Preparation
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Read, ponder, and pray about the following scriptures:
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a. John 12:1–8. Jesus travels to Bethany, where Mary anoints his feet. Judas criticizes Mary’s use of expensive oil.
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b. Matthew 21:1–11. Jesus returns to Jerusalem for the Feast of Passover. He makes a triumphal entry into the city, riding on a colt, the foal of an ass.
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c. Matthew 21:23–46. The chief priests and elders come to Jesus in the temple and challenge his authority. Instead of answering their questions, Jesus tells them the parable of the two sons and the parable of the householder.
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d. Matthew 22:15–46. The scribes and Pharisees try to trap Jesus into saying something that will allow them to discredit and condemn him.
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e. Matthew 23. Jesus condemns the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy.
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Additional reading: Matthew 26:6–13; Mark 11–12; 14:3–9; Luke 11:37–51; 19:29–48; 20; John 12:12–18; Bible Dictionary, “Pharisees,” 750; “Sadducees,” 767; “Spikenard,” 776.
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If you use the attention activity, bring one cup that is clean outside and inside and a similar cup that is clean outside but dirty inside.
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If the picture Triumphal Entry (62173; Gospel Art Picture Kit 223) is available, use it during the lesson.
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Suggestion for teaching: As you prepare to teach, you should do more than merely read the assigned scriptures. Study each scripture block at least three times. The first time, read it to comprehend what the passages contain. Then study it more carefully, looking for principles, doctrines, and significant events. Then read it again, determining which passages will best meet class members’ needs and planning ways to discuss those passages.