matthew bible study student ed - masterworks festival · when my mom, kay freschly, first read this...

2010 MasterWorks Festival Bible Study on the Gospel of Matthew.

ExtendingHis

Fame

Student Edition

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Not to us, oh Lord, not to usbut to your name be the glory,

because of your love and faithfulness.Psalm 115:1(NIV)

Note from the author:

This summer, we are going to develop the idea of “Extending God’s Fame” as we work our way through the whole Gospel of Matthew.Don’t worry, I realize that MasterWorks is only four weeks long, and you can’t be expected to leave MasterWorks as a theologicalexpert on Matthew. During most small group discussions, you will read through the whole chapter for that day, but then focus in ona smaller portion of the text. This way you will get a broad overview while still being able to develop a few key concepts.

Some of the lessons are shorter than others and that’s on purpose. When you have extra time on your hands, there are two things Irecommend: 1) prayer 2) sharing your testimonies. There’s no formula for how to go about prayer. You could sing songs of praise, splitup into groups of two, take turns for everyone to pray, etc. I encourage creativity. There’s no need for the method to be monotonous.Each group will be different, and each group will take the lessons at their own pace. Some lessons you might breeze through andothers might take the full length of time. As to sharing your testimony, you should all be prepared to share something about yourspiritual journey. Some group faculty mentors may prefer that everyone shares a bit of their story. Others might only ask forvolunteers. Faculty mentors are also encouraged to invite students to lead some of the discussions.

Let me take a moment to address the non-Christian. While I may not know specifically who you are, I know you’re here. And while youmight feel alone here, there are probably a few more out there like you. You feel like you’ve just entered the twilight zone. You’rethinking, Bible study? What have I gotten myself into? Mostly what I want to tell you is this: please be yourself. I’m glad you’re willingto discuss the Bible with us, but please don’t feel pressured to pretend to be a Christian while you’re here. I’m not going to tell youthat you can opt out of the Bible study, because frankly, it’s mandatory. I just wanted you to have permission to be you. I hope thiswill be a safe environment for you to learn and grow as an artist, but I also hope this summer will be formational in your spiritualjourney.

Lastly, I wanted to show you that there is a method to the sonata form Bible study format:

Introduction: The introduction includes some opening thoughts, and often an opening discussion question.

Exposition: This is where you read the main chapter for the day. Be sure to pay special attention to the focus verses, because those are the ones that will be developed in the next section.

Development: You will spend most of your time in this portion, observing the Biblical text and discussing your answers to the questions.

Recapitulation: At the close of the discussion, someone should read this closing scripture passage. Sometimes it will be new; other times it will be a repeat. It will always reiterate the key concept that was just developed.

Coda: This serves as a reminder to close your time together in prayer.

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Table of Contents

Copyright © 2010 by Joy E. FreschlyAll photography, except cover art, by Kevin Schmitt, © 2009

Thanks to Patrick Kavanaugh and John Langlois for writing a study on Matthew nine years ago for theMasterWorks Festival. My inspiration to write this new study came from reading yours and discovering

how frequently the chapters of Matthew support our theme this year, “Extending His Fame.”

Small Group Discussion GuidesDiscussion 1: Matthew 1.............................................................3Discussion 2: Matthew 2.............................................................4Discussion 3: Matthew 3.............................................................5Discussion 4: Matthew 4.............................................................6Discussion 5: Matthew 8.............................................................9Discussion 6: Matthew 9.............................................................10Discussion 7: Matthew 10...........................................................11Discussion 8: Matthew 11..........................................................12Discussion 9: Matthew 15...........................................................15Discussion 10: Matthew 16........................................................16Discussion 11: Matthew 17........................................................17Discussion 12: Matthew 18........................................................18Discussion 13: Matthew 22.........................................................21Discussion 14: Matthew 23........................................................22Discussion 15: Matthew 24........................................................23Discussion 16: Matthew 25........................................................24

Quite Time GuidesMatthew 5....................................................................................7Matthew 6....................................................................................7Matthew 7....................................................................................8Matthew 12................................................................................13Matthew 13................................................................................13Matthew 14................................................................................14Matthew 19................................................................................19Matthew 20................................................................................19Matthew 21................................................................................20Mathew 26................................................................................25Matthew 27................................................................................25Matthew 28................................................................................26

Sermon NotesWeek 1 Sermon...........................................................................8Week 2 Sermon.........................................................................14Week 3 Sermon.........................................................................20Week 4 Sermon.........................................................................26

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Discussion 1: Matthew 1

Introduction:Names are fascinating things. Imagine being a parent and choosing a name for yourchild. How would you decide? What about you – how were you named? Do you knowthe significance of your name?

