The Gospel of Matthew Matthew’s View of the Gospel

1. Who wrote the Gospel? The text gives no indication The text gives no indication External evidence/tradition supports Matthew, the apostle External evidence/tradition supports Matthew, the apostle

Interesting thoughts: Interesting thoughts: –Organized –Only gospel with Jesus paying temple tax –In the account of calling of Levi, calls him Matthew and designates him as a publican

2. When was it written? Conclusion – Conclusion – After the destruction of the temple After the destruction of the temple

3. To whom was it written? Traditional view Traditional view –Primarily to ethnic Jews OT Quotes OT Quotes Genealogy to David Genealogy to David

4. Why was it written? Evangelistic emphasis for the Jews: Evangelistic emphasis for the Jews: –Jesus is fulfillment of prophecy –OT quotes show He is goal of OT revelation –Christianity is the consummation of Judaism –Jamnia – Christianity is fulfillment –Desire for them to recognize the Messiah

Provides instruction for how to live as a Christian Provides instruction for how to live as a Christian Preserves the teachings of Jesus Preserves the teachings of Jesus

5. What are some characteristics? Emphasis upon the Kingdom Emphasis upon the Kingdom Matthew preserves large blocks of teachings Matthew preserves large blocks of teachings Genealogy is used to demonstrate Jesus’ Messianic lineage Genealogy is used to demonstrate Jesus’ Messianic lineage

Universal Outlook Universal Outlook Emphasis on the church Emphasis on the church Strong eschatological emphasis Strong eschatological emphasis Comprehensive Comprehensive

6. What is the theme? To show the King of the Kingdom and the Kingdom of the King To show the King of the Kingdom and the Kingdom of the King