gospel of matthew study guide
Matthew, the first Gospel, presents Jesus as the promised Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and establishing the Kingdom of Heaven for all believers.
Historical Context of Matthew
Matthew’s Gospel emerged from a period of significant Jewish-Roman tension in Palestine during the first century. The destruction of the Second Temple in 70 AD loomed large, influencing Jewish expectations about the Messiah and the future.
This context shaped Matthew’s presentation of Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating His kingly authority and divine identity. The Roman Empire’s presence is subtly acknowledged, impacting daily life and political realities.
Understanding this historical backdrop is crucial for interpreting Matthew’s emphasis on Jesus as the new Moses, offering a new law and establishing a new covenant. The audience faced persecution and needed reassurance of Jesus’ sovereignty.
Authorship and Date of Writing
Traditionally, Matthew, also known as Levi the tax collector, is attributed as the author of this Gospel. Early church fathers, including Papias and Irenaeus, support this claim, though scholarly debate continues regarding the extent of his direct authorship. It’s likely Matthew’s teachings and recollections were compiled and edited by others.
Determining the precise date of writing is challenging. Most scholars suggest a date between 70-85 AD, after the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem. This timeframe aligns with the Gospel’s references to the Temple’s destruction and its focus on establishing a distinct Christian identity separate from Judaism.
A date before 70 AD is also proposed by some, but less commonly accepted.
Audience and Purpose
Matthew’s primary audience was Jewish Christians, likely those living in Syria or Palestine. He intentionally presents Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah. This is crucial for Jewish believers grappling with their faith amidst a changing religious landscape.
The Gospel’s purpose is to convince this audience of Jesus’ messianic identity and to establish the Kingdom of Heaven as the continuation of God’s covenant with Israel. Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ authority, teaching, and miracles to solidify this claim.
He also subtly addresses tensions with Jewish authorities, showcasing Jesus as the true interpreter of the Law.
Key Themes in Matthew
Matthew highlights Jesus as the Messiah, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the King establishing the Kingdom of Heaven—central tenets for understanding his narrative.
Jesus as the Messiah
Matthew meticulously portrays Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, directly linking him to Old Testament prophecies. The Gospel opens with a genealogy tracing Jesus’ lineage back to Abraham and David, establishing his royal heritage and rightful claim to the throne.
Throughout Matthew, Jesus fulfills specific Messianic prophecies, demonstrating his divine identity and purpose. Events like his miraculous birth, teachings, healings, and ultimately, his death and resurrection, are presented as deliberate fulfillments of scripture.
Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ authority, not just as a teacher or prophet, but as the Son of God, possessing divine power and offering salvation. This portrayal aims to convince a Jewish audience that Jesus is indeed the Messiah they have been anticipating.
The Kingdom of Heaven
A central theme in Matthew is the “Kingdom of Heaven,” a concept representing God’s reign and rule, both present and future. This isn’t merely a physical kingdom but a spiritual reality accessible to those who repent and believe in Jesus. Matthew frequently uses this phrase, rather than “Kingdom of God,” likely to avoid directly pronouncing God’s sacred name.
Jesus’ teachings and miracles demonstrate the arrival of the Kingdom, offering a glimpse of its values – love, forgiveness, and justice. Parables, like the mustard seed and the treasure hidden in a field, illustrate the Kingdom’s growth and immense value.
Entry into the Kingdom requires a transformation of heart and a commitment to following Jesus’ teachings, emphasizing a life of righteousness and obedience.
Fulfillment of Prophecy
Matthew meticulously demonstrates how Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection fulfill numerous Old Testament prophecies, establishing Him as the long-awaited Messiah. He frequently uses the phrase “that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet,” directly linking Jesus’ experiences to specific scriptural predictions.
From Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem to His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, Matthew highlights how events align with prophetic utterances. This emphasis isn’t simply about historical verification but about revealing God’s purposeful plan unfolding throughout history.
By showcasing this fulfillment, Matthew assures his Jewish audience that Jesus is indeed the promised King and Savior, validating His claims and authority.
Structure and Outline of Matthew
Matthew’s Gospel is structured around five major discourses, interspersed with narratives of Jesus’ life, demonstrating His teachings and powerful ministry to all.
