Matthew 23 · Grade 3
Clean on the Inside
Read the Story
Jesus spoke to the crowds about some leaders called scribes and Pharisees. He said to do what they teach from God's law, but not to copy what they do, because they did not live by it. They did good things just so people would see them and praise them.
Jesus said the greatest among them must be a servant. "Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." Jesus warned the leaders. They cleaned the outside of a cup but left the inside dirty. They looked good on the outside, but their hearts were not right with God.
Jesus was sad over Jerusalem. He said He had wanted to gather the people like a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but they would not come.
Memory Verse
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Matthew 23:12 (WEB)
Answer the Questions
Why did Jesus say not to copy the leaders?
Why did the leaders do good things?
What will happen to those who humble themselves?
What did Jesus mean about the cup?
How did Jesus feel about Jerusalem?
Put the Story in Order
Write what happened in each box.
Prayer
Dear God, thank You for this Bible story. Help me to . Amen.
Take It Home
For families: talk about these together.
- How can you be good inside too?
- How can you be fair and kind every day?
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.