The Gospel of Matthew stands as a powerful testimony to the identity, mission, and majesty of Jesus Christ. Written primarily to a Jewish audience, Matthew’s account bridges the Old and New Testaments, showing that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah—the fulfillment of every promise God made to His covenant people.
As believers, we approach this Gospel with reverence and awe, knowing that every word of Scripture is inspired and profitable (2 Timothy 3:16). Matthew’s Gospel doesn’t just recount events—it unfolds the redemptive plan of God, rooted in His sovereignty and brought to pass through Christ the King.
The Author and His Purpose
Matthew, also known as Levi the tax collector, was one of Jesus’ twelve disciples. Transformed by grace, he wrote with a clear purpose: to demonstrate that Jesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.
He often quotes the Hebrew Scriptures, using phrases like “so that what was spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled.” This emphasis is not accidental—it reveals God’s faithfulness to His promises and His sovereign control over history.
Key Themes in Matthew’s Gospel
1. Jesus Is the Promised Messiah
From the genealogy in chapter 1 to the triumphal entry in chapter 21, Matthew shows that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham. He is not a new religious teacher—He is the King of kings who has come to establish His eternal kingdom (Matthew 1:1; 2:2; 16:16).
This Messianic focus calls us to worship Jesus not as a moral guide, but as the divine Redeemer who came to fulfill the law and prophets (Matthew 5:17).
2. The Kingdom of Heaven
Matthew alone uses the phrase “kingdom of heaven” more than 30 times. This kingdom is not political or worldly but spiritual and eternal. It is already inaugurated by Christ’s first coming and will be consummated at His return.
In Reformed theology, we understand the kingdom as both already and not yet. Christ reigns now, subduing His enemies and building His Church—but the fullness of His reign is still to come.
3. Fulfillment of Old Testament Prophecy
Matthew often cites prophetic texts to show that Christ fulfills God’s covenant promises. From Isaiah’s virgin birth prophecy (Matthew 1:22–23) to Micah’s mention of Bethlehem (Matthew 2:6), the Gospel underscores the continuity of God’s redemptive plan.
This reminds us that Scripture is not a disconnected collection of stories, but one unified narrative centered on Christ.
4. God’s Sovereign Grace
Though Matthew writes to a Jewish audience, he highlights the inclusion of Gentiles and “outsiders” in the kingdom (see the Magi in chapter 2 and the Canaanite woman in chapter 15). This mirrors the Reformed understanding of election: God’s grace is not bound by nationality or merit—it is sovereign and free.
Jesus calls whom He wills and reveals the Father to those the Father has given Him (Matthew 11:27). Salvation is not earned; it is given.
5. Christ’s Authority and Discipleship
From the Sermon on the Mount to the Great Commission, Matthew presents Jesus as the One with unmatched authority. He teaches with authority (Matthew 7:29), heals with power, and commands His followers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:18–20).
For Christians, discipleship is not optional—it is the natural fruit of regeneration. Those saved by grace are called to live under Christ’s lordship.
Chapter Analysis
The Gospel of Matthew, authored by the apostle Matthew—a former tax collector turned disciple—offers a comprehensive account of Jesus Christ’s life, ministry, death, and resurrection. Matthew’s meticulous attention to detail provides readers with a structured narrative that bridges the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
Chapters 1–2: The Genealogy and Birth of Jesus
Matthew begins by tracing Jesus’ lineage back to Abraham, establishing His rightful place in Jewish history and fulfilling the prophecy of 2 Samuel. The narrative then recounts Jesus’ birth, the visit of the wise men, and the family’s subsequent move to Nazareth, highlighting the divine orchestration of events surrounding the Messiah’s arrival.
Chapters 3–4: The Baptism and Temptation of Jesus
John the Baptist emerges as the forerunner to Christ, baptizing Jesus and witnessing the Holy Spirit descending upon Him, accompanied by God’s voice affirming Jesus as His beloved Son (Matthew 3:16–17). Following His baptism, Jesus faces temptation in the wilderness, rebuking Satan and commencing His public ministry with the proclamation: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17).
Chapters 5–7: The Sermon on the Mount
In these chapters, Jesus delivers the Sermon on the Mount, beginning with the Beatitudes, which describe the characteristics of those blessed in God’s kingdom. He clarifies that He came not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it, offering teachings on topics such as anger, lust, divorce, oaths, retaliation, love for enemies, giving to the needy, prayer, fasting, and anxiety. Jesus emphasizes the importance of internal righteousness over external compliance, urging listeners to build their lives on the solid foundation of His words.
Chapters 8–9: Miracles and the Call of Matthew
Jesus demonstrates His authority through various miracles, including healing the sick, calming a storm, and casting out demons. Notably, He calls Matthew, the tax collector, to follow Him, showcasing the transformative power of His call. These chapters underscore Jesus’ compassion and authority over physical and spiritual realms.
Chapters 10–11: Commissioning the Twelve and Teaching
Jesus commissions His twelve apostles, granting them authority to heal and cast out demons, while warning them of impending persecutions. He teaches about the cost of discipleship and extends an invitation to all who are weary to find rest in Him, emphasizing His gentle and humble heart (Matthew 11:28–29).
Chapters 12–13: Confrontations and Parables
Jesus faces opposition from the Pharisees, who challenge His authority and actions. In response, He teaches in parables, illustrating truths about the kingdom of heaven. Despite performing miracles, Jesus encounters unbelief, particularly in His hometown, highlighting the varied responses to His ministry.
