Matthew’s Gospel, penned around the 80s AD, presents Jesus as the promised Messiah, connecting Old Testament prophecies with His New Covenant fulfillment.
A. Authorship and Date
Traditionally, Matthew, also known as Levi the tax collector, is credited with authoring this Gospel. Early church fathers like Papias support this attribution, though scholarly debate exists regarding the extent of his direct involvement. Most scholars suggest a writing date between 70-85 AD, post-destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem (70 AD).
Spurgeon’s commentary highlights Matthew’s careful presentation, suggesting a deliberate crafting of the narrative. The Gospel’s internal evidence and references to events after 70 AD solidify this timeframe. Understanding authorship and date is crucial for interpreting the text within its historical context.
B. Audience and Purpose
Matthew primarily wrote for a Jewish-Christian audience, those familiar with the Old Testament scriptures. He aimed to demonstrate that Jesus is the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies, establishing Him as the rightful King of Israel. The Gospel meticulously connects Jesus’ life and teachings to Jewish history and expectations.
This is evident in the detailed genealogy linking Jesus to David and Abraham. Matthew’s purpose wasn’t merely biographical, but apologetic – defending Jesus’ identity and authority to a skeptical Jewish community. He presents Jesus as the King driving legions, a sign of His divine power.
C. Key Themes: The Kingdom of Heaven
A central theme in Matthew’s Gospel is the “Kingdom of Heaven,” representing God’s reign and authority manifested through Jesus. This isn’t simply a future reality, but a present one, breaking into the world with Jesus’ ministry. Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ royal lineage and authority, portraying Him as the rightful King.
The Gospel explores the characteristics of Kingdom citizens – the Beatitudes reveal a counter-cultural ethic of humility and righteousness. Spurgeon notes a “special drift” in Matthew’s Gospel, highlighting Jesus’ kingly role and the implications for those who accept His rule.
II. Matthew’s Genealogy and Birth Narrative (Chapters 1-2)
Matthew begins by establishing Jesus’ legal lineage, tracing His ancestry through Joseph back to Abraham and David, demonstrating His messianic claim and royal heritage.
A. Genealogy of Jesus: Connecting to David and Abraham
Matthew’s genealogy (Matthew 1:1-17) isn’t simply a list of names; it’s a deliberate theological statement. He structures it into three sections of fourteen generations each, potentially reflecting the numerical value of David’s name in Hebrew.
Connecting Jesus to Abraham establishes Him as the heir to the promises God made to the patriarch, signifying universal blessing. Linking Him to David affirms His royal lineage and fulfillment of the Davidic covenant – the promise of an eternal king.
The inclusion of women like Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba, despite societal norms, highlights God’s grace and surprising ways of working through imperfect individuals. This genealogy powerfully demonstrates Jesus’ legitimate claim as the Messiah.
B. The Birth of Jesus: Fulfillment of Prophecy
Matthew meticulously portrays Jesus’ birth as the direct fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies (Matthew 1:18-25). The announcement to Joseph through a dream emphasizes the divine origin of Jesus’ conception by the Holy Spirit, addressing concerns about Mary’s pregnancy.
The name “Immanuel” (God with us) from Isaiah 7:14 underscores Jesus’ unique identity as God incarnate. Matthew highlights how events unfolded “that what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet might be fulfilled.”
This section establishes Jesus not as a random historical figure, but as the long-awaited Messiah, whose arrival was foretold centuries in advance, validating His divine claims.
C. The Visit of the Magi and Herod’s Response
The arrival of the Magi (wise men) from the East (Matthew 2:1-12) signifies the recognition of Jesus’ kingship by the Gentile world. Guided by a star, they sought the “King of the Jews,” presenting gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh – symbols of royalty, divinity, and suffering.
Herod’s reaction reveals his insecurity and ruthless nature. He feigned interest but secretly plotted to eliminate the potential rival to his throne, initiating the infamous “slaughter of the innocents.”
This event demonstrates the opposition Jesus faced even from birth, foreshadowing future conflicts.
III. The Preparation for Ministry (Chapters 3-4)
John the Baptist prepares the way, calling for repentance and baptizing Jesus. This pivotal moment precedes Jesus’ wilderness temptation and the start of His public ministry.
