Each pericope in Matthew 18 finds Jesus teaching about the way we as humans interact with one another. He uses positive and negative examples of each. What are the common threads in each of these stories? Based on these verses, how should we treat each other?
Many people—sometimes even those who call themselves Christians—think that being good or doing good earns them a place in heaven. Sometimes it’s easy for us to fall into that trap as well, thinking our good works can make God happy with us. Yet Jesus’ response to the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:21 reveals a greater reality. According to Jesus, how does someone get eternal life? In what ways do you tend to try to earn God’s approval, even though he already approves of you because of Christ’s finished work?
In his commentary on Matthew 20:20–28, Matthew Henry offers this simple truth: “Nothing makes more mischief among brethren, than desire of greatness.” Ouch. Take some time to pray through this passage, asking God to reveal any pride to confess or forgiveness to seek from anyone you’ve wronged.
Regarding the parable of the vineyard owner, Leon Morris writes, “But finally the owner sent his son. In real life, of course, this is unlikely. The owner would have had the law on his side, and he would have taken strong action to eject his defaulting tenants. But Jesus is telling a story that would illustrate the way a compassionate and loving God acts toward sinners, not the way a businessman would act to protect his investment.” Does this thinking reframe the parable for you? Where do you see God’s compassion in this pericope?
In Matthew 22:37–38, Jesus gives only two commands, as opposed to the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1–17) or the entire Torah. He says that the entire Law can be summed up into those two commands. Read Exodus 20:1–17, being careful to see how Jesus’ commands relate to the ones given to Moses.
New Testament Reading Plan Week 17: Matthew 18–22