1. MATTHEW Jesus is King

2. What is a Gospel? The NT books Matthew, Mark, Luke & John A type of biblical literature Not a biography in the usual sense Answer is related to their purpose: to create or strengthen faith in Jesus So, a form of proclamation (“gospel” literally means good news)

3. Why is Matthew First in the NT? An emphasis on fulfillment of OT prophecy Deep OT roots in genealogy of Jesus Direct link to Malachi in identification of Elijah/John (11:14) Gospel of dominant use among early Christians Structure useful as teaching aid for new converts

4. Overview Identity of Jesus as king (1:1-4:16) The kingdom proclaimed in word and action (4:17-16:20) The way to the cross, resurrection and authority (16:21-28:20)

5. Characteristics A “Jewish” gospel (lineage of Jesus, sermon on the mount, extensive use of OT) Structure built around 5 large blocks of teaching alternated with narratives (stories) The prominent role of the “kingdom of God” The “end” of things (24-25)

6. Themes Jesus fulfills the OT story, because he is a legitimate king in the line of David Jesus surpasses the OT story by bringing the greater righteousness Jesus is the authoritative interpreter of the OT and all of God’s work Because Jesus is King, it demands a decision and response

7. Lessons for Us The ____________ of heaven is the rule of God in our lives. We must listen to _____________ and obey his words if we want to be in the kingdom. Living in the kingdom is as much about our ___________ as it is our actions. Living in the kingdom means we will make ____________ of all nations.

8. Key Verse “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:16