The Grieving King

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Study Notes

Today we return to our verse-by-verse study of the Gospel from Matthew's perspective. Matthew was a disciple of Jesus. He was a converted tax collector who saw firsthand the power of the Lord to transform lives. This book has a rather obvious theme — the King and His Kingdom. Chapters 21-27 are about the events of the week leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus. As Jesus taught, His grief over what might have been becomes more obvious. There is much for us to ponder and apply in these powerful passages.

1. The People
   • Multitudes...
   • Disciples...
   • Scribes and Pharisees...Thelogians and Pastors
     In other words, this was a warning and a message for everybody 
2. The Problems
   1. Their duplicity They taught right things but they did wrong things. What they taught from Moses should have been followed...how they lived should have been ignored.
   2. Their desires: They were religious for recognition, for affirmation and for honor. They were using their religion for titles of respect and to get the best seats in the houses of worship. Their motives were corrupt.
   3. Their disregard: They disregarded the historical examples, the ways of God, the teachings of Jesus and His example. All this was surely grievous to the One who came from Heaven to make these things clear.

Conclusion

"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness." Philippians 2:5-7

Questions for family, small group or personal reflection

1. Why is Jesus' indictment of the Pharisees about "saying and not doing" so hard to consider?
2. What are some modern day actions that parallel what Jesus was grieving about in this passage?

Suggestions for growth

Do you find yourself craving affirmation, recognition and power? Where does this come from? How could the teaching and example of Jesus be applied in your situation? Pray about this and consider having a discussion about this with someone you trust.