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Friday, February 27, 2026

The Corner Stone Rejected

 


Welcome to this study of Matthew's Gospel, a collaboration between Mary Barmore and Alice C. Linsley. For this study, we use Mary's study notes and Alice's notes of historical and anthropological relevance.

To prepare, read Matthew chapter 21 which describes the beginning of Jesus' journey to the Cross. When you have finished, answer the 10 questions. Scroll to the bottom to check your answers.

Introduction

Matthew 21 tells of Jesus’ humble entry into Jerusalem on a donkey (Zec. 9:9). Zechariah 9:9 is a Messianic prophecy calling Jerusalem to rejoice for their coming king, described as righteous, victorious, and humble, comes riding on a donkey. Jesus was greeted by crowds shouting "Hosanna" and waving branches. The people spread their garments before him. Jesus then drove the money changers out of the Temple which God intended to be a "house of prayer". He cursed a fruitless fig tree, and through parables, he challenged the religious authorities who sought to arrest him but did not do so because they feared the crowds who believed Jesus to be a great prophet. After these events, Jesus withdrew to Bethany.


Questions

1. What were 2 of Jesus' disciples sent into the village to do?

2. What does the people's reaction to Jesus' entry indicate about their opinion of him?

3. What was the implication of calling Jesus the "son of David"? (v. 9)

4. Why did Jesus drive out the moneychangers and overturn the seats of those who sold pigeons?

5. What was Jesus' response to the indignant chief priests and scribes?

6. What is the significance of the fig tree? What does its withered condition represent?

7. What was Jesus' response when the chief priests and elders asked him by what authority he was acting?

8. What does Jesus contrast in the Parable of Two Sons?

9. In the Parable of the Wicked Tenants, Jesus identifies the people who have rejected him as the corner stone. Who are they?

10.The chief priests and the Pharisees understood that Jesus was speaking about them in these parables. How did they react?


Answers

1. Jesus sent 2 of his disciples into the village to find a donkey and bring it to him. If anyone asked them, they were to explain that the Lord had need of it.

2. The people greeted Jesus as someone deserving great honor. They greeted him with palm branches as a king to be enthroned. Ceremonial installation of rulers with palms was an ancient tradition. Fresh palms are still used among many peoples of Africa at the enthronement of a ruler and a high-ranking priest. 2 Kings 9:13 records how Jehu was anointed king over Israel. Immediately the people spread their cloaks under him on the bare steps. Then they blew the trumpet and shouted, “Jehu is king!”

3. "Son of David" is a Messianic title, identifying Jesus as the heir to King David's throne and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. In the New Testament, it signifies that Jesus is the promised Savior from David's lineage, the divine Son of God sent to establish an eternal kingdom. However, at the time of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, the general opinion was that Jesus of Nazareth was a prophet (v. 11). He was not yet regarded as the Son of God.

4. Jesus had been to the Temple in Jerusalem many times in his life. He was 40 days old when Mary and Joseph presented him in the Temple to fulfill the law of Moses regarding purification and the redemption of the firstborn. When he was 12 years old, he astonished the elders in the Temple by his remarkable knowledge of God and the Hebrew Scriptures. The Synoptic Gospels mention various occasions when Jesus visited the Temple. In the 33rd year of his life, just before the Passover, Jesus did not like what he saw there. The Temple had become a place of commercialism rather than a house of prayer. By driving out the merchants and the moneychangers, he sought to restore the sanctity of the Temple and challenged the religious authorities who benefitted from the Jewish system of offerings and money exchange.

5. The chief priests and scribes were indignant about how the people honored Jesus and when they confronted Jesus about this, he responded, "Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast brought perfect praise" (v.16). This is taken from Psalm 8:2. Jesus used this to silence his enemies. The verse emphasizes God’s power to use the humble to overcome the arrogant and highlights childlike faith.

6. In Matthew chapter 22 the fig tree withers immediately. However, in Mark's Gospel the tree was found withered the day after. In Mark's account, Jesus approached the tree because He was hungry. He was disappointed to find nothing but leaves, "for it was not the season for figs" (Mk 11:13). After cursing the tree in Mark's narrative, Jesus then entered Jerusalem and began driving out the moneychangers and sellers of pigeons. The next day, when Jesus departs the city, his disciples are shocked to discover that the fig tree has withered to its roots; a process of decay that would normally take years (Mk 11:15-25). This incident foretells what is to happen to faithless Israel, represented by the corruption of the Temple. In Jeremiah's Temple sermon, we read, When I would gather them, says the Lord, there are no grapes on the vine, nor figs on the fig tree; even the leaves are withered, and what I gave them has passed away from them. (Jer. 8:13). The incident is a fulfillment of that prophetic word.

7. This question was an attempt to trick Jesus. Instead of answering the question, Jesus asked them by what authority John the Baptist acted. That created a problem for the chief priests and elders because if they answered that John acted on the authority of God, they would have to admit the same for Jesus because that is what John testified concerning Jesus. On the other hand, if they said that Jesus acted on the authority of men, they would be at odds with the people who believed Jesus to be a great prophet sent by God.

