1. This chapter begins with another parable and Jesus begins, as he often does, with the statement: "the kingdom of heaven is like..." Briefly outline this parable.
2. The final verse of the parable (v. 14), seems like an important conclusion: "For many are invited, but few are chosen." What do you think this means?
3. We see a familiar occurrence in vv. 15-22: religious teachers trying to trap Jesus. What is their question and what conclusion does Jesus make?
4. Why were Jesus' listeners "amazed" in v. 22?
5. We have a clue about the intentions and beliefs of the Sadducees - those "who say there is no resurrection" (v. 23). This should alert us immediately to their goal - manipulate Jesus. As we have learned, this is never a good strategy. In v. 29, Jesus says they are in error for two reasons - identify these and briefly describe them.
6. What did Jesus teach was the greatest commandment and the second? Why are these two principles foundational to a life of following Jesus?
7. After the series of questions and challenges in Matthew's gospel, and perhaps especially those in chapter 22, what no longer happens from this point on? (Hint: v. 46)
This chapter, unlike some of the previous ones, does not include any mighty deeds or healings. But, Jesus' power is still fully on display.
The parable helps us to understand the balance of the chapter: a king is making every effort to invite guests to a party - and they refuse.
In what follows, three groups asks three questions. And, in each case, if we read carefully, we find they are making excuses why not to attend the party.
First, the Pharisees, on the subject of paying the imperial tax. Second, the Sadducees regarding marriage and the resurrection. Third, the Pharisees again, this time with an expert looking for a summary of the Hebrew scriptures.
Each time, the questioners are silenced, and people are "amazed" (v. 22) and "astonished" (v. 33).
I hope it is like this when we hear the words of Jesus - that we are just flat-out amazed. Astonished. In awe. Minds = blown.
Even if some of these words are familiar and cherished, would they never lose their freshness and their power in our hearts. Would we be amazed, again, and again, and again.
The things Jesus said, and the answers he gave, are unlike any other teaching. No wonder that people in Jerusalem kept asking: Who is this?
In the final few verses of this chapter, it is Jesus' turn to ask a question. He asks the experts about the Messiah and in particular this figure's relationship to God's covenant promise with King David.
It ought to have been embarrassing, for teachers to be questioned on perhaps the most critical component of their religious hope - and not have an answer.
Pride, arrogance, and self-appointed authority and expertise always seem to self-destruct in the presence of Jesus. Among other things, this ought to make us humble.
It's sad that those who continued to oppose and mistreat Jesus were, ultimately, harming themselves. And, furthermore, exposing their selfishness, cold-heartedness, and lack of understanding. It is no less sad today, as people reject Jesus.
Maybe the key in this chapter is, as we've said already, to be astonished and amazed. If we are not, maybe we need to listen again. And, if that doesn't work, maybe we need to turn down the volume on our own voice and ideas.
Made in God's image, we ought to give to God what belongs to God. And, to begin with, would we love him with all our heart, with all our soul, and and with all our mind.