Chapters 14–15: Miracles, Compassion, and Confrontation
In chapter 14, we learn that John the Baptist is executed, and Jesus seeks solitude to grieve. However, moved by compassion when the crowds follow Him, He heals their sick. As evening falls, Jesus miraculously feeds over 5,000 people with only five loaves and two fish—highlighting His divine power and care. Afterward, Jesus sends the disciples across the sea while He dismisses the crowd. That night, He walks on water through a storm to meet the disciples. When Peter steps out in faith to join Him, he begins to sink as fear overtakes him. Jesus saves him, and the disciples worship Jesus, declaring, “Truly you are the Son of God” (Matthew 14:33).
Upon arriving in Gennesaret, Jesus continues to heal many. In chapter 15, He clashes with the Pharisees and scribes who accuse His disciples of breaking traditions. Jesus exposes their hypocrisy, teaching that true defilement comes from the heart, not unwashed hands. He then feeds another crowd—this time 4,000 people—with seven loaves and a few small fish, once again demonstrating abundant provision.
Chapter 16: Confession and Clarity
Religious leaders demand a sign from Jesus, but He rebukes them, calling them blind to the signs already given. Later, Peter confesses that Jesus is “the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). Jesus affirms Peter’s confession but instructs the disciples not to reveal His identity yet. He then begins to explain His coming death and resurrection, preparing them for the suffering ahead. He reminds His followers that true discipleship involves self-denial and taking up one’s cross (Matthew 16:24).
Chapters 17–20: Revelation, Teaching, and Humble Service
In chapter 17, Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John, radiating divine glory and speaking with Moses and Elijah. God’s voice affirms Jesus as His beloved Son, commanding, “Listen to Him” (Matthew 17:5). Afterward, Jesus heals a demon-possessed boy and miraculously provides the temple tax through a coin found in a fish.
Jesus continues to teach about humility, temptation, forgiveness, and kingdom values. He uses parables to illustrate these truths. As He travels to Judea, He answers questions on divorce, welcomes children, and teaches that entrance into the kingdom requires childlike faith and dependence. Jesus foretells His death a third time and heals two blind men on the road to Jerusalem.
Chapters 21–22: Authority and the Coming Kingdom
Jesus enters Jerusalem triumphantly on a donkey, fulfilling prophecy and signifying His kingship. He cleanses the temple, curses a fruitless fig tree, and teaches that faith brings power in prayer (Matthew 21:22). Religious leaders challenge Him, but Jesus responds with parables exposing their rejection of God’s messengers.
In chapter 22, the Pharisees and Sadducees attempt to trap Jesus with tricky questions. He silences them with divine wisdom and ends the debate by asking them a question they cannot answer. He then delivers the Great Commandment: to love God fully and love your neighbor as yourself.
Chapters 23–25: Warnings, Prophecy, and Judgment
Jesus delivers seven woes against the scribes and Pharisees, condemning their hypocrisy and legalism (Matthew 23). He then foretells the destruction of the temple and gives detailed signs of the end of the age (Matthew 24). Jesus warns that no one knows the day or hour of His return—only the Father (Matthew 24:36). He illustrates readiness through parables like the Ten Virgins and the Talents. Chapter 25 concludes with the final judgment, where the Son of Man separates the righteous from the wicked, urging us to serve faithfully in anticipation of His return.
Matthew Chapter 26: The Final Hours Begin
Jesus tells His disciples the Passover is approaching—and with it, His crucifixion. A woman anoints Him with expensive ointment, symbolically preparing Him for burial. During the Last Supper, Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper, revealing that one of His disciples will betray Him.
In Gethsemane, Jesus prays in deep anguish. Judas arrives with a crowd, betrays Jesus with a kiss, and He is arrested. Brought before the high priest, Jesus endures false accusations. Meanwhile, Peter denies Him three times, just as Jesus predicted.
Chapter 27: The Crucifixion
The next morning, Jesus is handed over to Pilate. Judas, filled with remorse, takes his own life. The crowd chooses to release Barabbas and demands Jesus’ crucifixion. Roman soldiers mock and beat Him. At Golgotha, Jesus is crucified between two criminals. At the moment of His death, the temple curtain tears in two and the earth quakes—signs that the way to God is now open through Christ.
Jesus is buried in a sealed tomb, guarded by Roman soldiers.
Matthew Chapter 28: The Risen King and Great Commission
On the third day, an angel rolls the stone away from the tomb, announcing that Jesus has risen! He appears first to women and then to His disciples in Galilee. Jesus commissions them with these final words:
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18–20)
Why Matthew Matters Today
In a world filled with spiritual confusion, Matthew’s Gospel gives clarity. It answers the essential question: Who is Jesus? The answer—He is the Christ, the Son of the living God—who calls us to repent, believe, and follow Him.
For the believer, Matthew offers rich theology, covenant continuity, and a vision of Christ’s glory that fuels worship and mission. As you read, remember: this isn’t just history—it’s God’s Word, meant to transform you today.
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.” – Matthew 24:35
The Gospel of Matthew reveals Jesus as the true King, promised Messiah, suffering Savior, and reigning Lord. From His birth to His resurrection, Matthew testifies that Christ is the fulfillment of all God’s promises. His call is clear: follow Him, trust Him, and proclaim Him to the nations.
Dawn Zauner 