Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible ReadingLuke 7:36-50 (ESV) 36 One of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him, and he went into the Pharisee’s house and took his place at the table.
37 And behold, a woman of the city, who was a sinner, when she learned that he was reclining at table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of ointment,
38 and standing behind him at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head and kissed his feet and anointed them with the ointment.
39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would have known who and what sort of woman this is who is touching him, for she is a sinner.”
40 And Jesus answering said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he answered, “Say it, Teacher.”
41 “A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty.
42 When they could not pay, he cancelled the debt of both. Now which of them will love him more?”
43 Simon answered, “The one, I suppose, for whom he cancelled the larger debt.” And he said to him, “You have judged rightly.”
44 Then turning toward the woman he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair.
45 You gave me no kiss, but from the time I came in she has not ceased to kiss my feet.
46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment.
47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.”
48 And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”
49 Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?”
50 And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
Observation Questions- What actions did the woman take when she came to Jesus at Simon the Pharisee’s house? What do these actions show about her attitude toward Jesus? (Luke 7:37-38)
- How did Simon the Pharisee react to the woman’s actions, and what was his reasoning? (Luke 7:39)
- In the parable Jesus tells Simon, what is the difference between the two debtors, and what point is Jesus making with this story? (Luke 7:41-43)
- According to the sermon, what was the main difference between the woman and Simon in how they approached Jesus? [22:20]
Interpretation Questions- Why do you think the woman was willing to risk embarrassment and criticism to worship Jesus so extravagantly? What does this say about her understanding of grace and forgiveness? (Luke 7:37-38, [13:21])
- The sermon says, “True worship is not measured by outward expression, but by the depth of gratitude in our hearts for what Jesus has done.” How does this challenge the way people sometimes think about worship? [13:34]
- Jesus says, “He who is forgiven little, loves little.” What does this mean for people who may have grown up in church or feel like they don’t have a dramatic story? [22:59]
- The pastor mentioned that it’s possible to know about God but miss truly knowing Him. What are some signs that someone might be missing the heart of worship, even if they are active in church? [24:14]
Application Questions- The woman in Luke 7 didn’t care what others thought—she just wanted to show her love for Jesus. Is there anything holding you back from expressing your love for God more freely, either in church or in your daily life? What would it look like to let go of those fears? [13:21]
- The sermon talked about not settling for “dead religion” but pursuing a living relationship with Jesus. Are there any routines or traditions in your faith that have become empty for you? How could you invite God to make them meaningful again? [05:20]
- The pastor said, “We must be careful not to take for granted what Jesus Christ has done for us.” What are some practical ways you can remind yourself of God’s grace and keep your gratitude fresh this week? [25:04]
- Jesus said we must worship “in spirit and in truth.” What does it look like for you to come honestly before God, without hiding or pretending? Is there something you need to bring to God in honesty right now? [26:34]
- The sermon emphasized that salvation is a gift, not something we earn or inherit. Have you ever struggled with feeling like you have to “earn” God’s love or approval? How can you rest in the truth that it’s a gift? [31:43]
- The woman’s worship was described as “extravagant” and “lavish.” What is one way you could show extravagant gratitude or love to Jesus this week, even if it feels a little outside your comfort zone? [13:34]
- The pastor challenged the church to “grow deeper as worshipers.” What is one step you can take this week to deepen your relationship with Jesus—whether it’s through prayer, worship, serving, or something else? [37:07]
