Matthew 1:23
Overview
Matthew presents Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament messianic prophecy and the rightful King of Israel. Written primarily for a Jewish audience, the Gospel traces Jesus' genealogy to Abraham and David, records His authoritative teaching (including the Sermon on the Mount), and demonstrates through His miracles, death, and resurrection that He is the long-awaited Christ.
Historical Context
Matthew was a tax collector whom Jesus called to be one of His twelve apostles. He wrote his Gospel to demonstrate to Jewish readers that Jesus fulfilled the messianic prophecies of the Old Testament. The book contains over sixty Old Testament quotations and allusions.
Book Outline
Birth and Early Life of Jesus
Chapters 1-2
John the Baptist and Jesus' Early Ministry
Chapters 3-4
The Sermon on the Mount
Chapters 5-7
Miracles and Ministry in Galilee
Chapters 8-18
Journey to Jerusalem
Chapters 19-25
Crucifixion and Resurrection
Chapters 26-28
Key Themes
Key Verses
Matthew 1:23
Matthew 5:17
Matthew 16:16
Matthew 28:18-20
How to Study Matthew
Study Tips
- Read through the entire book to understand the overall narrative flow and purpose.
- Pay attention to the historical and cultural context of when it was written.
- Look for repeated words, phrases, and themes — these highlight the author's key messages.
- Cross-reference key verses with related passages throughout Scripture.
- Discuss what you learn with your family using the questions below.
For a deeper study approach, see our guide on How to Study the Bible.
Family Discussion & Activity
Discussion Questions
- ? What does the Sermon on the Mount teach about how God wants us to live?
- ? How did Jesus fulfill the prophecies of the Old Testament?
- ? What does the Great Commission mean for our family?
Family Activity
Read the first chapter of Matthew together as a family this week. Each person can share one thing that stood out to them and what they think it means for your family today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Matthew?
Matthew, also called Levi, was a tax collector in Capernaum before Jesus called him to be a disciple (Matthew 9:9). As a tax collector, he would have been skilled in record-keeping and writing, which equipped him to compose this detailed Gospel account.
Why does Matthew begin with a genealogy?
Matthew's genealogy traces Jesus' legal lineage through Joseph back to Abraham and David, establishing His credentials as the promised Messiah. For the Jewish audience, this was essential proof that Jesus was the rightful heir to David's throne and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.
What is the Sermon on the Mount?
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is Jesus' most extensive teaching discourse, delivered on a hillside in Galilee. It includes the Beatitudes, the Lord's Prayer, teachings on murder, adultery, divorce, oaths, and loving enemies, and the call to build one's life on the rock of obedience to His words.
What is the Great Commission?
The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20) is Jesus' final command to His disciples: "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you." It is the foundational mandate for Christian missions.
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