Matthew 22:34-46

During the coming month we will read some of the most substantive (and timely!) passages in Matthew’s Gospel; indeed, in all of Scripture. To me, there is something inspiring and almost chilling about the way these lesson line up with our national elections and the current mood of the country.

This week, we read Matthew 22:34-46. It includes what is known as The Great Commandment (Matthew 22: 36-40).

Jesus is still in the temple, being harassed by the religious authorities. Read Matthew 22:23-33 to fill in the material between last Sunday and this Sunday. You will see more groups trying to trap Jesus. Notice how deftly he slips their traps!

Trace down the source (in the Old Testament) for each of the two commandments. Jesus did not make stuff up; he always submitted himself to God and God’s Word.

Both commandments are similar, and each is different from the other. How do they align? Where do they diverge? Why?

Verse 46 could be read as, “Jesus wins!” But we know that these debates with the religious authorities gave way to more brutal opposition. Why do you suppose Jesus was willing to shut down his challengers here, but let himself be captured, abused, and killed later?

Do you believe love is the right response when you are challenged? How have you upheld this commandment? How have you fallen short of it? How does God’s grace figure in the difference?