the way to Golgotha, Simon of Cyrene carried the cross, and Jesus warned the women of Jerusalem about coming judgment (vv. 26–31). At the cross, He prayed for His executioners, was mocked by rulers and soldiers, and promised Paradise to the repentant thief beside Him (vv. 32–43). At His death, darkness fell, the temple veil tore, and a centurion declared His innocence (vv. 44–49).

Joseph of Arimathea courageously asked for Jesus’ body and placed it in his own tomb, while the women prepared spices but rested on the Sabbath (vv. 50–56). Luke’s account emphasizes both Jesus’ innocence and His saving work on the cross—dying as the spotless Lamb who forgives sinners and opens the way to God.

🌀 Reflection:
Jesus endured injustice, suffering, and death—not because He was guilty, but because we are. At the cross, we see His heart of mercy, His power to save, and His obedience to the Father. Reflect today on the wonder that the innocent Son of God bore your guilt and gave you His righteousness.

💬 Mission Challenge:
Share with someone this week the hope of the repentant thief—that no one is beyond the reach of Jesus’ mercy. Invite them to trust the Savior who still says, “You will be with me in Paradise.”

Luke 22 on 10/7 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 22 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

Luke 22 records the night of Jesus’ betrayal and arrest. The chapter begins with the plot of the chief priests and Judas to kill Him (vv. 1–6). During the Last Supper, Jesus redefines the bread and cup as symbols of His body and blood, establishing the Lord’s Supper and pointing to His coming sacrifice (vv. 7–23). When the disciples argue about greatness, Jesus teaches that true greatness is servanthood, even as He promises them a future place in His kingdom (vv. 24–30). He warns Peter of his coming denial but assures him that his faith will be restored (vv. 31–34). In Gethsemane, Jesus prays in deep anguish, submitting to the Father’s will, while His disciples struggle to stay awake (vv. 39–46).

The chapter then turns to Jesus’ arrest by the crowd led by Judas and His healing of the servant’s ear (vv. 47–53). Peter denies Him three times before the rooster crows, fulfilling Jesus’ prediction and leaving Peter in bitter weeping (vv. 54–62). Jesus is mocked, beaten, and brought before the council, where He affirms His identity as the Son of Man who will sit at God’s right hand (vv. 63–71). Luke 22 highlights Jesus’ humility, obedience, and love as He prepares to lay down His life for sinners.

🌀 Reflection:
Jesus shows us what it means to live in full obedience to the Father. He endured betrayal, denial, and suffering while continuing to love and serve. His words at the table remind us that our salvation rests on His sacrifice, not our strength. When we stumble, like Peter, His grace restores us and calls us back to faithfulness.

💬 Mission Challenge:
Think of someone who may feel far from God or burdened by guilt. Reach out with encouragement this week—share that Christ’s sacrifice was for them, too, and invite them to trust in His forgiveness.

Luke 21 on 10/6 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 21 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

In Luke 21, Jesus contrasts true worship with outward appearances. A poor widow gives two small coins, yet her offering is greater than the wealthy because she gave all she had (vv. 1–4). Jesus then foretells the destruction of the temple, reminding His disciples that earthly glory fades but God’s purposes endure (vv. 5–6). He warns of false messiahs, wars, natural disasters, and persecution, calling His followers to endure with faith and use trials as opportunities for testimony, with the assurance that God’s presence will sustain them (vv. 7–19).

Jesus speaks of the fall of Jerusalem as a sign of judgment (vv. 20–24) but also looks forward to His return, when cosmic signs will mark the coming of the Son of Man. Believers are told to “straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near” (v. 28). Through the fig tree parable, Jesus teaches readiness, affirming that His words will never pass away (vv. 29–33). He urges His followers to stay awake and pray, living in expectation of His return (vv. 34–36).

🌀 Reflection:
Luke 21 reminds us that while the world is filled with trials, uncertainties, and even collapse, Christ’s words stand forever. We are called to live with watchful hearts, enduring with faith and clinging to the hope that Jesus will return to redeem His people fully.

💬 Mission Challenge:
Encourage someone this week who is weighed down by fear or uncertainty. Share the hope of Luke 21:28 with them, and remind them that in Christ, redemption and peace are sure.

