Gospel of Matthew

Introduction

While it is thought by some modern critics that Mark was the first Gospel written,

Matthew’s Gospel was always stated by early Christians as the first Gospel and seems to

be the most read and valued before A.D. 180. Mark’s Gospel may have been used as a

source-book as Matthew’s Gospel was written, but much additional information is also

included. It was Matthew who collected the sayings of Jesus and incorporated His

teachings in this Gospel. Broadly speaking it is to Mark we owe our knowledge of the

events of Jesus’ life; to Matthew we owe our knowledge of the substance of Jesus’

teaching.

We know little about Matthew himself other than that he was a tax collector

working for the Romans and therefore bitterly hated by the Jews. But there was one gift

which Matthew would possess. Unlike the other disciples who were fishermen, Matthew

had great skill putting words together. When Jesus called Matthew as he sat at the receipt

of customs, Matthew rose up and followed Him and left everything behind but his pen.

He nobly used his literary gift to become the first man to compile an account of the

teaching of Jesus.

Matthew is the Gospel which was written for the Jews, yet it does not by any

means exclude the Gentiles as we see in the great commission. (28:19) One of his

primary purposes in writing was to convince his fellow Jews that Jesus is the Messiah,

the fulfillment of Old Testament Prophesies. In doing this he presents Jesus as the

Mighty King emphasizing His royal lineage.

Matthew is primarily a teaching Gospel and as a link between the Old and New

Testaments presents Jesus as Messiah, descended from Abraham the Hebrew patriarch as

well as being the direct heir to King David’s throne. Instead of simply recording facts,

Matthew helps his readers to remember and understand their importance.

Purpose: To prove that Jesus is the Messiah, the eternal King who fulfills all Old

Testament prophesy.

Author: Matthew (Levi) the tax collector and disciple of Jesus.

To whom written: Especially to the Jews

Date: Possibly A.D.50 - 65 (but is a historical question) some say as late as 80-

90.

Key verse: Chapter 5:17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the

Prophets: I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.”

Outline

I. Chapter 1-4 Presentation of the King

II. Chapter 5-20 Public Ministry of the King

III. Chapter 21-28 Suffering, death and resurrection of the King

1

Chapter 1Read vv. 1-7

Note: It might seem strange to us to begin a book with a long list of names to wade

through. But to the Jew this was the most important, interesting and natural way

to begin the story of a man’s life. Lineage was the only way a Jew could prove the

purity of his heritage. If anyone had the slightest mixture of foreign blood, he lost

the right to be called a Jew. This was especially important in the priestly line

where a man had to prove an unbroken record of his pedigree back to Aaron. The

genealogical records were actually kept by the Sanhedrin. This may seem

unimportant to us, but to the Jews it would be a most important matter that the

pedigree of Jesus could be tracked back to Abraham.

1. The pedigree is arranged in three stages: vv. 1-6 the first section, takes the history

up to King David; 7-11 the second section, takes the story down to the exile; and

the third section vv. 12-17 takes the story to the birth of Jesus Christ. What do

you see in this symbolically of the whole human race?

:1-6 Example: The first part takes us through the building up of Israel up to

David the man who welded Israel into a nation and made the Jews a power

in the world. (Man was created for greatness)

:7-11

:12-17

2. Remembering Matthew’s purpose in writing this book what was the reason for

including the genealogy?

2

3. Thinking of Jewish culture in that day, what do you find unusual in some of the

names listed in verses 1-6?

4. Give some facts about each of the four women as given in:

Gen. 38

Joshua 2

Ruth 1, 4:17

II Sam. 11 & Psalm 51

5. Why do you think these four were honored by God and included in Christ’s

genealogy?

6. What is significant about the way Joseph is described?

7. How does any of the above information encourage you?

3

Read vv. 18-21

Note: Mary’s apparent unfaithfulness to Joseph carried a severe social stigma.

According to Jewish civil law, Joseph had a right to divorce her, and the Jewish

authorities could have had her stoned to death.

8. Read Luke 1:26-38. How did Mary show her faith and what risk was involved?

9. What lesson is there in this for you?

10. What do you learn about Joseph?

11. What prophecies were fulfilled in the birth of Christ?

Gen. 3:15

Gen. 49:8-12

Is. 7:14

Is. 9:6-7

4

12. God desires to communicate with His people. What unusual method does He use

to speak to and guide us?

Matt. 1:20

Luke 1:26

Daniel 5:5-9

Numb. 22:21-35

Ex. 13:21-22

Jonah 2

Gen. 12:14

Exodus 7:8

Numbers 12:6-8

Numbers 12:6

Acts 18:9

Heb. 1:1-2

5

13. Can you relate a time when the Lord spoke to you?

14. Why was the Son named as He was?

Read vv. 22-25

15. Why was Jesus’ name Emmanuel important?

16. What else do we learn about Joseph?

Note: “Until the destruction of the temple in A.D. 70, the genealogical records were

preserved in the temple and accessible to all. But since Titus destroyed the

temple, these records were destroyed, and since then the genealogical tables of

Matthew and Luke alone remain to give the lineal descent of Jesus from David.

Thus no other man can ever bring legal documentary proof that He is of the tribe

of Judah and lineage of David and rightful heir to the throne.”

From the writings of David Baron

(A Jewish Rabbi who was also an earnest Christian.)

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Chapter 2

Read vv. 1-12

1. From the footnotes or marginal references in your Bible, tell what prophecies were

fulfilled in Jesus’ birth?

2. From where did the Magi come and what countries of today would that be?

3. Why would Herod be disturbed?

4. Why would all Jerusalem be disturbed?

Note: Herod the Great was half Jewish and half Edomite, a descendant of Esau. He was

a man of great intellect and strong will and the only ruler of Palestine who

succeeded in keeping peace there. He was also a great builder and was the one

who was responsible for rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. But as the husband of

ten wives he was noted for his cruelty to them. He was a murderous man killing

some of his own wives and children or anyone else he perceived as a rival to his

throne. He was also guilty of killing the boy babies in Bethlehem.

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5. Give the reactions to Jesus Christ by the following people or groups.

The Magi -

Herod -

Chief priest and scribes -

6. How does that relate to people’s attitude toward Christ today?

7. The desire to lay gifts at Jesus’ feet was part of the Magi’s worship. How did each

of these gifts match some characteristic of Jesus and His work?

8. What gift can you give the Lord?

9. The Magi were re-directed in their plans for return. When has your life been re-

directed because of knowing Christ?

8

Read vv. 13-18

10. A. What beautiful characteristic in Joseph do we see here?

B. How would you react to such a command?

11. When in your life have you been redirected by God and what resulted?

12. What prophecies were fulfilled here?

Read vv. 19-23

13. What prophesy was fulfilled here?

14. Why does Matthew refer to so many Old Testament prophesies?

Note: Nazareth was a rather small town near the crossroads of great caravan trade routes

from Damascus to Egypt. The people of Nazareth had constant contact with

people from all over the world, so news reached them quickly. The people of

Nazareth had an attitude of independence that many of the Jews despised.

15. Why do you think Nathaniel made the comment he did in John 1:46?

9

16. A. In reviewing chapter 1 and 2 what did Mary and Joseph give up in their

obedience to the Lord?

B. What did they gain?

17. What have you ever given up in obedience to the Lord and what have you gained?

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Chapter 3

Read vv. 1-6

Note: Chapter two ended with Jesus as a little child while chapter 3 begins with Him as a

grown man of 30. In other words there were 30 silent years in the life of Christ

that we know little about. He died at the age of 33 so there was ten-elevenths of

Jesus’ life spent in Nazareth. We know He lived in a home with godly parents and

it seems likely that Joseph died before the family had grown up since at the

marriage in Cana there is no mention of Joseph, though Mary is there.

