Chapter Summary

Jesus announces Himself Lord of Sabbathy Controversy wijth Pharisees. Healing of the withered hand. A demoniac healed. The unpardonable sin. Death and resurrection foretold. Deficiency of self-reformation. Jesus' new relationships.

Discussion Questions for Matthew, Chapter 12

1. Where in Scripture does it say that people could not pick at the grain on the Sabbath? Where did this rule come from? Was it right to pick the grain? Why or why not?
2. In verse 9, Jesus enters the same synagogue as the pharisees who accused him of breaking the Law in verses 1-8. How are these verses connected to the next story in verses 9-14? When was a time in your life where you broke the rules for a just reason?
3. Why would the pharisees want to kill a man who is bringing healing and justice to their land? How have you seen this happen in your own life?
4. What do you think the imagery in verse 20 means? How has Jesus fulfilled this prophecy?
5. Have you put your hope in his name? When was that? How do you remind yourself of the hope that Jesus provides for us?
6. In the mini-parable in verse 29, who is Jesus? Why would Jesus paint himself in that kind of light?
7. Verses 31 and 32 can be very difficult. What does it mean to blaspheme against the Holy Spirit? How can we be sure that we have never done this since it "will not be forgiven him" (CSB)?
8. What is in a man, comes out of a man. What is in your heart? What comes out of you? What will you do this week to be Spirit-filled this week?
9. Why do you think Jesus refuses to give a sign to the scribes and Pharisees? He gave signs to many people, but not them. Do you think it would have helped them to believe? Why or why not?
10. In verse 38-42, Jesus predicts his own death and resurrection, but does Jesus actually spend three days and three nights in the tomb? Why or why not? Was this prophecy wrong? Why do you say that?

Key Words/Phrase

Lord of Sabbath, v. 8.

Characters

Jesus, Holy Spirit, Pharisees, disciples, man with withered hand, Satan, David, Jonah, Queen of the South.

Strong Verse(s)

8, 30, 32, 36, 50.