In this in-depth study of the Gospels, we first look at the theme Luke is building in chapters 4 and 5 of Jesus establishing and expanding His divine authority. We then look at the Gospel accounts of the paralyzed man whose friends lowered him through the roof of a house so Jesus could heal him, showing how archaeology illuminates this story and how Jesus three times claims to be divine, leading some to accuse Him of blasphemy. We also examine who the scribes were and the role they played in that society—and why they allied with the Pharisees and priests against Jesus. Last, of all, we consider four key questions regarding what this teaches us about God the Father, about Jesus Christ, and about ourselves.

Scott Ashley

United Church of God Pastor, Beyond Today Managing Editor

Scott Ashley is managing editor of Beyond Today magazine, United Church of God booklets and its printed Bible Study Course. He and his wife, Connie, live near Denver, Colorado. 
Mr. Ashley attended Ambassador College in Big Sandy, Texas, graduating in 1976 with a theology major and minors in journalism and speech. It was there that he first became interested in publishing, an industry in which he has worked for 50 years.