January 25, 2026 – Matthew 9:10-19,23-26
Jesus shows mercy to all who come to Him in faith.
Jesus said that people who have been forgiven the most love more freely (Luke 7:36-47). We love Him because of His mercy toward us and the length to which He went to bestow mercy and forgiveness. The song “Just as I Am” touches hearts made tender by Jesus’s willingness to take us as we are and mercifully make of us something different, something better. The more we recognize our sin, the more we are grateful for the One who said to a paralytic and to us, “Your sins are forgiven” (Matt. 9:2).
Jesus demonstrated mercy by healing the sick, raising the dead, and delivering persons afflicted by demons. Perhaps more of us identify with His grace in the calling of an ostracized tax collector—and then joining the forgiven publican and his friends for a meal. When Christ saves us and calls us, He changes us and uses us as we follow Him.
As you prepare to lead this session from Matthew 9, take time to reflect on the mercy God has shown you. Ask Him to help you embrace that mercy and to help you use it as fuel for your ministry to others. Also, pray for adults in your Bible study who may be struggling to accept God and the mercy He offers so freely.
Resources Available
In addition to the resources below, you also have access to the Quick Source, Daily Discipleship Guide, Leader Guide, and Pack Items. Please reach out to us using the form below if you do not have access to these materials and would like them.
Podcast
Members of the Explore the Bible team review the main points of the study, discuss some critical questions from the study, and provide teaching tips along the way.
Extra Ideas
Extra provides an idea for using a current news story to supplement the Engage (introduction) and Challenge (application) features during the group time.
Prayer Guide
The quarterly prayer guide provides suggestions for praying verses from each Adult Explore the Bible session during the week. Click below to access the guide.
Need help?
If you need assistance accessing the resources available to you as a teacher, please let us know using the form below. You can also reach out if you need help arranging a substitute or finding another teacher to fill in during your absence. We’re here to support you.
