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A Question About Divorce READ Matthew 19:1-3 1 When Jesus had finished saying these things, he left Galilee and went down to the region of Judea east of the Jordan River. 2 Large crowds followed him there, and he healed their sick. 3 Some Pharisees came and tried to trap him with this question: “Should a man be allowed to divorce his wife for just any reason?” Jesus now goes from Galilee in the north toward the south and east of the Jordan River. As usual, large crowds followed Him and He healed their sick. Likely, the large crowds tipped off the Pharisees about the location of Jesus. They came and tried to trap Him with a question. In their question about divorce, the key words were “for just any reason.” The Pharisees were deeply divided over this issue so no matter what Jesus answered, they thought He would be in trouble. REFLECT Have you thought about those today who would like to trap Jesus with questions? RESPOND The Pharisees always wanted to ensnare Jesus in a trap. Read Matthew 22:15-22 for another time this occurred. What God Has Joined READ Matthew 19:4-6 4 “Haven’t you read the Scriptures?” Jesus replied. “They record that from the beginning ‘God made them male and female.’” 5 And he said, “‘This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.’ 6 Since they are no longer two but one, let no one split apart what God has joined together.” Notice Jesus’ belief in only two sexes being created and how marriage was to be between a man and woman. Today’s culture can change their notions about marriage but none of these should replace what Jesus said. Jesus also emphasized that no one should split apart what God has joined together. Jesus believed what Genesis 2:24 says, “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” REFLECT What is it like in your culture? Do people believe there are more than two sexes? Do they believe it is acceptable for two people of the same sex to be married? RESPOND With another believer read Romans 1:18-32 to see what God thinks about two people of the same sex having a sexual relationship. Written Notice READ Matthew 19:7 7 “Then why did Moses say in the law that a man could give his wife a written notice of divorce and send her away?” they asked. The Pharisees thought they had Jesus trapped by pointing out that Moses allowed for divorce during Old Testament times—the only Scriptures they had at the time. Surely they wondered how Jesus could believe anything contrary to what Moses had written. REFLECT Have you read something in the Old Testament that seems to conflict with the New Testament? RESPOND One of the differences between the Old Testament and the New concerns the Mosaic law. According to common Jewish count there were 613 commandments, not just the 10 in Exodus 20. Concerning diets and special days see what the apostle Paul wrote in Colossians 2:16-17. See also what James, the half-brother of the Lord Jesus, wrote in James 2:10. Not God's Intent READ Matthew 19:8-9 8 Jesus replied, “Moses permitted divorce only as a concession to your hard hearts, but it was not what God had originally intended. 9 And I tell you this, whoever divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery—unless his wife has been unfaithful.” This was Jesus’ answer to the Pharisees who thought they had trapped him with their question. Jesus was concerned about what was originally intended, not how the hardened hearts of mankind had twisted the meaning of marriage and divorce. REFLECT Have you met some today who want to change God’s original intent of marriage? RESPOND With a fellow believer, read Ephesians 5:31-33 to see that a Christian marriage is intended to be a picture of Christ and the Church. About Marriage READ Matthew 19:10-12 10 Jesus’ disciples then said to him, “If this is the case, it is better not to marry!” 11 “Not everyone can accept this statement,” Jesus said. “Only those whom God helps. 12 Some are born as eunuchs, some have been made eunuchs by others, and some choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone accept this who can.” The disciples were perplexed by Jesus’ answer to the Pharisees about marriage. They wondered if it was better not ever to marry. Jesus acknowledged that not everyone could accept His statement. A eunuch was one who did not have the ability to reproduce. Whereas some were born this way, others were made this way, and some choose not to marry for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. Today many have served as parents to others although not having children of their own. REFLECT Do you know of some adult men or women who are childless but have served as a parent to other children? RESPOND Deciding to marry or remain celibate is a decision between a person and the Lord. No one else should make this decision for them. Read 1 Corinthians 7:1-9 to see what the apostle Paul said about marriage and singleness. Read Hebrews 13:4 to see that marriage is an honorable state.

