Matthew 23 · Grade 4
Inside and Out
Read and Think
In Matthew 23, Jesus speaks strong words about the scribes and Pharisees. They sat in Moses' seat, teaching God's law, so the people should listen to that teaching. But they did not practice what they preached. They put heavy burdens on others and did their good deeds to be seen, loving the best seats and important titles.
Jesus taught His followers a different way. They have one Teacher, the Christ, and one Father in heaven. "He who is greatest among you will be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted."
Then Jesus spoke seven woes, or warnings. The leaders gave a tenth of tiny spices but neglected justice, mercy and faith. They cleaned the outside of the cup but left the inside full of greed. They were like tombs painted white outside but full of death within. Jesus ended with sorrow, longing to gather Jerusalem's children as a hen gathers her chicks, but they were not willing.
Show What You Know
Why did Jesus tell the people to listen to the leaders' teaching but not follow their example?
Name two things the leaders loved.
What more important matters did the leaders neglect?
How did Jesus feel about Jerusalem at the end of the chapter?
Think About It
Why do you think Jesus was so serious about hypocrisy?
How can you make sure your good deeds come from a clean heart and not from wanting to be seen?
Memory Verse
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Matthew 23:12 (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.
- How can you be the same person at home and in public?
- Jesus wept over Jerusalem. What does His sadness show about His heart for people?
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.