HOME GROUP DISCUSSION

- This section of Scripture describes the calling of Matthew, the tax collector. Have you been called by Jesus to follow him? When and how did this happen? What did you have to leave behind?

- Matthew was a tax collector. At this time and place in history, what does that say about Matthew? How did he compare to the Pharisees, who are mentioned in Matthew 9:11?

- The original purpose of the Pharisees was to teach and model how to live a life that honored and pleased the Lord. How would you describe this purpose? Read Mark 7:3-8 - Over time, what happened?

- In verse 13, was Jesus implying that the tax collectors were sick and the Pharisees were righteous? What does Romans 3:9-12 tell us? How was this reality important in Matthew and his friends' lives? How is this reality important in your own life?