1. What might verses 2-5 suggest about the centurion's character?

2. What discrepancies in this story are there between the gospels of Luke and Matthew? (See Matthew 8) What do we make of them?

3. Why was Jesus so amazed with the centurion? Why would he say that the man had so much faith? (vs 6-10)

4. According to the scriptures, did the widow ask for Jesus' help? Speculate as to why Jesus' heart may have been moved to help her. (vs 11-14)

5. Why do you suppose the people praised God rather than the person of Jesus? (vs 16-17)

6. Why would John who previously identified Jesus as the Messiah send his disciples to ask if Jesus the Messiah? (vs 18-20)

7. Do you think Jesus' response to John's inquiry was sufficient? Why or why not? (vs 21-23)

8. Interpret Jesus' description of John in verses 24-28. What makes his message appropriate considering John's inquiry?

9. Read verse 29-35. Who is Jesus describing? What is he saying about them?

10. Speculate as to why Simon, being a Pharisee, invited Jesus to his home. (vs 36-39)

11. Might the actions of the sinful woman be consider sexual in nature by any who might have been watching?

12. What do verses 39-50 tell us about forgiveness?

13. Why would Jesus use a riddle/parable in order to make his point rather than simply making his point?

14. Considering verses 36-50 and paying close attention to the last three verses what things might we be able to conclude about Jesus' visit?