8. In the Parable of the Two Sons a father asks his sons to work; the first refuses but later obeys, while the second agrees but fails to act. The parable contrasts the genuine repentance of people who know they are sinners and the hypocrisy of the self-righteous religious leaders. The religious leaders who claim to serve God do not. However, many who were sinners (tax collectors and harlots) repented and followed Jesus.

9. In the Parable of the Wicked Tenants, Jesus identifies himself as the cornerstone rejected by the Jewish religious leaders (the "builders"). He warns that those who reject him will be destroyed, declaring that the kingdom of God will be taken from them and given to those who produce fruit.

10. The religious leaders in Jerusalem understood that the parables of the Two Sons and the Wicked Tenants were about them, and they wanted to arrest Jesus, but they feared the multitudes because they regarded Jesus as a great prophet.

If you are just now joining this study, welcome! If you wish to catch up, you will find links to the previous lessons below. Join us next week as we continue our study of Matthew's Gospel.

Why the Name Jesus?
Matthew Chapter 1: A Closer Look
Matthew Chapter 2: The Magi Worship the Christ and Defy Herod
Matthew Chapter 3: Jesus and John Fulfill Righteousness
Matthew Chapter 4: Jesus Exposes the Devil's Tactics
Matthew Chapter 5: Jesus Teaches with Superior Authority
Matthew Chapter 6: True Kingdom Seekers
Matthew Chapter 7: Entering by the Narrow Gate
Matthew Chapter 8: The Uniqueness of Jesus
Matthew Chapter 9: Christ the Compassionate Lord
Matthew Chapter 10: The Apostles' High Calling
Matthew Chapter 11: The Messiah Brings Relief
Matthew Chapter 12: Greater Glory Resides in Jesus
Matthew Chapter 13: Perceive His Kingdom Coming
Matthew Chapter 14: Christ Rules Over Nature
Matthew Chapter 15: The Power of Persistent Faith
Matthew Chapter 16: Preparing for the End
Matthew Chapter 17: Behold the Glory of the Son of God!
Matthew Chapter 18: Living as a Child of God
Matthew Chapter 19: The Demands and Rewards of Righteousness
Matthew Chapter 20: The Parable of the Laborers





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Wednesday, February 18, 2026

The Parable of the Laborers

 



Welcome to this study of Matthew's Gospel, a collaboration between Mary Barmore and Alice C. Linsley. For this study, we use Mary's study notes and Alice's notes of historical and anthropological relevance.

To prepare, read Matthew chapter 20. When you have finished, answer the 10 questions. Scroll to the bottom to check your answers.

Introduction

The Gospel of Matthew stresses the reversal of values where worldly standards of power, wealth, and status are inverted in favor of humility and dedicated service to the Kingdom of God. Examples include the Beatitudes and the principle that "that many who are first will be last, and the last first" (Matt 19:30). In Matthew chapter 20, even that phrase is reversed. Jesus closes the Parable of the Laborers with these words: "So the last will be first, and the first will be last" (Matt. 20:16). Reversals or inversions such as this were a typical Semitic way to invite the listener to think more deeply and investigate a sacred mystery.

The mother of James and John asked Jesus to grant her sons positions of great authority in the Kingdom.

In chapter 20 Jesus again explains to his disciples that he will be arrested, crucified, and raised on the third day. The chapter ends with Jesus giving sight to two blind men, a miracle associated with the long-awaited Messiah.


Questions

1. Who does the "householder" represent in the Parable of the Laborers?

2. What troubled the laborers who were first to arrive when they received their wages?

3. What should the reader know about the practice of hiring day laborers in Jesus' time?

4. Jesus stressed that the future Kingdom is the opposite of the world as we know it. Why?

5. How did Eve's action in the Garden result in an inversion of God's order of creation?

6. In what ways does the future Kingdom of God represent a restoration of Paradise?

7. What did the mother of James and John want Jesus to do?

8. What was Jesus' response to the mother's request? 

9. What did Jesus say about his purpose or his mission on earth?

10. Two blind men cried out to Jesus, Son of David, for mercy. How did Jesus respond?


Answers

1. The householder/vineyard owner in the Parable of the Laborers represents God. The vineyard represents the Kingdom of God. The laborers are members of the Kingdom brought in by God and promised rewards.

2. The first laborers thought it unfair that they received the amount that they had agreed to after working all day. They begrudged the fieldhands who received the same amount though they had worked a much shorter day. However, the householder (representing God) told them that they were receiving what they had agreed on and that it was his right to give that same amount to whoever he wanted. Whether one receives Christ on his deathbed or has lived for Christ all his life, God loves them equally and shows no favoritism.

