Verses: Matthew 6:5 - 34

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How to use this Bible Study

If you are in a group: Complete the sections that have a white background together. The sections with a peach background should be completed individually. Then come back together and talk about what you have read.

If you are doing a solo devotional: Read through as usual, and use the discussion questions as a journaling prompt.

Summary

This is the fourth of six sessions where we will talk about three chapters in Matthew that are referred to as The Sermon on the Mount.

Last session Jesus clarified the laws that were given to the Israelites by God, through Moses. Today we will read the Lord’s prayer. You are probably familiar with this prayer, it is often taught in church, and spoken together. In this passage, Jesus teaches how we should pray.

As you read, I challenge you to read these verses with fresh eyes. Don’t speed through the words because you have heard them before. Pause at each comma and period.

Before You Read

Before beginning your reading pray:

“Dear God, please use this time to teach me how to pray better. Let your voice be the loudest in my head. Amen.”

While you are reading, keep a pen and paper close by to write down:

Questions you have about words, actions or people
Things that you think are interesting
Thoughts about how you would have reacted
Connections between other Bible passages you have read before

Read Matthew 6:5-34

Where to find it: Matthew is in the New Testament. If you open your bible to the middle it will be in the right half of the book. It is between Malachi and Mark.

Match the term to each section of the Lord’s prayer.

What consumes your thoughts the most?

Do you think those thoughts are pleasing to God?

Reread verses 30-34. Based on this passage what does God want you to think about?

Discussion Questions

Note: this week covers a lot of topics. You are not expected to go through every question. Chose the questions that best connect with and grow your group.

Jesus says that we should pray in private, and not expect to just get what we want from God. (v5) Would you say your prayer life is simple and honest or formulaic?
If someone was to listen into all of your prayers what would they learn about your concept of God?
Can prayer ever be used in a hypocritical way?
Based on the six descriptor words from the worksheet (confess, obey, rescue, request, worship, loyal) which part of prayer do you need to work on the most?
How would you define treasure in heaven (v19)?
What percentage of your treasure is in heaven and how much is on earth?
How does this passage change your perspective on what is important in life?
Ask someone to read v30-33 out loud. Why does God not want us to worry?
Do you put your faith in God when it comes to your future?
Do you think that God has a plan for your life?
What does it look like to pursue God’s plan over your own?