Jesus and the Children READ Matthew 19:13 13 One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. This verse reveals how precious children are to Jesus. It also tells of concerned parents bringing their children to Jesus. They wanted Him to pray for them. Regrettably, the disciples—as some people today—think God is too busy to care about little children. The disciples thought the parents were bothering Jesus. REFLECT If you are a parent, are you doing all you can to nudge your children closer to Jesus? RESPOND Talk with a friend of what you have done or observed being done that helps nudge children closer to Jesus. Inheritors of the Kingdom READ Matthew 19:14-15 14 But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” 15 And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left. The disciples thought the parents were bothering Jesus by bringing their children to Him. This is not what Jesus thought. He wanted them to come to Him because the kingdom of heaven is for those who have the attitude of children who believe in Jesus. Before leaving them, He placed His hands on their heads and blessed them. REFLECT What do you think Jesus may have said as He blessed the children? RESPOND There are various blessings mentioned in the Bible. For two examples, see Numbers 6:22-26 and Jude 1:24. Path to Eternal Life READ Matthew 19:16-17 16 Someone came to Jesus with this question: “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” 17 “Why ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. But to answer your question—if you want to receive eternal life, keep the commandments.” This person wanted to have eternal life. The person was likely familiar with the ten commandments in Exodus 20, as well as many other of the Old Testament commandments. Jesus told him to keep them if he wanted to have eternal life. For you and me, we can consider the verses John has recorded that plainly tell how to have eternal life (see John 3:16; 6:47). REFLECT What if Jesus had told you what he told this person? What would you have expected Him to say? RESPOND The testimony of the Bible is that a person is always saved by grace through faith. In the Old Testament the concept was faith in God, as Abraham expressed in Genesis 15:6. In the New Testament it was expressed as faith in Jesus Christ as in John 5:24 and Romans 5:1-2. The Commandments READ Matthew 19:18-19 18 “Which ones?” the man asked. And Jesus replied: “‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. 19 Honor your father and mother. Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Even though the person surely knew of many commandments, he asked Jesus which ones he should keep to have eternal life. Jesus mentioned a few of the commandments. Even these few would be a test to see if he was serious about becoming a follower of Jesus. REFLECT Have you kept these commandments that Jesus mentioned to this man? Do you realize we are not under the Old Testament law system although its moral principles are true throughout time? RESPOND Spend time with another believer and examine what Jesus said about some of the commandments in His sermon on the mount in Matthew 5:21-32. Notice the importance of the heart attitude. Sell It All READ Matthew 19:20-21 20 “I’ve obeyed all these commandments,” the young man replied. “What else must I do?” 21 Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” These verses reveal Jesus was putting this young man to the test. He boasted he had kept all the commandments, but what about loving his neighbor as himself. To prove he was not honest, Jesus told him to sell his possessions and give the money to the poor. This would prove he loved his neighbor as himself. REFLECT Have you felt that sometimes Jesus is putting you to a test? Tell of an experience in this regard. RESPOND Talk with another believer about what you can do to show you love others as Jesus instructed. That which is important is not how much money you earn but what you do with your money. There are many excellent charities that help others. Do you support any of them? See 2 Corinthians 8:11-13 for some principles in giving.

Camels and Needles READ Matthew 19:22-24 22 But when the young man heard this, he went away sad, for he had many possessions. 23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “I tell you the truth, it is very hard for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. 24 I’ll say it again—it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!” The young man had boasted of keeping all the commandments, even loving his neighbor as himself. Jesus put him to the test when He told him to sell everything and give to the poor. He failed the test because he was rich and went away sad. The disciples did not understand why riches were not a blessing as the Old Testament taught. Jesus explained how trusting in them can keep one out of heaven. Some think it was possible for a camel to kneel down and with difficulty get through the small space in the wall, but Jesus was emphasizing it was impossible, not just difficult. REFLECT Some trust riches more than putting trust in Jesus. Is there anything you are trusting that is keeping you from trusting Jesus as your Savior? RESPOND Talk with a friend about whatever else you are trusting in. Nothing compares to trusting in Jesus as Savior. Read James 2:18-20 to see that demons believe God exists; however, they do not believe in or trust Him for salvation. Possible with God READ Matthew 19:25-26 25 The disciples were astounded. “Then who in the world can be saved?” they asked. 26 Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.” The disciples were thinking of natural laws and asked who could possibly be saved because of what Jesus said. Jesus then told them that the new birth was a supernatural act of God, not of humans. Jesus looked at them intently. He seemed to want to drive home His point to them that salvation was a supernatural act of God. REFLECT Can you imagine what this was like for the disciples when Jesus looked at them intently to give emphasis to His statements? What would you think if He looked at you this way? RESPOND Read John 1:10-13 to see how the apostle John emphasized that the new birth is supernatural, not of natural means. Point out to others that no matter how spiritual their parents were or are, they have to make a personal decision to trust in Jesus as Savior. Twelve Thrones READ Matthew 19:27-28 27 Then Peter said to him, “We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?” 28 Jesus replied, “I assure you that when the world is made new and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” Peter was still thinking naturally and wondered what the disciples would get for giving up everything and following Jesus. Jesus reminded the disciples that in eternity when Jesus is on the throne they would be richly rewarded. They would actually be judges of the twelve tribes of Israel. This must have struck the disciples as an unbelievable reward for following Jesus. REFLECT Think about the rewards you will receive for following Jesus. RESPOND With a fellow believer, read 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 for the description of rewards believers will receive. This is not a test for salvation; they are in heaven because they are saved. This describes rewards given to those who build on the foundation of Jesus in the lives of others. Talk about how you are building into the lives of other believers in Jesus. Inherit Eternal Life READ Matthew 19:29-30 29 “And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.” This is a comforting passage for those who have given up possessions and family to follow what they believe Jesus wants them to do. His words are sobering to realize that some who are in the limelight now and considered to be great will not be important then. It is a great promise to realize that some who seem to be the least important now will be the greatest then. REFLECT The late world evangelist, Billy Graham, was told one time of the great number of rewards it was thought he would receive in heaven. His reply was that he thought the one who would get the most was some unknown widow lady who prayed so faithfully for him and his crusades. RESPOND Read John 3:27-30 to see what John the Baptist said when his disciples were concerned he was losing popularity. Let this also be your attitude. Vineyard Workers READ Matthew 20:1-2 1 “For the Kingdom of Heaven is like the landowner who went out early one morning to hire workers for his vineyard. 2 He agreed to pay the normal daily wage and sent them out to work.” It is from this parable that the amount of a day’s wages is found and used in other Scriptures: it was one denarius. When modern translations refer to how many days’ pay it would take to do something, this is the amount they have in mind for each day. This parable will teach a valuable lesson to Jesus’ listeners—and to us today. REFLECT Whatever you earn in a day, think of giving the entire amount for something. Surely you would think it valuable to give such an amount. What if you had to give several days’ wages? RESPOND Visit with a fellow believer about the practice of giving. The principle for giving in the New Testament is not a tithe (ten percent). In the New Testament it is proportional giving; that is, giving in relation to how much you have been blessed. Read 1 Corinthians 16:1-4 to see what the apostle Paul told the Corinthians about giving. See 2 Corinthians 8:12-14 to learn you should give based on what you have, not on what you wish you had.