A. John the Baptist: The Forerunner
John the Baptist emerges as a prophetic figure, dramatically preparing Israel for the Messiah’s arrival. He preached a message of repentance, urging people to turn from their sins and embrace a changed life. His baptism in the Jordan River symbolized cleansing and a readiness to receive God’s forgiveness. Matthew highlights John’s humility, emphasizing that he was not worthy to even untie Jesus’ sandals.
John’s role wasn’t to be the Messiah, but to point to Him. He recognized Jesus as the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world,” fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. His ministry, though powerful, ultimately served to introduce and prepare the way for Jesus’ greater work.
B. The Baptism of Jesus
Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist is a pivotal moment, though initially met with John’s reluctance. Jesus insists on being baptized “to fulfill all righteousness,” demonstrating His perfect obedience to God’s will and identification with humanity.
Upon Jesus’ immersion, the heavens open, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove, resting upon Him. Simultaneously, a voice from heaven proclaims, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” This event publicly affirms Jesus’ divine sonship and inaugurates His public ministry, marking the beginning of His earthly mission.
C. The Temptation of Jesus in the Wilderness
Following His baptism, Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan for forty days and nights. This period of intense spiritual warfare tests Jesus’ obedience, faith, and commitment to His Father’s will. Satan presents three distinct temptations: turning stones into bread, testing God’s promises, and seeking worldly power and worship.
Jesus consistently resists each temptation by quoting Scripture, demonstrating His reliance on God’s Word and unwavering devotion. This victory showcases Jesus’ perfect righteousness and qualifies Him to be the perfect sacrifice for humanity’s sins, establishing His authority.
IV. The Sermon on the Mount (Chapters 5-7)
Jesus delivers core ethical teachings, outlining the principles of the Kingdom of Heaven – a higher righteousness focused on inward transformation and radical discipleship.
A. The Beatitudes: Characteristics of Kingdom Citizens
The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) are not simply pronouncements of happiness, but declarations of blessedness for those exhibiting specific spiritual qualities. These characteristics – poverty in spirit, mourning, meekness, hunger for righteousness, mercy, purity of heart, peacemaking, and persecution for righteousness’ sake – define citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven. They reveal a counter-cultural value system, prioritizing spiritual depth over worldly success.
Understanding the Beatitudes requires recognizing they describe a transformed heart, a willingness to depend on God, and a commitment to living according to His will. They are not earned, but rather, are qualities God cultivates in those who follow Jesus.
B. Salt and Light: Influence in the World
Following the Beatitudes, Jesus calls His disciples to be “salt of the earth” and “light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-16). Salt preserves and seasons, representing the disciples’ role in morally preserving society and adding spiritual flavor. Light illuminates, signifying their responsibility to reveal God’s truth and dispel darkness.
This isn’t about forceful imposition, but a transformative influence through consistent, righteous living. Their good deeds should glorify God, prompting others to seek Him. Hiding this light diminishes its impact; believers are meant to shine brightly for all to see.
C. Fulfillment of the Law: A Higher Righteousness
Jesus clarifies He didn’t abolish the Law or the Prophets but to fulfill them (Matthew 5:17-20). This fulfillment isn’t merely obedience, but a radical reinterpretation focused on inner motivation, not just outward actions. The Law revealed God’s standard; Jesus is that standard embodied;
Righteousness, therefore, surpasses the Pharisees’ meticulous legalism. It demands a heart transformed by God’s grace, leading to genuine love and obedience. Entering the Kingdom requires a righteousness exceeding that of the scribes and Pharisees – a righteousness gifted through faith in Christ.
D. Anger, Lust, and Oaths: Internalizing Righteousness
Jesus elevates moral standards beyond outward acts, addressing the root of sin within the heart (Matthew 5:21-37). Murder begins with hateful anger, adultery with lustful thoughts, and dishonesty with a willingness to deceive. These internal states, not just the actions themselves, violate God’s law.
Regarding oaths, Jesus condemns any swearing, advocating simple truthfulness. Let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, avoiding the manipulation of language. This demonstrates a commitment to integrity and a life lived openly before God, reflecting a truly righteous character.
E. Love for Enemies: Radical Discipleship
Jesus challenges conventional wisdom by commanding love for enemies (Matthew 5:43-48), a revolutionary concept. He contrasts this with the common practice of loving only those who reciprocate. True discipleship demands extending kindness, doing good, and praying for those who persecute you.
