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

The Teaching Series with Brad Gray

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

Key Passage(s): Matthew 13:55-56; Mark 6:3

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