Episode 122 – Rabbis and Disciples Pt 6: Jesus’s Occupation

In the culture of Jesus’s day, one was forbidden to receive payment for the teaching of God’s Word. Which is why every rabbi had a trade or occupation. Jesus had one, but the term “carpenter” doesn’t nearly do it justice. In fact, Jesus’s occupation is filled with surprises that perfectly explain how his trade prepared him for his ministry. Speaking of which, the Text implies that once Jesus launches his ministry, he devotes himself entirely to his disciples and teachings. If he wasn’t working and rabbis couldn’t receive payment for teaching God’s Word, how did Jesus and the disciples pay the bills? Let’s find out, and in doing so, let’s gain a deeper appreciation for the way God uses the details to bring about His purposes in our lives.

Discussion Questions

  • What was your biggest takeaway from the teaching? 
  • What surprised you most in learning more about Jesus’s occupation? 
  • How do you think Jesus’s occupation as a tekton prepared him for his ministry? 
  • What are one or two moments from your past where it seems like God was preparing you to advance His kingdom in the world? 
  • What are some of the inspiring ways you see God advancing His purposes in the world through a person/group/organization that is dependent on the generosity of others? 
  • How will you begin living out the truths of this teaching this week? 

For Further Study

New Light on the Difficult Words of Jesus by David Bivin – Chapter 2 

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6 Comments

  1. Bill Black February 9, 2021 at 9:41 am - Reply

    AT 82, BRAD, I AM SO BLESSED YOU RESPONDED TO GODS CALLLING ON YOUR LIFE TO REVEAL THIS TO ONES OUR AGE BEFORE DEPARTING HERE TO THERE, THANK YOU AND YOUR WIFE SOO MUCH!

    • Brad Gray February 10, 2021 at 11:45 am - Reply

      Thank you, Bill. That’s very kind of you to say!

  2. Lori Briesemeister February 9, 2021 at 9:54 am - Reply

    Thanks be to God for “calling” Brad & helping him define his God given gift of teaching your Word! As always I walk away with deeper understanding & almost always very interesting new insite. Brad, I do so appreciate the way you teach, the depth of understanding you bring to the surface & the way you bring the message to life that always keeps me thirsty for more!!!

    • Brad Gray February 10, 2021 at 11:44 am - Reply

      I bless God for these kind and encouraging remarks, Lori! Thank you, and we’re thrilled these teachings are so helpful to you.

  3. Shiri Barrett February 9, 2021 at 11:26 am - Reply

    Thanks Brad. Great teaching as always.
    The minute you said Jesus worked with stone i thought cornerstone. Words are so important

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