1. What do you think was happening in those silent years when He rarely moved

beyond Palestine?

2. How were these years beneficial to Jesus according to Hebrews 4:15-16?

Note: For 400 years the voice of God had been silent. The Jews were sadly conscious

that the voice of the prophets spoke no more. Therefore, when John emerged on

the scene, it was like the sudden sounding forth of the voice of God and it was met

with much excitement throughout the nation. It might be likened to a nation-wide

revival.

3. Read Luke 1:5-25 and :57-80. Tell something about the miraculous birth of John

and God’s purpose for his life.

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4. According to the Luke passage what prophecy was fulfilled in John?

5. How was John’s ministry and life similar to that of Elijah?

1 King 17:1-2f

1 King 18:16-19f

II Kings 1:8

6. According to verses 2 & 3 give both the positive and negative side of John’s

message.

7. Like John, do you practice what you preach?

8. What does the word repent mean?

9. In what ways has your repentance made a difference in your life so that it makes

your repentance visible to other people.

12

Read vv. 7-12

Note: The Pharisees: separated themselves from anything non-Jewish and carefully

followed both Old Testament laws as well as oral traditions handed down through

the centuries. They came from all classes of people and believed in bodily

resurrection, eternal life, angels and demons. Their legalistic piety was often

hypocritical.

The Sadducees: believed the Pentateuch alone to be God’s Word. They were

descended from priestly nobility, believed strongly in Mosaic law and in Levitical

purity. They did not believe in a bodily resurrection, eternal life, angels or

demons. They were willing to compromise their values with Romans and others in

order to maintain their status and influential positions. Both groups disliked each

other greatly and both opposed Jesus.

10. What was John’s message or challenge to the Pharisees and Sadducees?

11. What have these words challenged you to do this week?

12. What do you think of John’s approach?

13. Jews believed that simply being a Jew, a descendant of Abraham, guaranteed them

safety in the life to come. In what way are people today disillusioned into false

security?

14. What do you find impressive about John?

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15. Read Luke 3:1-20. What additional lessons or information are given about John?

16. John said Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. What does the Old

Testament promise the Holy Spirit will do when He lives within us?

Ezek. 36:25-27

Ezek. 37:14

Ezek. 39:29

Joel 2:28

Is. 44:3-5

17. The word for spirit in Hebrew and Greek is ‘ruach’ and ‘pneuma’ which means

breath and storm wind. How do these words enlarge your understanding of the

work of the Spirit?

14

Read vv. 13-17

18. Why did John hesitate to baptize Jesus?

19. Why did Jesus want to be baptized considering that He was sinless?

20. What does “to fulfill all righteousness” mean?

21. Read the account in John 1:29-34. John was Jesus’ cousin. What do you think he

meant in verse :33 when he said, “I would not have known Him.”

22. Why do you think Jesus started His public ministry in the desert with John the

Baptist rather than in the temple in Jerusalem?

23. How are all three persons of the trinity present and active at one place in this

incident?

15

24. According to the John account what was the purpose of John the Baptist’s

ministry?

25. How can you help troubled and insecure people in our world today?

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Chapter 4

Read vv. 1-11

1. Notice the timing of Jesus’ temptation. (See Matt. 3:16-17 and Matt. 4: 23-25)

What do you see as significant about this?

2. What warning is there for us in this?

3. What were the three areas of Satan’s attack? (Give verse)

4. A. What were Jesus’ physical and emotional conditions when this occurred

and how does it warn us?

B. When are you most vulnerable to temptation?

C. What keeps you from yielding?

5. How did Jesus resist temptation?

6. How does Ephesians describe this? See Eph. 6:17.

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7. How do you resist temptation?

Note: Many people in our modern world do not acknowledge the existence of Satan as

an actual person. However the Bible reveals the devil as an extremely powerful

being who though invisible and along with his evil angels reaches out into every

human life and into every corner of our earth. He is a very powerful adversary in

spite of the fact that he was defeated by Christ at His death and resurrection.

8. Give some facts about Satan, his works, origin and sphere of operation.

John 12:31, 14:31

Matt. 13:19 & 38

Luke 10:18

Is. 14:12-14

Eph. 2:2

Rev. 12:12

1 Peter 5:8

2 Thess. 3:3

Col. 1:13

Rev. 20:10

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9. What wonderful comfort did Jesus receive after he had successfully resisted

Satan? (Give verse)

10. What does the first part of verse 11 tell us?

11. Who else was tempted and what resulted?

12. What promise does God make concerning Satan’s temptations? (See 1 Cor. 10:13)

13. How do you think Jesus might have been helped by the angels?

14. Though angels are invisible, in what ways do they help?

Heb. 1:13-14

Matt. 1:20- & 2:13

Matt. 28:2

Luke 1:2-38

Luke 2:9

Luke 22:43

Acts 12:7f

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Read vv. 12-22

15. What is significant about Zebulun and Naphtali?

Note: When Jesus chose Galilee to begin His mission and ministry He knew what He

was doing. Though small, Galilee was densely populated and its people were

more open to new ideas in a way that no other part of Palestine was. The great

roads of the world passed through Galilee and it was literally surrounded by

Gentiles - Phoenicians on the west, Syrians to the north and east, and Samaria to

the south. Galilees’ geographical location had affected its history as it had been

invaded and conquered by foreigners again and again, but in 104 B.C. Aristobulus

re-conquered Galilee for the Jewish nation and forcibly proceeded to circumcise

the inhabitants making them Jews whether they liked it or not. History had

compelled Galilee to open its doors to new strains of blood and new ideas and

influences. This made Galilee the one place in all Palestine where a new teacher

with a new message had any chance of being heard. Paraphrased

from Barclay’s commentary

16. What was the message Jesus came to give? Explain.

17. Why do you think Jesus chose four fishermen as his first disciples?

18. Is there anything surprising to you in their response to Jesus’ call?

19. When have you ever responded immediately to God’s call and what resulted?

Read vv. 23-25

20. Why was Jesus’ message good news?

21. In what way have you experienced hope, peace or healing in your life?

23. Who was Jesus ministering to?

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Chapter 5Read vv. 1-16

1. List and memorize the eight virtues God blesses.

2. Tell what each virtue means.

Poor in spirit (Matt. 9:11-13; Rev. 3:1,17-19)

Those who mourn (Rom. 7:24)

The meek (Matt. 11:28-29; Ps. 25:9)

Those who thirst for righteousness (Luke 1:53)

The merciful (Matt. 18:21-35)

The pure in heart (Matt. 6:21-24)

The peacemaker (Rom. 5:1; Eph. 4:3; 2 Cor. 5:19-20; Eph. 2:15-17)

The persecuted (John 15:18-20, 17:14)

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3. What does the word blessed mean in scripture? (See John 16:22)

4. List some of the properties of salt and tell how Christians can be “salt” in our

world.

5. List some ways that Christians hide their light?

6. In what ways do your attitudes reflect humility and self sacrifice?

Read vv. 17-20

7. A. What did Jesus refer to by the phrase “the law and the prophets”?

B. What is Jesus’ attitude and relationship to the Old Testament?

8. What two things are we expected to do with the law?

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9. Since the Pharisees were scrupulous in their attempt to follow the law, how could

our righteousness surpass theirs?

Read vv. 21-48

Note: In this section Jesus speaks with authority, shocking the Jews who revered the law

and believed it to be absolutely holy and divine as it was given by God. Five times

Jesus quotes the law and substitutes a teaching of His own out of His own wisdom,

calmly and without question assuming the right to do this which no other rabbi

would think of doing. It is difficult for us to realize how shocking a thing this

authority of Jesus must have sounded to the Jew who listened to Him.

