Matthew 12: 38 - 42

Pastor Brian McGuffin

October 27, 2024

Scripture

Matthew 12: 38 - 42  ESV

38 Then some of the scribes and Pharisees answered him, saying, “Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.” 39 But he answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40 For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here. 42 The queen of the South will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here. 

Discussion Questions

1. In your walk with the Lord in the past week, what are some highlights you experienced that     you realized were God blessed/God at work in your life?

2. a) What are some "time bombs" that you have experienced that could, or did, draw you away   from God?

 Here are some examples: financial problems; death of a loved one; loss of a job; illness; family arguments; etc.

    b) What did you do to get over these obstacles?

3. Why do you think the scribes and Pharisees couldn't see who Jesus really was?

4.What today makes people question the validity of Christianity? Think of several reasons.

5. How should we deal with people who are anti-Christianity?

6. What qualities/characteristics do Christians have that might attract non-Christians?

            (See Galatians 5: 22 - 26)

7. a) What brought you to believe in Jesus' death and resurrection and decide to become one of his followers?

    b) If a non-believer asked you why you have faith in God, how would you answer him?

8. If someone asked you how to become a Christian, what would you say?

(If you want a pamphlet that explains how to become a Christian, look for "Steps to Peace with God" at the Info desk.)