The woes on unrepentant towns and balanced by the offer to come to Jesus to find rest for our souls. How does judgment and comfort come together in Messiah Jesus?
Matthew 11:20-30
SERMON OUTLINE
“Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” (Matthew 11:11)
John the Baptist’s Perspective on Jesus (11:2-6)
- John’s early perspective on Jesus: the one coming after who is stronger (3:11-12)
- John’s current perspective on Jesus: “are you the one who is to come?” (11:2-3)
- Jesus’ response to John’s question: take a look at what’s happening (11:4-6)
Jesus’ Perspective on John the Baptist (11:7-15)
- John was a prophet (11:7-9)
John was “Elijah” the prophets spoke of (11:14; Malachi 3:1; 4:4-5) - John was the last of the age before the Kingdom (11:11-14)
- Jesus’ question to His hearers: do you have ears to hear? (11:15)
This Generation’s Perspective on John the Baptist and Jesus (11:16-19)
- A parable about children in the market (11:16-17)
This generation’s desire for Jesus and John to “fit” their desires - The proof of the wisdom of God’s Kingdom
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Answer one of the following:
- When has someone spoken a hard word into your life you really needed to hear?
- When has someone brought an encouraging word you really needed to hear?
- This week we continue our series, “The Messiah’s Mission,” by looking at Matthew 11:20-30. Begin your study in prayer by asking God to speak to you through His Word. Then, whether you’re on your own or with others, read that passage aloud.
- The first section of this passage is a warning and challenge. It’s important to know Chorazin and Bethsaida were predominantly Jewish towns near and of similar size to Capernaum, where Jesus ministered. Tyre and Sidon were Phoenician towns up the coast. Sodom was famously destroyed by God because of its sin (Genesis 19). Considering this background, what do you think Jesus is trying to say through His comparisons in 11:20-24?
- Jesus mentions repentance several times. How would you define repentance? What does it look like for someone to repent?
- The second section of this passage begins with a prayer of thanksgiving by Jesus (11:25-26). The “little children” of verse 25 is likely a reference to Jesus’ disciples. What is Jesus thankful for here?
- Verse 27 summarizes the relationship of Jesus to the Father. What would you say is at the heart of this verse?
- Jesus refers to God as “Father” more than anything else. Why do you think this is?
- The final few verses (11:28-30) are much-loved for the invitation Jesus offers. What might be some of the weariness or burdens in peoples’ lives Jesus is addressing?
- The concept of the yoke was often used in relation to wisdom or the law of God. One took up that yoke by learning from God’s Word and teaching. How does Jesus adapt or change this in His invitation?
- What is one thing God is speaking to you through this study? If you’re on your own, write that down, pray over it, and share it with someone this week. If you are with a small group, share your answers with one another before closing in prayer.
DIG DEEPER
- Memorize Matthew 11:28-30.
- Take time in prayer this week to consider what weariness or burdens you need to bring to Jesus. Also, pray about how you can respond to Jesus’ invitation to enter His easy yoke.
- To reflect more deeply on this passage, sketch, ink, or paint a response to Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28-30. As you do that, prayerfully talk with Jesus about your burdens and His easy yoke.
- Consider reading one of the following:
- Charles Spurgeon’s sermon, “Christ’s Yoke and Burden”:
- Dallas Willard’s article, “The Secret of the Easy Yoke”