3. In the ancient Middle East, a landowner would go to the town gate to hire laborers by the day. He chose the workers he wanted (election or divine appointment). He, or his official representative (the Son of God), might return to hire another group, if needed. The amount of the wages was decided at the time of hiring. This could be interpreted as a reference to the elect of the Old Covenant and the elect of the New Covenant. Note that not all who wanted to be hired were chosen. Knowing this practice helps to make sense of the parable.

4. The early Hebrew, from whom we receive the Garden of Eden story, believed that God created the world with a hierarchy (think pyramid). The lowest creatures on the hierarchy were those that crawled along the ground like a snake. Eve, representing, all human females, was the crown of the creation, as she was the last to be created. She was at the pinnacle of the created order. Think of her at the peak of a pyramid. However, she surrendered her high estate to the serpent when she did what it wanted. This caused an inversion of the order of creation. The highest creature became subject to the basest creature. In theological terms, this is called "the Fall".

5. Jesus stressed that the future Kingdom is a place of right relationships, purity, holiness, and peace as was enjoyed in the Garden of Eden before the loss of innocence. In this sense, it is a recapitulation to the former state which God intended for humanity and all the creation. Jesus wanted his followers to understand the nature of his mission on earth.

6. The restoration of innocence and right relationships as was enjoyed in Eden is the called the doctrine of "recapitulation". It was especially championed by Irenaeus of Lyons. As the "Last Adam" Jesus Christ reverses the course of human disobedience and restores humanity to its original relationship with God the Father. In Romans 8:22, the Apostle Paul writes that "the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now", suffering under the curse of sin and death. Jesus was sent by the Father to restore God's original design.

7. The mother of James and John wanted Jesus to command that her sons be given places of honor and great authority in the Kingdom. This is why she asked that James and John be seated at Jesus' right and left. The seats at the right and left of a ruler’s throne signified the highest positions of power, authority, and honor. Such persons represented the king's authority.

8. Jesus first asked the mother what she wanted (v. 21). He did not presume. He then explained to the mother of James and John that she did not know what she was asking. He then addressed her sons, saying that they would drink his cup, that is to say that they too would suffer and die in the service of God's Kingdom.

9. Jesus explained that he came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Notice that he did not say that all would be ransomed.

10. By calling Jesus "Son of David" the two blind men expressed their belief that Jesus was the long-waited Messiah. Again, Jesus did not presume to know what the men wanted. He asked them, "What do you want me to do for you?" When they asked to have their eyesight, Jesus immediately gave them their sight. Giving sight to the blind was one of the signs of the Messiah. Isaiah 35:5 and 42:7 foretold that the Messiah would open the eyes of the blind. Jesus confirmed his Messiahship by citing this miracle. In Luke 4:18-21 he declared that he was fulfilling these scriptures.

Related reading: Gender Role Reversals and Sacred Mystery

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Friday, February 13, 2026

The Demands and Rewards of Righteousness

 

Sadhu Sundar Singh was an Indian Christian (1889 – 1929)


Welcome to this study of Matthew's Gospel, a collaboration between Mary Barmore and Dr. Alice C. Linsley. For this study, we use Mary's study notes and Alice's notes of historical and anthropological relevance.

To prepare, read Matthew chapter 19. When you have finished, answer the 8 questions. Scroll to the bottom to check your answers.


Introduction

In Matthew 19 we read that Jesus left Galilee and went south to Judea where he healed many and taught about righteousness. His teachings touch on the sanctity of marriage, divorce, welcoming and blessing children, the dangers of love of wealth, the necessity of humility, and the future rewards awaiting the 12 Apostles. The chapter emphasizes that entry into the Kingdom requires righteousness that often involves sacrifice and giving up earthly wealth and social relationships.


Questions

What motivated the Pharisees to ask Jesus about divorce?

2. What did Jesus say about Moses and divorce?

3. How did Jesus react when the disciples tried to turn away the children who were brought to him?

4. What did Jesus teach about sexual self-denial?

5. A rich young man sought eternal life. What stood in the man's way, according to Jesus?

6. How did Peter respond to Jesus' statement about complete dependence on God rather than on one's wealth or accomplishments?

7. Jesus answered Peter's question about rewards. What did he say? 

8. What did Jesus mean when he said that "the first will be last and the last will be first" in the Kingdom?

Answers

1. Pharisees hoped to trap Jesus. However, they failed. Jesus replied that God intends marriage to be a lifelong union, stating "what God has joined together, let no one separate". He allows divorce only in cases of sexual infidelity and designates marriage of convenience after divorce as adultery.

2. Jesus said that Moses allowed divorce because of the hardness of men's hearts. In the time of Moses (c. 1480-1500 BC) only men could petition for divorce. For some men, there was no just cause for the divorce. It was a matter of lusting after another woman. Hebrew women were aware of this possibility. They wore their wealth in the form of gold jewelry so that they would have financial resources in the event of divorce. Their jewelry served as more than ornamentation. It was a form of portable, personal wealth and security in the event of divorce or widowhood.

