Matthew:
A Quick Overview

by Milo

Follow us on social media for
FREEBIES and New Article releases.

OR

Sign Up for Our Freebie Email List and Have Freebies Delivered Directly To Your Inbox

Introduction

The Gospel of Matthew presents Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and King. It focuses on His teachings, fulfillment of prophecy, and the establishment of His kingdom.

Authorship and Date

Matthew, a former tax collector and one of Jesus' twelve apostles, is traditionally recognized as the author. The Gospel was likely written between AD 50 and 70.

Purpose and Themes

Matthew wrote primarily to a Jewish audience to show that Jesus is the promised Messiah. Major themes include:

• Fulfillment of Prophecy: Jesus fulfills Old Testament promises.
• The Kingdom of Heaven: Emphasis on God’s reign through Christ.
• Jesus as Teacher: Includes the Sermon on the Mount and parables.
• Discipleship: What it means to follow Jesus.

Key Verses

• Matthew 1:21 – “You are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
• Matthew 5:14 – “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
• Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
• Matthew 16:16 – “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
• Matthew 28:19-20 – “Go and make disciples of all nations... I am with you always.”

Summary of Content

The Gospel of Matthew is structured to highlight Jesus’ life, message, and mission as the Savior and King of the Jews.

Structure of Matthew

• Chapters 1–4: Birth and preparation for ministry
• Chapters 5–7: Sermon on the Mount
• Chapters 8–20: Ministry, miracles, and teachings
• Chapters 21–27: Final week, crucifixion, and death
• Chapter 28: Resurrection and Great Commission

Notable Characters

• Jesus Christ: The Messiah, teacher, and Savior
• Mary and Joseph: Earthly parents of Jesus
• John the Baptist: Forerunner who prepares the way
• Peter: Prominent disciple and leader
• Pharisees and Sadducees: Religious leaders often in conflict with Jesus
• Pontius Pilate: Roman governor who authorized the crucifixion

Application and Relevance

Matthew challenges believers to live according to Jesus’ teachings and recognize Him as King. His Gospel emphasizes the importance of righteousness, prayer, humility, and commitment to God's kingdom. The Great Commission at the end of the book reminds readers of the call to make disciples and share the message of Jesus with the world.

Connections to Other Books

Matthew draws heavily from the Old Testament, quoting prophets like Isaiah, Micah, and Hosea. It aligns with the other Gospels—Mark, Luke, and John—while offering a unique perspective on Jesus as King. Matthew’s references to Old Testament prophecy help tie together God’s plan from Genesis to Revelation.

Study Questions

1. Why is the genealogy in Matthew 1 important to understanding Jesus' identity?
2. What does the Sermon on the Mount teach about the kingdom of heaven?
3. How did Jesus fulfill Old Testament prophecy?
4. What does Matthew reveal about discipleship?
5. What lessons can we learn from Jesus’ parables?
6. How did Jesus confront the religious leaders of His day?
7. What does Matthew 16:16 reveal about Peter's understanding of Jesus?
8. Why is the Great Commission important for believers today?
9. How did Jesus prepare His followers for persecution and trials?
10. How does the resurrection in Matthew 28 affirm Jesus’ divine mission?

FAQs and Common Questions

• Who wrote the Gospel of Matthew?
  Matthew, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles and a former tax collector.
• When was Matthew written?
  Most scholars date it between AD 50 and 70.
• What audience was Matthew writing to?
  Primarily Jewish readers, highlighting Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.
• What is the main theme of Matthew?
  Jesus as the promised Messiah and King, and the nature of His kingdom.
• What is the Sermon on the Mount?
  A collection of Jesus' teachings on righteous living (Matthew 5–7).
• Why does Matthew quote the Old Testament so often?
  To demonstrate how Jesus fulfills messianic prophecy.
• What is the significance of the Great Commission?
  Jesus’ command to His followers to share the gospel worldwide (Matthew 28:19-20).
• How is Matthew different from the other Gospels?
  It focuses more on prophecy and the teachings of Jesus as the new lawgiver.
• How does Matthew portray Jesus?
  As the King of the Jews and fulfillment of the Law and Prophets.
• Is Matthew’s Gospel chronological?
  Generally, yes, but some sections are arranged thematically.

Daily Reading Plan

More Bible Overviews

Organize Your Study Time
Purchase a Journal Today.

Recommended Reading

Milo ScriptSmith