Put to Work READ Matthew 20:3-5 3 “At nine o’clock in the morning he was passing through the marketplace and saw some people standing around doing nothing. 4 So he hired them, telling them he would pay them whatever was right at the end of the day. 5 So they went to work in the vineyard. At noon and again at three o’clock he did the same thing.” This passage continues Jesus’ parable about the farmer hiring workers. The first group was hired around 6:00 a.m. and agreed to work for a day’s wages. Later in the day the farmer hired others and promised to pay them what was right at the end of the day. Then at noon and three o’clock the landowner hired others with the same promise. REFLECT At this point, what do you think the landowner has in mind? Whatever it was, Jesus would use it to teach a lesson. RESPOND This parable follows what was said at the end of Matthew 19 about rewards. It should be read without thinking of the chapter break. Jesus was in the process of teaching His disciples a valuable lesson about rewards. Late in the Day READ Matthew 20:6-7 6 “At five o’clock that afternoon he was in town again and saw some more people standing around. He asked them, ‘Why haven’t you been working today?’ 7 They replied, ‘Because no one hired us.’ The landowner told them, ‘Then go out and join the others in my vineyard.’” At this point there would be only about one hour left in the working day. The farmer said nothing about pay as he told these workers to join the others. This parable has the hired hands going out at five different times of the day. How would they be rewarded for their work? REFLECT What are you thinking about this time? Do you assume that those who worked in the hot sun all day would be paid much more than those hired at the last hour? RESPOND Talk with a believer about rewards that could be expected of one saved in childhood and spent a life serving the Lord in contrast to the one who had a death-bed conversion. It took the same grace of God to save both. Paid the Same READ Matthew 20:8-12 8 “That evening he told the foreman to call the workers in and pay them, beginning with the last workers first. 9 When those hired at five o’clock were paid, each received a full day’s wage. 10 When those hired first came to get their pay, they assumed they would receive more. But they, too, were paid a day’s wage. 11 When they received their pay, they protested to the owner, 12 ‘Those people worked only one hour, and yet you’ve paid them just as much as you paid us who worked all day in the scorching heat.’” Those who were hired last were paid first, so the others saw that they were paid a full day’s wages. Understandably, those who had worked all day thought it was unfair and complained that those who worked for only one hour were paid the same as those who worked all day. How would the farmer justify this? REFLECT Had you been in this farmer’s position, how would you have paid the workers? They weren’t on an hourly wage. RESPOND Talk with a friend about those you have heard complaining about their salaries. Did they agree to work for what they were earning? If so, do they have a right to complain? Ecclesiastes 5:10-11 says something to think about at such a time. Last and First READ Matthew 20:13-16 13 “He answered one of them, ‘Friend, I haven’t been unfair! Didn’t you agree to work all day for the usual wage? 14 Take your money and go. I wanted to pay this last worker the same as you. 15 Is it against the law for me to do what I want with my money? Should you be jealous because I am kind to others?’ 16 So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last.” This was the farmer’s answer. Those who worked for the full day in the heat had agreed with the wage they would receive. He told them to take their money and go. He explained that he had the right to do what he wanted to do with his money. He told the complaining workers that they should not be jealous because he was kind to others. REFLECT Have you had family or friends who thought you were too kind in helping others? RESPOND Matthew 20:16 emphasizes the same point as the last verse of Matthew 19 (see verse 30). Think about how sometimes the man-made chapter divisions interrupt the thought. Preparing for the End READ Matthew 20:17-19 17 As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside privately and told them what was going to happen to him. 18 “Listen,” he said, “we’re going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be betrayed to the leading priests and the teachers of religious law. They will sentence him to die. 19 Then they will hand him over to the Romans to be mocked, flogged with a whip, and crucified. But on the third day he will be raised from the dead.” The disciples were slow to understand what would eventually happen to Jesus. Here He gives more details about the end of His earthly life. He tells about some of the torture He will experience then, but mentions the good news that He will be raised from the dead on the third day. REFLECT Is it possible for you to think of some good news when you have a loved one about to pass away? If that person believes in Jesus, the individual will go to be with Him. At that time the person will be free from all pain and heartache. RESPOND Comfort a believer by sharing John 11:25 and 14:1-6. After a believing loved one has passed away, share with the family Isaiah 57:1-2.