3. When the disciples try to turn away the children, Jesus rebuked them, stating that "the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these". Then Jesus laid his hands on the children and blessed them.

4. Jesus taught that voluntary celibacy in the service of God's kingdom is honorable. He recognized that not all people can receive this message. Jesus mentions three types of eunuchs: those born that way, those who have been castrated, and those who choose to be "eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven". Deuteronomy 23:1 forbids physical eunuchs from entering the worship assembly of the Lord. This created a problem for some castrated Jewish leaders who returned from Babylonian captivity. Isaiah 56:3–5 promises that eunuchs who keep the Sabbath, please God, and hold to the covenant will be given "an everlasting name" that will not be cut off. Isaiah 56:5 states:

To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths, who choose what pleases me and hold fast to my covenant—
to them I will give within my temple and its walls
a memorial and a name
better than sons and daughters;
I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.

This speaks of God's compassion for his people.

    5. The Rich Young Ruler asked what he could do to receive eternal life. He believed that there is some deed that can earn one a place in the Kingdom. Jesus did not argue theology with him. Instead, he pointed to the man's real problem. Jesus told the man to sell his possessions and follow him. However, the man's love of his possessions was an obstacle to following Jesus Christ. He went away sad. Jesus remarked that it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom. 

    6. The disciples asked who then could be saved, and Jesus answered, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible". Peter said that he and the other disciples had left everything to follow Jesus. He wanted to know what reward he would receive.

    7.     Jesus spoke of a future reward when the twelve Apostles would sit on 12 thrones in the Kingdom. This is further described in Luke 22:30 and in the Book of Revelation. Revelation describes twelve thrones upon which the twelve Apostles will sit as righteous judges over the twelve tribes of Israel. Jesus' charge to the twelve Apostles set a standard of righteousness beyond what any person can reach in their own strength. The Apostles were to conform their lives to God's commands and to seek spiritual perfection. This requires putting on the righteousness imputed through Jesus Christ, a deep knowledge of Scripture, spiritual discernment, and evidence of the fruits of righteousness in their lives and ministries. Before their future reward, however, all of the Apostles would suffer persecution. Except for John, they all died as martyrs and John was exiled to Patmos.  

    8.     When Jesus said, "the first will be last and the last will be first" (verse 30), he was speaking about the value system of God's Kingdom. It is not like the earthly realm where people value status, wealth, seniority, and power. In the Kingdom of God true greatness is found in humility and righteous service. Jesus speaks of this reversal of values in Matthew 20:16, Mark 10:31, and Luke 13:30.

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Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Living as a Child of God

 



Welcome to this study of Matthew's Gospel, a collaboration between Mary Barmore and Alice C. Linsley. For this study, we use Mary's study notes and Alice's notes of historical and anthropological relevance.

To prepare for this week's study, read Matthew chapter 18. When you have finished, answer the 10 questions. Scroll to the bottom to check your answers.


Introduction

Matthew18 summarizes Jesus' teachings on greatness in the Kingdom of Heaven, childlike humility, care for "little ones," how to handle conflict among the believers, stumbling blocks, the fate of those who cause a believer to go astray, and limitless forgiveness. Jesus warned against harming believers, noting that their guardian angels represent them before the Heavenly Father. Jesus taught by using parables. In this chapter we find the Parable of the Lost Sheep and the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant.


Questions

1. When the disciples asked about the greatest in the Kingdom, what did Jesus do?

2. To whom was Jesus referring when he spoke of "little ones"?

3. What warning did Jesus give to his disciples?

4. What did Jesus say about guardian angels?

5. What fate did Jesus describe for those who cause a believer to sin?

6. Why did Jesus use parables to teach?

7. One of Jesus' parables involved a servant who was forgiven an impossible debt. How did the servant repay the king's mercy?

8. What does the Parable of the Lost Sheep say about God's love for every member of his flock?

9. Jesus explains how conflict is to be handled among the believers. What steps are to be taken?

10. What lesson did Jesus give Peter about forgiveness?


Answers

1. To illustrate the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven Jesus placed a child in their midst and said, "Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." This is reiterated in Matthew 20:25-28 where Jesus explained, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

2. The "little ones" refer to those who have put their trust in Jesus, regardless of age. 

3. Jesus warned against causing their fellow believers to lose faith ("stumble") or sin. He recognized that some were more of his followers were more vulnerable, or less mature disciples.

4. Jesus affirmed the existence of guardian angels by stating that the angels of "little ones" (believers) behold the face of the Father in heaven. This suggests that angels are in constant, direct communion with God while also watching over and protecting believers. In the time of Jesus, Judaism taught that angels served as guardians for nations as well as for individuals.

5. Jesus said that the fate of someone who causes a believer ("little one") to sin is so severe that it would be better for the offender to have a large millstone hung around their neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea. Luke 17:1-2 similarly states that it is inevitable that stumbling blocks come but warns of severe consequences for those who cause them.

