Matthew presents Jesus as the Jewish King and fulfiller of Old Testament prophecies (son of David, born in Bethlehem) and also as uniquely related to God (the Son of God). The Gospel’s aim is primarily to convince Jews that Jesus is the promised Messiah while pointing beyond an earthly kingdom to the Kingdom of Heaven.
“Son of God” and “Son of Man”
Matthew uses both titles to express Jesus’ dual nature (human and divine). Evidence for his divinity includes: the Father’s voice at the Baptism, miracles (walking on water), Peter’s confession, the centurion’s declaration at the cross, the temple curtain tearing, and delegated authority (forgiving sins, final judgment).
Claims of Authority
Jesus exercises authority not typical of humans: he forgives sins, rules over Sabbath, commands nature (calming the sea, feeding multitudes), and has judgmental authority (sending angels, rewarding according to works).
The Kingdom (Kingdom of Heaven) & Parables
The Gospel emphasizes the Kingdom of Heaven. Chapter 13 gathers many parables (sower, mustard seed, leaven, hidden treasure, pearl, net) portraying the kingdom’s growth, hidden beginnings, and final consummation.
Miracles — their quantity and purpose
Matthew stresses numerous miracles: healings, exorcisms, raisings from the dead, dominion over nature, and feedings. Miracles function as signs of Jesus’ divine authority; many more are implied but not all recorded.
Conflict with Jewish Leaders
Opposition intensifies when Jesus’ teachings and miracles reveal his authority (issues over Sabbath, claims to forgive sins, accusations of being in league with Satan). This culminates in the public attacks of the final week.
Literary Method & Number Symbolism
Matthew uses a collection style (grouping similar teachings together). He also employs numerical motifs (pairs, triads, fives, sevens): genealogy in three groups of 14, repeated triads in sayings and woes, two feedings of the multitudes, etc.
Practical Ethics & Teaching Patterns
Emphasis on repentance, authentic righteousness (contrasted with hypocritical leaders), ethical progression (anger → insult → condemnation), private piety (prayer, fasting, almsgiving), and readiness for the Son of Man’s return.
The Gospel of Matthew Part 2
Matthew’s Aim & Christ’s Identity
Matthew presents Jesus as the Jewish King and fulfiller of Old Testament prophecies (son of David, born in Bethlehem) and also as uniquely related to God (the Son of God). The Gospel’s aim is primarily to convince Jews that Jesus is the promised Messiah while pointing beyond an earthly kingdom to the Kingdom of Heaven.
“Son of God” and “Son of Man”
Matthew uses both titles to express Jesus’ dual nature (human and divine). Evidence for his divinity includes: the Father’s voice at the Baptism, miracles (walking on water), Peter’s confession, the centurion’s declaration at the cross, the temple curtain tearing, and delegated authority (forgiving sins, final judgment).
Claims of Authority
Jesus exercises authority not typical of humans: he forgives sins, rules over Sabbath, commands nature (calming the sea, feeding multitudes), and has judgmental authority (sending angels, rewarding according to works).
The Kingdom (Kingdom of Heaven) & Parables
The Gospel emphasizes the Kingdom of Heaven. Chapter 13 gathers many parables (sower, mustard seed, leaven, hidden treasure, pearl, net) portraying the kingdom’s growth, hidden beginnings, and final consummation.
Miracles — their quantity and purpose
Matthew stresses numerous miracles: healings, exorcisms, raisings from the dead, dominion over nature, and feedings. Miracles function as signs of Jesus’ divine authority; many more are implied but not all recorded.
Conflict with Jewish Leaders
Opposition intensifies when Jesus’ teachings and miracles reveal his authority (issues over Sabbath, claims to forgive sins, accusations of being in league with Satan). This culminates in the public attacks of the final week.
Literary Method & Number Symbolism
Matthew uses a collection style (grouping similar teachings together). He also employs numerical motifs (pairs, triads, fives, sevens): genealogy in three groups of 14, repeated triads in sayings and woes, two feedings of the multitudes, etc.
Practical Ethics & Teaching Patterns
Emphasis on repentance, authentic righteousness (contrasted with hypocritical leaders), ethical progression (anger → insult → condemnation), private piety (prayer, fasting, almsgiving), and readiness for the Son of Man’s return.