The critics challenged Jesus asking when the kingdom of God would come because they didn't see any celestial signs they expected. Jesus corrected them by stating the kingdom of God is in their midst, meaning himself. Jesus explained the earthly kingdom the prophets talked about would happed when Jesus returned a second time and when he returns it will be a time of terrible judgment. He wanted the disciples to be encouraged so he told them to pray persistently and God would give them grace when their hearts grow weary in difficult days. Luke 17:20-18:8   

Luke records the story of Jesus traveling to Jerusalem in Luke 17:11-19 when 10 lepers see him and cry out for mercy. Jesus is moved with compassion and commands them to go show themselves to the priests. They listen and obey his command and while they are traveling they are healed. Only one of the ten bursts out praising God and runs to Jesus throwing himself sat his feet in a show of humble gratitude and indebtedness to the miracle of mercy and healing Jesus performed. Jesus teaches us the way the Samaritan leper responded to the mercy of God is how disciples are to respond to mercy, Praising God with thankful devotion and Awe.

Jesus has concluded his introduction to Discipleship 101 in chapters 14-16 teaching the disciples to Focus on Jesus, Find the Lost and be Faithful with Finances emphasizing the destructive nature of Greed. Now Jesus prepares them for the basic expectations he has for his disciples.  They will face trials and challenges and opportunities where others will fall into sin its unavoidable so Jesus explains the basic expectations he has them is to serve Jesus in humble faithful obedience Luke 17:1-10.

At the end of his 3 part intro to Discipleship 101 thru Luke chapters 14-16 Jesus said the basics of discipleship are: Focus on Jesus, Find the Lost and be Faithful with Finances. The Pharisees scoffed loudly because they love money. Greed causes us to reject God's authority, & values, refuse the kingdom and leads us to break vows to God and others. We protect our selves from Greed by Believing in Jesus. Luke 16:14-31.