Matthew 12 · Grade 4
The Servant Who Does Good
Read and Think
The Sabbath was God's gift of rest, but some Pharisees had added many strict rules. When the hungry disciples picked grain, the Pharisees accused them. Jesus reminded them that David ate holy bread when he was hungry, and that God said, "I desire mercy, and not sacrifice." Then He made a bold claim: "The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath."
In the synagogue, Jesus asked whether they would rescue a sheep that fell into a pit on the Sabbath. Of course they would! "Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep!" He healed the man's withered hand. Instead of rejoicing, the Pharisees began plotting against Jesus. Matthew quotes Isaiah: God's chosen Servant would bring justice gently, without breaking a bruised reed.
When Jesus healed a man who was blind and mute, some said He used Satan's power. Jesus answered that He was driving out evil by the Spirit of God, which showed God's Kingdom had come. He warned that our words reveal our hearts. Like Jonah, He would be three days and nights in the earth. And He welcomed everyone who does His Father's will into His family.
Show What You Know
What example from David did Jesus use?
What argument did Jesus make with the sheep in a pit?
How did the Pharisees respond to the healing?
What does the gentle Servant in Isaiah not do?
Word Bank Fill-In
Use the word bank to fill in each blank.
- When the hungry disciples picked , the Pharisees accused them.
- In the synagogue, Jesus asked whether they would rescue a sheep that fell into a pit on the .
- Like , He would be three days and nights in the earth.
Think About It
Jesus said it is right to do good on the Sabbath. How can Sunday be a day for both rest and doing good?
Jesus said our words come from our hearts. What do your words this week show about your heart?
Memory Verse
““Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom my soul is well pleased. I will put my Spirit on him. He will proclaim justice to the nations.”
Matthew 12:18 (WEB)
Copy It
Prayer
Dear God, thank You for this Bible story. Help me to . Amen.
Take It Home
For families: talk about these together.
- Jesus said whoever does God's will is His family. What does it mean to be part of God's family?
- How can you choose kind words this week?
Scripture: World English Bible, public domain, eBible.org. © 2026 The Daily Rooted. Free to print and copy for church and home use; not for resale. Original line art.