Gospels · New Testament
The Book of Matthew
Matthew presents Jesus as the promised Messiah and King of Israel, demonstrating through Old Testament prophecy that Jesus fulfills the covenant promises made to Abraham and David.
- Chapters
- 28
- Testament
- New
- Category
- Gospels
- Traditional Author
- Traditionally attributed to Matthew (Levi), one of the twelve apostles
Overview
Matthew opens with the genealogy of Jesus, tracing His lineage through David and Abraham. The book records the birth of Christ, the ministry of John the Baptist, and the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. It contains five major teaching discourses, including the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew details the miracles, parables, and teachings of Jesus, His conflict with the religious leaders, and His prophecy of the destruction of the temple. The book culminates in the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus and closes with the Great Commission.
Key Themes
- Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy
- The kingdom of heaven
- Righteousness that exceeds the law
- Discipleship and the cost of following Jesus
- The Great Commission
Key Verses
"And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins."
Matthew 1:21 (NKJV)
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
Matthew 28:19-20 (NKJV)
How It Applies Today
Matthew teaches that Jesus is the fulfillment of all God's promises and calls every believer to follow Him in obedience. The Sermon on the Mount challenges disciples to pursue a righteousness that flows from the heart, not merely outward compliance. The Great Commission reminds believers that the mission to make disciples extends to all nations and all generations.