Faith In The Fire

Service Times: 9:15a & 10:45a

Faith In The Fire

Author

The Gospel of Matthew is traditionally credited to Matthew (Levi), a tax collector turned follower of Christ. Once part of an exploitative system, Matthew experienced radical transformation at the hands of Jesus.

Audience

Written primarily for Jewish Christians, Matthew connects the dots between Jesus and the Old Testament prophecies they knew by heart. His aim is not only to prove that Jesus is the Messiah but to prepare believers to follow Him in a world that won’t always understand.

Date

Most scholars date the Gospel between 60–80 AD – a period of growing hostility toward the early church. Believers were being pressed from every side, and Matthew’s focus on discipleship, surrender, and endurance was both timely and timeless.

Genre

As a theological narrative, Matthew blends story, prophecy, and instruction.

Purpose

Matthew 20–25 invites us into the final moments before Jesus’ crucifixion. Here, we find a faith that isn’t theoretical – it’s costly, confrontational, and deeply transformational. Jesus challenges pride, flips expectations, and calls us to a discipleship that’s real. These chapters confront our comfort, expose our assumptions, and refine our trust.

Sermon Discussion Guide

Matthew 19:16–30

  1. Read or recap the story of the rich young ruler. What stands out to you about his question, his attitude, or Jesus’ response?
  2. What do you think it means to be “good” in God’s eyes—and how does that challenge our cultural definition?
  3. Jesus told the man to give away what he had and follow Him. What does radical obedience look like in your life right now?
  4. Where do you feel torn between the kingdom of heaven and the comforts of this world?

Matthew 20:17–28

  1. Recap the request made by the mother of James and John. Why do you think Jesus redirects their ambition toward servanthood?
  2. What makes servant-hearted leadership so difficult—and so powerful?
  3. How has Jesus modeled a different kind of greatness than the world celebrates?
  4. What does it look like to lead, love, or serve someone sacrificially this week?

Matthew 21:1–22

  1. Read about the triumphal entry and the fig tree. How does Jesus confront empty religion in these scenes?
  2. What’s the difference between faith that looks impressive and faith that bears fruit?
  3. Have you ever felt like you were “going through the motions” spiritually? What helped wake you up?
  4. Where in your life is God calling you to go deeper—not just appear faithful, but truly bear fruit?

Matthew 21:23–46

  1. In these parables, Jesus confronts religious leaders with truth. What do you notice about their response?
  2. What does it mean that Jesus is the cornerstone—and how can that be either stabilizing or offensive?
  3. Have you ever experienced the gospel as offensive before it became beautiful?
  4. In what ways might God be trying to rebuild something solid in your life—and what needs to come down first?=

Matthew 22:1–46

  1. Jesus is asked about paying taxes but answers with a deeper challenge. What does His response teach us about allegiance?
  2. What does it mean to bear God’s image—and how should that affect how we live, love, and give?
  3. Where in your life do you feel tension between cultural expectations and kingdom allegiance?
  4. How can your group encourage one another to live with kingdom-first generosity and focus?

Matthew 23:1–39

  1. Jesus gives a series of “woes” to the religious leaders. What’s one warning that especially resonates or convicts you?
  2. Why do you think outward image can become more important than inward transformation?
  3. Where are you tempted to focus on appearances rather than intimacy with God?
  4. How can we walk in humility, honesty, and grace-filled community as a group?

Matthew 24:1–51

  1. Jesus warns His disciples about future trials and encourages them to endure. What stands out to you in this chapter?
  2. How do you typically respond to uncertainty, hardship, or “birth pains” in life?
  3. What does it mean to stay spiritually ready—not in fear, but in faithfulness?
  4. What helps you stay focused on the mission, even when the world feels chaotic?

Matthew 25:1–46

  1. This chapter includes several parables about watchfulness, stewardship, and judgment. Which one impacted you most—and why?
  2. What does it mean to be “faithful with little”—and how does that shape your daily choices?
  3. Why do you think Jesus ties love for Him to how we treat the hungry, the sick, the marginalized, etc.?
  4. How is God inviting you to be more faithful with your time, talents, and relationships this week?

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