Apostles and Opponents: Chapter 7

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What was the primary reason Jesus instructed his disciples to avoid taking provisions during their ministry?

To demonstrate their self-sufficiency and resourcefulness to potential converts.
To minimize their physical burden and travel more efficiently.
To avoid any appearance of profiting from their spiritual work, maintaining integrity.
To foster complete reliance on God's provision and the generosity of those they served. (correct)

Which of the following best describes the apparent paradox in Jesus' message regarding peace and conflict?

He advocated for peaceful resistance against Roman oppression while simultaneously endorsing spiritual warfare.
He offered forgiveness to individuals, while simultaneously condemning the corrupt religious institutions of his time.
He spoke of inner peace through faith, yet predicted division and opposition as a consequence of his teachings. (correct)
He promoted universal love, but excluded those who rejected his message from his offer of salvation.

Considering Jesus' dual purpose of proclaiming God's kingdom and forming a group of apostles, how did these goals intersect and support one another?

The apostles served as both witnesses to Jesus' message and future leaders who would continue spreading the kingdom's message after his departure. (correct)
The proclamation of God's kingdom was meant to attract potential apostles who would then be trained to spread the message further.
The apostles primarily served to manage the logistical aspects of Jesus' ministry, allowing him to focus on preaching.
The establishment of God's kingdom was a prerequisite for the selection of the apostles, ensuring they were spiritually prepared for their roles.

What underlying principle connects Jesus’ instructions to his apostles—to depend on generosity, expect hostility, and trust in God?

A call to embody the values of the Kingdom through faith. (C) Signup and view all the answers

If Jesus' statement about bringing a 'sword' is interpreted metaphorically, what aspect of his ministry does it most likely represent?

The division and re-alignment of societal structures that would result from adherence to his teachings. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was the most significant factor influencing Herod Antipas's decision to execute John the Baptist?

Herod’s fear of losing face and appearing weak in front of his guests. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Pharisees' expectations of the Messiah primarily conflict with Jesus's actions and teachings?

Jesus focused on spiritual reform rather than political liberation, challenging their emphasis on national sovereignty. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Considering the roles of Pharisees and Scribes in Jewish society, what distinguished their opposition to Jesus?

Pharisees opposed Jesus due to his challenge to their religious authority, while Scribes opposed him for undermining traditional interpretations. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the key theological difference between the Pharisees and Sadducees that contributed to their differing responses to Jesus?

The Pharisees accepted the oral law and resurrection of the dead, while the Sadducees rejected both, leading to conflicting views on Jesus' teachings. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How did the Sadducees' adherence to the Pentateuch influence their rejection of Jesus as the Messiah?

The Pentateuch's lack of prophecies about a divine Messiah led the Sadducees to dismiss Jesus' claims, as they only accepted what was explicitly written in those books. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Considering the Sadducees' rejection of oral tradition and their stance on cooperation with the Romans, which action by Jesus would most directly threaten their authority and influence?

Openly criticizing the economic practices within the temple, thus inciting potential unrest among the populace. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Given the Sadducees' denial of the afterlife and their emphasis on earthly power, how would they likely interpret Jesus' healing of the mute, blind, and possessed man?

As a manipulation or staged event designed to gain popular support and potentially destabilize the established order. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In what way did Jesus' actions regarding the woman caught in adultery challenge the established legal and social norms upheld by the Sadducees?

By shifting the focus from punishment to forgiveness, challenging the retributive aspects of Mosaic Law favored by them. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Considering differing views of the Pharisees and Sadducees, which statement best encapsulates the contrast in their responses to Jesus' miracles, like healing the man with a withered hand?

Pharisees saw the miracles skeptically yet possibly divinely inspired, while Sadducees viewed them as a challenge to authority. (A) Signup and view all the answers

How would the Sadducees' focus on cooperation and accommodation with the Romans most likely influence their perception of Jesus' growing popularity and influence among the people?

They would view it with alarm, interpreting it as a potential catalyst for social unrest and a threat to their established authority. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Jesus' primary purposes

To announce God's kingdom and build a team to continue his work.

Apostles

Individuals that were hand-picked and trained to continue Jesus' mission.