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Scripture Guide

Luke 12:49-56

Author

Eunice McGarrahan

Keywords (10)

Scripture

Luke 12:49-56

Updated

Aug 11, 2025

Preaching Commentary

Textual Overview

The Gospel of Luke has a clear narrative path that begins with links to Israel’s past and God’s promises to her. Those promises are now going to be fulfilled in the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus. A new kingdom is to be inaugurated and Jesus will be its king.

The first nine chapters demonstrate in Jesus’ words and deeds the nature of his kingdom. Healings, exorcisms, sermons and parables and miraculous healings are active, visible descriptions of a kingdom where, in the words of Rev. 21:4:

He [Jesus] will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.
(All quotes…

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Author

Eunice McGarrahan

Eunice (“Junior”) McGarrahan serves as the Teaching Pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Colorado Springs, bringing a wealth of experience and theological insight to her ministry. Over the years, Junior has held various roles, including Associate for Theology in the Office of Theology and Worship (PCUSA) and associate pastor at The National Presbyterian Church in Washington, DC. She has also served in pastoral roles in Virginia and Kentucky, further deepening her ministry experience.
Junior’s journey to pastoral ministry was shaped by over thirty years in youth ministry, where she honed her passion for teaching and mentoring young people in their spiritual growth. She later pursued advanced theological education, earning both a Master of Divinity and a Master of Theology degree from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Her academic pursuits continued with a Doctor of Ministry from the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary, where she focused her dissertation on the Eucharistic theology of the Heidelberg Catechism, reflecting her commitment to exploring the Reformed tradition.
Junior is married and has a son who lives and works in the Washington, DC area. She is deeply rooted in family life, and her home life is central to her pastoral identity.
Known for her thoughtful and engaging teaching, Junior is passionate about exploring the depths of faith and guiding others through their spiritual journeys. She is particularly interested in the intersections of theology, discipleship, and service, and is dedicated to equipping others to live out their faith with depth and conviction. Whether she is teaching, preaching, or mentoring, Junior embodies a life of faithful service and commitment to the church's theological heritage.

Read More By Eunice McGarrahan