Sermon Central
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Why Was Jesus So Popular? Series
Contributed by Jim Butcher on Jul 18, 2023 (message contributor)
Summary: This passage gives us insight into why Jesus became so popular so quickly. It also points out to us something that we emphasize in the modern American church that was not a part of Jesus' popularity.
VERSE 15 IS THE CENTERPIECE OF THIS PASSAGE: This is a story and testament to Jesus’ quickly rising popularity early in His ministry.
- Luke 5:15.
- It would be easy to see this passage as another miracle story, but I think it serves a more specific purpose in Luke’s gospel. Jesus has just called some disciples and the man with leprosy, while important in and of himself, is really here to provide an example of what was drawing people to Jesus.
- This is a case study, in effect. We learn here what brought the crowds . . . as well as one really important thing that wasn’t the reason people were flocking to Him.
WHY WAS JESUS SO POPULAR EARLY IN HIS MINISTRY?
1. He gave hope to the hopeless.
- Luke 5:12a.
2. He showed a compassionate heart.
- Luke 5:12b.
3. He extended a merciful touch.
- Luke 5:13a.
4. He brought healing power.
- Luke 5:13b.
WHAT IT WASN'T: Good marketing.
- Luke 5:14.
- “He Gets Us.”
HOW WAS IT POWERED? Closeness to God.
- Luke 5:16.
- John 15: Obey His commands leads to abiding in Him which leads to abounding in fruitfulness.
WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM THIS? Church growth is less about programs and public relations and more about who we are as people.
- How frightening is this?
