PURPOSE: The disciple Matthew wrote his own gospel account of Jesus’ life, ministry, and death as a means of proving that He was/is the Messiah ... the eternal King.
AUTHOR: Matthew Levi*
DATE WRITTEN: Roughly A.D. 60-65
THE SETTING: Matthew was a Jewish tax collector, who became one of Jesus’ disciples. This Gospel forms the connecting link between the Old & New Testament because of its emphasis on the fulfilling of prophecy.
KEY VERSE: 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.”
SPECIAL NOTE: Matthew is filled with messianic language (e.g., “Son of David” is used throughout) and OT references (53 quotes and 76 other references). This Gospel was not written as a chronological account; its purpose was to present clear evidence that Jesus is the Messiah (the Savior).
THE BLUEPRINT:
A) The Birth & Preparation of Jesus, the King (Matthew 1:1-4:11)
“The people of Israel were waiting for their Messiah, their king. Matthew begins his book by showing how Jesus Christ was a descendant of King David. Matthew goes on to show that God didn’t send Jesus to be an earthly king, but rather a heavenly King, for his kingdom would be much greater than David’s because it would never end. Even at Jesus’ birth, many recognized him as a King. Herod, the ruler at that time, as well as Satan himself, were afraid of Jesus’ kingship and tried to stop him, but others worshiped him and brought royal gifts. We must be willing to recognize Jesus for who he really is and worship him as King of our life.” [TLASB - P. 1985]
Up next is part B of the BLUEPRINT ... “The Message & Ministry of Jesus, the King (Matthew 4:12-25:46)” ... until then walk with the King and be a blessing.
In his name & for his glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.
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