When my mom, Kay Freschly, first read this chapter of Matthew as an atheist in highschool, it didn’t mean a thing to her. She found the genealogy ridiculous. Why would allthese names be recorded? It seemed to have no bearing upon her life. The next day,God grabbed her attention in a big way when she (a classically trained clarinetist atInterlochen Academy) unexpectedly encountered Him at a Christian rock ‘n’ roll concert.That night she reread Matthew chapter one and she saw the passage in a whole newlight. She realized that God knew each person individually. They were each a specialpart of His plan and He knew them by name. She realized that God also knew her byname. There are many applications for this portion of scripture, many reasons why Godincluded this genealogy in the Bible, but her story of the night she became a Christianhas always stuck with me.

Exposition:Read Matthew 1 and Luke 1:26-55.

Development:Discuss what you observe about the list of names in Matthew 1. Does anything aboutthe list strike you as interesting?

In the passages above, we witness Mary and Joseph being told that their lives are aboutto dramatically change. Matthew gives a brief summary from Joseph’s perspective. Lukeshows us Mary’s perspective. How did they respond to the angels’ messages?

Have you ever been chosen for a prominent role? How did you respond? Why?

What are some positions of significant influence in the arts world today?

Do you believe you are currently in a significant place of influence? How so?

In Spiderman, Peter Parker’s Uncle Ben tells him, “With great power comes greatresponsibility.” Perhaps that’s an adaptation of the Jesus’ words in Luke 12:48, “Fromeveryone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who hasbeen entrusted with much, much more will be asked. As Christians, where does ourpower come from? What kind of power is it, and what responsibilities follow? (Romans8:9-17)

What is a Christian’s relationship to God through Jesus Christ? What name might aChristian call God? (Romans 8:5)

Today we have looked at Jesus’ earthly and spiritual heritage, and also at our spiritualheritage through Christ. What truth(s) have you been able to glean from the discussiontoday?

Recapitulation:Ephesians 1:3-14, Ephesians 4:1

Coda: Closing prayer.*

* There is space in the back of this study guide to write extra notes or prayer requests.

[Notes]

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IntroductionWhat expectations do you think Mary and Joseph had when they were first told Marywould give birth to the Messiah? I wonder if they realized their first three years as a familywould be spent moving from Nazareth to Bethlehem, to Egypt, and back to Nazarethagain? During that time, a series of unusual events occurred. Joseph stood against thecultural expectations by taking a pregnant woman as his wife. Mary gave birth to Jesusin a lowly stable. They managed to avoid Herod’s tricks and the mass murder of thechildren in Bethlehem. And throughout that time, they were visited by such an unusuallot: angels, shepherds, and Magi from foreign lands. What an extraordinary time for them!How many surprises did they receive in those first few years together?

What was the last major surprise in your life, or in your family’s?

ExpositionRead Matthew 2.

DevelopmentHow do we know that these circumstances came as no surprise to God?

What are the three prophecies fulfilled in chapter 2? (See verses 6, 18, 23.)

Prior to the events of Matthew 2, those prophecies sounded contradictory, right? If theMessiah was to be called a Nazarene, why would He be called out of Bethlehem and atthe same time called out of Egypt? It only makes sense to us as Joseph obeyed God’sdirection.

What does this passage imply about God’s sovereignty?

Do you ever feel like the bits and pieces of your life don’t fit together in a cohesive way?Perhaps it is all a part of God’s master plan. You may not be able to see it now, but thesebits and pieces come as no surprise to God. Read and discuss Acts 17:24-28.

What expectations do you have in regard to your art? What role do you expect it to playwithin your life?

What if reality turns out differently from your expectations? Will you be okay with that?Why, or why not?

You will have noticed by now in Matthew and in the passage we read last time in Luke,that God chose to communicate with people. What methods of communication did Heuse with Mary, Joseph and the Magi in these passages? (Luke 1:28, 39-45; Matthew1:20; 2:2, 12, 13, 19)

God still communicates with people today. Has He given you any direction or instructionin regard to your life involvement in the arts? If so, how did He communicate to you?

We’ve talked already about the part God played in directing this story. What was the roleof Joseph, Mary and the Magi in these stories? What are we assured of when we obeyGod? (Deuteronomy 30:9-10)

In conclusion, what is the good news for us when we experience life’s surprises?

Recapitulation:Psalm 61

Coda: Closing prayer.

[Notes]

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Introduction:In Matthew 3, we see that the Jewish religious leaders relied on their physical positionas sons and daughters of Abraham for assurance of salvation. John condemned thatway of thinking and called them to repent. When Jesus was baptized, God declared“This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (3:17) It’s almost as if Godannounced, “Relationship to Me through Abraham is no longer enough. Here is mySon. He is now the entry point and the hope of salvation. Repent of relying on physicalcircumstances, and enter into relationship with Me through my Son.”

Exposition:Read Matthew 3.

Development:For those of us who come from Christian families, we must be careful not to believe asthe Jews did, that our physical heritage will somehow ensure us a place in heaven.God sees our hearts and He cannot be deceived. He knows if our faith is sincere andHe can see in whom, or what, we place our trust.