Places of Honor READ Matthew 20:20-21 20 Then the mother of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus with her sons. She knelt respectfully to ask a favor. 21 “What is your request?” he asked. She replied, “In your Kingdom, please let my two sons sit in places of honor next to you, one on your right and the other on your left.” The thought now shifts from the parable of the farmer and workers to a question asked by the mother of James and John. Jesus graciously asked what her request was. As a proud mother, she wondered if her two sons could sit in the place of honor on His right and left in the kingdom. REFLECT Had you been the mother of James and John, would you have asked this of Jesus? RESPOND See Mark 3:17 where Jesus nicknamed James and John the “Sons of Thunder.” They were often in the small circle around Jesus, but they also had tempers. See Luke 9:53-55 to see one time when they wanted to call down fire on those who would not welcome Jesus. John is considered to be the one who wrote the Gospel of John, and referred to by Peter as “the disciple Jesus loved” (see John 21:20). The Bitter Cup READ Matthew 20:22-23 22 But Jesus answered by saying to them, “You don’t know what you are asking! Are you able to drink from the bitter cup of suffering I am about to drink?” “Oh yes,” they replied, “we are able!” 23 Jesus told them, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or my left. My Father has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen.” Jesus addressed James and John with His words. He wanted to know if they realized what lay ahead for them. They answered, “Oh yes, we are able.” According to extra-biblical information, it is thought all the disciples except John faced a martyr’s death. John was greatly persecuted and died in old age. REFLECT Think how serious it was for Jesus to tell James and John they would suffer from His bitter cup. RESPOND Read Mark 10:39-40 to see Mark’s recording of Jesus’ conversation with James and John. Jesus often took James and John along with Peter, such as when He was transfigured (see Matthew 17:1-3). Flaunting Authority READ Matthew 20:24-25 24 When the ten other disciples heard what James and John had asked, they were indignant. 25 But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them.” The other disciples were jealous of James and John for asking their question of Jesus. Then Jesus explained to them why their question about a place of honor was understandable. It was because of the world’s way of thinking about superiority. This reveals how ingrained people become by the values of the world. REFLECT Give some thought to the way your thinking is influenced by the world around you. RESPOND With a fellow believer, read Romans 12:1-2 to see how to change your thinking from the world’s viewpoint to the heavenly one. Servers and Leaders READ Matthew 20:26-28 26 “But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. 28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus explained how His followers should think differently than the world. Those who wish to be a leader must be a servant. He was the prime example of this because He came to serve others and not to be served. He was willing to be the ultimate sacrifice for the sins of the world. REFLECT Consider all that Jesus did for humanity when He was born into the human race so He could grow to adulthood and give His life as a sacrifice for sin. RESPOND Share with someone what is said in Philippians 2:3-8 to see the attitude Jesus had that is to be the example for believers. Have Mercy on Us READ Matthew 20:29-31 29 As Jesus and the disciples left the town of Jericho, a large crowd followed behind. 30 Two blind men were sitting beside the road. When they heard that Jesus was coming that way, they began shouting, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” 31 “Be quiet!” the crowd yelled at them. But they only shouted louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” This is another example of the sick confronting Jesus for healing. They were physically blind but not spiritually blind. They recognized Jesus as the descendant of David. This was more knowledge than shown by the Pharisees and Sadducees. This likely meant the two blind men realized Jesus was the Messiah. They wanted Jesus to have mercy on them. As usual, the crowd wanted them to be quiet, but they cried out even louder. REFLECT It is not certain how these two blind men knew so much about Jesus. Think how blessed we are now to know about Jesus. RESPOND Read Luke 4:16-21 to see how Jesus referred to the Old Testament’s prophecies about Himself. See also Luke 24:25-27 to see what Jesus explained to the followers on the road to Emmaus how all the Old Testament referred to Him.

