Matthew:
The Gospel of Matthew was written to prove that Jesus Christ is the promised Messiah, the King of all the earth, and to make plain the Kingdom of God. It is the joining link between Old and New Testament, focusing on the fulfillment of prophecy.Author:
Matthew, also known as Levi, one of the 12 disciples.Date Written:
Circa 60-65 A.D.Written To:
Matthew wrote to his fellow Jews.Landscape:
Matthew opens in the town of Bethlehem. It is also set in Galilee, Capernaum, Judea and Jerusalem.Themes:
Matthew was not written to chronicle the events of Jesus' life, but rather to present the undeniable evidence that Jesus Christ is the promised Savior, the Messiah, the King of kings and Lord of lords. It begins by accounting the genealogy of Jesus, then his birth, baptism and public ministry. The miracles recorded in Matthew reveal Jesus' authority and true identity.Key Characters:
Jesus, Mary and Joseph, John the Baptist, the 12 disciples, the Jewish religious leaders, Caiaphas, Pilate, Mary Magdalene.Key Verses:
- Matthew 4:4
Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" (NIV)
- Matthew 5:17
Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. (NIV)
- Matthew 10:39
Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. (NIV)
Outline:
- The Birth of the King and Preparing to Receive Him - Matthew 1:1-4:11
- The Message and Ministry of the King - Matthew 4:12-25:46
- The Death and Resurrection of the King - Matthew 26:1-28:20