Who are the main characters in this passage?

Did you notice any recurring words or themes in the passage?

Put John’s primary teaching in your own words. What was he trying to say?

Explain what “fruit of repentance” is.

Imagine you were asked to perform with a group for a significant event. The wholegroup was excited to play for this event. You didn’t prepare well leading up to theperformance, but spent your time doing other things. When the time came to perform,you bombed. Now what? What is the fruit of repentance in this situation?

Chaff is of no substance and has no use. Therefore it is burned. Wheat however, isboth fruit and seed. What purpose does it have, if not to multiply and produce yet morefruit? Nature often follows cyclical patterns. The seed is planted and produces fruit,which produces more seed, which is planted and produces more fruit, and so on.

Read John 15:1-8 and discuss how it relates to our theme, “Extending His Fame.”

Recapitulation:John 15:8-9


[Notes]

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Introduction:Most children in Jesus' day would have gone to a primary school until they were about12 or 13. At school, they would study the Torah (the first 5 books of the Old Testament),often memorizing large portions of scripture. After primary school, many would returnhome to learn the family trade. Some who were talented enough would continue ontosecondary school, beth midrash, where they would continue studying the Tenach (O.T.Law, Prophets and Poetry). Again, after this schooling was completed, many wouldreturn home. Those who wished to continue would look for a rabbi to follow. When theyfound the rabbi they wanted to emulate, they would ask him if they could follow him,thereby becoming his talmid (disciple). To be a disciple meant to learn to be like therabbi in every way: to go where he went, to learn what he knew, and to act and speakas he did. In essence, the student was not only interested in knowing what the teacherknew, but in being who the teacher was.1

Exposition:Read Matthew 4. Focus on verses 18-22.

Development:Go back and read Matthew 4:12-22. What is atypical about this situation?

In addition to what may have already been answered, there is another surprising factorin this situation. Jesus found these first disciples in Galilee. “The Jews of Galilee werelooked down on by the Jews of Judea as lax in following God’s law. Galilee was alsoheavily populated by Gentiles. Sepphoris, its cosmopolitan capital city, was just anhour’s walk from Jesus’ home in Nazareth. Matthew points out that Scripture predictedthat the Messiah’s light would dawn in Galilee, where the darkness was most dense.” 2

If you had been around to give Jesus advice about starting His ministry, would you haverecommended that He seek disciples from Galilee? Does it seem logical to you?

So, why did Jesus choose to call these particular men to follow Him? (1 Corinthians1:26-31)

Do you ever wonder what thoughts or emotions went through the hearts of those whoreceived the call from Jesus to follow Him? Imagine for a minute you’re a soprano andyour hero is Renée Fleming. Suppose she came to you one day and said, “Susie-Q, Ibelieve you have what it takes to be like Me. Come and follow Me.” How would thatmake you feel?

That’s essentially what Jesus is telling Peter, Andrew, James and John. He says, “I pickyou. I think you have what it takes. I know you can be like me if you will come and followme.”

Describe their response to Jesus’ request. (Matthew 4: 20, 22)

Upon reading this passage and thinking about the historical context, what applicationscan you draw from it? What does this stir in your heart? What does it mean to be adisciple of Christ?

Recapitulation:Luke 5:1-11


1 The Dust of the Rabbi’s Feet, Ray Vander Lann. DVD. Focus on the Family, 2006.2 The Discovery Study Bible, NIV, Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2004, p 1251 (Culture Clueon Matt. 4:15).

[Notes]

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Quiet Time on Matthew 5

General Observations:

What did you learn about the nature of God?

What did you learn about the nature of Man?

Instead of looking at this passage as a collection of in-structions, look at it as a whole. What is the main pointJesus is trying to drive home?

What is important to God?

I praise the Lord for:

In my family, I’m praying for:

I pray for my friend:

I pray a blessing for:

Please help ____________________________________come to know you, Jesus.





Copy Matthew 6:33 here:

What are “all these things” Jesus is referring to?

Is your pursuit of a career in the performing arts consistentwith, or in conflict with seeking the Kingdom of God?






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What can you take from this passage for everyday appli-cation?






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Introduction:Faith seems to be a key topic among the stories in Matthew 8. We see the faithof the man with leprosy, faith of the centurion, faith with reservations of the twomen who wanted to follow Jesus, but wanted to finish other things first. Thenthere was the little faith of the disciples in the presence of the storm, and eventhe faith of the demons who believed Jesus had power over them.


Development:What does this chapter show us about the character and nature of God?

What lessons can we learn from this passage about faith?

What was the defining difference between the faith of the centurion and thedisciples?

Describe the kind of followers Jesus seeks. (vs. 18-22)

Think of a recent storm in your life. What was your initial reaction? How didyour faith play a role in the storm?