6. Jesus used parables to illustrate spiritual truths. In Matthew, chapter 13 Jesus explained to his disciples that he used parables to reveal the truths of the Kingdom of God to receptive followers while simultaneously concealing them from the hardhearted. The parables were stories to which the people could relate. They involved everyday activities such sowing seed, sweeping a house to find a lost coin, tending sheep, paying debts, and building a house, etc.

7. The servant owed a king 10,000 talents, an astronomical amount representing our sin against God. This servant's debt was forgiven by the king. The servant refused to show the same mercy to a peer, resulting in his judgment as a "wicked "servant whose pardon is revoked and who is cast into prison. There is no hope of escaping his punishment since he can never repay the great debt owed to the king.

8. God is not willing that a single one of his "little ones" should be lost. Jesus stated that no one can snatch His sheep out of His hand or the Father's hand (John 10:28-29).

9. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines four steps for handling conflict: (1) Address the sin privately with the person. (2) If ignored, bring one or two witnesses to confirm the facts. (3) Tell it to the church if the individual still refuses to listen. (4) If the person refuses to repent, treat that individual as an outsider (ex-communicate).

10. Jesus taught Peter that forgiveness should be limitless, continuous, and heart-felt. For the Believer forgiveness is a way of life. This does not mean that forgiving others is easy. Forgiveness involves releasing deep pain, anger, and a sense of injustice. It requires setting aside our pride, and natural desire self-protection.

If you are just now joining this study, welcome! Between 600 and 800 people have joined us. If you wish to catch up, you will find links to the previous lessons below. Join us next week as we continue our study of Matthew's Gospel.

Why the Name Jesus?
Matthew Chapter 1: A Closer Look
Matthew Chapter 2: The Magi Worship the Christ and Defy Herod
Matthew Chapter 3: Jesus and John Fulfill All Righteousness
Matthew Chapter 4: Jesus Exposes the Devil's Tactics
Matthew Chapter 5: Jesus Teaches with Superior Authority
Matthew Chapter 6: True Kingdom Seekers
Matthew Chapter 7: Entering by the Narrow Gate
Matthew Chapter 8: The Uniqueness of Jesus
Matthew Chapter 9: Christ the Compassionate Lord
Matthew Chapter 10: The Apostles' High Calling
Matthew Chapter 11: The Messiah Brings Relief
Matthew Chapter 12: Greater Glory Resides in Jesus
Matthew Chapter 13: Perceive His Kingdom Coming
Matthew Chapter 14: Christ Rules Over Nature
Matthew Chapter 15: The Power of Persistent Faith
Matthew Chapter 16: Preparing for the End
Matthew Chapter 17: Behold the Glory of the Son of God!


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Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Behold the Glory of the Son of God!

 

"The Transfiguration" by Danish painter, Carl Bloch (1834-1890)


Welcome to this study of Matthew's Gospel, a collaboration between Mary Barmore and Alice C. Linsley. For this study, we use Mary's study notes and Alice's notes of historical and anthropological relevance.

To prepare for this week's study, read Matthew chapter 17. When you have finished, answer the 10 questions. Scroll to the bottom to check your answers.


Introduction

Matthew chapter 17 describes Jesus' transfiguration on a mountain which was witnessed by Peter, James, and John. In this moment, Jesus' glory and divinity was revealed to his closest disciples. Moses and Elijah appeared with Jesus, and God the Father declared Jesus to be His beloved Son. Jesus told the 3 disciples not to tell anyone what they had witnessed until after his resurrection. Jesus healed a demon-possessed boy after His disciples failed to do so. Finally, Jesus spoke again of His upcoming betrayal, death, and third day resurrection. Peter approached Jesus about the collection of the half-shekel Temple tax which he needed to pay. Every male Israelite of 20 years or older was required to pay the annual half-shekel (or two Attic drachmae) to maintain the Temple services. Jesus told Peter to go fish and Peter found a shekel in the mouth of the first fish he caught. This coin was used to pay the tax for both Peter and Jesus. The miracle of the shekel speaks of Jesus' compassionate provision for Peter and testifies to Jesus' divinity.


Questions

1. How did Jesus appear on the Mount of Transfiguration?

2. What did Peter, James and John have in common?

3. What is the significance of the appearance of Moses and Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration?

4. What did Peter offer to do on the mountain, and why?

5. What happened while Peter was still speaking?

6. What was the reaction of Peter, James and John to the voice of the heavenly Father?

7. What did God the Father tell the 3 disciples?

8. What did Jesus do to reassure Peter, James and John?

9. What did the father of the suffering boy say to Jesus?

10. What specific information did Jesus give the disciples about his resurrection?


Answers

1. Jesus' face shone like the sun, and his clothes became radiant as white light.

2. They were Galileans, fishermen, and disciples of Jesus. They shared a close relationship as members of an intimate "inner circle" of Jesus. They testified to Jesus' divinity and his third day resurrection, and they all died as martyrs.