10. List the six sins giving the Old Testament teaching as well as Christ’s inclusion of

thoughts, emotion and intent of the heart.

Verse Letter of Law Spirit of Law

1. Ex. 1:21-26 murder hatred, anger, contempt

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

11. What is the difference between the formal teaching of the Rabbis and Jesus’

interpretations of the laws?

23

12. What effect does this new standard that Christ teaches have on you?

13. What hope does God give us for this tainting of sin? (See Gal. 2:20)

14. A. What is the counterpart of anger, the positive virtue which God wants to see

in us? (See 1 John 2:7-11 & 3:10-24)

B. Which verse in 1 John do you find searching and touches your heart?

15. What is the danger in wrong desires or a wrong thought life?

16. Give examples of dangerous thought lives, of what stimulates that in our world

and what results.

17. What is God’s solution to rid ourselves of sinful thoughts?

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18. What principles concerning divorce and remarriage does God give?

Matt. 5:31

Matt. 19:7-9

1 Cor. 7:10-16

1 Cor. 7:39

Note: In regard to those who divorced and remarried before they knew Christ there is

comfort in God’s forgiving this sin as He does with all others.

19. Why does God discourage the taking of oaths? (See James 5:12)

20. What is the human natural reaction when we are wronged?

21. What is Jesus’ alternative? (See Lev. 19:18)

22. This is a supernatural reaction that only comes from God working in us. What

good can it accomplish?

25

23. What does Christ expect us to do to attain the “perfection” or “maturity” which He

wants to see in us?

Gal. 5:16

Eph. 4:22-24

Phil. 2:13

Phil. 4:8 & 13

24. How good are you at extending self control to thought control?

25. What is the underlying action that will help us to obey all of God’s commands in

all of these verses?

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Chapter 6Read vv. 1-18

1. In your opinion does reward and punishment have any part in the Christian life?

2. What does God say about reward and punishment?

Matt. 6:4, 6 & 8

Matt. 5:12

Matt. 25:14-30

Matt. 25:31-46

3. According to the above verses, what constitutes the Christian reward?

4. What by contrast is the earthly reward?

5. Why do you give and would you give if no one ever knew you did it?

6. What principle about prayer do you find here?

7. Does God disapprove of joining with others in public prayers? (See Matt. 18:19-20)

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8. Tell what each of these phrases of the Lord’s prayer suggests to you?

God’s name hallowed -

Your will be done -

Daily bread -

Forgive as He forgives -

Lead us not into temptation -

Deliver us from evil -

9. What benefits might there be in fasting?

10. Share with the group any help you have found which makes your prayer life more

meaningful.

Read vv. 19-24

11. What things would be considered “treasures on earth”?

12. What might be considered “treasures in heaven”?

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13. According to time spent, what is your treasure on which your love is set?

14. Explain what it means spiritually to have “good eyes”? (See also John 3:19-21;

John 8:12; 1 John 1:5-7)

15. Why is it impossible to serve two masters?

Read vv. 25-34

16. Why is worry sin?

17. What is the difference between worry and concern?

18. A. What does God suggest we do to handle our concerns according to

Phil. 4:6-7?

B. What is the benefit of this approach?

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19. What beautiful promise does God give us in this passage and to whom is it given?

20. What are the ill effects of worry that we see around us today?

21. When is your trust most apt to falter?

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Chapter 7Read vv. 1-12

1. What is the emphasis, the command that Jesus is giving us in these verses?

2. According to Matt. 5:17-48 and Matt. 6:1-18 who did Jesus have in mind when he

spoke these words and what typical characteristics describe them?

3. What does “judge not” mean?

4. What is the difference between judging and discerning or having discrimination?

5. When is discernment and discrimination important to exercise?

(See II Tim. 2:17-18 and II John 8-11)

6. What two things result from disobedience to this command?

7. Who are referred to as ‘dogs’ and ‘pigs’? (See II Peter 2:20-22; II Peter 3:3;

Phil. 3:2)

8. What do you think Jesus means by verse 6?

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9. Does this mean to regard such people as hopeless and what recourse remains for

such people?

10. A. Are we to ignore it if we see something wrong in another Christian?

(See Matt. 18:15-21 Note: This refers to those who sin against you

and it was meant for within the Christian community.)

B. What steps should be followed to do this?

C. What wrong approach do we often do when someone wrongs us?

11. What is meant by “sacred” and “pearls”?

12. What principles concerning prayer do you see here in John 16:23-24?

13. What additional promise is given in Luke 11:9-13 and what does that promise

mean to you?

14. What helps you to be active and consistent in your prayer life?

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Read vv. 13-20

15. Who does ‘the gate’ refer to and where does it lead? (See John 10:7-9)

16. A. What does the fact that the gate is narrow mean to you? (See Luke 13:24-25)

B. What delusions would this dispel?

17. What two things do we need to be aware of?

18. What is the danger of false prophets in sheep’s clothing?

19. A. What distinguished the true prophet from the false one?

B. What constitutes good spiritual fruit and what does that mean according to:

I Tim. 6:3-4

Rom. 6:22

Gal. 5:22

Read vv. 21-29

20. What warning do you see in verses 21 to 23?

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21. What actually constitutes true saving faith?

John 5:24

John 3:3

John 1:12

Eph. 2:8

22. What is the emphasis in verses 24-27?

23. What is the connection between these two section of scripture? (See vv. 21-23 and

24-27)

24. How is this reiterated in the great commission? (Matt. 28:19-20)

25. What great misconception concerning this do we see in our day?

26. What is the true foundation? (I Cor. 3:11)

27. What examples have you seen of houses built on sand?

28. What assures you that you have built your house on a solid foundation?

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Chapter 8Read vv. 1-17

Note: Paul tell us in I Cor. 1:24 that Christ is both the Power of God and the Wisdom of

God. In the last three chapters we have studied His wisdom as shown in His

words as He spoke to the people in His Sermon on the Mount. To refuse this

wisdom of God by ignoring these words or by not believing them, or by choosing

not to live by them is to choose disaster and to build one’s house on shifting sand.

All the words of Jesus carry with them His authority. In this next section we will

see the Power of God as we read about the signs, miracles and wonders that He

performed.

1. What was the purpose of the miracles Christ performed according to:

Acts 2:22

John 14:11

John 20:30-31

2. A. What does leprosy symbolize spiritually?

B. Give at least three attitudes or actions on the part of the leper in his

interaction with Jesus that are also needed for spiritual cleansing?

3. What impressed you about Jesus here?

4. What impresses you about the centurion?

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5. What hope do you see for us in Jesus’ words?

6. What does this teach us about intercessory prayer?

7. What was Peter’s mother in law’s immediate response after being healed and what

does that teach us?

8. What activities in your life have been a response to God’s precious touch on your

life?

Read vv. 18-22

9. What was Jesus trying to convey to the teacher of the law with His answer?

Note: In the eastern usage, the phrase “to bury one’s father” means to wait at home until

one’s father dies which may not take place for many years to come.

10. Why would the disciple respond to a call from Jesus in the way he did?

11. What is the danger in procrastinating when you receive a call from God?

12. What does verse 22 mean to you?

13. Though following Jesus can be costly, what is the other side of the coin?

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14. In what way has your choice to follow Jesus’ call been costly?

Read vv. 23-34

15. As experienced sailors, what does the reaction of the disciples tell you about the

situation?

16. What did they not yet understand about Jesus?

17. Apply this to us spiritually and explain what Jesus is really teaching us with this

account.

18. What clue tells you Jesus is in Gentile territory here?

Note: Demons are fallen angels who joined Satan in his rebellion and are under Satan’s

control. They help Satan tempt people to sin and have great destructive powers.