Your prayer life also gives good insight into your faith. When you pray, do youexpect God to answer? Consider Matthew 5-7, which you read over theweekend. What instructions did Jesus give regarding prayer? How should weapproach God?

Recapitulation:Hebrews 11


[Notes]

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IntroductionChristians need to be careful not to remove themselves from the world. How willGod’s fame spread among the nations if Christians only interact with those whoalready know Him? If Jesus came for the unrighteous and the sick, not therighteous and healthy, why is it often the tendency of Christians to surroundthemselves primarily with “righteous” and “healthy” people? Reflect on your ownlife. Do you tend to hang around only Christians, or are there times when you’rewith unbelievers? Would you say that you influence the world, or does the worldinfluence you? Discuss the idea of being “in the world but not of it.”


Development:List the types of people Jesus spent time with, according to this passage.

What was His attitude toward the crowds of people? (v. 36)

Jesus drove out a demon from a man and gave him the ability to speak, whenHe had previously been mute. It was a miracle, but the Pharisees tried to say Hehad power over the demons because He was the prince of demons. Theycompletely misunderstood Him. Can you think of a time when you have beenpurposefully misunderstood or had your good motivation questioned?

Suppose a senior bureaucrat has been mentioned in the news in relation toembezzlement or a relationship scandal. He has been invited, as the guest ofhonor, to a friend’s house for a soiree and you have been asked to perform. Whywould you go? Or why would you not go?

If you were given the opportunity to sit with him for the supper afterwards, whatwould be your response? What would you say to someone like that?

How do you express God’s mercy in that situation? (vs. 12-13)

When you think of the body of students at your school, or the people that makeup your company or orchestra, how do you view them? If they don’t know Jesus,do you view them as hopeless causes, or as a part of the Lord’s harvest? (v. 37)He has said the harvest is many, but often we view it as small. Let’s seek theLord’s vision: to see people as He sees them. To see people as sheep withouta shepherd and respond with compassion.

What about your attitude toward the crowd when you’re on stage? Have youever looked out at an audience and felt the heart of Jesus for them?

How can we, in our everyday interactions with other artists, and our frequentencounters with audiences, be the “workers of the field” that Jesus is looking for?

Recapitulation:Matthew 5:38-48


[Notes]

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Introduction:Christians around the world are persecuted for their faith. Here in the UnitedStates, we are privileged not to be tortured or imprisoned on account of our faithin Jesus. Nevertheless, there are other ways Christians are discriminated againstand looked down upon in American society. Can you think of some examples?What about in the arts - what are non-believer’s perceptions of Christians? Forthose of you from other countries - how are Christians received in your nation?


Development:What sort of expectation does this chapter give of the Christian life? What are thecosts and benefits of following Jesus?

Is Jesus asking too much of us in Matthew 10:37-39?

What instructions and warnings did Jesus give the disciples before He sent themout?

Some of His instructions were specific to that particular instance (for example, thatthey were not to go to the Gentiles), but what are some instructions that transcendtime? (Look throughout the chapter.)

What is worth fearing? What is not worth fearing and why? (Matthew 10:26-31)

How would you feel if you shared the gospel with someone who was willing to hearit, only to find out later that through their report to unsympathetic authorities, youlost a recording deal or concert contract?

Given the chance, would you do the same again, knowing the prospect of thesame outcome? Why?

What does Matthew 10:16 mean in this context?

Do you know artists who have been victimized because of their Christian faith?

Describe how following Jesus is worth it. (2 Corinthians 4:8-12)

Recapitulation:Philippians 3:4-16


[Notes]

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Introduction:Artists might not be disciplined in every area of their lives, but if we want tomake it as artists, we must at least be disciplined in our art. Sometimes wewear ourselves out physically and emotionally by devoting so many hours oftime to practicing, rehearsals, personal study, classes, etc… You’re probablyfamiliar with the phrase “No rest for the weary.” Have you ever stopped tothink if this is how God wants it?


Development:Read Genesis 2:1-3. What did God do on the 7th day of the creation story?Why?

In Matthew 11:28, to whom does Jesus call the weary and heavy burdenedand why?

What are the main sources that cause weariness in your life?

What are we to do with all the anxious thoughts that build up in our minds? (1Peter 5:6-7)

Read Psalm 23. King David was described as a “man after God’s own heart.”In the Psalms, we get a glimpse of their relationship. What strikes you aboutDavid’s relationship with God in Psalm 23?

What action verbs are used to describe how God provided for David?

We see in Matthew 11 that Jesus wants to give rest to the weary and burdenedsoul. What characteristic of the shepherd spoke to you the most and why?

What benefits do you think will result in your art through resting in Jesus dailyand drinking water from His well?

Recapitulation:Mark 6:45-46


[Notes]

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We may wait till He explains,Because we know that Jesus reigns.

It puzzles me; but, Lord, You understandest, And will one day explain this crooked thing.Meanwhile, I know that it has worked out Your best-- Its very crookedness taught me to cling.