This radical love isn’t based on feeling, but on imitating God’s impartial love for all creation. Striving for perfection, mirroring God’s character, demonstrates a transformed heart and a commitment to a higher righteousness, setting believers apart.
V. Jesus’ Miracles and Authority (Chapters 8-9)
These chapters showcase Jesus’ divine power through healings and control over nature, demonstrating His authority as the Messiah and Son of God.
A. Healing the Sick: Demonstrating Compassion and Power
Matthew’s Gospel vividly portrays Jesus’ compassionate heart through numerous healing miracles. These aren’t merely displays of power, but reveal His profound empathy for human suffering. From lepers cleansed to paralytics healed, Jesus consistently reaches out to those marginalized and afflicted.
These acts authenticate His messianic claims, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies concerning a healer and deliverer. The healings demonstrate Jesus’ authority over disease, death, and the forces of evil, solidifying His identity as the Son of God.
Consider the faith of those healed and the reactions of onlookers; they underscore the transformative impact of Jesus’ presence and ministry.
B. Calming the Storm: Authority Over Nature
The dramatic account of Jesus calming the storm (Matthew 8:23-27) powerfully illustrates His authority extending beyond human illness to the very forces of nature. Faced with a terrifying tempest, the disciples’ fear reveals their limited understanding of Jesus’ divine power.
His simple command, “Peace, be still,” immediately subdues the raging elements, demonstrating a control surpassing any earthly power. This miracle isn’t simply about stopping a storm; it’s about revealing Jesus’ sovereignty over creation itself.
The disciples’ question, “Who is this?” highlights the awe-inspiring realization of His true identity – the Son of God.
C. The Casting Out of Demons: Victory Over Evil
Matthew frequently depicts Jesus casting out demons (Matthew 8:28-34), showcasing His decisive victory over the forces of evil. These encounters aren’t merely displays of power, but symbolic representations of Jesus breaking the chains of spiritual oppression. The demon-possessed individuals, often marginalized and suffering, are restored to wholeness.
The demons’ recognition of Jesus’ authority – “What do you want with us, Son of God?” – underscores His divine nature and their subjugation to His will.
The casting of demons into the pigs, though seemingly harsh, illustrates the destructive nature of evil and its incompatibility with God’s creation.
VI. Jesus’ Teachings and Rejection (Chapters 10-12)
Jesus commissions the twelve apostles (Matthew 10) and delivers scathing rebukes to the Pharisees, facing increasing opposition and accusations of blasphemy.
A. Sending Out the Twelve Apostles
Jesus empowers His twelve disciples with authority to preach, heal, and cast out demons (Matthew 10:1-42). This commissioning marks a pivotal moment, extending Jesus’ ministry beyond His immediate presence. He instructs them to focus on the “lost sheep of Israel,” proclaiming the Kingdom of Heaven is near.
The apostles are warned of persecution and rejection, yet encouraged to rely on God’s provision and protection. Jesus emphasizes that their message is more important than their safety, assuring them that even their suffering will serve a purpose. This section highlights the cost of discipleship and the power of unwavering faith in the face of adversity.
B. Woes to the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law
Matthew 23 delivers a series of scathing indictments against the Pharisees and teachers of the law (Matthew 23:1-39). Jesus publicly exposes their hypocrisy, criticizing their focus on outward religious observance while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He condemns their pride, demanding honor but failing to live up to their own standards.
These “woes” aren’t simply expressions of anger, but lamentations over their spiritual blindness and the harm they inflict on others. Jesus accuses them of shutting the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces and burdening others with unbearable rules. This section reveals the dangers of legalism and the importance of genuine, heartfelt devotion to God.
C. Parables of the Kingdom: Seeds, Weeds, Mustard Seed
Matthew 13 presents a cluster of parables illustrating the nature and growth of the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 13:1-52). The Parable of the Sower explains how different hearts respond to God’s word, highlighting the importance of receptive soil. The Parable of the Weeds depicts the ongoing struggle between good and evil within the Kingdom.