Whenever they are confronted by Jesus they lose their power.

19. Read this account in Mark 5:1-20 also. List all the facts we can learn about

demons.

20. In what way do we see demon possession today?

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21. What comfort do you see in this story?

22. What help does God offer for anyone who would overcome a besetting sin?

(See Heb. 7:25)

23. How do you feel about the reaction of the townspeople and do people today

sometimes react in the same way?

24. According to the Mark passage how did the demon possessed man respond?

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Chapter 9

Read vv. 1-13, Mark 2:1-12, Luke 5:17-26

1. List the evidences of Jesus’ supernatural abilities given in this account.

2. What was Jesus’ first concern for the paralytic?

3. Whose faith did Jesus acknowledge in this situation and how can this be helpful to

us in our relationships?

4. What did Jesus state was the purpose of the miracle.

5. How well do your actions back up what you say?

6. What most unlikely situation do you see in :9-11 and why was that so unlikely?

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7. A. What did Matthew give up to follow Jesus?

B. What do you think he gained?

8. In choosing such a person to be His personal disciple, what does that tell you

about Jesus?

9. What wonderful gift has His choice of Matthew given us?

10. According to the Luke passage what indicates Matthew’s true commitment?

Read vv. 14-17

11. What did John the Baptist’s ministry focus on?

12. Explain what Jesus is saying in verses 16-17.

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Read vv. 18-38; Mark 5:21-43; Luke 8:40-56

13. What extra facts about healing this woman are we given in the Mark and Luke

account that are not given in the Matthew passages?

14. According to verse 18, at what point in the crisis did this man come to Jesus and

what do you think was his state of mind?

15. Read the account of this miracle in Mark 5:21-24 and :35-43. How did Jesus

encourage this man?

16. In what way is sleep a good word in relation to death?

17. What might be the reason for dismissing all but the parents and disciples?

18. Why the command not to let anyone know about the miracle?

19. What lessons about faith do we learn from 27-34? (Give verses)

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20. What varied reactions to Jesus are found in this section?

21. What do you learn about Jesus in this chapter?

22. When have you seen Jesus do the impossible for you?

23. What should we do when workers are needed in our church?

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Chapter 10Read vv.1-16

1. Tell the names and what you know or can find out about each of the twelve

disciples.

2. A. As you consider these men whom Jesus called, what encouragement does it

give you?

B. As an ordinary person what has God enabled you to do?

3. A. Why do you think Jesus made the distinction in His command in verse 5?

(See Romans 1:16)

B. Is this true today? (See Romans 3:29 and Matthew 28:19f)

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4. With what spiritual equipment were these disciples sent out? (Read thru to v. 20)

5. Were these men compelled to follow Jesus?

6. What principle was given to guide their actions?

7. What was God’s plan for their sustenance?

8. What principle does Jesus give in verses 11-14?

9. Why would those who did not welcome God’s message be worse off than Sodom

and Gomorrah?

Read vv. 17-33

10. What did these servants of Jesus have to look forward to?

11. What promise was given to them?

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12. How well do you hold up under the wear, tear and abuse of everyday life?

13. What spiritual principles are given here for anyone who would be Christ’s

disciple?

14. What one thing should we fear?

15. In what ways can we deny Jesus?

16. What comfort is given to us who believe?

Read vv. 34-42 and Luke 14:25-35

17. Explain why Christ’s coming into the world or into a life brings conflict and not

peace?

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18. What is especially sad about this and have you witnessed this?

19. Why do you think Matthew doesn’t list husband and wife?

20. What principle do you see in verses 37 and 39?

21. Is there something God would have you give up so that you might more faithfully

serve Him?

22. What encouragement is there for those of us who will never be great orators,

missionaries, preachers or teachers?

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Chapter 11Read vv. 1-15

1. After introducing Jesus after His Baptism, why do you think John was perplexed?

2. Many people today, knowing the delight of the Christian life, also become

confused when trouble assails them. What Biblical teaching do they ignore?

(See Rom. 8:17; Phil. 1:29)

3. How did Jesus answer John? (See Is. 35:5-6; 61:1)

4. Where do you turn to seek answers when doubts assail you?

5. What is it that the Christians have that John never had?

6. While John’s message is not called “good news”, what important purpose did his

ministry fulfill?

7. What do you think Jesus is saying in verses 13 to 15?

Read vv. 16-24

8. What do verses 16-19 tell us about human nature?

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9. Where does the ultimate verdict lie?

Note: The word “woe” in scripture does not describe anger but rather it expresses

sorrowful pity. It is showing the grieving of One who offered men the most

precious gift and who saw it completely disregarded.

10. What was the sin of Korazin and Bethsaida that was worse than the sins of Tyre &

Sidon and Sodom & Gomorrah who were denounced for their wickedness?

11. How do you respond when the Spirit challenges your comfortable self centered

life?

Read vv. 25-29

12. What two kinds of people does Jesus mention in His prayer and what is the

difference between them?

13. What is the only way that anyone can really know God?

14. What things do you consider are wearisome, heavy burdens?

15. How does taking Christ’s yoke upon us help?

16. What rest does Jesus offer us?

17. Describe how you have experienced this.

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Chapter 12Read vv. 1-21

1. What point is Jesus emphasizing in verses 1-8?

2. Do you think the disciples actually broke God’s command?

3. How was Jesus affected by opposition? Was He discouraged by it? How did He

use it?

4. What does “Keep the Sabbath Day Holy” mean to you? (See Mark 2:27)

5. A. From where is all the criticism coming?

B. What warning does that give us in the church today?

6. What was the intent of the religious leaders?

7. Why do you think Jesus chose to heal on this particular day?

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8. What resulted from Jesus’ action?

9. What caused such outrage?

10. What do you learn about Jesus in verses 15-21? (Give verses)

Read vv. 22-37

11. What were the Pharisees accusing Jesus of here and in chapter 9:34 and why?

12. How does Jesus respond to that accusation?

13. What comfort does verse 29 give us?

14. What does verse 30 mean to you?

15. What do you think is the sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit?

(See Mark 3:28-30; Luke 12:10)

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16. What searching truth does Jesus tell us in verses 34-37?

17. What is the only cure for our heart problem? (See Eph. 5:26; Heb. 9:14)

18. What words come from your mouth at unguarded moments?

19. What constitutes good fruit?

Read vv. 38-45

20. What was ridiculous and insulting about the religious leader’s question?

21. Do miracles guarantee faithfulness to God? What is their purpose? (See Jn. 5:36)

22. What did the people of Nineveh and the Queen of Sheba do that the Israelites

failed to do?

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23. How are you responding to the evidence and truth that you have been given?

24. What important point is Jesus making in verses 43 to 45?

Read vv. 46-50

25. What was the reason for the appearance of his family? (See Mark 3:21)

26. What was the underlying problem for His brothers? (See John 7:5)

27. Has your Christian zeal ever been misunderstood?

28. What beautiful promise does Jesus give us here and what does it mean to you?

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Chapter 13Read vv. 1-23

1. What two changes are taking place in Jesus’ ministry at this time?

2. What might be some of the reasons for these changes?

3. What is the ratio of success when God’s word is preached or taught? What does

that tell you?

4. Give examples in our day of people who represent:

hard path -

shallow ground -

weedy soil -

good soil -

5. How has God’s word taken root in you?

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6. Which verse shows that the disciples were in a different category?

7. Who is the sower and what does the seed represent?

8. Compare verse 12 with Luke 8:18 and explain the meaning.

Read vv. 24-52

9. Who were the two sowers in the parable of the weeds?

10. What is the meaning of the good seed according to:

Matt. 13:18

Luke 8:11

11. What does this teach you about life in this world?

12. What do the parables of the mustard seed and yeast teach us about the kingdom of

heaven?

