Matthew 23:23-28

1. God wants to transform us from rigid rule keeping to righteousness (v.23).
   • Why does the form of righteousness not accomplish the function of righteousness?
   • How can we avoid the temptation to center in on forms rather than function?
2. God wants to transform our perspective to see the big picture (v.24).
   • In what sense do Pharisees strain gnats and swallow camels?
   • How can we make sure that we are not blind to what is important?
3. God doesn’t want externals. He longs to transform us from within (v.25-26).
   • What is wrong with doing righteous deeds to be seen by men?
   • How can God accomplish His transformation within our lives?
4. God wants to transform us from appearing pure to being pure (v.27).
   • Why is the external appearance of purity insufficient?
   • How does internal purity have more to do with function than form?
5. God wants to transform us from hypocrisy to genuine purity (v.28).
   • What is hypocritical about form keeping?
   • How can purity result from centering in on the function of following Jesus?

Lesson Aim: To prioritize our lives so that we are focused on the functions of righteous living and are not distracted by keeping forms.