1. Jesus enters Jerusalem in a humble way; and yet, the chief priest, elders, and Pharisees are "afraid" of him (21:26, 46). Explain why.
2. What question is asked about Jesus in v. 10? Do we have to answer this question for ourselves?
3. What part of the Bible does Jesus quote in v. 16? To this point in Matthew's gospel, what else have we learned about Jesus' posture and attitude towards children?
4. Can you spot a connection between Jesus' activity at the temple and the cursing of the fig tree in vv. 18-22?
5. Jesus is challenged by the chief priests and elders and then, within a few verses, they are left to declare: "We don't know." What happened here?
6. We learn from The Parable of the Two Sons that the most unlikely people are included in God's kingdom (in fact, they enter first). What is your reaction to this?
7. How does The Parable of the Tenants fit - and perhaps foreshadow - Matthew's gospel message?
Jesus really stirs things up in Jerusalem. That's even an understatement.
As we read this chapter, we get a sense for the energy and the chaos and the conflict which must have been present in the city.
If we already know this story, then we are aware that Jesus does not have much time left. Therefore, his last few days before the cross are extremely important.
We can notice a number of themes which have been ongoing, particular the lack of understanding on the part of religious leaders, and Jesus' compassion for the poor, for children, for the sick, and for those people with little social standing or respect.
Ultimately, each person then, and every person now ... and for that matter, people in the future, must all answer this question: Who is this?
Maybe take a moment to think of your own response. Who is Jesus? What do you think and believe about him? If you are captivated by him, why?
What about him, and his life, and his teaching, seems so unlike all other leaders in history? And how is the life and love that we experience in him, different than all other loves and experiences?
Are you, like many in the crowd, welcoming him and celebrating his presence in your life?