Chapter Summary

Parable of the marriage feast. Jesus' answer to the Herodians. Sadducees and Pharisees.

Discussion Questions for Matthew, Chapter 22

1. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus states, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind" (HCSB). How would you describe the depth of love Jesus is calling us to have for God? What are some practical ways you can express love with all your heart, soul, and mind? How does this commandment impact your daily life?
2. When Jesus says "Love your neighbor as yourself" (HCSB), how do you interpret the concept of loving others as you love yourself? What challenges do you face in applying this commandment in your relationships and in your daily life?
3. Why do you think Jesus said "Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the things that are God's" (HCSB)? How do you differentiate between what you owe the government, and what you owe to God? In what ways do you sometimes prioritize the things of earth over the things of God?
4. What is the significance of Jesus asking the Pharisees "What do you think about the Messiah?" (HCSB)? How does this question personally impact your life? In what ways do we see the answer to this question define our culture's response to Jesus today?
5. What is the significance of the Sadducees' question about marriage in heaven? What historically can you find about their belief in the afterlife? Why then is this a trick question? How does this remind you of Satan's attempt to trick or trap you in life?
6. What is the "greatest commandment" (HCSB) that Jesus gives to the religious leaders? Why do you think it was so controversial to them? In what ways do you even today fail to live up to this greatest commandment?
7. Why do you think the theme of "neighbor" (HCSB) is so prevalent in this and the previous chapter of Matthew? What does this say about Jesus's expectations of you for how to live in the world?
8. Why does Jesus say "few are chosen" (HCSB)? What does this statement have to do with salvation and being chosen by God? Disregarding the controversies surrounding that doctrine, in what ways do you personally see how God has chosen you as His follower?
9. What does this chapter teach us about marriage? In what ways does the lack of marriage in heaven signify the symbolism of Jesus and the Church?
10. Why is it important that the crowds "regarded Him as a prophet" (HCSB), speaking of Jesus? In what ways was His life and ministry different from the religious leaders? How does Jesus being a "prophet" (HCSB) impact your life today?

Key Words/Phrase

Unworthy guests, vv. 8, 12, 18.

Characters

God, Jesus, lawyer.

Strong Verse(s)

9,21,37,38,39.