Instantly READ Matthew 20:32-34 32 When Jesus heard them, he stopped and called, “What do you want me to do for you?” 33 “Lord,” they said, “we want to see!” 34 Jesus felt sorry for them and touched their eyes. Instantly they could see! Then they followed him. The two blind men yelled louder when the crowd wanted them to quiet down. Notice Jesus’ question whose answer seems obvious. One medical doctor has said that sometimes people want to be identified by their handicap and do not really want to be healed. These two wanted to see. Notice Jesus’ compassion, He “felt sorry for them.” Sometimes He healed by speaking a word; this time He healed by touching their eyes. Instantly they could see and followed Him. REFLECT This miracle revealed the desired result. Those healed followed Jesus. RESPOND Although these blind men seemed to know who Jesus was, sometimes Jesus healed those who did not know who He was. See John 9:1-34. The man blind from birth didn’t know who healed him and whether He was a sinner or not. He only knew He was called Jesus. If Jesus could only have healed His followers that would have made Him suspect. He even healed unbelievers. The Lord Needs Them READ Matthew 21:1-3 1 As Jesus and the disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to the town of Bethphage on the Mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of them on ahead. 2 “Go into the village over there,” he said. “As soon as you enter it, you will see a donkey tied there, with its colt beside it. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone asks what you are doing, just say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will immediately let you take them.” It is not known how the owner of the animals would know the Lord and His need of them. Perhaps it was a demonstration of Jesus’ omniscience. Although as God in human form He didn’t express His knowledge often. On occasion Jesus used His omniscience such as when He saw Nathanael under the fig tree (see John 1:43-48). REFLECT Do you realize that the Lord Jesus knows every detail about you? Yet He loves you more than anyone else and died for you and the world. RESPOND With a fellow believer, read Hebrews 4:12-13 to be reminded of how the Word of God exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Riding on a Donkey READ Matthew 21:4-5 4 This took place to fulfill the prophecy that said, 5 “Tell the people of Jerusalem, ‘Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey—riding on a donkey’s colt.’” Even kings rode on donkeys during peacetime. Horses were military animals. This passage cites Zechariah 9:9 and reveals how the Old Testament prophecies looked ahead to Jesus. Whereas the Old Testament looked ahead; the New Testament looks to the fulfillment of what was predicted. Psalm 22 is an example of this in that some of its statements are applied to Jesus at the time of His crucifixion. REFLECT Have you thought about the Old Testament predicting many events that occurred in the New Testament? RESPOND Join with a believer in reading Psalm 22:16-18. It was written by David and some of his statements are cited in the New Testament when Jesus was crucified. Entering Jerusalem READ Matthew 21:6-8 6 The two disciples did as Jesus commanded. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt to him and threw their garments over the colt, and he sat on it. 8 Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. This began Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Many people spread their clothes and branches from the trees on the road. This was a demonstration of honor and worship. It is doubtful that all were believers in Jesus because it would not be long until people would be crying out to have Him crucified. Many misunderstood and had thought He was coming to deliver them from Roman oppression. REFLECT Does your life demonstrate you really believe in the words you say? RESPOND Talk with another Christian about being sure not to say more than what you are living. Use James 1:22-24 as a guide. Hosanna READ Matthew 21:9-11 9 Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Praise God in highest heaven!” 10 The entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar as he entered. “Who is this?” they asked. 11 And the crowds replied, “It’s Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.” The words “Praise God” are “Hosanna” that literally means “save now.” Perhaps some only wanted Jesus to save them from the domination of the Roman Empire, but He came to save from sin. Luke 2:10 has the definite article (the) when it says there is good news for “all the people.” With the article, this is referring to the Jewish nation for which He was the Messiah. 1 John 2:2 reveals He also came to be the sacrifice for the sins of the entire world. REFLECT Whether you are Jew or Gentile you can thank the Lord that He died to be the sacrifice for your sin. RESPOND Notice in this passage that the crowds recognized Jesus as the prophet from Nazareth. It does not say they recognized Him as the Messiah. Today many think of Jesus as a good teacher or model, but they do not think of Him as God. Read 1 John 4:1-3 to see the importance of not believing every teaching. Note what the test is.

Den of Thieves READ Matthew 21:12-13 12 Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out all the people buying and selling animals for sacrifice. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves. 13 He said to them, “The Scriptures declare, ‘My Temple will be called a house of prayer,’ but you have turned it into a den of thieves!” This is the second time Jesus cleansed the temple. The money changers were taking advantage of visitors by not giving them a fair money exchange. Instead of the temple being used for holy purposes it was being used to make money by taking advantage of others. Jesus referred to the practice as turning the temple “into a den of thieves.” REFLECT Consider how this principle might be applied to churches today. Are they considered to be money-making institutions or houses of worship and supported by believers? RESPOND With a fellow believer, read Isaiah 56:7 and Jeremiah 7:11 that seem to be the Scriptures to which Jesus was referring. Talk about what the two of you can do to influence the proper function of your church or churches to be honoring to God as places of worship supported by God’s people. Healing in the Temple READ Matthew 21:14-15 14 The blind and the lame came to him in the Temple, and he healed them. 15 The leading priests and the teachers of religious law saw these wonderful miracles and heard even the children in the Temple shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David.” But the leaders were indignant. As usual those with physical problems sought out Jesus. Also as usual, He dealt with their needs and healed them. The religious leaders saw the wonderful miracles of Jesus. They also heard children shouting, “Praise God for the Son of David.” The word “son” in the Bible is often used as a “descendent” just as “father” is often used as an “ancestor.” The uneducated children recognized something the educated religious leaders did not—Jesus was the Messiah. REFLECT Are you devoted to knowing the Scriptures? If so, you may know more than religious leaders who deny the virgin birth of Jesus and His substitutionary atonement for lost mankind? RESPOND Be involved in teaching children what the Bible says and supporting those who minister to them. Let the Bible be an example of how the hearts of children are tender toward spiritual truths and can trust in Jesus at an early age. You Have Taught Children READ Matthew 21:16-17 16 They asked Jesus, “Do you hear what these children are saying?” “Yes,” Jesus replied. “Haven’t you ever read the Scriptures? For they say, ‘You have taught children and infants to give you praise.’” 