Luke 20 on 10/5 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 20 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

In Luke 20, Jesus’ authority is openly challenged. The religious leaders question Him in the temple, but their refusal to answer about John the Baptist exposes their hardness of heart (vv. 1–8). Jesus then tells the parable of the wicked tenants, warning of Israel’s rejection of God’s messengers and declaring that the rejected stone—Himself—has become the cornerstone (vv. 9–18; cf. Ps. 118:22). Later, when questioned about paying taxes to Caesar, Jesus amazes them with His wisdom: “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” (v. 25).

The Sadducees also try to trap Him with a question about the resurrection. Jesus answers that the resurrection life is unlike earthly life—there is no marriage, and God is “not God of the dead, but of the living” (v. 38). He affirms both His divine authority and the hope of eternal life (vv. 27–40). Finally, Jesus exposes the pride of the scribes who love honor but exploit others, warning that their hypocrisy will bring severe judgment (vv. 45–47).

🌀 Reflection:
Luke 20 reminds us that Jesus’ authority cannot be ignored or resisted without consequence. He is the cornerstone—either the foundation of salvation or the stone of judgment. Let us submit to His lordship, honor Him with our lives, and rejoice in the hope of the resurrection secured through Him.

💬 Mission Challenge:
This week, share the truth of Jesus as the cornerstone with someone searching for stability or hope. Offer to read Psalm 118:22–24 together, and point them to the life and joy found only in Christ.

Luke 19 on 10/4 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 19 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

In Luke 19, Jesus reveals Himself as Savior, King, and Judge. Zacchaeus, a wealthy and sinful tax collector, encounters Jesus in Jericho. To everyone’s surprise, Jesus calls him by name, stays at his house, and declares that salvation has come when Zacchaeus repents and makes restitution (vv. 1–10). Jesus then tells the parable of the ten minas, teaching that His kingdom will not appear immediately and emphasizing the call to faithful stewardship while we await His return (vv. 11–27).

As Jesus enters Jerusalem, He fulfills prophecy by riding on a colt. The crowds praise Him as King, though the Pharisees protest. Jesus declares that even the stones would cry out if His disciples were silent (vv. 28–40). Yet as He nears the city, Jesus weeps, grieving its blindness to the peace He offers and foretelling its coming judgment (vv. 41–44). Finally, Jesus cleanses the temple, driving out those who turned God’s house of prayer into a marketplace, as the leaders begin plotting His death while the people continue to cling to His teaching (vv. 45–48).

🌀 Reflection:
Luke 19 reminds us that Jesus seeks us in our sin and calls us to repentance, just as He did with Zacchaeus. He also calls us to faithfulness while we wait for His return, to welcome Him as King, and to worship Him with sincerity. I invite us to open our hearts to Christ’s presence, rejoice in His salvation, and prepare for His coming again.

💬 Mission Challenge:
Like Jesus with Zacchaeus, reach out this week to someone others might overlook or avoid. Share a meal, a conversation, or an act of kindness that points them to the Savior who came to seek and save the lost.

Luke 18 on 10/3| NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 18 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

In Luke 18, Jesus teaches about persistence, humility, and faith. He tells the parable of the persistent widow, showing that if even an unjust judge responds to perseverance, how much more will God answer the cries of His people who pray in faith (vv. 1–8). He then contrasts the self-righteous Pharisee with the humble tax collector, reminding us that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but those who repent and cry for mercy will be justified (vv. 9–14).

Jesus welcomes children and teaches that the kingdom of God belongs to those who come with simple trust and dependence (vv. 15–17). A rich ruler, however, walks away sorrowful because he cannot let go of his wealth. Jesus warns of the dangers of riches but assures that what is impossible with man is possible with God, and those who follow Him will gain eternal life (vv. 18–30). Jesus again foretells His death and resurrection, though His disciples do not yet grasp it (vv. 31–34). Near Jericho, a blind beggar cries out, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus heals him, commending his faith, and the man immediately glorifies God (vv. 35–43).

🌀 Reflection:
Luke 18 reminds us that true discipleship is marked by prayer, humility, and trust in Jesus above all else. We are called to pray persistently, to humble ourselves before God, and to treasure Christ more than anything this world can offer. Where is God calling you to trust Him more deeply today?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Look for someone in your life who feels overlooked—perhaps a child, a neighbor, or a coworker—and show them Christlike attention and care this week. Use that moment as an opportunity to share the hope of the gospel with them.

