Scripture Reading: Matthew 18:21-35

Opening Question:

What part of this passage stands out most to you?

Core Question 1:

What question prompts Jesus to respond with this parable? What answer do you think Peter was hoping for?

Core Question 2:

What does Jesus seem to be teaching about mercy and forgiveness through this parable? What is your understanding of these two terms? How are they the same? How are they different?

Core Question 3:

How does this parable help to explain what the Kingdom of God is like?

Core Question 4:

According to A.W. Tozer in The Wisdom of God:

“Everybody is going to try to be like the person or behavior they admire…Better to be sure you are trying to be like somebody who is worthwhile, because the power of imitation is inescapable.  We cannot get away from it.  If we admire anybody, we are going to try to be like them.”

How would the story have turned out differently if the servant had admired and imitated his master?

Concluding Question:

What do you most admire about Jesus? How are you living in imitation of Him?