Matthew is the first Gospel and presents Jesus as the promised Messiah and King who fulfills Old Testament prophecy. Written with a strong Jewish focus, Matthew highlights Jesus’ teachings, miracles, parables, and His authoritative call to discipleship. It emphasizes the kingdom of heaven, the nature of true righteousness, and Jesus’ identity as Emmanuel, God with us.
Background
Author: Matthew
Audience: Primarily Jewish believers and seekers
Date: AD 60–65
Location Written: Possibly Antioch or another early Christian center
Context: Matthew writes to show that Jesus is the fulfillment of Israel’s long-awaited hopes. By connecting Jesus’ life and ministry to Old Testament prophecy, Matthew demonstrates that Christ is the true King and the greater Moses who brings God’s kingdom. The Gospel includes major teaching sections such as the Sermon on the Mount and the Olivet Discourse, emphasizing discipleship, righteousness, and the mission of the church.
Characters
- Jesus — Messiah, King, teacher, and fulfillment of prophecy
- Matthew — author and former tax collector called by Jesus
- Twelve Disciples — followers chosen to learn from Jesus and continue His mission
- John the Baptist — forerunner preparing the way for the Messiah
- Religious Leaders — Pharisees, scribes, and Sadducees who opposed Jesus
- Mary and Joseph — earthly parents in the nativity narrative
- Herod the Great — king who sought to kill the infant Jesus
- Pilate — Roman governor who condemned Jesus to crucifixion
Major Events
- Genealogy and birth of Jesus (Chapters 1–2)
- John the Baptist’s ministry and Jesus’ baptism (Chapter 3)
- Temptation of Jesus in the wilderness (Chapter 4)
- Sermon on the Mount teaching kingdom righteousness (Chapters 5–7)
- Miracles, healings, and demonstrations of authority (Chapters 8–9)
- Sending of the twelve disciples (Chapter 10)
- Parables of the kingdom of heaven (Chapter 13)
- Confession of Jesus as the Christ (Chapter 16)
- The Transfiguration (Chapter 17)
- Teachings on humility, forgiveness, and community (Chapter 18)
- Triumphal entry and conflict with religious leaders (Chapters 21–23)
- Olivet Discourse on the end times (Chapters 24–25)
- Last Supper, crucifixion, death, and burial of Jesus (Chapters 26–27)
- Resurrection and the Great Commission (Chapter 28)
Application & Life Lessons
- Jesus is the promised Messiah who fulfills God’s plan
- Kingdom living requires humble obedience and genuine righteousness
- Discipleship involves sacrifice, trust, and taking up the cross
- The teachings of Jesus shape how believers live and relate to others
- Faith in Christ brings healing, restoration, and authority over darkness
- Hypocrisy destroys, but authentic faith brings life
- God’s kingdom grows through faithful witness and perseverance
- Jesus has all authority and commands His followers to make disciples
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Matthew 1-13
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Matthew 14-28
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Matthew, Mark, & Luke
Podcasts
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Articles
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Books
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