Matthew 14: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Matthew 14 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Herod the tetrarch hears reports about Jesus and believes he is John the Baptizer risen from the dead (vv. 1-2). Herod imprisoned John for condemning his marriage to Herodias.

Key verse

“But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Cheer up! It is I! Don’t be afraid.”
Matthew 14:27 (WEB)

Outline

Matthew 14:1–12 Herod's Fear and John's Death
Matthew 14:13–21 Feeding the Five Thousand
Matthew 14:22–23 Jesus Prays Alone
Matthew 14:24–33 Walking on Water
Matthew 14:34–36 Healing at Gennesaret

Discussion questions

In v2, what does Herod think has happened to John the Baptizer?
What does Jesus do with ‘five loaves and two fish’ in vv. 17-19?
Peter’s actions in vv. 29-30: why does he begin to sink after stepping out of the boat?
The phrase ‘You of little faith’ in v31: what does this indicate about Jesus’ expectations of Peter?
When have you felt called to step out like Peter did in v29?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Matthew 14: Mark 6, John 6, Matthew 16.

Before next time: read Matthew 15.