Matthew

Introduction to Matthew

Bible Commentary on Matthew at Secureforever.org

Northland Bible Baptist Church

Go to the Youtube Playlist to watch the entire series. Each video is not embedded here because the verses covered in each video on Youtube are included in the title.

Introduction to Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew was written by Matthew, also known as Levi, who was a tax collector before becoming one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. Matthew’s Gospel was written between 40 and 65 A.D., likely in the region of Palestine. While many modern scholars believe that the Gospel of Mark was the first Gospel written, early church fathers such as Papias, Irenaeus, and Origen, as well as many conservative biblical scholars, have long held that Matthew was the first Gospel written. This traditional view emphasizes Matthew’s focus on the Jewish audience and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.

Distinct from the other Gospels, Matthew is structured to highlight Jesus’ relationship to the Jewish people and the Law, frequently referencing prophetic fulfillment and including extensive teaching such as the Sermon on the Mount. The Gospel contains five major discourses, each ending with a phrase like “when Jesus had finished these sayings,” which underscores its instructional nature. Matthew’s genealogy and birth narrative firmly establish Jesus’ Davidic and Abrahamic lineage, reinforcing His rightful claim to the throne of Israel.

Matthew’s Gospel reveals God’s unfolding plan for Israel and the coming kingdom. While Jesus offers the kingdom to Israel, their rejection leads to the postponement of the kingdom and the inauguration of the Church age. Matthew’s parables, particularly in chapter 13, illustrate the mysteries of the kingdom and the transition from Israel’s stewardship to the broader inclusion of Gentiles. The Gospel concludes with the Great Commission, reflecting God’s intention for the message of salvation to reach all nations. Matthew thus provides crucial insight into God’s dispensational dealings, demonstrating both His faithfulness to Israel and His grace toward the world.

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