The Parable of the Mustard Seed demonstrates the Kingdom’s seemingly small beginnings but eventual expansive growth. These parables reveal that the Kingdom isn’t a sudden, dramatic event, but a gradual process requiring patience and discernment. They emphasize God’s sovereignty and the ultimate triumph of His reign.
D. Blasphemy Against the Holy Spirit
Matthew 12:22-32 details a critical warning: blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (Matthew 12:22-32). This isn’t simply insulting God, but persistently and knowingly rejecting God’s clear revelation and power, specifically attributing Jesus’ miracles to demonic forces.
This rejection demonstrates a hardened heart, closing off any possibility of forgiveness. It’s a deliberate refusal of grace, a final and irrevocable step away from God. Understanding this parable requires recognizing the profound role of the Holy Spirit in revealing Jesus’ identity and the gravity of rejecting that revelation.
VII. Jesus’ Growing Recognition and Withdrawal (Chapters 13-14)
As Jesus’ fame increased, He strategically withdrew for prayer and rest, balancing public ministry with personal communion with the Father, demonstrating His divine nature.
A. The Parable of the Sower Explained
The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:18-23) unveils the diverse responses to God’s Word. The seed falling on the path represents those who hear but don’t understand, quickly forgetting. Rocky ground symbolizes initial enthusiasm fading due to persecution. Thorns depict worldly anxieties choking spiritual growth.
However, fertile soil embodies receptive hearts yielding abundant fruit—thirty, sixty, or a hundredfold. This illustrates the crucial need for prepared hearts, free from distractions, to fully embrace and live out the Gospel’s transformative power. Understanding this parable is vital for effective discipleship.
B. The Feeding of the Five Thousand
The miraculous feeding of the five thousand (Matthew 14:13-21) powerfully demonstrates Jesus’ divine power and compassion. He took five loaves and two fish, blessed them, and miraculously multiplied them to feed a crowd of over five thousand people, with leftovers filling twelve baskets.
This event isn’t merely about physical sustenance; it foreshadows the Eucharist and highlights Jesus as the “bread of life” (John 6:35). It reveals His ability to meet profound needs and underscores the faith required to receive His provision abundantly.
C. Peter’s Confession of Jesus as the Christ
Peter’s pivotal declaration, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16), marks a turning point in Matthew’s Gospel. This wasn’t a human deduction, but a revelation from God the Father, acknowledged by Jesus himself.
This confession signifies understanding Jesus’ true identity as the Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. Jesus then declares Peter “rock,” upon which He will build His church, foreshadowing the apostle’s leadership role and the church’s foundation in faith. It’s a moment of profound recognition and commitment.
VIII. Jesus’ Journey to Jerusalem and Final Teachings (Chapters 15-20)
As Jesus travels toward Jerusalem, He confronts hypocrisy and delivers crucial teachings about discipleship, emphasizing humility and service to others before His passion.
A. Tradition and the Heart: Hypocrisy of the Pharisees
Jesus sharply criticizes the Pharisees and scribes for prioritizing outward religious rituals over genuine inner righteousness. They meticulously followed traditions, yet neglected justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). This hypocrisy stemmed from a heart focused on appearing pious rather than truly loving God and neighbor.
He challenges their interpretations of the Law, revealing how their adherence to rules masked a lack of compassion and spiritual understanding. Jesus emphasizes that true holiness originates from within, impacting thoughts, motives, and actions – a stark contrast to their superficial displays of devotion. This section highlights the danger of empty religious practice.
B. The Great Commission: Discipleship and Evangelism
Matthew’s Gospel culminates in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20), where Jesus commands His disciples to “make disciples of all nations.” This isn’t merely conversion, but a comprehensive process of teaching obedience to all His commands.
Discipleship involves ongoing learning and following, while evangelism extends this invitation to all people groups. Jesus promises His constant presence through the Holy Spirit, empowering believers for this monumental task. The commission underscores the universal scope of the Gospel and the continuing responsibility of believers to spread the message of salvation;
C. Parables of the Kingdom: Talents, Sheep and Goats
These parables (Matthew 25:14-30, 25:31-46) illustrate crucial aspects of Kingdom living and final judgment. The Parable of the Talents emphasizes responsible stewardship of God-given gifts, rewarding faithfulness and condemning inaction.