17 Then he returned to Bethany, where he stayed overnight. The religious leaders thought if Jesus knew what the children were saying by calling Him the Son of David that He would consider it blasphemy. Jesus did not deny what the children were saying, implying that He was truly the Messiah. Jesus said what the children were doing was prophesied in the Hebrew Scriptures, which the religious leaders should have known. This also reveals how the religious leaders were ignorant of their own Scriptures. REFLECT Would it not be embarrassing to have Jesus say that you do not know what is in the Scriptures? RESPOND Talk about this with a fellow believer. Covenant together that you will not be ignorant of what the Bible says. Read 2 Timothy 2:15 to see what the apostle Paul urged believers to do. Make this your goal even though you realize you will be learning all your life. A Withered Fig Tree READ Matthew 21:18-20 18 In the morning, as Jesus was returning to Jerusalem, he was hungry, 19 and he noticed a fig tree beside the road. He went over to see if there were any figs, but there were only leaves. Then he said to it, “May you never bear fruit again!” And immediately the fig tree withered up. 20 The disciples were amazed when they saw this and asked, “How did the fig tree wither so quickly?” Fig trees in the days of Jesus produced fruit before the leaves came on. If no fruit was there it was an indication there would never be any fruit. The fig tree is considered to be a symbol of Israel. The Jews had seemingly welcomed Him but the Jewish leaders had rejected Him. Now no fruit from the nation would be expected so Jesus pronounced judgment on the nation. REFLECT Do you know of some who talk about spiritual matters but do not live what they say? What about those who say they love God and yet use His name in vain? RESPOND Join with a believer to discuss the importance of your life demonstrating what you say you believe. Read Ephesians 4:25-32. Are you living this way? Faith Without Doubt READ Matthew 21:21-22 21 Then Jesus told them, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don’t doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. 22 You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.” Some interpret this passage to mean you can ask anything you can think of. The overall teaching of the Bible, however, means we are praying for what is God’s will to be done. You might ask, “What is God’s will?” The Bible is the only safe guide to give that answer. REFLECT Have you considered studying the Scriptures to learn what God’s will is? RESPOND With a Christian friend who is willing to study the Bible with you about God’s will, examine several passages. See 2 Peter 3:9; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:18; Matthew 18:14; John 6:40. Join with each other in praying for what is God’s will.

By What Authority READ Matthew 21:23 23 When Jesus returned to the Temple and began teaching, the leading priests and elders came up to him. They demanded, “By what authority are you doing all these things? Who gave you the right?” The religious leaders were always trying to trap Jesus. Although many of the common people believed in Jesus as the Messiah, the leaders did not. This is why in reading the Scriptures and seeing the word “Jews,” one must determine if it is referring to the common people or the leaders. They asked Jesus where He received the authority to teach and do what He did. REFLECT Have you sometimes disagreed with religious leaders? Just because they have more formal training than you does not mean they are always right. RESPOND With a fellow believer, read 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 to see that God has made the wisdom of this world to look foolish. A Question from Jesus READ Matthew 21:24-27 24 “I’ll tell you by what authority I do these things if you answer one question,” Jesus replied. 25 “Did John’s authority to baptize come from heaven, or was it merely human?” They talked it over among themselves. “If we say it was from heaven, he will ask us why we didn’t believe John. 26 But if we say it was merely human, we’ll be mobbed because the people believe John was a prophet.” 27 So they finally replied, “We don’t know.” And Jesus responded, “Then I won’t tell you by what authority I do these things.” It was typical of Jesus to answer a question with a question. Jesus asked a question to which these religious leaders should have known the answer. They were caught in a dilemma, however, about how to answer so they admitted they didn’t know. Jesus then told them neither would He tell by what authority He was doing what they observed. REFLECT Some think they can disprove something by a question, but another question can show they are not the wise ones. RESPOND Talk with a friend about the fact that just because someone is speaking behind a pulpit does not mean that person is wiser than those sitting in the pews. The Bible and the Bible alone is the standard for truth. Working in the Vineyard READ Matthew 21:28-30 28 “But what do you think about this? A man with two sons told the older boy, ‘Son, go out and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 The son answered, ‘No, I won’t go,’ but later he changed his mind and went anyway. 30 Then the father told the other son, ‘You go,’ and he said, ‘Yes, sir, I will.’ But he didn’t go. Jesus now told a story, commonly called a parable, which would characterize the religious leaders. One son said the right words but didn’t obey. The other son said the wrong words, but did obey. As the religious leaders heard this, they surely wondered what point Jesus was trying to make. At the beginning of His story, Jesus asked the religious readers to respond to what they would think about it. REFLECT Notice how a question can be used to cause a person to listen more closely. The person must pay close attention in order to answer. RESPOND Notice what James 1:22-25 says about reading the Word but not obeying. God did not give the Bible just to fill minds with information but to change lives. That a person knows more Bible verses than you does not prove he or she is more connected with God. A change of life reveals this. Obeying the Father READ Matthew 21:31-32 31 “Which of the two obeyed his father?” They replied, “The first.” Then Jesus explained his meaning: “I tell you the truth, corrupt tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the Kingdom of God before you do. 32 For John the Baptist came and showed you the right way to live, but you didn’t believe him, while tax collectors and prostitutes did. And even when you saw this happening, you refused to believe him and repent of your sins.” The religious leaders were like the son who said the right words but disobeyed. The son who said he would not go, but did was like the tax collectors and prostitutes because they believed in Jesus. The Pharisees and religious leaders had refused to repent of their sins and believe in Jesus. REFLECT Does this impress on your mind how serious God is about believers in Jesus obeying His commands? RESPOND With a believer, read 1 Samuel 15:21-23 to see that even in the Old Testament God considered obedience to be better than sacrifice. Ambushed in the Vineyard READ Matthew 21:33-36 33 “Now listen to another story. A certain landowner planted a vineyard, built a wall around it, dug a pit for pressing out the grape juice, and built a lookout tower. Then he leased the vineyard to tenant farmers and moved to another country. 34 At the time of the grape harvest, he sent his servants to collect his share of the crop. 35 But the farmers grabbed his servants, beat one, killed one, and stoned another. 36 So the landowner sent a larger group of his servants to collect for him, but the results were the same.” This parable will also eventually point to the religious leaders and their rejection of the Son of God. The landowner in this story refers to God and the vineyard would refer to Israel. God had sent prophets to the nation but the religious leaders had rejected them. REFLECT Remember in dealing with a parable that not every detail should be made to refer to a particular doctrine. RESPOND With a fellow Christian, read the parable of the vine and the branches in John 15:1-8. The parable is about fruit bearing and should not be used to teach loss of salvation if fruit is not produced.