Luke 17 on 10/2 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 17 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

In Luke 17, Jesus teaches His disciples about forgiveness, faith, and humility. He warns against leading others into sin and calls His followers to forgive repeatedly when there is repentance. When the disciples ask for more faith, Jesus explains that even faith as small as a mustard seed can accomplish great things, reminding them that their obedience is a matter of duty, not grounds for boasting (vv. 1–10). On His way to Jerusalem, Jesus heals ten lepers, but only one—a Samaritan—returns to thank Him. Jesus praises this man’s faith, showing the importance of gratitude and the recognition of God’s work (vv. 11–19).

Later, Jesus addresses the Pharisees’ question about the coming of the kingdom of God. He explains that the kingdom is already in their midst through His presence, but He also points to His future return, which will come suddenly and bring judgment, like in the days of Noah and Lot. His disciples must not cling to worldly things but be ready for His coming (vv. 20–37).

🌀 Reflection:
Luke 17 calls us to live with faith, gratitude, and readiness. We are to forgive as God forgives us, thank Him for His blessings, and keep our eyes fixed on Christ rather than the world. Are you living in such a way that reflects trust in God’s promises and eagerness for His return?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Take time this week to express gratitude by writing a note, sending a message, or calling someone who has been a blessing in your life. Use the opportunity not only to thank them but also to point them to God as the ultimate source of every good gift.

Luke 16 on 10/1 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 16 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

Luke 16 contains two striking parables that call us to examine how we handle money and eternity. In the parable of the dishonest manager, Jesus points out that even though the man acted unrighteously, he was commended for his shrewdness. Believers should learn from this—using worldly wealth to invest in eternal purposes, helping others, and advancing God’s kingdom (vv. 1–9). Jesus then warns that we cannot serve both God and money, for devotion to one will come at the expense of the other (vv. 10–13).

The Pharisees, who loved money, scoffed at Jesus, but He exposed their self-righteousness and reminded them that God sees the heart (vv. 14–18). Jesus then told the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man lived in luxury while Lazarus, a poor beggar, suffered outside his gate. After death, Lazarus was carried to Abraham’s side, while the rich man faced torment in Hades. The rich man begged for relief and a warning for his family, but Abraham explained that those who ignore God’s Word will not be convinced, even by someone rising from the dead (vv. 19–31).

🌀 Reflection:
Luke 16 reminds us that everything we have is entrusted to us by God and will one day be gone. Wealth cannot secure eternal life, but faithful stewardship can reflect where our hearts truly are. How are you using your time, possessions, and influence to honor God and point others to Him?

💬 Mission Challenge:
This week, intentionally bless someone in need—whether by providing a meal, giving generously, or offering your time. Use what God has entrusted to you as an opportunity to show His love and invite someone to consider eternal treasures in Christ.

Luke 15 on 9/30 | NT260 — Reading & Growing in Christ

Click here for Luke 15 audio:


Read it. Pray it. Share it. Live it.

Luke 15 contains three parables that reveal God’s heart for the lost. In the first, a shepherd leaves ninety-nine sheep to search for one that is missing. When he finds it, he rejoices, and Jesus explains that heaven celebrates more over one sinner who repents than over many who think they need no repentance (vv. 1–7).

Next, a woman loses a silver coin and searches her house diligently until she finds it. When she does, she calls her friends and neighbors to rejoice with her. Jesus teaches that the angels of God rejoice in the same way whenever one sinner repents (vv. 8–10).

Finally, Jesus tells the parable of the prodigal son. The younger son demands his inheritance, wastes it on reckless living, and is reduced to misery. When he returns in repentance, the father runs to embrace him and celebrates with a feast. Yet the older son resents this grace, forgetting that he has always had the father’s presence and inheritance. The father gently reminds him that it is right to rejoice, for “this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found” (vv. 11–32).

🌀 Reflection:
Luke 15 invites us to see ourselves in these parables—whether as the lost who need to return, or as those who must rejoice when others do. God’s mercy is lavish and His pursuit relentless, and He delights in forgiving and restoring. Where do you need to experience His grace today, and where do you need to reflect His joy over another’s repentance?

💬 Mission Challenge:
Reach out this week to someone who may feel far from God—whether a friend, family member, or neighbor. Share the hope of Christ with them or simply extend a word of grace and welcome, showing the same joy God has over the lost being found.