The Sheep and Goats parable reveals the basis of judgment: not merely belief, but demonstrated love and compassion towards others, particularly the least of these. Both parables highlight accountability and the eternal consequences of our choices, urging believers to actively live out their faith.
IX. The Triumphal Entry and Cleansing of the Temple (Chapters 21-22)
Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem (21:1-11) fulfills prophecy, proclaiming Him as Messiah. He then zealously purifies the Temple (21:12-13), rebuking commercialism.
A. The Triumphal Entry: Jesus as the Messiah
The Triumphal Entry (Matthew 21:1-11) dramatically portrays Jesus’ messianic identity. Riding on a donkey, fulfilling Zechariah 9:9, He enters Jerusalem amidst enthusiastic crowds who hail Him as the King.
This isn’t merely a celebratory parade; it’s a deliberate declaration. The waving of palm branches symbolizes victory and royalty, echoing Jewish expectations for a liberating Messiah.
However, Matthew subtly contrasts this earthly acclaim with Jesus’ humble nature. He presents Himself not as a conquering warrior, but as a peaceful King, entering to offer salvation. This entry sets the stage for the final week of Jesus’ ministry and His impending sacrifice.
B. Cleansing the Temple: Zeal for God’s House
Immediately following the Triumphal Entry, Jesus confronts the commercialization within the Temple courts (Matthew 21:12-13). He drives out the merchants and money changers, overturning their tables, demonstrating righteous indignation.
This act isn’t simply about removing inconvenience; it’s a powerful statement against the desecration of God’s holy place. The Temple, intended for worship, had become a den of robbers, exploiting pilgrims for profit.
Jesus’ zeal for His Father’s house underscores His divine authority and exposes the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. This bold action foreshadows a new Temple – the Church – built on genuine worship, not commercial gain.
C. Parables of the Kingdom: The Two Sons, The Wedding Banquet
Matthew 22 presents two compelling parables illustrating responses to God’s invitation. The parable of the Two Sons (22:1-14) contrasts a son who initially refuses but later obeys with one who promises obedience but fails to deliver.
This highlights that genuine action, not mere profession, demonstrates true faith. The Wedding Banquet parable (22:1-10) depicts a king’s invitation rejected by invited guests, leading him to invite anyone he finds.
It emphasizes the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom, open to all who accept His invitation, and the consequences of rejecting it.
X. Jesus’ Final Warnings and the Olivet Discourse (Chapters 23-25)
These chapters detail Jesus’ condemnation of religious hypocrisy and prophecies concerning the Temple’s destruction and His eventual return, urging vigilance.
A. Woes on the Pharisees and Scribes
Jesus delivers a series of scathing indictments, termed “woes,” against the Pharisees and scribes, exposing their hypocrisy and prioritizing outward religious observance over genuine inner righteousness and compassion. He condemns their meticulous adherence to legalistic traditions while neglecting justice, mercy, and faith.
These leaders, entrusted with interpreting God’s law, were accused of burdening others with rules they themselves didn’t follow, focusing on trivial matters while ignoring essential moral principles. Spurgeon’s commentary highlights Matthew’s focus on revealing this contrast. Their pride and self-righteousness blinded them to the true spirit of the law, ultimately leading to their rejection of the Messiah.
B. Signs of the Times and the Coming of the Son of Man
Jesus outlines future events signaling His return and the culmination of the age, including wars, famines, earthquakes, and persecution of believers. These aren’t meant to cause fear, but to prepare disciples for what’s to come and to remain steadfast in their faith.
He emphasizes the importance of discernment, warning against false prophets and deceptive claims. The “abomination of desolation” is mentioned, referencing Daniel’s prophecy. Spurgeon’s insights suggest Matthew presents Jesus as the King, and this discourse details the events surrounding His ultimate reign. Vigilance and faithfulness are key themes.
C. The Parable of the Ten Virgins and the Talents
These parables powerfully illustrate the necessity of readiness and responsible stewardship. The ten virgins highlight the need for constant spiritual preparation, as the bridegroom’s arrival is unexpected. Only those prepared with sufficient “oil” (faith and good works) enter the wedding feast.
The parable of the talents emphasizes that God expects us to utilize our gifts and resources diligently. Those who invest and multiply their talents are rewarded, while the one who buries his faces judgment. Both stories underscore accountability and the importance of living purposefully for God’s kingdom.