3. Moses represents the Law and Elijah represents the Prophets. Jesus is the fulfillment of the Law and the prophets. Matthew 5:17-20 states that Christ came to fulfill the Law. Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill."

4. Peter offered to build 3 tabernacles, one for Jesus, one for Moses and one for Elijah. Peter hoped to enshrine that moment of glory and to honor them. He did not understand the temporary nature of the moment. The Hebrew word for tabernacle is mishkan (מִשְׁכַּן), and it refers to a dwelling place or shelter such as the portable tent that was constructed by the Israelites in the wilderness. 

5. While Peter was speaking a bright cloud overshadowed them and a voice from the cloud declared, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him."

6. When they heard the voice, they fell on their faces and were filled with awe. In that moment, the 3 disciples fell down in worship.

7. The Heavenly Father told Peter, James and John to listen to his Son. This indicates that the Father and his divine Son share equal authority.

8. Jesus touched them and told them not to be afraid. Coming down the mountain, Jesus told them not to tell anyone what they had witnessed until after his resurrection.

9. The father asked Jesus to heal his son. He explained that he had asked the disciples, but they could not heal him. Jesus chastised the disciples for their little faith.

10. Jesus told them that he would be raised on the third day. The phrases "three days" or "third day" appears 21 times in the accounts of Jesus' death and resurrection. Jesus knew the early Hebrew expectation of Messiah's resurrection. Jesus is the "firstborn from the grave", and by his resurrection He delivers to the Father a "peculiar people." The Heaven Father recognizes us because we belong to his beloved Son. A reference to the third day resurrection is found in the 4000-year-old Pyramid Texts: "Oh HR, this hour of the morning, of this third day is come, when thou surely passeth on to heaven, together with the stars, the imperishable stars." (Utterance 667) In fact, the earliest known resurrection texts were written by the Jesus' early Hebrew ancestors (4200 - 2000 BC). HR in proto-Egyptian means "Most High One".

If you are just now joining this study, welcome! Between 600 and 800 people have joined us. If you wish to catch up, you will find links to the previous lessons below. Join us next week as we continue our study of Matthew's Gospel.
Matthew Chapter 16: Preparing for the End


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Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Preparing for the End

 




Welcome to this study of Matthew's Gospel, a collaborative effort between Mary Barmore and Dr. Alice C. Linsley.

For 9 months Mary Barmore was too sick to leave her bed. During those months, she read the New Testament for the first time and took notes on each of the books. This dramatically changed Mary's life. Before you begin this unique study of Matthew, read Mary's Testimony.

For this study, we use Mary's study notes and Alice adds notes of historical and anthropological relevance.

To prepare for this week's study, read Matthew chapter 16. When you have finished, answer the 10 questions. Scroll to the bottom to check your answers.

Introduction

The Pharisees and Scribes became hostile to Jesus. They asked him for a sign. Jesus told them that no sign would be given them except the sign of Jonah. Then he and his disciples departed from them.

Jesus warned his disciples about the false teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

At Caesaria Philippi Jesus asked the disciples, "Who do men say that the Son of Man is?" Their responses reflect the speculation of the Jewish people about Jesus' identity. Jesus then made the question more personal: "Who do you say that I am?" Simon blurted out: "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." Jesus then gave Simon a new name, Peter, and said that his church will be built upon the rock of Peter's confession of faith.

From this time, Jesus began to prepare his disciples for his impending arrest and death. He rebuked Peter when Peter said that this would never happen. Jesus went on to explain that the disciples can follow him only if they deny themselves and take up the cross.

The chapter closes with Jesus' statements about the coming judgement and the dawning of his kingdom. The message is clear: Jesus knew his time on earth was nearing an end and he wanted to prepare his disciples. His words serve as a warning to us also that we are to prepare for the end of this world.

Questions

1. Jesus noted that the Pharisees and Scribes recognized signs in nature, but not the signs of the times. Why are many people unable to see the signs of the times even today?

2. How does the story of Jonah relate to Jesus?

3. As usual, the disciples were preoccupied with food (bread). What message did Jesus deliver to redirect their focus?

4. How are false teachings like leaven?
 
5. Why did Jesus ask what people were saying about him?

6. What did Simon bar Jonah declare about Jesus?

7. What is the significance of the new name that Jesus gave to Simon?

8. How is the confession of faith in Jesus as the Christ (Messiah, Son of God) like a rock?

9. What did Peter not grasp about the Messiah?

10. How did Jesus describe his coming again, and what is meant by the claim that "there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Son of man come into his kingdom"?

Answers

1. In Christian eschatology (theology of the end times), the phrase "signs of the times" refers to significant world events that biblical texts describe as signs of the fulfillment of Christ's mission on earth. Such signs encourage preparedness before the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. People who do not read the Bible and do not believe that Jesus is the Son of God will not perceive the signs.