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13. What do the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl teach you?

Note: It’s interesting to note that Hebrews did not value pearls. For instance there is no

pearl included in the priest’s breastplate of precious stones. However, the pearl

was highly valued by the Gentiles. It’s interesting that Jesus would use the pearl

to describe a most precious thing.

14. With the above comments in mind what interpretation of this parable could be

made? (Hint: consider the possibility that the merchant represents Christ)

15. How is the kingdom of heaven described in verse 47 and what does it imply?

16. What does “bring out of his storeroom new treasures” mean to you?

(See Matt. 24:45)

Read vv. 53-58

17. For what reason were the people of his hometown offended?

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18. A. Why didn’t Jesus do many miracles there?

B. What does this teach you?

C. What miracle have you recently experienced because of your trust in Jesus?

19. Reread this whole chapter. What particularly impressed you?

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Chapter 14

Read vv. 1-12; Mark 6:14-29; Luke 13:31-33

Note: Chapter 14 begins the second phase of Jesus’ ministry where he concentrates on

teaching and instructing the disciples. He begins to reveal Himself in His majesty

as Messiah in order that they may perceive His divine origin so that their faith in

Him may become unshakable. Their realization that He was truly the Son of God

developed slowly but surely although full realization was not completely

expressed until after the resurrection. (John 20:28)

1. What sins was Herod committing here? (Give verses)

2. What other faults in Herod do you detect?

3. Why do you think he mistook Jesus for John the Baptist?

4. A. What was Jesus’ response to Herod?

B. What does that teach us?

5. When have you ever been influenced by pressure?

6. What was Herodias’ sin?

7. What sin was Salome guilty of?

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Read vv. 13-21; Mark 6:30-46; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-15

8. For what reason do you think Jesus wanted to go to a quiet place?

See also John 6:1-15 (Give verses)

9. A. What lesson do you learn from Jesus’ attitude when the crowds came and

upset His plan? (Give verses)

B. How do you respond when people upset your plans?

10. In what way was the feeding of 5000 a training session for the disciples?

11. When have you seen Jesus multiply a meager contribution of your time, talent or

treasure?

12. According to this miracle what method does God choose to use to feed people

spiritually today? (Give verse)

13. What other principle do you learn from this miracle?

14. According to the Mark passage, what lesson do you learn about prayer?

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Read vv. 22-36

15. What advantages are there in times of solitude and prayer?

16. A. Were these disciples in the will of God when they found themselves in the

middle of a storm?

B. What spiritual lesson can we learn from this to comfort us in difficult

circumstances?

17. Tell something about:

Peter’s faith -

Peter’s unbelief -

God’s love and training of Peter -

18. What important step of growth are the disciples making here?

19. How did most of the people see Jesus?

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20. Over what circumstances in your life has Jesus’ help given you triumph?

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Chapter 15Read vv. 1-20

1. What do you see as both the value and hindrance of spiritual tradition?

2. What do Eph. 6:1-3 and Exodus 20:12 mean to you?

3. What was wrong with the man’s thinking in verse 5?

4. According to the Isaiah passage what does God object to?

5. What are you like inside?

6. The Pharisees knew a lot about God. What were they lacking?

7. Which do you know better, the traditions of your church organization or the actual

Word of God? Which is easier to follow?

8. Where does evil in a man originate?

Read vv. 21-31 and Mark 7: 24-30

9. Why do you think Jesus took His disciples outside the boundaries of Israel at this

time?

10. List the positive things about this Canaanite woman’s approach, appeal and

response to Christ.

11. What do you think of the disciples response to her?

12. How do you respond to inconvenient, troublesome people or circumstances?

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13. What did Jesus mean by “children” and “dogs” in verse 26?

14. Why do you think Jesus answered the woman as He did?

15. What does this episode foreshadow?

16. What does this teach you about prayer?

17. How was the woman rewarded?

18. What do you learn about Jesus here?

Read vv. 32-39

Note: Some commentators estimate that the withdrawal of Jesus with His disciples from

Jewish territory was for a period as long as six months. Although we know little

of what happened during that time period, Jesus was alone with His disciples

which must have been a wonderful and unforgettable experience for them. It

ended in the wonderful confession of Peter, “You are the Christ, the Son of the

living God.” (Matt 16:16)

19. Compare the two stories of feeding the people giving the points of difference.

(Matt. 15:29-38; Mark 6:30-46; Mark 7:31-8:10 and Luke 9:10-17)

20. What lesson did you learn from this miracle?

21. Who can you bring to Jesus for healing or feeding?

22. What do you learn about Jesus here?

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Chapter 16Read vv. 1-12

Note: The Pharisees and Sadducees had diametrically opposed views on many

religious issues. The Pharisees carefully followed their religious rules and

traditions believing this was the way to God. They believed in the authority of

Scripture and in the resurrection of the dead. They were not a political party and

looked for the Messiah, and were the extreme legalists of their day.

The Sadducees accepted only the books of Moses as Scripture and did not

believe in life after death. They were the small, wealthy aristocracy who were the

collaborationist party prepared to work with the Roman government in order to

retain their wealth and privileges. They did not believe in angels and did not long

for the Messiah and were the extreme liberals of their day. In Jesus, however,

these two groups had a common enemy in Jesus and they joined forces to kill Him.

1. What was wrong about the Pharisees’ request?

2. Do you think miracles convince people to believe?

3. What is meant by the “yeast of the Pharisees”?

4. Specifically, what do you think Jesus was warning them about with this remark?

Read vv. 13-20

5. What was the common view of Jesus by the majority of the people?

See Deut. 18:18 Is that true today also?

6. Knowing Peter’s background what was so remarkable about his confession?

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7. What was behind Peter’s confession?

8. How is this explained in the following verses?

1 Cor. 12:3

1 Cor. 2:14

9. Do you think Peter had full understanding at this time?

10. Read John 1:1-8 and Col. 1:15-19. What fuller understanding of Jesus did John

and Paul have?

11. What convinces you that Jesus is the Messiah?

12. Explain what you believe Jesus means in verse 18?

13. What power was given Peter and all the disciples when Jesus offered him the

“keys of the kingdom”?

14. When did Peter first use the “key”? See Acts 2:14 and 10:34-43

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15. From what are people “loosed” and what can “bind” us?

16. Why wouldn’t Jesus want the disciples to spread this fantastic discovery at this

time?

Read vv. 21-28

17. Although Peter grasped the fact that Jesus was God’s Messiah, what was in his

mind that causes his statement in verse 22?

18. Why do you think Jesus gave Peter such a harsh rebuke? (See Matt. 4:1-10 and

Luke 4:13)

19. Who was behind all this?

20. Why do you think Peter did not want Jesus to go to the cross?

21. When have you, with the best intentions, misdirected someone with whom God

was working because you did not want them to suffer?

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22. What can we not avoid if we follow Christ?

23. What does it mean “to take up his cross” and follow Christ?

Matt. 16:24

Gal. 6:12

Gal. 6:14

Gal. 6:17

Phil. 3:10

24. What do we who follow Christ gain?

25. What do you think verse 28 means?

26. Which verse personally challenges you?

27. Is there anything in your present life that you are changing in applying this

chapter?

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Chapter 17Read vv. 1-13 and 22-23

1. Read Luke 9:28. What two significant bits of information does Luke give us?

2. In the history of Israel what does the cloud stand for? (See Ex 13:21; Ex. 40:34;

1 Kings 8:10-11; 2 Chron. 5:13-14)

3. Comparing this incident with what we learned in Chapter 16:13f, what benefit was

this to the disciples?

