Preparing for Sunday - Matthew 9:9-13

April 25, 2013 by Bret Capranica Preparing for Sunday

Read Matthew 9:9-13; Mark2:14-17; Luke 5:27-32. What are the similaries and differences?
List everything you learn about Matthew.
What do you learn about the disciples? Why are they mentioned? Why do the Pharisees target them for their questions about Jesus?
Who attends the meal with Jesus? Why is this significant?
What title do the Pharisees use for Jesus?
What occupation does Jesus liken his ministry to? Why?
What does v 13 suggest about the Pharisee's approach to life and religion?

What do you think was going on in the house between Jesus and those present for the meal? Why were the guests there? Who invited them? What does this say about Matthew's faith?
While there is much to learn from who Jesus was associating with in this passage, consider the purpose of his interactions and how he was interacting with them? How could your interaction with the unbelieving world be as purposeful?
How often do you feel yourself as spiritually sick as those who were dining with Jesus? Why? What does this suggest about our relationship to Jesus?
Are there any indications that you approach life similarly to that of the Pharisees? How? What should change?
How should this passage bring comfort and encourage to you?

Who are the unbelievers in your circle of influence who need to see your intentional outreach and introduction to Jesus? How could you pray for them right now in light of this passage? How could you intentionally reach out to them to introduce them to Christ and discuss the changes He is making in your own life?
Pray for any in our congregation who do not see themselves as spiritually sick and in need of spiritual physician. Pray their hearts will change and embrace Christ.
Pray for those who attend our church and are weighed down with the extreme burden of their sin but have yet to follow Christ as the solution to their burden. Pray they will see him as the means to their healing.
Pray for those who will be leading the service this Sunday: Dawson Bryant, music; Sam Karl, Elders' Prayer and Scripture reading; Bret Capranica, teaching.
Meditate on the lyrics of the songs we will be singing Sunday. Consider how these songs will strengthen your love for Christ and submission to his authority. Prepare yourself to sing with the congregation this Sunday.