You have fenced up my ways, made my paths crooked, To keep my wand'ring eyes fixed on You,To make me what I was not, humble, patient; To draw my heart from earthly love to You.

So I will thank and praise You for this puzzle. And trust where I cannot understand.Rejoicing You do hold me worth such testing, I cling the closer to Your guiding hand.

- F.E.M.I.





When is it the right time to do good deeds?

What is the connection between our hearts and ouractions?





Please help ________________________________come to know you, Jesus.





Which illustration of the kingdom of God spoke to you themost and why?






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What a day! Describe the events in order as they hap-pened in this passage.

In verse 23, He retreated (for the second time that day) toa solitary place to pray. How often do you recognize andact upon this need to withdraw to be alone with God?






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Introduction:Have you ever noticed that Christians often have a bad reputation among unbelievers?Could one reason be that we, like the Pharisees and teachers of the law, have becomemore concerned about outward adherence to laws (cultural religious expectations) than thecondition of our hearts? People can see through hypocrisy. Today we’ll look at a complaintJesus had against the religious leaders of His day. He said Isaiah had been right when heprophesied, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Theyworship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.” If outsiders view Christiansas hypocrites, rule enforcers and score keepers, how might we help change the stereotype?


Development:The religious leaders made it a practice to wash their hands before eating in case they hadcontaminated their hands with something “unclean.” Sounds like common sense, right? Ourown mothers would probably be ashamed to find out we didn’t wash our hands before ameal. Moms are probably concerned with the physical harm that could come to us if wedon’t wash. In contrast, this Jewish custom of washing was full of spiritual implication.“Unclean” meant “unholy.” Therefore, if they touched their food with unclean hands and ateit, they’d be seen as unholy.

What was the religious leaders’ main argument against Jesus’ disciples? (v. 2)

What do you notice about the way in which Jesus counterattacked theirquestion/accusation?

Contrast their argument with His cheeky response. (vs. 3, 4-11, 16-20) In your own words,explain Jesus’ argument against the Pharisees and teachers of the Law?

Go back and read Jesus’ words in Matthew 12:34-35. How do these verses relate with thispassage? What do we learn about speech and the heart, actions and motives?

Our tendency might be to think of the Jewish religious leaders as “those people,” but is itpossible that we are guilty of being “those people” at times? Can you think of any expecta-tions or customs the modern day church has that Jesus would respond to with a similarrebuke? What about your own expectations – are they biblical or cultural?

In verse 14, Jesus talks of the blind leading the blind. Imagine a blindfolded conductordirecting a blindfolded orchestra. How could that possibly work? It would be a disaster.Picture that orchestra again. Imagine this time that the blindfolds are removed. Theconductor guides the orchestra skillfully and gracefully. Together they paint an accurateaural portrait of the printed music for the audience to hear and experience. Now, let’ssuppose for the sake of the story that the musical score is God. The conductors are spiritualleaders, the orchestra members are the church and the audience is the world we live in.What about the musical product? What role does it play?

What bearing does this picture and today’s discussion have on our theme (Extending HisFame)? Why is authenticity important in the life of a believer? Authenticity might bedescribed as being the same on the outside as on the inside.



[Notes]

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Introduction:In 2006, Pew Research Center published results from a survey of “Generation Next” (18-25year olds in America). Participants were asked to choose what they thought were theirgeneration’s top two goals from a list of five. See the results below. Does this seem to be anaccurate estimation of your generation’s goals? How would you describe today’s “AmericanDream”?

To get rich: 81%To be famous: 51%To help people who need help: 30%To be leaders in their community: 22%To become more spiritual: 10%


Development:At this point in Jesus’ ministry, He was very popular. Crowds of thousands would follow Him.People would take off work and travel far distances. His fame spread like wildfire. He was theman everyone wanted to know: a celebrity of sorts, a curiosity, and a controversy. Thedisciples were beginning to believe that Jesus was the Messiah they had been waiting for. Infact, Peter confessed in verse 16 that he believed Jesus was the Son of God. This would havebeen a great time for Jesus to give a “thank you” speech to His disciples for helping to makethis thing possible, and pump them up by laying out His victory plan.

Instead, Jesus surprisingly tells them of His impending suffering and death. What was Peter’sreaction and why did Jesus rebuke him? (vrs. 21-23)

In lesson four, we saw that a good disciple practices to be just like his rabbi. In Matthew 16,Jesus is not only saying He is headed for the cross. He tells His disciples flat out “you mustpick up your cross and follow me.” Now, maybe that doesn’t strike you as a big deal. Becausewe are culturally far-removed from the cross, it means nothing to us. Let’s bring it a little bitcloser and maybe you’ll get the picture. Imagine living in the Deep South around the turn ofthe twentieth century (we’re talking two or three generations ago). Now, picture walking up toa crowd gathered around a respected teacher. This man’s voice suddenly reaches your ears.Wait, that couldn’t be what he said. Could it? You draw closer and are shocked to hear himsay again, “You want to follow me? You want to make a difference? You have to give up yourlife. Grab a noose and come on down.” Do you see what an ugly image this is? Now you haveglimpsed an idea of how repulsive Jesus’s words would have been to His audience that day.

