Matthew 12: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Matthew 12 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

On the Sabbath, Jesus’ disciples pick grain, prompting the Pharisees to accuse them of breaking the law (vv. 1-2). Jesus defends them by citing David’s actions and notes that the priests are guiltless in profaning the Sabbath (vv.

Key verse

“For the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.”
Matthew 12:8 (WEB)

Outline

Matthew 12:1–8 Controversy Over the Sabbath
Matthew 12:9–14 Healing on the Sabbath
Matthew 12:15–21 Fulfillment of Prophecy
Matthew 12:22–30 Accusations and Responses
Matthew 12:31–37 Blasphemy Against the Spirit
Matthew 12:38–45 Seeking a Sign
Matthew 12:46–50 Redefining Kinship

Discussion questions

In v2, what do the Pharisees accuse Jesus' disciples of doing on the Sabbath?
What does Jesus reference in v4 when speaking about David's actions?
In vv. 31-32, why does Jesus emphasize the unforgivable nature of blasphemy against the Spirit?
In v39, what does Jesus mean by the 'sign of Jonah' in His response to the Pharisees?
How do you respond when someone challenges your actions, as seen in v10 with the man and the withered hand?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Matthew 12: Proverbs 4, Luke 11, Luke 6.

Before next time: read Matthew 13.