4. What did this event do for Jesus?

5. How does Peter describe this experience near the end of his life?

(Read 2 Peter 1:16-18)

6. Why do you think Moses and Elijah were chosen to appear and converse with

Jesus? (Use any Scripture outside of this passage to support your opinion.)

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7. When have you ever experienced a “mountain top” experience with the Lord and

could you identify with Peter?

Note: Mountain top experiences are for our encouragement and strengthening.

Human situations test the reality of the mountain top experience.

8. How did God’s Word instruct the disciples and prepare them for Jesus’ death and

resurrection?

Read vv.14-20

9. What do you admire about this boy’s father?

10. Apply this principle to people in our churches today and how they sometimes

respond when Christians fail them?

11. Knowing that the disciples had been given the power to heal, why do you think

they failed here?

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12. What is it exactly that can “move mountains”?

13. When has God intervened in a seemingly impossible situation that you faced

recently?

14. Do you think this experience was important in the training of the disciples?

Read vv. 24-27

Note: This tax was not the tribute which had to be paid to the Roman government, but

rather it was the tax which every Israelite 20 years and older, had to pay towards

the upkeep of the temple of God at Jerusalem, its priests, and its sacrifices and

ceremonies.

15. Do you think Peter answered the tax collector’s question in a way that was in line

with Jesus’ thinking?

16. What does Jesus’ answer tell us about Him?

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17. What lesson do you learn from the way God provided Peter’s need?

18. As God’s people on earth we are both foreigners and ambassadors. We, like

ambassadors, must keep the local laws in order to represent well the one who sent

them. How did Jesus do this and in what way have you been a good ambassador

for Christ this week?

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Chapter 18Read vv. 1-14

Note: Chapter 18 is a very important chapter for Christian ethics because it shows us the

qualities which should characterize the personal relationships of the Christians.

1. Scan the entire chapter and give the verses that speak of:

humility

responsibility

self-renunciation

individual care

discipline

fellowship

forgiveness

2. Read also Mark 9:33-49. What was the big misconception the disciples had?

3. Remembering what occurred in chapter 17, what might have stimulated this

conversation among the disciples?

4. According to both the Matthew and Mark passage what characteristics constitute

greatness in God’s sight?

5. What character traits in little children do you think Jesus was thinking of?

6. Do you tend to seek positions of service or status?

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7. Do you think “little ones” refers only to children? Explain

8. What warning does Jesus give us?

9. A. List as many ways as you can think of that might cause children to stumble.

B. List ways in which we could cause new, young or weak Christians to

stumble.

10. What sort of things are we to “cut off” or “gouge out” of our lives?

11. Which verse offers you comfort?

12. What do these verses tell you about God?

Read vv. 15-20

13. Does this section on reconciliation refer to conflict within the church or in any

group? (Give verse)

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14. How does this section relate to verse :14?

15. How do you see one man’s sin as affecting the whole church?

(See 1 Cor. 12:12-13)

16. What are the three steps to be taken when a church member sins?

17. What is the motive behind such action?

18. In what spirit should such action be taken? (See Gal. 6:1-2)

19. What does verse 18 mean? (See footnotes and Acts 5:3 & 9)

20. What is the significance of this section on prayer at this particular place?

21. How do you generally handle insults or affronts from other Christians?

22. What is the most common reaction to affronts among people within the church?

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23. What is the condition to answered prayer and what does that mean to you?

24. What is the joy and promise in verse 20?

Read vv. 21-35

25. What does Peter’s question reveal about him?

26. What does Jesus’ answer to Peter mean?

27. In the parable of the unforgiving debtor, explain what each of the following

represents:

the king

the day to settle account

the man to be sold

the ten thousand talents

the one who owed a hundred denarii

the “fellow servant” cast into prison

28. What principle is God teaching in this parable?

29. Is there anyone from whom you are withholding forgiveness? What will you do

about it?

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Chapter 19Read vv. 1-12

1. What is God’s basic principle of marriage?

2. What was the reason for the visit of the Pharisees and why do you think they asked

this particular question? (See also Matt. 14:1-12)

3. In Eph. 5:21-33 how does Paul affirm Jesus’ teaching and what additional teaching

about marriage is given?

4. What steps can you take this week to strengthen your marriage vows?

5. What one reason makes divorce allowable?

6. Why did Moses make this concession?

7. What restriction was connected with divorce?

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8. What is God’s attitude to divorce according to Mal. 2:15-16?

Why is God so concerned about divorce?

9. What comfort or spiritual advice could you give to someone who divorced and

remarried before becoming a Christian (in the full sense of total commitment.)

1 Jn. 1:7-9

1 Cor. 7:20 & 24

10. What blessings does God have for those people to whom He has given the gift of

singleness? (See also 1Cor. 7)

Read vv. 13-15

11. In what ways can people hinder children from coming to Jesus?

12. What childlike characteristics could you work at developing?

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13. What does this section tell you about Jesus?

Read vv. 16-30

14. What was this young man seeking?

15. What clue tells us he is misguided in his thinking?

16. What do you think was a basic problem in this man’s young life?

17. In what area of your life are you holding back from God?

18. What principle is God giving in verse 21?

19. Matthew wrote this gospel between 60-65 A.D. Knowing what happened in

70 A.D. what do you think happened to this young man?

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20. What effect does wealth have on people that cause men to have difficulty entering

the kingdom of heaven?

21. What principle of rewards does Jesus give in the last verses?

22. Will you commit yourself totally to Him?

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Chapter 20Read vv. 1-16

Note: A dinarius was the usual daily wage for workers as well as soldiers. The men

standing in the market place were not idlers but were hoping and waiting for work.

The market place was the equivalent of the labor exchange.

1. Who or what do you think is represented by:

the land owner

the laborers

the various hours

the vineyard

the promised dinarius

2. What do you see as the main point in this parable?

3. How does this parable relate to the rich young man (19:16f),

Peter’s question (19 :27) and the request of Zebedee’s wife (20:20f)

4. In what way was the landowner quite fair with his dealings?

5. What do you think God meant by Matt. 19:30 & 20:16?

6. When have you been jealous of what God has given to another person?

Read vv. 12-28

7. What promise does Jesus always include when He speaks of His coming death and

what is His attitude about it? (See Heb. 12:2)

8. What motivated James, John and their mother with their request?

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9. In what way would the disciples also “drink the cup” that Jesus would have to

drink. (The cup of suffering)

10. How has your commitment to Christ been affected by the trials you have been

called to face?

11. What things both positive and negative does this tell you about the disciples?

12. In what way was the prophesy for James and John fulfilled (:23)?

Acts 12:2

Rev. 1:9

13. What new perspective on leadership does Jesus give?

14. How different is this from worldly standards of leadership and assessment?

Read vv. 29-34

15. A. What does the men’s calling Jesus “Lord, Son of David” tell you?

B. How did they differ from the Pharisees of 19:3?

16. What does this incident tell you about the two men?

17. In what way have your eyes been opened spiritually in your recent study of God’s

word?

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Chapter 21Read vv. 1-17

1. Do you think Jesus knew the owner of the donkey? Why? Give verse

2. When have you responded to the Lord in that way?

3. Why was it so important that he enter Jerusalem in that way? See Zach. 9:9

4. Why do you think He rode on a donkey rather than a horse?

5. What extra interesting information does John give in his account? (Jn. 12:12-19)

6. What caused such anger in Jesus and explain what you know about that practice?

7. What do you find interesting in the children by contrast to the learned scholars?

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Read vv. 18-32

8. What do you see as the symbolic teaching of the withered fig tree? (The fig tree

was used as a symbol of National Israel)

9. How was the curse both a warning and a prophesy?

10. A. The disciples would face a mountain of difficulty when they continued

Jesus’ work after the ascension. What promise did Jesus give and how

would the fig tree be a reminder?

