Study Questions for Groups
By Michael C. Mack
1. How did you live out your purpose of making disciples last week?
2. What was the biggest challenge you faced over the past week?
Ask three people—two readers and one reteller—to help. Ask the readers to read Matthew 22:15-33 one after the other, preferably from different Bible versions.
Ask the third person to retell the story from this passage.
3. In both sections of this passage (vv. 15-22 and 23-33), what contrasts do you see between trickery and truth, between folly and wisdom?
4. Let’s dig deeper:
• Make a list with two columns contrasting the character traits of Jesus with those of his opponents. What do you learn as you compare these two lists?
• What motives do you see in those who are trying to scheme against Jesus?
• What motives do you see in Jesus?
• John 1:14 describes Jesus as being “full of grace and truth.” How do you see that description played out in Jesus’ responses?
• How would you characterize people’s reactions to Jesus’ responses to his opponents?
5. What do you learn about God from this passage?
6. What do you learn about yourself?
7. In what specific way will you obey Jesus’ maxim to “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s”? (Hint: this may include much more than money.)
8. It’s vital for us as Christ followers to know the Scriptures and the power of God. How can these two essentials help you this week as you share the Good News with neighbors, co-workers, or friends?
9. Based on our study and discussion, complete this sentence: “This week, I will . . .”
10. What new challenge or opportunity do you anticipate this week?
For Next Week: Read and reflect on Matthew 20:17-28. You can also read next week’s supplemental texts as well as the Study and Application sections as part of your personal study.
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