SERMON QUESTIONS

It is our deep conviction that the Bible is not just to be listened to (Deut. 6:4), but studied (2 Tim. 2:15), meditated upon (Ps 1:2), memorized (Ps. 119:11), and, ultimately, applied to our lives (James 1:22). Because of this, our Bible studies revolve around the study, meditation, memorization, and application of God’s inspired Word to our lives. Below are sermon questions that correspond to our Sunday morning teaching, so that we slow down and really take in what God is trying to tell us as a church Ohana. These questions will be discussed at our weekly Bible Studies.

For all answers, use Scripture to support your answer as best as possible.

  1. Read Matthew 12:9-21.

  2. What convicts or encourages you in this passage?

  3. The Pharisees asked Jesus whether it was lawful to heal on the Sabbath (v. 10). Why did they ask this question, and what does it reveal about their hearts?

  4. Jesus compares caring for a sheep on the Sabbath with caring for a person (vv. 11-12). What principle is He teaching about God's law and the value of human life?

  5. Jesus says, "It is lawful to do good on the Sabbath" (v. 12). How does this statement challenge legalism, and what does it teach about the true purpose of God's commands?

  6. After Jesus healed the man, the Pharisees conspired to destroy Him (v. 14). Why did Christ's act of mercy provoke such hostility? What does this reveal about unbelief?

  7. Matthew quotes Isaiah 42:1-4 to explain Jesus' ministry (vv. 18-21). What characteristics of the promised Servant are emphasized, and how are they displayed in Jesus' life and ministry?

  8. Matthew describes Jesus as gentle, saying, "A bruised reed He will not break, and a smoldering wick He will not quench" (v. 20). What does this teach us about Christ's heart toward weak, weary, and struggling believers?

  9. How does this passage display both the authority and the compassion of Jesus? Why is it important to hold these two truths together?

  10. In what ways are you tempted to value religious appearance over genuine love, mercy, and obedience? How does this passage call you to become more like Christ?

Practice

Look for opportunities this week to reflect Christ's compassion by doing good, especially toward those who are weak, overlooked, or hurting. Ask God to guard your heart from legalism and to shape you into someone who delights in showing mercy as Christ has shown mercy to you.

Meditation/Memory Verse(s)

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”

—Ephesians 4:32