Matthew
Author
The Gospel is attributed to Matthew, also called Levi — a former tax collector and one of the twelve apostles.
He writes to present Jesus as the Messiah, the King of Israel, and the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy.
Mini Biography of Matthew
Matthew (active ~30–50 AD) was a tax collector in Capernaum before Jesus called him to discipleship.
Likely educated in Hebrew, Aramaic, and possibly Greek, he left his occupation to follow Jesus.
Traditionally credited with writing the Gospel that bears his name, Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ teachings, miracles, and fulfilment of prophecy.
His perspective is deeply Jewish, showing Jesus as the promised Messiah for Israel.
Intended Audience
Matthew was written for:
Jewish Christians, needing assurance that Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecy
Gentiles, seeking to understand Jesus as Messiah and teacher
Future generations, learning the foundations of Christian faith and life
Matthew connects the Hebrew Scriptures with the life and mission of Jesus.
Purpose of the Book
Matthew exists to:
show Jesus as the Messiah and King
teach Jesus’ ethical and kingdom principles
encourage discipleship and obedience
reveal the nature and expansion of God’s kingdom
provide an authoritative record of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection
Date and Language
Written approximately 50–70 AD
Composed in Greek (Koine)
Likely written before the destruction of the Jerusalem temple in 70 AD.
Style / Category of Writing
Matthew blends:
narrative biography
teaching gospel
fulfilment motifs
parables and miracles
It weaves historical narrative with theological reflection, structured around five major teaching discourses.
What Is Special About Matthew
Strong emphasis on Jesus as the Messiah
Structured around Jesus’ major teachings
Practical guide for discipleship
Genealogy and birth narrative linking Jesus to Abraham and David
Concludes with the Great Commission
Interesting Facts
Contains unique content such as the visit of the Magi
Repeatedly uses the formula: “This was to fulfil what was spoken by the prophet…”
Highlights conflicts with religious leaders
Focuses on kingdom ethics — love, humility, prayer, mercy
Genealogy emphasizes Jesus’ legal and messianic lineage
Why Matthew Should Be Valued
Matthew:
shows Jesus as the fulfilment of prophecy
provides a blueprint for ethical Christian living
encourages discipleship and evangelism
strengthens Jewish‑Christian understanding
offers practical and spiritual guidance
Why It Was Included in the Bible
Matthew was preserved because it:
reveals Jesus as the promised Messiah
connects Old and New Testaments
teaches kingdom ethics and discipleship
provides historical and theological foundation for the church
guides worship, mission, and Christian living
Historical Context
Matthew was written for Jewish Christians in Palestine and surrounding regions after Jesus’ resurrection.
The early church was forming, needing instruction and assurance of Jesus’ messianic identity.
Roman rule, religious tension, and emerging Christian identity shaped the context.
Matthew reinforces faith, obedience, and mission, linking Jewish heritage with the new covenant. “
What God Wants to Convey Through Matthew
“Jesus is the Messiah and King.”
“The kingdom of God is present and active.”
“Discipleship requires faith, obedience, and action.”
“My covenant faithfulness continues in Christ.”
“Faith and righteousness are essential.”
“Evangelism is central to My plan.”
“Hope is grounded in resurrection and divine authority.”
Summary of Matthew
Matthew presents Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah, the King of Israel, and the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy.
Written primarily for a Jewish audience, it emphasizes Jesus’ lineage from David, His authority, and His role in establishing God’s kingdom.
The Gospel combines narratives of Jesus’ life, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection, highlighting His divine authority and messianic mission.
The Gospel records Jesus’ ministry in Galilee and Judea, focusing on His teaching, parables, and interactions with followers and opponents.
Key teachings include the Sermon on the Mount, the parables of the kingdom, and instructions for righteous living.
Matthew shows Jesus as the fulfilment of prophecy, connecting His life to God’s covenant promises and demonstrating that salvation is offered to both Jews and Gentiles.
The Gospel culminates in Jesus’ passion, crucifixion, and resurrection, revealing God’s plan for redemption and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.
Matthew concludes with the Great Commission, calling disciples to make disciples of all nations.
The book emphasizes obedience, faith, and the assurance that Jesus is the sovereign Lord who brings forgiveness, reconciliation, and eternal life.
Ten Key Bible Verses in Matthew
Matthew 1:21 — Jesus saves His people from their sins
Matthew 5:16 — Let your light shine
Matthew 5:44 — Love your enemies
Matthew 6:33 — Seek first the kingdom
Matthew 7:7 — Ask, seek, knock
Matthew 11:28 — “Come to Me… and I will give you rest.”
Matthew 16:18 — “On this rock I will build My church.”
Matthew 22:37–39 — The greatest commandments
Matthew 28:19–20 — The Great Commission
Matthew 9:37–38 — The plentiful harvest
Main Themes in Matthew
Jesus as Messiah and King
The kingdom of God
Discipleship
Righteousness and ethical living
Prayer and dependence on God
Forgiveness and redemption
Evangelism and mission
God’s sovereignty and authority
Practical Applications for Today
Follow Jesus as Lord in daily life
Prioritise God’s kingdom
Practise love, forgiveness, and humility
Engage in prayer and trust God’s provision
Participate in discipleship and mentorship
Share the gospel through words and actions
Stand firm in faith
Live ethically in personal and social life
Lessons for Today’s World from Matthew
Matthew teaches that Jesus is the fulfilment of God’s promises and the source of salvation.
In a world of uncertainty and moral confusion, the Gospel calls believers to anchor their lives in Christ’s teachings and authority.
The book emphasizes that faith is active and relational — expressed through obedience, love, and service.
Finally, Matthew challenges believers to embrace God’s mission for all nations, showing that the kingdom of God expands through discipleship, evangelism, and transformed lives.