B. Does this mean a guarantee that we will get anything we want simply by

asking?

11. How does the parable of the two sons relate to the Jewish chief priests and elders

who questioned Jesus’ authority?

12. What does this parable teach you?

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13. A. Who do you think the first son represented?

B. Who does the second son represent?

C. Who might be represented by the two sons today as we apply this parable to

ourselves?

Read vv. 33-46

14. Tell who or what the main elements in this parable represent. (See Jn. 5:1-7)

The vineyard (See also Is. 5:1-7)

The landowner

The tenants

The landowner’s servants

The son

The other tenants

15. When in Jewish history was verse 41 fulfilled?

16. Who does “the stone” represent?

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17. Write beside the following verses the ways in which the stone is applied.

1 Peter 2:7-8

Rom. 9:32-33

1 Cor. 1:23

Eph. 2:20

18. How did the Jews of Jesus’ day and people of our day “fall on this stone”?

19. Ideally people will build on a cornerstone but what happens to people who “fall on

this stone”?

Daniel 2:34, 44 & 45

Luke 19:27

John 8:24

2 Thess. 1:8-9

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Chapter 22Read vv. 1-14 and Luke 14:15-24

1. What does the invitation to the wedding feast represent?

2. Why would people refuse that invitation according to the Luke passage? (Apply

the reasons to our day)

3. In what two ways did the people in Matthew’s passage insult the king?

4. What event do you think verse 7 refers to?

5. Who do you think the poor, crippled, blind, and lame people refer to in the Luke

passage?

6. What atmosphere prevails at a wedding celebration? Relate that to His invitation to

us.

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Note: It was customary for wedding guests to be given garments to wear to the king’s

banquet. To refuse to wear these garments was an insult to the host who would

assume the guest was arrogant and thought he did not need these garments.

7. What do the wedding garments represent?

Is. 61:10

Phil. 3:9

2 Cor. 5:21

8. What has to be removed before being clothed with the wedding garment? What

does wearing our own garments represent?

Zach. 3:3-5

Is. 64:6

1 Peter 2:24

9. What consequence lies ahead for those who refuse to be covered by Christ’s

righteousness?

10. How are you choosing to appear before God when Christ returns or at the time of

your death?

Read vv. 15-33

11. Which verse indicates the growing opposition to Jesus?

12. Knowing what you do about Roman rule, why was their question a burning

nationalist question?

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13. What is Jesus teaching us by His reply?

14. What was almost humorous about the question the Sadducees posed?

Note: Verse 24 refers to the Leverite law which said that when a woman’s husband died

without having a son, her husband’s brother had a responsibility to marry and care

for the widow. This law protected women who were left alone, because in that

culture they usually had no means to support themselves.

15. What reason did Jesus give that would account for the Sadducees error?

16. How could those two reasons cause you or your family to sin?

17. What statements does Jesus make about:

Resurrection

Marriage

Godly dead

18. What do Jesus’ words in verse 32 where he quotes God’s words to Moses at the

burning bush (Ex. 3:6) say to these Sadducees?

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Read vv. 34-36

19. What is the greatest commandment?

20. What does “to love the Lord” mean to you?

21. For what reason are we to love other people as given in Gen. 1:26-27?

22. How would keeping the commandment to love fulfill all the rest of His commands?

23. Why is the question “what do you think about Christ?” the most important question

you will ever answer?

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Chapter 23Read vv. 1-15

Note: Being a religious leader in Jerusalem was very different from being a pastor in a

secular society today. Israel’s history, culture, and daily life centered around its

relationship with God. The religious leaders were the best known, most powerful

and most respected leaders.

1. What do you think of Jesus’ words directed at these religious leaders?

2. A. In spite of the condemnation, what were the Israelites expected to do and

why?

B. In what way is studying God’s Word changing your life?

3. What principals of Christian leadership are given in this passage?

4. What is a hypocrite?

5. When was the last time you acted in a hypocritical way?

6. What was wrong with what the Pharisees and teachers of the law were teaching

which differed from the whole emphasis of Jesus’ life and teaching?

Read vv. 16-28

7. What was Jesus condemning concerning oaths?

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8. What was the error in verses 23-24?

9. What mistake was pointed out in verses 25-26? Give an example of that in our day.

10. A. What were they guilty of in verses 27 & 28?

B. When have you recently been guilty of this?

Read vv. 29-39

11. What was the terrible hypocrisy in these verses?

12. What emotion does Jesus express over Jerusalem and why?

13. What event in Jewish history does verse 38 prophecy?

14. How could the Israelites have avoided that terrible sorrow and disaster?

15. Where do you turn for help and comfort when you are hurting or in need?

16. What is so significant about the city of Jerusalem?

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Chapter 24Read vv. 1-25

Note: Chapters on prophecy are not always easy to understand. This is because events

covering many years are telescoped into one another and there is often present as

well as future fulfillment of the same prophetic words. It is not important to rigidly

interpret these words, for it is only as we see foretold events come to pass that we

understand what Jesus said.

1. When was verse 2 fulfilled?

2. According to verses 4, 25, 42 & 44, what is the main lesson of this chapter and the

purpose of Bible prophecy?

3. Which verses seem to refer to the persecution which the followers of Christ will

have to endure?

4. Which verses deal with the threats which will develop against the life and purity of

the church and what are they?

5. How do you remain loyal to God and cope with troubles and difficult times?

6. What one sure sign does Jesus give after which the end will come?

7. Do you find any verses that give hope in the midst of these dire predictions

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Read vv. 26-35

8. What things will precede Jesus return to earth?

Note: These things may not all happen at one event, but may be a series of events over

time. Just as at Christ’s first coming there was a series of events covering thirty-

three years, yet all constituting His first coming.

9. What does God tell us about the Lord’s return in:

Matt. 24:30

Rev. 1:7

Zech. 12:10

10. How are you preparing for Christ’s return? Are you ready?

11. What lesson does God want us to learn from the fig tree?

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Read vv. 36-51

12. Why is it a good thing that we do not know exactly when Christ will return?

13. What do the lessons of Noah and the workers in the field teach us?

14. In what way do people in our day live like those in Noah’s day?

15. What are we to do?

16. What does God intend our readiness to include?

17. What other fact is as certain as Jesus’ return to earth?

18. What faithful activities are you engaged in as you await Christ’s return?

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19. What does God expect of us who know Him?

Matt. 24:45

John 21:15-17

Matt. 13:52

20. Is there anything in this chapter which will change your way of living this week?

21. Do you look forward to Christ’s return with joy or fear and why?

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Chapter 25Read vv. 1-13

Note: In these parables Jesus is telling us more about the end times, what it means to be

ready for His return and how to live until He comes.

1. What do you see as the main teaching in this parable?

2. How can we best prepare and be ready for the time when Jesus returns for us?

3. Tell what you learn about the Holy Spirit in:

Zech. 4:6

John 3:5-6

Rom. 8:9

2 Cor. 1:21-22

Eph. 1:13

4. What do you think “the midnight hour” means?

5. Why couldn’t the wise virgins give some oil to the foolish virgins? What does oil

represent in scripture?

6. When you see Jesus will He know you?

Read vv. 14-30

7. What do you see as the main teaching of the parable of the talents?

8. What does the fact the each servant received a different amount of money say to

you?

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9. How are you using what you have been given?