Following God is costly, but worth it. Do you have a personal example of how you have foundlife by losing it? (v. 25)

Go back a few chapters and re-read Matthew 6:19-24. Reflect for a moment on this passageand Matthew 10:26. Do you believe it’s possible to pursue the American Dream and to followJesus?

Think about a typical day in your life. What does it look like? What vies for your attention, whatconsumes your time, what do you think about and talk about? The answers to these questionswill shed light on our values. Do you find that you primarily value the eternal (things of God),or the temporal (things of men)?

What are some practical everyday ways to treasure Christ and thereby “store up treasures inheaven”?



[Notes]

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Introduction:Jesus directly influenced thousands while He was walking this earth, but He only discipledtwelve. Of those twelve, three formed an inner circle and were mentored closely by Jesus.Rick Warren once said that Jesus was “investing the maximum amount of time in thosethat would bear the maximum responsibility.” Peter, James, and John were privileged tohave some unique experiences with Jesus. They were eyewitnesses to Peter’s mom beinghealed. They were invited up to the mountain to witness Jesus’ miraculous transfiguration.They alone were invited to accompany Jesus for prayer at the Garden of Gethsemane.These men spent extra quality time with Jesus and went on to become leaders in thechurch.

Have you ever been mentored by someone, or been a mentor to someone else? What arethe benefits of a mentor relationship?


Development:Let’s talk about the characters involved in the transfiguration story (vrs. 1-9):

Who represented The Law?Who represented The Prophets?Which disciples were present?What set Jesus apart from Moses and Elijah?

What purpose did the transfiguration serve?

Peter’s kneejerk reaction in most circumstances was to immediately speak out. If He wereto take a personality quiz, he would probably test as an extrovert. He was a verbalprocessor to be sure. This instance on top of the mountain, however, was not the time forhim to talk. He shut his mouth and fell to the ground when a voice from the cloud spokeloudly, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him.” (v. 5)

What was the first command the voice from heaven gave?

What were the following instructions Jesus gave His three friends? (v. 7)

What an experience for these three! What a privilege to be in a part of this inner circle offriends. Paul in his letter to the Galatians mentioned that Peter, James, and John wereknown as “pillars of the church (Gal. 2:9).” They were not pillars because they were perfectpeople, but because God chose them. Consider Peter again. He certainly had his ups anddowns, strengths, and weaknesses.

What responsibilities did Jesus give Peter directly? (Matthew 16:18-20)

How did Peter respond to Jesus’ prediction that the disciples would deny Him and bescattered? (Matthew 26:31-35)

What actually transpired in the following hours? (16:69-75) Knowing exactly who Peterwas (hot temper, loud mouth, empty promises and all), God still chose to disciple him andbuild his church through him. Knowing yourself, your natural propensities, and yourpersonality, do you ever find yourself struggling to believe that God could, or would, useyou in mighty ways? What kind of hope does Jesus’ relationship with Peter offer for you?

Recapitulation:Matthew 16:18-20.


[Notes]

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Introduction:Forgiveness is a powerful thing. Can you think of an instance when you’ve receivedforgiveness you didn’t deserve? How did it feel to be forgiven?

What is forgiveness? Let’s turn to the dictionary for help:

Forgive. transitive verb 1 a : to give up resentment of or claim to requital for <forgive aninsult> b : to grant relief from payment of <forgive a debt> 2 : to cease to feel resentmentagainst (an offender) : pardon<forgive one's enemies>1


Development:It has been said that people who cannot forgive do not realize how much they themselveshave been forgiven. Peter thought he was doing well when he suggested man be forgiven7 times (more than double the Rabbinic tradition). He was probably shocked by Jesus’answer and the following parable. Let’s take a few moments to observe this parable closely.

Write down what strikes you about each character and their part in the story. Jot downsome notes including how much the servants owed, the actions and reactions of theservants when their accounts were being settled, the reaction of the other servants, andthe actions of the master.

The 1st servant:

The master:

The fellow servant:

The “other servants” (v. 31)

What typically stands in the way of you being able to forgive someone?

What is the result of harboring bitterness and unforgiveness in your heart?

What is the main reason we should forgive others? (v. 33)

It is not always easy to forgive someone when you feel the sting of the pain they haveinflicted. Have there ever been times in the arts when you have needed to forgivesomeone?

