GOSPEL READING
THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW
An evil generation: Mt 12,38-45
After Jesus finishes speaking to the Pharisees in verse 37, an intervention follows in verse 38. Jesus then continues speaking until his final statement in verse 45.
We have seen that Jesus' reference to an evil generation at beginning and end (12,39.45) makes for a bracket or frame around these verses.
Scribes now join the Pharisees in verse 38 as they make their request. Perhaps that gives an added edge to the way they address Jesus.
What sort of sign are they seeking? There have been many healings by Jesus, including 12,22. (See also Is 7,11). Note 16,1-4
In verse 39, why is the generation not just evil but adulterous as well (NRSV)? Translations often avoid the second word but it makes Jesus' point as can be seen in Hosea 1-3 and Jer 3,6-10.
The sign offered by Jesus is that of Jonah. Jonah is the prophet who does not behave like a prophet. When asked to go to Nineveh, he runs in the opposite direction, Jonah 1,2-3.
Only Matthew makes the interpretation given in verse 40. What is the implication and what are the limits of this? (See 27,57.62; 28,1).
For verse 41 and the repentance of Nineveh see Jonah 3,1-10. How is it a sign? See Lk 11,29-32.
The queen of the South in verse 42 refers to the visit of the Queen of Sheba to Solomon, 1 Kings 10,1-13. We can note 1 Kings 10,1 as Jesus makes the comment that something greater than Solomon here.
In verses 43 to 45, Jesus then gives a short parable. 12,22 would be the starting point for this. Look at the parallel in Lk 11,24-26 and look for the two additions Matthew has made.
Verse 43 indicates that the devil cannot rest in the waterless places with the consequences in verse 44.
Consider for whom the house is prepared and the result in verse 45.
Note how Matthew concludes both this part and Jesus' speech.
Then go to my response.
The True Family of Jesus: Mt 12,46-50
The climax to this chapter is this teaching from Jesus about his true family. We can note the change of audience; to whom is this teaching addressed?
We saw in the chapter overview how this section has been edited from the parallel in Mark 3,20-21 & 31-35. This is a conclusion to what has preceded but also significant for the following chapter. Look ahead to 13,53-58.
Where are the family in both Matthew and Mark? Who are his brothers?
Consider Matthew's alterations of Mark, especially in 12,49 and 12,50. What two additions highlight Matthew's message in these verses? Look at 6,10 and 23,9.
We go now to my response.
We are now ready for an overview of chapter 13, the parable discourse.