Killing the Heir READ Matthew 21:37-39 37 “Finally, the owner sent his son, thinking, ‘Surely they will respect my son.’ 38 But when the tenant farmers saw his son coming, they said to one another, ‘Here comes the heir to this estate. Come on, let’s kill him and get the estate for ourselves!’ 39 So they grabbed him, dragged him out of the vineyard, and murdered him.” Jesus continued the parable of the owner who represented God and a vineyard that represented Israel. At this point in the story, the son represents the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s only son. The renters rejected the son, dragging him out of the vineyard and murdering him. REFLECT Have you heard a story that seemed to characterize you, where you identified with one of the characters? RESPOND Talk with a friend about what it would have been like for the religious leaders to hear Jesus’ story. How long do you think it would have taken them to catch on He was really talking about them? The Owner's Response READ Matthew 21:40-41 40 “When the owner of the vineyard returns,” Jesus asked, “what do you think he will do to those farmers?” 41 The religious leaders replied, “He will put the wicked men to a horrible death and lease the vineyard to others who will give him his share of the crop after each harvest.” Jesus had told this story to point out what the religious leaders were guilty of. When Jesus asked this question they didn’t realize the story was about them. It was clear to these leaders that the owner of the property would put the renters to death for killing others and even his own son. Their realization that the owner would give the vineyard to others would later be seen as it being given to the Gentiles. REFLECT A parable is similar to an illustration in a message. Have you noticed that sometimes a pastor will use an illustration to make his point more vivid? RESPOND Consider some of the illustrations you have heard in sermons. You may remember the illustrations, but do you remember the point the stories were making? Discuss this with a friend and try to remember the points being made. The Rejected Stone READ Matthew 21:42-44 42 Then Jesus asked them, “Didn’t you ever read this in the Scriptures? ‘The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. This is the Lord’s doing, and it is wonderful to see.’ 43 I tell you, the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation that will produce the proper fruit. 44 Anyone who stumbles over that stone will be broken to pieces, and it will crush anyone it falls on.” Jesus reminded the religious leaders of what the Scriptures said in Psalm 118:22-23. Jesus also told them the kingdom of God would be taken from them and given to another. In Matthew’s Gospel the “kingdom of God” is only used five times and the “kingdom of heaven” is used 32 times. Both originate from above. Matthew’s Jewish readers avoided pronouncing the name “Yahweh” or “Jehovah.” Writing in Greek, the word theos was used for “God,” a word with which “theology” is associated. REFLECT How precious are the names “God” and “Jesus” to you? What comes to your mind when you hear these special names? RESPOND Talk with another believer about what it means to end your prayer in “Jesus’ name.” It should mean that you are praying for whatever is His will. Misplaced Fear READ Matthew 21:45-46 45 When the leading priests and Pharisees heard this parable, they realized he was telling the story against them—they were the wicked farmers. 46 They wanted to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowds, who considered Jesus to be a prophet. Now it dawned on the religious leaders that Jesus was referring to them in His parable. If they had their way they would have had Him arrested on the spot and killed. The large crowd who believed in Jesus caused the leaders to be afraid to take any action against Him. Strangely, they were not afraid of the one who claimed to be the Son of God, but they were afraid of the crowds. REFLECT Do you sometime find yourself fearing the wrong thing? Is it difficult for you to keep eternity’s values in view? What do you do to help change your thinking? RESPOND Some fear things they have no need to fear. It is said that some fear public speaking more than they fear death. The major concern should be whether they fear separation from God for eternity after death and decide to trust in Jesus as Savior. John 3:16 and 6:40 tell them what they need to do. Come to the Wedding Feast READ Matthew 22:1-3 1 Jesus also told them other parables. He said, 2 “The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a king who prepared a great wedding feast for his son. 3 When the banquet was ready, he sent his servants to notify those who were invited. But they all refused to come!” Matthew records another parable Jesus told. This one had to do with a wedding feast the king prepared for “his son,” again a reference to Jesus Himself. People were invited to the great feast, but they refused to come. Notice especially that people were invited. God gave His only Son to come into the world and die on the cross for sin. All are invited to come to Him for salvation, but only those who come by faith are accepted by God. REFLECT Remember that the Gospel is inclusive; the pardon Jesus provided is for everyone. The Gospel is also exclusive; it rejects all who refuse to believe in Jesus. RESPOND Read John 6:37 to see that anyone who comes to Jesus will never be turned away.

