Matthew 15:1—16:20: The Revelation of the King (Part 2)
EUREKA! WHAT A relief and pleasure it is when something we have not quite understood becomes clear to us. In this section of Matthew the disciples come to a supernatural understanding of Jesus. What they thought they knew becomes a new and deeper knowledge. Peter, speaking for the disciples, declares who Jesus really is. Peter's words bring us to the climax of the first half of Matthew.
Warming Up to God
When you first recognized who Jesus is and what he offers to you, what were your thoughts and feelings?
Read Matthew 15:1—16:20. »
Discovering the Word
- Top religious leaders from Jerusalem oppose Jesus by attacking the disciples (15:1-2). What is their complaint, and what does it suggest about Jesus?
- How does Jesus respond to their accusation (15:3-20)?
- How would you account for the unusual interaction between Jesus, the woman and the disciples (15:21-28)?
- After Jesus heals the sick and feeds the four thousand, the religious leaders ask him for a sign from heaven (16:1). Why do you think Jesus resists them (16:2-4)?
- In 16:5-12 the disciples misunderstand Jesus' allusion to yeast. How is their misunderstanding related to a lack of faith?
- In 16:5-12 the disciples couldn't even grasp a simple figure of speech. How then does Peter have enough insight to confess that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God (16:13-17)?
Applying the Word
- Are there religious practices in your life that are in danger of becoming outward, empty forms? Explain.
- How can you avoid this tendency?
- Jesus' question to Peter is one that everyone will have to respond to at some point. Who do you say Jesus is, and why?
Responding in Prayer
Offer praise to Jesus Christ for who he is.
For Further Study
God in the Flesh by Don Everts