Read along in our "Chapter a Day" Bible plan as we cover Matthew 23, where Jesus lays in to the hypocritical Pharisees.
Key Points:
- Jesus preached against the Pharisees’ hypocrisy in Matthew 23. The Pharisees were not wrong about everything in their teaching, but they were often wrong because they were hypocrites.
- The Pharisees often kept the letter of the Law of Moses while missing out on the spirit of the law.
- Religion is outside-in but a relationship with Jesus is inside-out.
Quote This:
Matthew 23:11-12 The greatest among you must be a servant. But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Read Matthew 23:3. What are some of the Old Testament laws that the Pharisees were teaching the people? Why do you think Jesus told the people to keep obeying those laws? Which of those laws is the hardest to obey, in your opinion?
- Read Matthew 23:12. Give an example of someone who was humbled after trying to be great. Has that ever happened to you?
- Read Matthew 23:26. What did Jesus mean by “wash the inside of the dish”? How can a person do that?
- Why was Jesus sad for the people of Jerusalem? Do you think he’s still sad for people today? Explain.
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
