Matthew 11: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Matthew 11 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

After directing his twelve disciples, Jesus went to teach and preach in their cities (vv. 1-2). John the Baptist, in prison, sent two disciples to ask Jesus if he was the one to come or if they should expect another.

Key verse

“Come to me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 11:28 (WEB)

Outline

Matthew 11:1–2 Jesus Sends the Disciples
Matthew 11:3–6 John's Inquiry About Jesus
Matthew 11:7–11 Jesus Affirms John the Baptist
Matthew 11:12–15 The Kingdom and Its Challenges
Matthew 11:16–19 Rejection of Wisdom
Matthew 11:20–24 Woes to Unrepentant Cities
Matthew 11:25–30 Invitation to Rest

Discussion questions

In v3, what question does John send his disciples to ask Jesus?
What does Jesus say about the cities of Chorazin and Bethsaida in v21?
Jesus speaks of John as a prophet in vv. 9-10: how does he define John's role?
In v25, why does Jesus thank the Father for hiding truths from the wise?
When have you felt burdened and heard the invitation to 'come to me' (v28)?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Matthew 11: John 6, John 7, Philippians 2.

Before next time: read Matthew 12.