The Genealogy and Birth of Jesus (Matthew 1-2)
Matthew begins by establishing Jesus’ legitimacy as the Messiah through a carefully constructed genealogy, tracing His lineage back to Abraham, highlighting His Jewish heritage and royal Davidic descent. This demonstrates Jesus’ rightful claim to the throne.
The narrative then shifts to the miraculous birth of Jesus, detailing the angelic appearances to Joseph, explaining the significance of Jesus being named Emmanuel – “God with us.” Matthew emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy concerning the Messiah’s birth in Bethlehem.
The visit of the Magi, guided by a star, and their offering of gifts symbolize the recognition of Jesus as King by the Gentiles. However, this joy is contrasted with the wickedness of Herod, who seeks to destroy the infant Jesus, leading to the flight to Egypt and the subsequent slaughter of the innocent children in Bethlehem.
The Ministry in Galilee (Matthew 3-18)
Matthew details Jesus’ public ministry primarily in Galilee, commencing with John the Baptist’s preparation and Jesus’ baptism, marked by the descent of the Holy Spirit and God’s affirmation. Following this, Jesus undergoes a period of testing in the wilderness, resisting Satan’s temptations, demonstrating His obedience and power.
Jesus then begins to preach the message of repentance and the Kingdom of Heaven, calling disciples who become central to His ministry. Matthew showcases Jesus’ authority through His teachings, surpassing that of the scribes, and performing numerous miracles – healings, exorcisms, and control over nature – validating His divine identity.
This section culminates in five major discourses, notably the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus lays out the ethical principles of the Kingdom, offering a new standard of righteousness and challenging conventional interpretations of the Law.
The Journey to Jerusalem (Matthew 19-20)
Matthew chronicles Jesus’ determined journey southward towards Jerusalem, a pivotal shift marking His deliberate approach to suffering and sacrifice. This section features intense teaching moments, addressing topics like divorce, wealth, and humility, preparing His disciples for the challenges ahead.
Jesus repeatedly foretells His impending death and resurrection, attempting to instill understanding in His followers, though they struggle to grasp the concept of a suffering Messiah. He emphasizes the importance of servanthood, illustrating it through His own example and challenging their notions of greatness.
Notable events include the request of James and John to sit at His right and left in the Kingdom, prompting Jesus to teach on true leadership and the cost of discipleship. This journey signifies a transition towards the climax of His earthly ministry.
Major Discourses in Matthew
Matthew strategically presents Jesus’ teachings in extended discourses, notably the Sermon on the Mount, Missionary Discourse, and Parables of the Kingdom, revealing core doctrines.
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7)
The Sermon on the Mount, a cornerstone of Matthew’s Gospel, delivers Jesus’ foundational ethical teachings. Beginning with the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12), it outlines the characteristics of those blessed in God’s Kingdom – the poor in spirit, those who mourn, and the meek. Jesus doesn’t abolish the Law but fulfills it, raising the standard of righteousness beyond outward observance to inward motivations (Matthew 5:17-20).
He addresses issues like anger, adultery, oaths, and retaliation, emphasizing a higher moral code. The discourse also covers practices like giving to the needy, prayer (including the Lord’s Prayer), fasting, and storing up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6). Jesus warns against hypocrisy and judges others, urging genuine righteousness. Finally, He stresses the importance of entering the narrow gate and bearing good fruit as evidence of true faith (Matthew 7).
Missionary Discourse (Matthew 10)
Matthew 10 details Jesus’ instructions to the twelve apostles as He sends them out to preach the Gospel. He grants them authority over unclean spirits and healing power, emphasizing their message: “The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” Jesus prepares them for rejection and persecution, warning they will face opposition from both Jews and Gentiles, even family members (Matthew 10:16-22).
He encourages them not to fear, reminding them that God cares for even the smallest details of their lives. The discourse stresses reliance on God’s provision, not worldly possessions, and warns against compromising the message for acceptance. Jesus emphasizes that their reward lies in Heaven, not earthly recognition, and assures them of God’s unwavering care amidst trials.
