Preparing for Sunday - Matthew 19:1-12

January 8, 2015 by Bret Capranica Preparing for Sunday

Read Matthew 19:1-12.
What has changed about the location of Jesus' ministry (v 1)? Why is this important to note?
What do the Pharisees ask Jesus? Are they seeking his opinion or challenging his source of authority? How do you know?
What was the motivation behind the Pharisee's question to Jesus about divorce?
Why would the Pharisees bring up this issue to discuss with Jesus?
Where does Jesus go in Scripture to begin answering their question? Why would he begin there?
What objection do the Pharisees bring up to Jesus' answer?
Read Deuteronomy 24:1-4 for background on what the Pharisees are referring to in Moses (v 7).
Why did Jesus indicate that Moses allowed for divorce? What does he mean by this? How do you know?
What is the only exception Jesus gives for divorce and remarriage not to be an act of adultery? Why would say this?
What is the view of marriage the discipels have (v 10)? And how does Jesus answer them?

What would you list as legitimate reasons for divorce? How do you come to those conclusions?
How would you characterize the modern view of divorce and remarriage? What standard is typcially used to come to these conclusions?
List some of the most difficult challenges to what Jesus says here about divorce and our modern world and views of marriage.
What do we say about what we value and view as the ultimate authority by our stance on divorce and remarriage?
How could this passage be helpful in serving others who are struggling through issues of potential or already accomplished pursuits of divorce?

Does this passage reveal any sin for you to confess? Any promises for you to trust in?
How would this passage help you pray for or talk with specific people in your life dealing with any of the isssues touched on?
How should a congregation apply this passage to its members? How does this passage shape a congregation's stance communicated to the public on the value of marriage and the value of Scripture's authority?
Pray for non-Christians to be convicted of sin and drawn to the glory of Christ this Sunday through all that takes place.
Pray that those who lead the service will edify the body in the most helpful ways: Dawson Bryant, music; Brett Harris, Prayer and Scripture Reading; Bret Capranica, teaching.
Listen to the music we will sing together. Meditate on the message of each song. Prepare yourself to sing with understanding and zeal.