Ignoring the Invitation READ Matthew 22:4-6 4 “So he sent other servants to tell them, ‘The feast has been prepared. The bulls and fattened cattle have been killed, and everything is ready. Come to the banquet!’ 5 But the guests he had invited ignored them and went their own way, one to his farm, another to his business. 6 Others seized his messengers and insulted them and killed them.” The invited guests would not come so this is what the king said to his servants. Even after further explaining all the preparations the invited guests still refused to come. Some of the invited guests even killed some of the king’s servants. REFLECT Do the invited guests mistreating and killing some of the king’s servants remind you of what the Jewish nation did to some of the prophets? RESPOND With a fellow believer, read Hebrews 11:32-40 that describes the faithfulness of some of God’s servants. May this passage be encouraging to you as you see how others have stood for their faith. Filling the Banquet Hall READ Matthew 22:7-10 7 “The king was furious, and he sent out his army to destroy the murderers and burn their town. 8 And he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, and the guests I invited aren’t worthy of the honor. 9 Now go out to the street corners and invite everyone you see.’ 10 So the servants brought in everyone they could find, good and bad alike, and the banquet hall was filled with guests.” This parable teaches God turning away from the nation Israel and turning to the Gentiles. The Messiah had been sent to them, but the religious leaders had rejected Him. God then turns to the Gentiles and in the parable not a seat is left empty. Notice the servants brought in the “good and bad alike.” What will the king do with those who are not properly prepared to come to the wedding feast? REFLECT Thank the Lord that the door of salvation has been thrown wide open for you. RESPOND Visit with another believer about explaining salvation to someone. Explain that Jesus died to provide a pardon to deliver anyone—past, present or future—from condemnation. A pardon must be accepted, however, for it to be effective. Those who reject Jesus’ pardon will not be delivered from condemnation, as John 3:18 warns. Few are Chosen READ Matthew 22:11-14 11 “But when the king came in to meet the guests, he noticed a man who wasn’t wearing the proper clothes for a wedding. 12 ‘Friend,’ he asked, ‘how is it that you are here without wedding clothes?’ But the man had no reply. 13 Then the king said to his aides, ‘Bind his hands and feet and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ 14 For many are called, but few are chosen.” Apparently proper clothing was provided as the people came in from off the streets, but this one had not accepted what was provided. Salvation has been made available to all—many are called—but some reject what has been provided and their destiny will be separation from God. REFLECT Think how horrible it would be to leave this life without having trusted in Jesus as Savior and be separated from God for eternity. RESPOND Discuss with a friend how to explain, “many are called, but few are chosen.” Realize there are two aspects to salvation; God draws the person to Himself as John 6:44 says. There must also be the individual’s response to the drawing, as John 6:37 says and no one who comes is rejected. God does not necessarily expect us to understand how all of this blends together; our responsibility is only to believe what His Word says. A Question About Taxes READ Matthew 22:15-17 15 Then the Pharisees met together to plot how to trap Jesus into saying something for which he could be arrested. 16 They sent some of their disciples, along with the supporters of Herod, to meet with him. “Teacher,” they said, “we know how honest you are. You teach the way of God truthfully. You are impartial and don’t play favorites. 17 Now tell us what you think about this: Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” As usual, the religious leaders wanted to find some grounds to justify arresting Jesus. The Pharisees and supporters of Herod strongly disagreed with each other. They feigned spirituality by claiming to believe Jesus’ integrity. They asked a question they thought would surely trap Jesus. If He did not think it right to pay taxes to Caesar, it would offend the supporters of Herod. If Jesus said it was right, it might offend His Jewish followers who chafed under the Roman Empire. REFLECT Have you sometimes been caught not knowing how to answer a question because any answer would displease someone? Notice in the following verses how Jesus answered. RESPOND Jesus was the enemy of the religious leaders of Israel and of the Roman Empire. The example in these verses shows common enemies teaming up to trap Him no matter what His answer would be. The Picture on the Coin READ Matthew 22:18-20 18 But Jesus knew their evil motives. “You hypocrites!” he said. “Why are you trying to trap me? 19 Here, show me the coin used for the tax.” When they handed him a Roman coin, 20 he asked, “Whose picture and title are stamped on it?” Notice how directly Jesus confronted the religious leaders and followers of Herod. He was patient with unbelievers but not with those who claimed to have integrity but did not. The coin Jesus was handed was a denarius. This was the common payment for a day’s wages. His question was simple and direct, “Whose picture and title are stamped on it?” The Jewish leaders would be reminded of the Roman Empire and the oppression they were under. REFLECT At this point, what do you think Jesus has in mind by asking this question? RESPOND Talk with a friend about how the Bible sometimes answers the questions you have if you keep reading. Sometimes the answer is in the next few verses as it is here; at other times it may be found later as Isaiah 7:14 and Matthew 1:22-23.