Disciple (n./v.): The Gospel of Matthew
Matthew 20:1-34
From chapter 20 it may seem like Jesus endorses unfair labor practices and even slavery! Just be thankful that God has made us Jesus’ slaves and at the end of the day he gives us each a denarius.
Monday, September 30
Read Matthew 20:1-19. How do we determine if something is “fair?” Do we figure God into the equation? If God ultimately determines what is fair, how is that different than the world’s definition?
Tuesday, October 1
Read Matthew 20:20-34. Mothers always want what is best for their children. What cup is James and John going to drink? What does a heart of service/slavery look like?
Wednesday, October 2
After reviewing Matthew 20, read Romans 12. We present our “bodies” because our “minds” have been “transformed.” What do our bodies have to do with it? Why is it so important not to “think of ourselves more highly than we ought?”
Thursday, October 3
After reviewing Matthew 20, read Matthew 22:1-14. In this parable, people are being invited to a wedding feast. What are the similarities to between ch. 20 and this parable? Differences? How do they weave into a unified view of who is invited and what they receive?
Friday, October 4
After reviewing Matthew 20, read Matthew 18:1-6. These disciples sure wanted to be great! Compare and contrast this passage with ch. 20. What basic teaching dominates both? Where else in Matthew do we see Jesus saying this?
Saturday, October 5
After reviewing Matthew 20, read Luke 18:9-17. Jesus contrasts a Pharisee and a tax collector. Which one is justified? Our default is to be the Pharisee. How are you becoming more like the tax collector?
Bethel Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN – bethelstpaul.com