Bible Study Recap – September 17, 2025

Exploring Expressions of Grace in Matthew 10 & 11

One of the beautiful things about gathering for Bible study is how God’s Word continues to meet us exactly where we are. Last night was no exception. As we explored Matthew 10 and 11, we were reminded that grace is not an abstract concept—it’s something Jesus gives us in our sending, in our struggles, in our questions, and even in our deepest need for rest. These chapters gave us fresh eyes to see how God’s grace works in everyday life.

Warm-Up

We began by sharing moments when we felt “sent” by someone—whether to represent a friend, family member, or even God Himself. That simple question opened us to reflect on what it feels like to be trusted and empowered, and how often grace comes to us before we feel ready.

📖 Highlights from Matthew 10–11

1. Grace that Sends
   Jesus sent out the disciples with power and authority, even though they were still ordinary, flawed people. We noticed how grace equips before we prove ourselves.
2. Grace that Sustains
   In Matthew 10, Jesus told them not to take extra supplies. Their mission was to depend on God’s provision—a reminder that grace meets us as we walk in trust, not as we stockpile for control.
3. Grace that Welcomes Questions
   In Matthew 11, even John the Baptist doubted if Jesus was truly the Messiah. We saw how Jesus answered with evidence of grace: healing, restoration, and good news for the poor. Grace doesn’t condemn our questions; it meets them with compassion.
4. Grace that Brings Rest
   We ended with one of Jesus’ most famous invitations: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” His yoke is gentle, His burden light. True grace isn’t about doing more—it’s about finding rest in Him.

💬 Group Reflections

• Some of us shared how challenging it is to “travel light” in faith, and how easy it is to rely on our own preparation instead of God’s provision.
• We connected deeply with John’s doubt—realizing that grace allows room for our questions and doesn’t shut us down.
• Many of us confessed that Jesus’ invitation to rest is exactly what our souls are longing for in this busy season.

📝 Homework for the Week

1. Reflection: Identify one area of your life where you feel “sent” by God. Pray daily for His provision and courage there.
2. Memory Verse: Matthew 11:28–30. Begin your mornings by speaking it out loud as a prayer of rest.
3. Act of Grace: Offer encouragement or practical help to someone who is weary—become an extension of Christ’s rest.

As we closed, it was clear: grace in Matthew 10 and 11 isn’t just a theological idea. It’s practical, personal, and powerful. Grace sends us, sustains us, meets us in our doubts, and finally, gives us rest.

Rev. Marvel Souza

You’re invited to our next Bible Study! ✨

📖 Topic: Reflections on the Teachings of Jesus

🗓 When: Wednesday, September 24

⏰ Time: 6:00 PM

📍 Where: Jason Lee Memorial UMC – Discipleship Room