2. The story of Jonah relates to Jesus who was 3 days in the tomb before he rose from the grave. Likewise, Jonah was in the belly of the great fish for 3 days before God delivered him from the depths.

3. Jesus chastised the disciples for their preoccupation with food. He reminds them of how he miraculously fed the crowds. Then he redirected their thinking by warning them about the leaven (teachings) of the Pharisees and the Sadducees, the 2 largest factions within Judaism at that time. The Pharisees taught strict adherence to the Law (legalism), and the Sadducees rejected belief in bodily resurrection. Yet the disciples were witnesses to 3 incidents of Jesus raising people from the dead: Jairus' daughter, the son of the widow of Nain, and Lazarus.

4. False teachings are like leaven because a small amount can spread and corrupt an entire group, just as a small amount of yeast makes a whole batch of dough rise. This analogy would have been familiar to the disciples because bread was the main staple of the daily diet for ordinary people. The Hebrew word for bread is lechem  לֶחֶם  and it essentially meant food.

5. Jesus asked what people were saying about him to challenge his disciples to move beyond popular opinion, and to prompt them to recognize his true identity as the Messiah and the Son of God.

6. Simon declared that Jesus is "the Christ, the son of the living God" and Jesus explained that this was revealed to Simon by the Holy Spirit.

7. In the Bible when a person's spiritual life reaches a turning point, God gives them a new name. Abram became Abraham. Jacob became Israel. Simon bar Jonah means that Peter was a son of a man named Jonah. It is the Hebrew patronymic for Simon Peter. A patronymic is a personal name based on the given name of one's father or a famous male ancestor. These names are identified by the Hebrew word bar or the Aramaic word ben, both meaning son or male descendant. In Numbers 13, Caleb is designated Kalev ben Jephunneh. 1 Chronicles 2:19 identifies Hur as a son (ben) of Kalev (Caleb). Patronymic names are common in the Bible. (See Hebrew Names and Titles.) Some believe that all who are in Christ receive a new name that is written in the Book of Life mentioned in Revelation 20:15.

8. Rocks are hard and durable and they resist pressure. They provide solid foundations and stability to structures. The name Peter is derived from the Greek word petra, meaning stone or rock. The faith declared by Peter through the agency of the Holy Spirit is the solid foundation of the Church.

9. Even after all that Peter had seen and done, he still did not understand that the Son of God would have to die and rise in order to fulfill God's plan. Peter had seen Jesus deliver to him a great catch of fish (Luke 5). He had seen Jesus walk on water and even walked there himself. He had witnessed how Jesus miraculously fed great crowds. He had observed Jesus' power to heal every infirmity and his authority over demons. Even so, Peter did not understand that the Messiah, the Son of God, was to die and rise again to gain the ultimate victory over sin and death. His view of the Messiah was too small.

10. Jesus said he will come again in glory with his angels to repay every person for their deeds. He also said that some who heard him say this would not taste death before they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom. Since all who were there died before Jesus' return, this refers to Jesus' victory over sin and death through the cross and the resurrection. From the moment He rose from the dead, Jesus came into his kingdom. However, the day of judgement is yet to come.

If you are just now joining this study, welcome! Between 600 and 800 people have joined us. If you wish to catch up, you will find links to the previous lessons below.

Join us next week as we continue our study of Matthew's Gospel.

Why the Name Jesus?
Matthew Chapter 1: A Closer Look
Matthew Chapter 2: The Magi Worship the Christ and Defy Herod
Matthew Chapter 3: Jesus and John Fulfill All Righteousness
Matthew Chapter 4: Jesus Exposes the Devil's Tactics
Matthew Chapter 5: Jesus Teaches with Superior Authority
Matthew Chapter 6: True Kingdom Seekers
Matthew Chapter 7: Entering by the Narrow Gate
Matthew Chapter 8: The Uniqueness of Jesus
Matthew Chapter 9: Christ the Compassionate Lord
Matthew Chapter 10: The Apostles' High Calling
Matthew Chapter 11: The Messiah Brings Relief
Matthew Chapter 12: Greater Glory Resides in Jesus
Matthew Chapter 13: Perceive His Kingdom Coming
Matthew Chapter 14: Christ Rules Over Nature
Matthew Chapter 15: The Power of Persistent Faith


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Wednesday, January 14, 2026

The Power of Persistent Faith

 

A 5th century BC votive relief found in a sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius 
shows a dog eating under the Master's table. 

Welcome to this study of Matthew's Gospel, a collaboration between Mary Barmore and Dr. Alice C. Linsley. Before you begin the lesson, read Matthew Chapter 15. When you have finished reading, answer the questions. Check your answers by scrolling to the bottom.


Introduction

In this chapter Jesus confronts the Pharisees and Scribes about elevating the precepts of their "elders" above the Word of God (vv. 1-9). Jesus criticizes them for transgressing the commandment to honor one's father and mother for the sake of their rabbinic laws. The specific example cited by Jesus involves not paying a debt to one's parents by instead giving money to the Temple which made one appear holy. This money supported the Temple authorities.

