Gospel of Matthew - Week 9

Scripture Reading: Matthew 12

Understand the Passage

1. What biblical precedents did Jesus cite to justify his behavior and the behavior of his disciples? Why were they important?
2. What criteria did Jesus give to determine those who supported him and those who opposed him?
3. How does Jesus respond to the Pharisees request for a sign?

Application

1. Jesus continues to point out the hypocrisy of the Pharisees in this passage - if you are honest with yourself, where do you see the greatest hypocrisy in your life?
2. What are some man-made symbols or traditions (like the Pharisees view on the Law, the Temple or the Sabbath) that we value more than people? Why?
3. How should v22-37 make us think twice about how we view and speak about others?
   
4. What can you begin doing today so that your life produces good fruit?
   

Gospel of Matthew - Week 8

Scripture Reading: Matthew 11

Understand the Passage:

1. What was the importance of Jesus' references to John and Elijah? Why do you think Matthew mentions John's question through his disciples - namely "should we expect someone else" or literally "someone of a different kind?"
2. What was unique about John versus other prophets before him? (hint: consider the source of his power or influence)
3. Jesus uses several examples to highlight the unbelief of those before him. What impact would those examples made on those in the crowd?
4. What do we learn about God's approach to judgement in v. 20-24?

Application

1. What about Jesus made him recognizable to you as the Savior and Son of God? How could you explain that to someone doubting his true identity?
2. Why do you think we sometimes become indifferent to God? In what ways are you treating the mercies of God or his blessings in your life as no big deal?
3. Keeping in mind verses 28-30, in what areas of your life are you going in your own direction and fighting the yoke of Christ? How can you work with Christ in those areas instead of going your own way?

Gospel of Matthew - Week 7

Scripture Reading: Matthew 10

Understand the Passage:

1. To whom did Jesus command his disciples to go to? What signficance did this have based on what we know of his mission and the major themes of the Book of Matthew?
2. Do Jesus' instructions seem specific to these circumstances, or do they seem to be preparation for their future ministry (after his death and resurrection)? Why?
3. What encouragement does Jesus offer to his disciples? What warnings does he give?

Application

1. Has there been a time in your life where you had to rely on Christ to provide, even you most basic necessities? Explain?
2. Why is it important for us to take stand for Jesus? What impact does it have on you? On others when you stand up for Him?
3. In what ways have you been putting human relationships before your relationship with Christ? What do you think it means to loose your life for Christ's sake?
4. What are 2 or 3 concrete ways you can be more bold in standing up for Christ this week? Share with the group.

Gospel of Matthew - Week 6

Scripture Reading: Matthew 8-9

Understand the Passage:

1. Chapters 8 & 9 list ten miracles in 9 unique stories - in what way is Jesus' authority established in these miracles?
2. What role do we see "faith" or "belief" playing in these miracles?
3. In Matt 818-22 and the Matt 9:35-38 Jesus discusses what it means to follow him. What specific sacrifices does he refer to in the passage? What strikes you about his statements?
4. Matthew's calling is described in Matt 9:9-12. How does Matthew use this again to contrast Jesus from the religious leaders of the day?

Application

1. Jesus' ministry was full of miracles of healing. If you examine your life, what areas of your life has Jesus brought healing? What areas would you say remain in need of his healing touch?
2. What have you given up to follow Jesus? What has it cost you? What might Jesus be calling you to that may have a price?
3. Jesus quotes from the OT when he challenges the Pharisees to learn the meaning of "I desire mercy, not sacrifice." If you are honest, what is your primary focus in the Christan walk - mercy or sacrifice? What would it mean to re-balance our priorities in this area?
4. What attitudes can we learn from those considered "sinners" in the Bible? How did they "relate" to Jesus versus the religious leaders of the day?