1. Why do you think Jesus invited Levi (Matthew) to be one of his inner circle of disciples? What do tax collectors, fishermen and freedom fighters (some of Jesus other disciples) all have in common? What does this say about Jesus?
2. Why do you think the Pharisees and teachers of the law were so upset with Jesus for eating and drinking with notorious sinners? What does that say about them? As followers of Jesus what can we learn from them to avoid the same pitfall?
3. It seems there were some religious people who made a big show of fasting and prayer so they would be admired for it. What does this say about people?
4. How are Jesus’ ways different than what the Pharisees and teachers of the law had always done? How had they distorted the law? What became the norm, even though that may not have been what the law intended? Can you think of an example from the bible? Can you think of something we as followers of Jesus do today that might fall into the same way of thinking?