Day 7: Matthew 19-21

Divorce - Matthew 19:1-12

Understand It

• How did Jesus respond to the Pharisees’ question? (19:4-6)
• How did Jesus respond to the second question about divorce? (19:8)
• What did the disciples think about Jesus’ view of marriage and divorce? (19:10)

Apply It

• What habits can you develop, beginning today, that will make you a better marriage partner?

The Little Children and Jesus - Matthew 19:13-15

Understand It

• Why were children being brought to Jesus? (19:13)
• How did Jesus correct the disciples? (19:14)
• What did Jesus do for the little children? (19:15)

Apply It

• How can you become more childlike in your faith over the next month?

The Rich Young Man - Matthew 19:16-30

Understand It

• What amazing statement did Jesus make to His disciples about riches and the kingdom of God? (19:23-24)
• How did the disciples respond when they heard how hard it is for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven? (19:25)
• What did Jesus promise the twelve disciples? (19:28-29)

Apply It

• What sacrifice are you willing to make for Christ this week, in the knowledge that you will be rewarded in heaven?

The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard - Matthew 20:1-16

Understand It

• What did the landowner pay to the men who worked all day? (20:10)
• How did the workers respond to the landowner’s system of payment? (20:11-12)
• What rationale did the landowner give for his actions? (20:13-15)

Apply It

• In what way can you say thank you to God every day this week for his amazing grace in your life?

Jesus Again Predicts His Death - Matthew 20:17-19

Understand It

• Who was traveling with Jesus at this time? (20:17)
• Where was Christ going when He spoke of His death for the third time? Why? (20:17-18)
• What did Jesus say the chief priests and teachers of the law would ultimately do? (20:18)

Apply It

• What can you do to say thank you to Christ for suffering for you?

A Mother's Request - Matthew 20:20-28

Understand It

• Who came to Jesus? Why? (20:20)
• What curious question did Jesus ask James and John? (20:22)
• What was the reaction of the other disciples to this whole dialogue? (20:24)

Apply It

• What three acts can you do today in service to others?

A Mother's Request - Matthew 20:20-28

Understand It

• Who came to Jesus? Why? (20:20)
• What curious question did Jesus ask James and John? (20:22)
• What was the reaction of the other disciples to this whole dialogue? (20:24)

Apply It

• What three acts can you do today in service to others?

The Triumphal Entry - Matthew 21:1-11

Understand It

• What did the gathered crowd place on the road? Why? (21:8)
• What did the crowds shout as Jesus entered Jerusalem? (21:9)
• How did this "parade" affect those living in Jerusalem? (21:10)

Apply It

• What special gift (time, money, possessions, effort, etc.) of worship can you present to Jesus today?

Jesus at the Temple - Matthew 21:12-17

Understand It

• After entering Jerusalem, where did Jesus go? What happened there? (21:12)
• What did Jesus quote to those in the temple? (21:13)
• Jesus accused the merchants of turning the temple into what? Why? (21:13)

Apply It

• What change in your giving do you need to make this month?

The Fig Tree Withers - Matthew 21:18-22

Understand It

• What caught Jesus’ attention? Why? (21:19)
• What did the disciples ask Jesus? (21:20)
• What attitude did Jesus encourage us to have in prayer? (21:22)

Apply It

• What prayer of faith do you need to begin praying on a regular basis this week?

The Authority of Jesus Questioned - Matthew 21:23-27

Understand It

• Who interrupted Jesus? Why? (21:23)
• What deal did Jesus make with his accuser? (21:24)
• How did the religious leaders finally respond to Jesus? (21:27)

Apply It

• In what area of your life do you need to submit to Jesus’ authority today?

Understand It

• Who are the main characters in this parable? (21:28)
• What happened to the first son later? (21:29)
• What did the second son actually do? (21:30)

Apply It

• What command of Christ that you have been neglecting do you need to obey today?

The Parable of the Tenants - Matthew 21:33-46

Understand It

• What solution did the landowner finally decide on? (21:37)
• How did the tenants react to the landowner’s choice? (21:38-39)
• What end did Jesus predict for the wicked tenants of the parable? (21:40-41)

Apply It

• Today or tomorrow, how can you show God your appreciation for His goodness toward you?

Tomorrow: Matthew 22-24