The Gospel of Matthew

1
The Gospel of Matthew

• Most popular Gospel through most of history
• Author traditionally assumed to be one of Jesus
  disciples (a tax collector)
• Very Jewish flavor to this Gospel (assumes
  knowledge of Judaism)
• Probably written 80-90 CE

2
Matthews Style

• Prophecy-fulfillment motif (41 times)
• This was to fulfill what was written by the
  prophet
• (In fact, prototypical events/texts)
• See, e.g., Matt 215 (compare Hosea 111)
• Matthew generally follows Marks narrative (but
  he adds, rearranges, and condenses)

3
Structure of Matthew

• Matthew adds five sections of teaching/activity
  to Marks narrative -- repetitive pattern
• When he had finished saying these things
• 31729 Proclaims kingdom of heaven
• 81-111 Ministry in Galilee
• 1121353 Controversies/opposition
• 1354191 Instructs church predicts passion
• 192261 Journey to passion

4
Some Key Texts in Matthew

• Geneaology (ch. 1)
• Birth (chs. 12 Emmanuel, Magi, Egypt)
• Sermon on the Mount (chs. 57 Beatitudes,
  Antitheses, hypocrisy, judgmentalism)
• Unique Parables (ch. 20 Wages ch. 25 Sheep
  Goats)

5
Key Themes in Matthew

• Jesus credentials as Israels true messiah
• Jesus is Torahs supreme teacher interpreter
• (Jesus above Moses -- in effect, a new law)
• Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 57)
• Antitheses
• You have heard it said that . . . But I tell
  you . . .
• Jesus instructs the community (church) in
  appropriate belief and behavior -- to ensure
  Jesus approval upon his return