Matthew 16

How is your Treasure Hunting going friends? I trust that the Holy Spirit is illuminating the Word as you commit to study His word. By the way, have you heard of Illumination? "It is the supernatural influence of or ministry of the Holy Spirit, which enables all who believe in Christ to understand the Scriptures". (Foundations, Tom Hollady & Kay Warren) We are able to understand scripture because the Holy Spirit reveals it to us. That is exciting! Never forget as you study the Word, the Spirit is right there with you guiding and revealing God's word to you.

Lesson Hints:

Note the references made to the Pharisees and Sadducees. Make a list what you learn about them and their teaching.

Note how many times Jesus, the Son of Man, and pronouns for Jesus such as "I" are used in this lesson. Make a note of everything you learn about Jesus, and His teaching from this list.

For Devotion:

Verse 16:15..."He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" This is the great question of life. Who is Jesus Christ to you? Is He Lord in all that you do and say? Spend time meditating on this verse...

For Discussion:

Have a group member share what she knows about the Pharisees and Sadducees. Often we assume everyone knows who they are and what they stand for but a little bit of research in a Bible Dictionary (available online @ Bible Gateway) will add flavor to the discussion.

What new insight / or unexpected insight did you gain from this weeks lesson?

Did something excite you?

Is there a particular verse that you would like to explore further in the group time?

What verse did God impress on your heart this week?

How do you intend to live it out/apply it to your life?

Happy Treasure Hunting!