Gospel Of Matthew |Chapter 12 (lesson 1)

Matthew chapter 12 highlights several key events and teachings of Jesus, emphasizing His authority and challenging the legalistic practices of the Pharisees: 1. Lord of the Sabbath: Jesus and His disciples are criticized by the Pharisees for plucking grain on the Sabbath. Jesus responds by asserting His authority as the Lord of the Sabbath, referencing David’s actions and the priests’ work on the Sabbath. 2. Healing on the Sabbath: Jesus heals a man with a withered hand in a synagogue, despite the Pharisees’ objections. He emphasizes the importance of doing good and valuing life over strict Sabbath observance. 3. God’s Chosen Servant: Matthew quotes a prophecy from Isaiah, identifying Jesus as God’s chosen servant who will bring justice to the Gentiles. 4. Jesus and Beelzebul: After healing a demon-possessed man, Jesus is accused by the Pharisees of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul (Satan). Jesus refutes their claims and teaches about the unforgivable sin and the importance of good fruit as evidence of a good heart. 5. The Sign of Jonah: Jesus responds to the Pharisees’ demand for a sign by prophesying about His death and resurrection, comparing it to the sign of Jonah. 6. The Return of the Unclean Spirit: Jesus warns about the danger of spiritual emptiness through a parable about an unclean spirit returning to a person, illustrating the state of that wicked generation. 7. Jesus’ True Family: When told that His mother and brothers are seeking Him, Jesus points to His disciples and declares that those who do the will of His Father are His true family. This chapter underscores Jesus’ authority over religious laws, His power to perform miracles, and the importance of faith and spiritual integrity.