Understanding the Gospel of Matthew

Aug 29, 2024

Lecture Notes: The Gospel According to Matthew

Introduction

  • Jesus as Messiah: From the line of David, a new authoritative teacher like Moses, and Emmanuel ("God with us").
  • Kingdom of God: Jesus announces and demonstrates the arrival of God’s kingdom.
  • Acceptance and Rejection: Welcomed by many, but rejected by religious leaders (Pharisees).

Conflict with Religious Leaders

  • Chapters 14-20: Explore expectations of the Messiah.
  • Miracles: Healing and providing food, reminiscent of Moses’ miracles.
  • Religious Leaders' Expectations: Based on Psalm 2 and Daniel 2, expecting a victorious and militant Messiah.
  • Opposition to Jesus: Viewed as a false teacher by religious leaders who plan to kill him.

Jesus’ Teachings About His Role

  • Disciples’ Understanding: Jesus challenges their expectations of a military king.
  • Messianic Role: Jesus as a servant king who will suffer and die, as prophesied by Isaiah.
  • Upside-Down Kingdom: Core teachings on humility, service, forgiveness, and generosity.

Clash of Kingdoms

  • Jesus Enters Jerusalem: Rides a donkey, hailed as Messiah.
  • Temple Disruption: Asserts royal authority, challenges the leaders' hypocrisy.
  • Leaders’ Response: Attempt to trap and shame Jesus, decide to kill him.

Final Teachings and Predictions

  • Critique of Pharisees: Criticism of their hypocrisy.
  • Prophecy for Jerusalem: Predicts leaders’ revolt and destruction of Jerusalem and the temple.
  • Resurrection Promise: Jesus predicts his resurrection and ultimate return.

The Passion Narrative

  • Passover Meal: Redefines the meal as a symbol of his sacrifice.
  • Arrest and Trials: Charged with blasphemy, judged by Pilate, sentenced to crucifixion.
  • Old Testament Fulfillment: References to show Jesus’ death as fulfillment of prophetic promises.

Resurrection and the Great Commission

  • Empty Tomb: Discovery of Jesus’ resurrection.
  • Appearances: Witnesses see Jesus alive.
  • Great Commission: Jesus as the true king of the world, instructs disciples to spread the good news.
  • Promise of Presence: "I will be with you" until his return.

Conclusion

  • Overall Message: Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection fulfill Old Testament prophecies, establishing his eternal kingdom and presence with his followers.