The Pharisees and Scribes criticized Jesus' disciples for not washing their hands when eating. They believed that this was defilement. However, according to Jesus, "defilement" springs from the heart and not from the failure to observe ritual washing. 

A “Canaanite woman” from the vicinity of Tyre and Sidon asked Jesus to heal her daughter of demon possession. Jesus explained that his mission as Messiah was to the Jews. While accepting that Jesus came to feed the Jews (called "children of Israel"), the woman asserts that the "dogs" (Gentiles) need what Jesus offers, even if it comes as crumbs from the Master's table.

This chapter describes healings and a second feeding of a large crowd. This happened at a "mount" near the Sea of Galilee. 


Questions

1. In his criticism of the Jewish leaders, Jesus quotes Isaiah 29:13. Here Isaiah speaks of a disconnect between the lips and the heart. This produces "vain" worship. What causes vain worship?

2. Jesus often quoted the Hebrew Scriptures. What does this indicate about his education?

3. The "Canaanite" woman is also referred to as a "Syrophoenician" woman. (Mark 7:24-30). Why?

4. What did the Syrophoenician woman want Jesus to do?

5. What was Jesus' initial response to the woman's request?

6. Jesus granted the woman's request and acknowledged her great faith. What did the woman believe about Jesus, and what was her spiritual attitude when she approached him?

7. What conditions were healed by Jesus, and why are these specific conditions significant?

8. According to the disciples, what available food was there to feed the large crowd? 

9. How many people were fed and how many baskets of leftovers were gathered?

10. What did the feeding of the crowd reveal about Jesus?



Answers

1. There are many causes of vain worship: hypocrisy, arrogance, spiritual rebellion, lust, hatred, deceit, etc. To worship in truth, we should confess our sins, seek forgiveness and repent.

2. Jesus knew the Hebrew Scriptures very well. As a Jewish boy he would have memorized large portions. Jesus' parents found him in the Temple instructing teachers and asking questions, amazing everyone with his understanding (Luke 2: 41-52). He was 12 years old at that time. By that age, many Jewish boys have mastered the first five books of the Bible (Torah). However, the fact that Jesus quoted Isaiah by memory suggests that he had progressed beyond that level to mastery of the Prophets.

3. The term "Canaanite" is more general than the term "Syrophoenician" used in Mark's account. The Land of Canaan included modern-day Israel, southern Lebanon, and parts of Jordan and Syria. It was bordered by the Mediterranean Sea on the West, the Jordan River on the East, Mount Hermon on the North, and Beersheba and the Sinai on the South. The woman was from the region of Tyre and Sidon on the Mediterranean coast. This region was known as Phoenicia. Historically, the rulers of Phoenicia were allies of Israel. King Hiram of Tyre provided the skilled workers and materials for David to build his palace. 


4. The Syrophoenician woman wanted Jesus to deliver her daughter who she believed to be possessed by a demon. In biblical times, people were delivered from demonic possession primarily by Jesus Christ who cast out demons with authority. This suggests that the woman had heard of Jesus and probably believed that he was Messiah (Christ). 

5. Jesus' initial response to the woman was to tell her that his mission was to the "lost sheep of the house of Israel." She did not belong to that population. The woman said, “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table.” She was willing to accept the crumbs.

6. Jesus marveled at her faith. He recognized her humility, a spiritual condition that arouses God's compassion. There is a beautiful Anglican prayer that alludes to this story. It is called the Prayer of Humble Access.

We do not presume to come to this thy Table, O merciful Lord, trusting in our own righteousness, but in thy manifold and great mercies. We are not worthy so much as to gather up the crumbs under thy Table. But thou art the same Lord, whose property is always to have mercy: Grant us therefore, gracious Lord, so to eat the Flesh of thy dear Son Jesus Christ, and to drink his Blood, that our sinful bodies may be made clean by his Body, and our souls washed through his most precious Blood, And that we may evermore dwell in him, and he in us. Amen.

 

7. Jesus healed the maimed, the lame, the blind, those who could not speak, and many others. This stirred great wonder among the people and they glorified God. These conditions are significant because, according to Isaiah 35:5-6, the Messiah was to heal people with these conditions. These healings were a sign of Jesus' identity as the Messiah (Christ).

8. Jesus asked what was available and the disciples told him that they had seven loaves and a few small fish.

9. The crowd consisted of 4000 men plus women and children. Jesus did not want to send them away hungry. After the people were fed, the disciples gathered seven baskets full of the broken pieces.

10. Jesus had compassion on the hungry people. He was concerned that some would faint while returning to their homes. He had the people sit down and then he made sure that they were fed before he dismissed the crowd.

If you are just now joining this study, welcome! Between 600 and 800 people have joined us. If you wish to catch up, you will find links to the previous lessons below.

Join us next week as we continue our study of Matthew's Gospel. 


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