Maybe someone else got that position over you because of who they knew, instead of howwell they played. Maybe you discovered that another member of your orchestra wasbadmouthing you behind your back. Perhaps you have a teacher who has been cruel toyou. Any number of wrongs can, and do, occur in the arts. It’s inevitable that you will bewronged, but the question is, how are you going to handle it? If you’re finding it difficult toforgive, I encourage you to admit to the Lord your inability to forgive. Then seek His helpto be able to forgive. I once heard this illustration: Forgiveness is like flying. Gravity can’tkeep you down,when the force of lift is greater.

Recapitulation:James 5:89, Colossians 3:12-76


1 "Forgive." Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary. 2010. Merriam-Webster Online. 20 May 2010 <http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/forgive>

[Notes]

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What do you learn about sharing the gospel with othersfrom Jesus’ interaction with the rich man?

What kind of hope does this passage offer us for ourfriends and family who seem so far from salvation? (v. 26)










Performing artists frequently struggle with envy. It seemsthat someone out there is always better than us, no matterhow long and hard we work. How does verse 15 speak toyou?






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What does the parable of the two sons (vs. 28-32) tell usabout the value of obedience?

Read James 1:22-25 and write out verse 22 below.






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Introduction:If you’re familiar with popular music, you might be able to fill in the blanks to these lyrics froman old Carpenter’s song: “What the World needs now is ___________, sweet ___________.”The Beatles also sang about this topic, saying “____________ is all you need.” So, what arewe talking about in this lesson? Love, sweet love. It’s all you need. What is the greatestexpression of love you have ever experienced?


Development:In Matthew 22, the Pharisees and Saducees were at it once again, trying to trip Jesus up withtheir clever questions. An expert in the Law thought he could get Jesus to pick one of the TenCommandments over the rest to say that it was “the greatest.” But Jesus didn’t choose one ofthe Ten Commandments, instead he quoted Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18 (also knownas the Golden Rule).

Let’s look at the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:3-17). Fill in the blanks below:

1) Do not ______________________ 6) Do not_________________________

2) Do not ______________________ 7) Do not_________________________

3) Do _________________________ 8) Do not_________________________

4) Do _________________________ 9) Do not_________________________

5) Do not_______________________ 10) Do not_______________________

Now go back and next to each commandment, mark it if it deals with our responses towardGod, man, or both.

Is there anything in the list above that is not covered in the two commands Jesus said were thegreatest?

How do you define love?

Observe what Paul wrote about love in his first letter to the church at Corinth. In the margin,make a list of the characteristics of love. (1 Corinthians 13)

Does Paul’s description of love differ from your previous definition? How so?

What keeps you from loving God with your whole heart, soul and mind? What keeps you fromloving others well? I’m talking about all others: your friends, family, professors, peers, teachers,critics and enemies . Everybody.

How would this world be transformed if people kept these two basic commands?

Real love can be scarce in the professional arts world, and the same is true of arts schools.Pride, envy, fear, and self-interest stand in the way of love. Love is a choice and an action. Willyou choose to love others? If you have been convicted that you don’t love well, I encourageyou to take some time while you’re at MasterWorks to journal or talk to God honestly aboutwhere you are in your journey of learning to love. Ask God to change you and help you lovewith a sincere and pure heart. Remember that God is love, so He is our best teacher andexample. (1 John 4:8)

Recapitulation:Matthew 22:36-40.

Coda: A closing prayer

[Notes]

Love is:

Love is not:

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Introduction:Have you ever thought of yourself as a leader? Some of you were born leaders and youknow it. On the play ground, you were frequently the leader in rounds of Follow theLeader, or Simon Says. Others of us might think, “On no, leading is not for me. I’ll be thefollower or a helper, but I don’t want the responsibility that comes with leadership.”

I’ve heard that a leader is “anyone who has influence over another person.” What if aleader was defined in this way? All people are leaders based on such a definition. Whatdo you find desirable or undesirable about being a leader?


Development:Go back through the text again and make a list of Jesus’ objections to the lifestyle of thePharisees and teachers of the law.

What did they value? Make a list based on their actions and teachings.

In contrast, what did Jesus value? And therefore, what characteristics is He looking for inspiritual leaders?

In what or whom did the Pharisees and teachers of the law place their hope and trust?

Take a few moments for self-reflection: Do you share any of Jesus’ pet peeves aboutleaders? What about the Pharisees; do you find yourself relating with them or sharing anyof their values? Do you see anything about yourself that you wish could change? If youneed, confess to God where you have erred and ask His forgiveness. Ask Him to renewyour mind and help you value the things He values.

What can you take away from this lesson as it pertains to your relationship with God?

How does this pertain to your relationships with others (in particular, to your role as aleader)?

Recapitulation:Philippians 2:3-11

Coda: A closing prayer.

[Notes]

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Introduction:This chapter deals with the end times. Christians have very differing views on how to applythis in our present time, but we all want to be obedient. The role of the wise servant inverse 45 of this chapter is to feed the household. In Israel’s more recent history, when oneof their towns was liberated by the army, the commander sent back the message “sendtwo convoys, first with food, second with orchestra!” How important do you think the artsare in God’s design of us as His creation?

