Chapter Summary

The triumphant entry. Jesus' second purification of the temple. Barren fig tree cursed. Jesus' authority questioned. Parable of the two sons in the vineyard. Parable of the house-holder demanding fruit from his vineyard.

Discussion Questions for Matthew, Chapter 21

1. What are some specific Old Testament prophecies that this chapter fulfills? What is the significance of this event in light of passages like Zechariah 9:9 (HCSB)? How does this passage strengthen your faith in God's Word?
2. How does Jesus's "cleansing" of the temple reflect His passion for pure and holy worship? In what ways might this convict you and the way you view or approach the Church and its worship services?
3. Texts like Isaiah 56 (HCSB) and Acts 8 (HCSB) point us to the fulfillment of Jesus's quotation in this chapter. How does the connection of Old Testament passages help prove Jesus's life and ministry? In what ways do these connections affirm the reliability of Scripture for you personally?
4. What is the symbolic meaning of Jesus cursing the fig tree? In what ways does the lack of fruit on the tree outside of the gates connect to Jesus's coming crucifixion inside Jerusalem? In what areas of your life do you see a lack of fruit, and how does God want to fix that?
5. Why do you think the religious leaders questioned the authority of Jesus at this time? In what ways do you think you have doubted or questioned His authority in your own life?
6. What contrasts are presented in the parable of the two sons? What does this passage teach us about the nature of obedience? Which of these sons do you most closely relate to, and why do you think that?
7. Why is it significant that the land owner sent his "son" (HCSB) to the vineyard workers? In what ways does this parallel the life and death of Jesus? Why is the timing of Jesus telling this parable significant?
8. What does Jesus mean when he tells the Pharisees that "the kingdom of God will be taken from you" (HCSB)? In what ways had the religious leaders failed God? Why is this significant?
9. Why do you think the attitude towards Jesus was so different between the time of the triumphal entry, and the time of the crucifixion? How do you think you might demonstrate this type of contrast in your own life?
10. Why do you think Jesus spoke in so many parables at this time in chapter 21? What is the significance of this method of teaching? In what ways did the religious leaders not understand that His teachings were directed at them?

Key Words/Phrase

Triumphal entry, vv. 9, 10. Jesus' authority, v. 23.

Characters

God, Jesus, John, disciples.

Strong Verse(s)

13, 21, 22.