The Gospel of Matthew 1
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that the Gospel of Matthew was not the first written gospel—Mark’s was earlier—but it is placed first because it forms the bridge between the Old and New Testaments. Saint Matthew wrote it to the Hebrews to prove that Jesus of Nazareth is the awaited Messiah, in whom the prophecies were fulfilled—He is the Son of God and the King of the Jews.
Message to the Jews:
The Pope shows how Matthew emphasizes the lineage from Abraham and David and the fulfillment of prophecies, aiming to demonstrate that Jesus is the promised Christ. Matthew used Jewish imagery and terms such as the Temple, Jerusalem, and genealogies to connect with his audience.
No Flattery in Teaching:
Although written for the Jews, Matthew did not flatter them in their errors. He rebuked their lack of repentance and the cities that did not believe despite witnessing miracles. Meanwhile, Christ praised the faith of the Gentiles, such as the centurion and the Canaanite woman, showing that God’s Kingdom is open to all who believe.
The Kingdom of Heaven:
The Gospel emphasizes that the Kingdom of Heaven is not an earthly rule, as the Jews expected, but a spiritual and eternal one. John the Baptist began preaching repentance because the Kingdom of Heaven was near, and Christ continued this message, teaching that His Kingdom reigns in hearts, not in worldly power.
Teachings and Discourses of Christ:
The Gospel of Matthew contains more teachings than events, such as the Sermon on the Mount, the mission of the apostles, parables of the Kingdom, teachings on forgiveness, and prophecies about the end times. Matthew presents these teachings in an organized, collected style.
Conflict with Jewish Leaders:
The Pope explains that the conflict began when Christ’s miracles revealed His divine authority, which alarmed the Jewish leaders. In His final week, Christ openly rebuked the scribes and Pharisees, declaring the end of the old leadership and the beginning of the new Church founded on true faith.
Spiritual Message:
Pope Shenouda emphasizes that the Gospel calls believers to repentance, purity, and genuine faith, not reliance on heritage or appearance. The Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who live in righteousness and love, not merely to those of religious descent.
Conclusion:
The Gospel of Matthew is the Gospel of the Kingdom, proclaiming Jesus Christ as the heavenly King and Savior, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament and establishing God’s Kingdom within believers’ hearts.
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