Parables of the Kingdom (Matthew 13)
Matthew 13 is rich with parables illustrating the nature and growth of the Kingdom of Heaven. These stories, like the Sower, the Mustard Seed, and the Leaven, reveal both the accessibility and the challenges of entering God’s reign. The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-23) highlights how different hearts respond to the Word of God, emphasizing the importance of receptive faith.
The Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31-32) demonstrates the Kingdom’s humble beginnings and eventual expansive growth. Jesus uses these relatable narratives to unveil spiritual truths, challenging listeners to understand the Kingdom’s mysteries and their role within it. These parables are central to understanding Jesus’ teachings.
Important Parables in Matthew
Matthew’s parables, like the Sower, Mustard Seed, and Talents, powerfully illustrate spiritual truths about the Kingdom of Heaven and discipleship’s demands.
The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-23)
The Parable of the Sower vividly depicts how people respond to the message of the Kingdom. Jesus explains that the seed represents the word of God, and the different types of soil symbolize various heart conditions. Some fall on the path and are snatched away by Satan, representing those who don’t understand. Others land on rocky ground, springing up quickly but lacking depth, symbolizing those who fall away during trials.
Seed falling among thorns represents those choked by worldly anxieties and riches, hindering spiritual growth. Finally, seed on good soil signifies those who hear, understand, and bear fruit – a thirty, sixty, or hundredfold harvest. This parable emphasizes the importance of receptive hearts and the diverse outcomes of hearing God’s word, urging self-examination and diligent cultivation of faith.
The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31-32)
The Parable of the Mustard Seed illustrates the seemingly insignificant beginnings and eventual expansive growth of the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus states that it is the smallest of seeds, yet grows into a tree large enough for birds to nest in its branches. This highlights the surprising and powerful way God’s Kingdom will develop, starting small but ultimately encompassing a vast influence.
The parable isn’t about the seed itself, but the kingdom’s unexpected reach. Despite humble origins, the gospel message will spread widely, providing shelter and refuge for many. It demonstrates God’s power to accomplish great things through seemingly small means, offering hope and encouragement for believers to persevere in spreading the good news.
The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30)
The Parable of the Talents emphasizes responsible stewardship and faithful use of the gifts God provides. A master entrusts talents (a unit of weight/money) to his servants before going on a journey, expecting a return upon his return. Two servants invest and double their talents, receiving praise, while one buries his, fearing his master.
This servant is condemned for his inaction. The parable isn’t solely about financial gain, but about utilizing our spiritual gifts—time, skills, resources—for God’s glory. It calls for diligence, courage, and a willingness to take risks for the Kingdom. Failure to use our gifts demonstrates a lack of faith and results in loss.
Key Events and Miracles
Matthew details pivotal events like Jesus’ temptation, numerous healing miracles demonstrating divine power, and the glorious Transfiguration revealing His divine nature.
The Temptation of Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11)
Matthew’s account of Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness immediately following His baptism is a crucial narrative. Led by the Holy Spirit, Jesus endured forty days of fasting and was then subjected to three distinct temptations by Satan.
The first temptation involved turning stones into bread, testing God’s provision. The second, a dramatic offer of worldly power and glory if Jesus would worship Satan. Finally, Satan tempted Jesus to test God’s protection by jumping from the temple.
Each time, Jesus responded with Scripture, demonstrating His unwavering obedience to God’s Word and rejecting Satan’s deceit. This event highlights Jesus’ perfect righteousness, His complete reliance on the Father, and foreshadows His victory over sin and evil. It’s a powerful example for believers facing trials.
The Healing Miracles of Jesus
Matthew’s Gospel vividly portrays Jesus’ power over illness and suffering through numerous healing miracles. These aren’t merely displays of compassion, but demonstrations of His divine authority and the arrival of the Kingdom of Heaven.
He heals a man with leprosy, showcasing His purity and challenging societal norms. A paralytic is miraculously healed, emphasizing Jesus’ forgiveness of sins alongside physical restoration. He heals Peter’s mother-in-law, demonstrating care for individuals and families.
Furthermore, Jesus heals many afflicted with various diseases, casting out demons, and restoring sight to the blind. These miracles confirm Jesus’ identity as the Messiah and offer hope to the marginalized, revealing God’s love and power to all.
The Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8)
Matthew’s account of the Transfiguration is a pivotal moment revealing Jesus’ glory to select disciples – Peter, James, and John. Ascending a high mountain, Jesus’ appearance is dramatically altered; His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become brilliantly white.
Moses and Elijah appear, conversing with Jesus, representing the Law and the Prophets, and acknowledging Him as the fulfillment of both. A bright cloud overshadows them, and a voice from heaven proclaims, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
This event confirms Jesus’ divine sonship and foreshadows His future resurrection. It strengthens the disciples’ faith as they anticipate His suffering and ultimate triumph, preparing them for the trials ahead.
The Passion Week in Matthew
Matthew meticulously details Jesus’ final week, from His triumphant entry into Jerusalem to His crucifixion and burial, showcasing His ultimate sacrifice for humanity.
The Triumphal Entry (Matthew 21:1-11)
Matthew’s account of the Triumphal Entry vividly portrays Jesus’ deliberate fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9, riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, signaling His humble kingship. This event, occurring just days before Passover, dramatically illustrates Jesus’ acceptance as the Messiah by many in Jerusalem.
The crowds enthusiastically welcomed Him, spreading their cloaks and branches, shouting “Hosanna to the Son of David!” This public display of adoration, however, also provoked opposition from religious leaders who recognized the threat to their authority.
The entry wasn’t merely a celebratory procession; it was a powerful declaration of Jesus’ identity and purpose, foreshadowing His impending sacrifice and ultimate reign. It sets the stage for the dramatic events of Passion Week, highlighting the contrast between popular acclaim and impending rejection.
The Last Supper (Matthew 26:17-30)
Matthew’s depiction of the Last Supper centers on the institution of the Lord’s Supper, also known as Holy Communion. Jesus gathers with His disciples to celebrate the Passover meal, transforming it into a new covenant symbol. He announces the impending betrayal by one of His own, causing great distress among the disciples.
Jesus then takes bread and wine, explaining their symbolic representation of His body and blood, which will be sacrificed for the forgiveness of sins. This act establishes a memorial meal for believers to remember His sacrifice and participate in His new covenant.
The Last Supper is a pivotal moment, foreshadowing Jesus’ suffering and death, and offering a profound expression of His love and commitment to His followers.
The Crucifixion and Burial (Matthew 27:32-61)
Matthew meticulously details the agonizing crucifixion of Jesus, portraying it as the fulfillment of prophetic scripture. Jesus endures immense physical and emotional suffering as He is nailed to the cross between two criminals. Mockery and scorn from onlookers and religious leaders intensify His pain.
Darkness falls over the land, and Jesus cries out, feeling forsaken by God, before ultimately yielding His spirit. An earthquake follows, and the temple curtain is torn in two, signifying the opening of access to God through Jesus’ sacrifice.
Following His death, Jesus is buried in a tomb belonging to Joseph of Arimathaea, secured with a large stone, and guarded by Roman soldiers.
Resurrection and Great Commission
Matthew culminates with Jesus’ resurrection, demonstrating His victory over death and commissioning His disciples to spread the Gospel to all nations.
The Resurrection Appearance (Matthew 28:1-10)
Matthew’s account of the resurrection begins with Mary Magdalene and another woman discovering an earthquake and an angel announcing Jesus’ resurrection at the tomb. The angel assures them Jesus is risen and instructs them to tell the disciples.
Suddenly, Jesus appears to the women themselves, offering a greeting of peace. Overwhelmed with joy and fear, they run to tell the disciples. Simultaneously, the chief priests conspire with the soldiers to spread a false report – that Jesus’ body was stolen while they slept.
However, as the disciples are informed, Jesus appears to them directly, commissioning them and reaffirming His authority. This pivotal event confirms Jesus’ triumph over death and validates His divine identity, forming the bedrock of Christian faith.
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20)
Matthew’s Gospel culminates with the Great Commission, where the resurrected Jesus appears to His disciples on a mountain in Galilee. He declares all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him, empowering them with a monumental task.
Jesus commands them to “go and make disciples of all nations,” baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that He has commanded. This isn’t merely an invitation, but a direct order to spread the Gospel globally.
He promises to be with them always, even to the end of the age, providing constant support and guidance in their mission. This commission remains central to the Church’s purpose today.