ExpositionRead Matthew 24. As you read through the first time, keep your eyes open for ourinstructions as believers in the end times. What are we to do, specifically? Write themdown as you find them in the text, and share your discoveries after the chapter is finished.

DevelopmentYou’ve probably encountered unbelievers who accuse Christians of being intolerant.Nevertheless, we mustn’t shy away from what we believe is the truth. If we believe thatJesus is the only way, truth and life, it only makes sense that we would be concerned aboutthe souls of other human beings. The Bible teaches clearly that this world will come to anend. Some will be rescued in the end and some won’t.

In the meantime, in what are we supposed to stand firm? (Matt. 24:12-13)

If we skip ahead to the end of this book (Matthew 28:18-20) we find what is known as the“great commission.” Contextually, Jesus was speaking to His disciples, but it is widelyaccepted that the great commission is for Christians of all time. What did Jesus say to do,specifically?

What is your part in the Great Commission as a performing artist or teacher? (Matthew5:14-16)

What is the balance of speaking and doing, or witnessing and being a witness? (James2:14)

Imagine you’ve just played in the last performance of the year and there is a big after-party.You suspect there will be drinks and maybe drugs there. Why would you go? Why wouldyou not go?

What response will you receive if you choose not to go?

Do you think Jesus would have gone? Why or why not?

If you are called to performance or teaching as a vocation, do you see this as simply usingthe gifts God gave you, or as feeding His household? (Matthew 24:45)


Coda: A closing prayer.

[Notes]

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Introduction:When people talk about life after death, sometimes they use the phrase, “You can’t take it withyou.” What is the “it” they are talking about? Is there anything you can take with you? What iseternal?

In Matthew 24, we learned that our responsibility as believers in the end times (which is basicallyany time from Jesus’ ascension until Jesus comes back) is to be alert, stand firm in love, and beready for His return. Matthew 25 could be read as an extension of that chapter, which usesstories to illustrate how to live in expectation of the Lord’s return.


Development:First, let’s observe the parable of the talents (14-30). In a parable, physical components oftenrepresent spiritual truths. Let’s break the parable down together:

The Master: What are we told about the master? How is he described? What does he do?

Based on that description, who does the master represent?

In verse 14, we are told that the master entrusted his property to his servants and gave themtalents (a form of currency) to invest while he was away. Knowing who the master represents,what are the spiritual equivalents for the master’s property and talents? Keep in mind that theseare things of eternal value.

The Servants: Describe the two basic responses of the servants. What did they do with what theMaster entrusted to them?

Who do the servants represent?

There might be several different interpretations of this parable, but a preacher once describedthis parable by saying that God is the Master. Christians are His servants. He has gone awayfor a time and left them to care for His kingdom. What is His kingdom? That which is eternal:people. And what is the currency which can be invested and bring about a profit? The Gospel(the good news of Jesus Christ). The preacher said it would be one thing if the expectationplaced on the servants was that they would keep the talents safe, but that was not the case. Hisexpectation was that his money be invested to bring about profit (see a similar parable in Luke19:11-27). Just so, God wants us to invest the Gospel, to bring people into the Kingdom of God.

What is the clear caution to Christians, based on this parable?

Now turn your attention to the third parable (Matthew 25:31-46). It expands upon the previousparable and shows practical ways to invest in God’s kingdom. What are some examples?

Who are some of the people groups we see as “the least of these” (vs. 40, 45) today and whatare some of their needs?

What would you think of adding some of these phrases to the list? I needed inspiration and youdanced for me. I needed hope and you played your violin. I needed encouragement and yourplay spoke to me. Who can fill these needs? Who here has been on the receiving end of one ofthese types of gifts and would like to share their experience?

What other thoughts do you have about investing the gospel and spreading God’s fame as itpertains to you as an artist?


Coda: Closing Prayer

[Notes]

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Quiet Time on Matthew 26General Observations:


In what sense could someone’s artistic gift be used as an“alabaster jar”? (vs. 6-13)

I know a top notch musician who plays with a well-knownsymphony orchestra. Sometimes he takes his violin to thestreets to minister to average people who pass by. Imag-ine the reaction his manager might have if he saw him do-ing this. Imagine the reaction of the one whose heart wastouched by the beautiful music. How do you think Jesusmight respond to his actions? (Matthew 10:42)






Quiet Time on Matthew 27General Observations:


This is a story you might have heard many times. As youread it afresh, what strikes you about the story this time?

What is your response to Jesus’ crucifixion?






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Praise God, Jesus did not remain dead. He rose again onthe third day, as it had been prophesied. What call did Heplace on his disciples before He ascended into heaven?(18-20)

What promise concludes this chapter?






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Soli Deo Gloria

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