Day 25 - Matthew 20 ("Grumblers, ego, and mercy")

1. Briefly summarize The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (vv. 1-16).

2. There is grumbling in v. 12. As the workers first-hired express their displeasure, the landowner makes two things clear: he has a right to do what he wants with his own money (justice), and he is generous. From what we have read in Matthew's gospel, who might be the grumblers?

3. There is a short section (vv. 17-19) where Jesus predicts what will happen to him in Jerusalem. How does having this knowledge in advance inform our reading and our understanding of the arrest, torture and execution of Christ?

4. It is interesting that the mother of two of Jesus' disciples asks Jesus for a favour on behalf of her sons. We do not see or hear too much from the parents of the disciples. It's interesting that the other ten disciples are mad at the brothers (not mad at the mom). Clearly there was some ego involved. And, beyond that, some misunderstanding of what it means be at Jesus' right-hand and left-hand (remember, a criminal was crucified on each side of Jesus).

What does Jesus teach about those who want to become great?

6. How should we understand the concept of "ransom" in v. 28?

7. What do the two blind men do when they are told to be quiet?

8. Do these two blind men remind you of two other blind men in this chapter? If yes, briefly discuss the comparison.

Well this concludes our reading this week and it sort of concludes a section within Matthew's gospel. As we turn to Matthew 21 on Monday, we will be in Jerusalem, as the final few days of Jesus' pre-resurrected life unfold.

As we read those chapters, we will want to keep in mind everything we have learned to this point. The significance of some of the things Jesus said and did will become more clear through the cross and resurrection.

This is a story that we need to share again and again. And, we need to share it with ourselves, so to speak. In other words, we need to constantly remind ourselves of what Jesus suffered on our behalf.

This demonstrates for us his extraordinary, matchless love for us. And also it cements our hope in life and secures our place with him forever.

What a price Jesus paid. And what an amazing gift his blood has secured for us. Wow. Hallelujah and amen.