HCBC Sunday School - “Friends” Class
What’s the Sign? (Matthew 12:38-42)

1) First Thoughts
a. We all from time to time look for a sign from heaven to direct our path. For some scribes and Pharisees their request had its origin in hearts of unbelief. Sincere Christians have their requests originating in hearts of faith that are disposed to do God’s will.
2) Understand the Context
a. The take away truths from the episodes of Matthew 12 include: Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath; meeting human need trumps religious traditions; Jesus controlled His own destiny; our deeds, whether good or bad, have their origin in our hearts; a warning against half-hearted repentance; and real kinship with Jesus is based on a genuine spiritual relationship.
3) Explore the Text
a. Seeking the Sign (12:38)
i. scribes – professional teachers in Jesus’ day. Pharisees – devoted practitioners of the Mosaic Law, imposed detailed law-keeping, became exclusive, outward appearance took precedence over inward reality.
ii. …, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. ~ Luke 12:1
b. Identifying the Sign (12:39-40)
i. “adulterous” – unfaithful to God. “evil” – unbelief is the soil out of which springs the need for signs. This unbelief and testing of God is different than a believer’s seeking confirmation of God’s direction.
ii. Jonah is presented as a type that pointed to Jesus Christ.
c. A Warning Sign (12:41-42)
i. Jesus draws a contrast between the response to Jonah’s preaching (widespread repentance) and to His ministry. He also contrasts the human prophet and the Person of the incarnate Son of God.
ii. Principle: Greater opportunity brings greater responsibility. When greater opportunity is not seized, greater judgment falls.
4) Memory Verse: Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles. ~ Matthew 12:18