10. What reward is given for work well done?

11. What were the problems with the man who received one talent?

12. Explain what verse 29 means to you.

Read vv. 31-46

13. What is the main emphasis in these verses?

14. What was the beauty in the reaction of those who helped others?

15. Who do you think the sheep and goats represent?

16. How well do your actions separate you from unbelievers?

17. What is the result from either helping or neglecting the needy?

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Chapter 26Read vv. 1-16

1. Which verses show God’s hand in the timing of Jesus’ crucifiction?

2. What was so significant about Jesus’ death taking place during Passover?

See Eph. 12:6-11

3. Who is in control of the events surrounding Jesus’ death? (See also Jn. 10:17-18 &

Jn. 13:27)

4. Tell something about the people surrounding Jesus at this time.

Chief priest and elders

Simon

Mary

Disciples

Judas

5. What impresses you about Mary?

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6. What kind of hospitality or reception does Jesus receive in your life? Are you so

busy planning and running your life that you have little time to spend with Him?

7. Why do you think Judas betrayed Jesus?

Read vv. 17-30

8. Relate the symbolism of the Passover and tell how it was fulfilled at Jesus’ death.

(See also 1 Cor. 5:7 & Exodus 12:5-30)

The lamb

The yeast

Blood

Roasted lamb

9. In our celebration of the Lord’s supper explain the symbolism or meaning of the

following:

The wine

The bread

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10. Why do you think Jesus spoke to the disciples about His betrayal?

Read vv. 31-46

11. Although Jesus was facing the agony of the cross, what is remarkable about Him?

12. What problems did Jesus foresee in the disciples?

13. Have you ever had this problem?

14. What need did Jesus display by taking His close disciples with Him?

15. What additional information does Luke give about this time of agony?

(Lk. 22:39-46)

16. What caused Jesus’ anguish and sorrow?

17. What were the disciples to pray about?

18. Which verse indicates total surrender to the Father?

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19. When is it most difficult for you to say “Not my will but your will” to God?

Read vv. 47-56 & John 18:10

20. What surprised you about Jesus’ response to Judas?

21. How did Peter’s action show that he was out of sync with the mind of God?

(See also Luke 22:51)

22. How could Peter’s action have hindered God’s plan and purpose and what lesson

does this teach us?

23. List points to reveal:

Jesus’s humiliation His majesty His care for His own

24. When have you deserted Jesus or fled from His presence?

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Read vv. 57-68

25. Compare the accounts of the trials or examinations that Jesus endured between

midnight and His crucifixion at 9:00AM. How many were there? (Jn. 18:12-14;

Matt. 26:57f; Matt. 27:1-2; Luke 23:1-25)

26. Did Jesus ever declare His divinity? (Give verse)

27. What was the importance of the end of verse 64?

28. Did Jesus blaspheme according to Jewish law?

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Read vv. 69-75; Luke 22:60-62

29. From former sections list some of the steps that led to Peter’s final denial and relate

them to how we also fall into sin today.

30. What was the great difference between Peter’s betrayal and that of Judas?

Peter Judas

31. What do you think the Lord thought and felt when He looked at Peter?

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Chapter 27Read vv. 1-26

1. What affect did the death sentence of Jesus have on Judas?

2. In what way had the priest failed Judas when he confessed his sin?

3. What big error did Judas make concerning his own salvation?

4. A. Compare Luke 23:6-12 with Matthew 27:11-14. How did Jesus respond to

these Roman leaders as well as to the chief priest and elders?

B. Why do you think Jesus acted this way toward Herod in view of Herod’s

previous history?

C. What warning does this give us?

5. What warnings was Pilate given by God concerning his prisoner’s innocence?

6. How did Pilate try to un-shoulder his responsibility?

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7. Standing before Pilate the religious leaders accused Jesus of a different crime than

the one for which they arrested him.

A. What was He arrested for in the previous chapter?

B. What is He charged with before the Roman governor?

C. Why the change?

8. What prophecies were filled according to:

Zech. 11:12-13

Is. 53:7

Note: These prophecies were written 700 to 800 years before Christ even appeared on

earth.

9. Knowing Jesus was innocent why do you think Pilate delivered Jesus to them?

(See also John 19:12)

Read vv. 22-44

10. Under all the pain and humiliation, what impresses you about Jesus?

11. Have you ever resisted taking the easy way out for the sake of following God’s will

for your life?

12. Why do you think Jesus refused this sedative drink but accepted the drink offered at

the very end of His crucifixion? (See John 19:28-30)

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Read vv. 45-56

13. What prophesies from Psalm 22 do you see fulfilled by Christ? (Give verse)

Note: The Psalms were written some 1400 years before Christ lived and died on earth.

14. A. What happened to the two robbers crucified with Him? (See Lk. 23:39-43)

B. What does the salvation of the one robber at this point in his life tell you?

15. Why was Jesus forsaken by God?

16. Which do you think was worse for Jesus, the physical or the spiritual pain?

17. What significance is there for us in the fact that the veil before the Holy of Holies

was torn at the time of Jesus’ death and that it was torn from top to bottom?

18. How do you think this event affected the priest especially the one serving the

evening sacrifice?

19. What are earthquakes often connected with in Scripture? (See Is. 29:6; Haggai 2:6;

Zech. 14:5 & Matt. 24:7)

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20. What seems significant about those raised from the dead and all the miraculous

events that accompanied Christ’s death?

21. What do you think precipitated the centurion’s remark?

22. What natural phenomenon convinces you that God is who He says He is?

Read vv. 57-66

23. Did Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea run any risk in caring for Jesus’ burial?

(See John 19:38-41)

24. Tell something about these two men. (Use notes in the helps in the back of your

Bible)

Joseph

Nicodemus

25. What impresses you most about the burial of Jesus?

26. What seems strange in verses 62-64?

27. When have you had the boldness of Joseph and Nicodemus and acknowledged Jesus

in a difficult or hostile situation?

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Chapter 28Read vv. 1-10; Matt 27:62-66; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18

1. What means did the chief priest use to eliminate Jesus from the time of His capture

to His resurrection?

2. What did the enemies of Jesus do to insure against His reappearance on earth and

the disappearance of His body from the grave?

Matt. 27:64

Matt. 27:66

Matt. 28:13

3. A. Give as many verses as possible that show that neither the disciples nor the

women expected Jesus to rise.

B. Why is this so important?

4. What three things occurred before the women arrived at the tomb?

5. What do you think motivated the two Marys to be last at the crucifixion and first at

the tomb?

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6. Why is the resurrection the key to the Christian faith?

1.

2.

3.

4.

Read vv. 11-15

7. Why would the religious leaders bribe the guards?

8. How do you think the Jewish authorities felt on hearing what happened?

9. What does this tell us about God and His truth?

Read John 20:1 & Luke 24:13-43

10. What was it about what Peter and John saw in the tomb and what was the result?

11. What convinces you that Jesus arose from the dead?

12. How did Jesus help the two disciples on the road to Emmaus out of their sadness

and confusion?

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13. What lesson do you learn from:

Luke 24:15-16

Luke 24:21-24

Luke 24:26-27

Luke 24:28-32

14. Give as many proofs from any resurrection passages in the Gospels that Jesus’

resurrection was that of His actual body and not only a spiritual resurrection.

Read vv. 16-20

15. What is the importance of the word “therefore” in verse 19?

16. What threefold command does Jesus give His disciples?

17. Why do these words have particular significance?

18. How do Jesus’ own words affirm the reality of the Trinity, a concept some people

accuse theologians of making up.

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19. How is Jesus with you?

20. To whom are all those commands given?

21. How have you or are you responding to that command?

22. How does Christ’s resurrection change your present life according to:

Rom. 5:10

Rom. 6:5

Rom. 8:11

1 Cor. 15:35-58

2 Cor. 1:9

2 Cor. 10:18

Gal. 2:20

Eph. 2:5-7

Phil. 3:10

Col. 3:1-4

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