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This introduction to Matthew explains the value of studying the Bible in context and introduces the Gospel’s author, audience, timing, and outline. Matthew 1:1 then presents Jesus Christ through His name and His connection to David and Abraham.
Matthew 1:1–17 traces Jesus’ genealogy through God’s promises to Abraham, Judah, and David. The study considers the unexpected people in the royal line, the problem of the curse, and Joseph’s place in establishing Jesus’ legal royal ancestry.
Matthew 1:18–25 examines the virgin birth of Jesus, the work of the Holy Spirit, and Joseph’s response to God’s instruction. The promise of Immanuel reveals who Jesus is: God with us, coming to save His people from their sins.
Matthew 2 follows the wise men seeking and worshiping Jesus, Herod’s violent opposition, and Joseph’s obedience in protecting the child. The study traces the family’s journey through Egypt to Nazareth and the fulfillment of God’s prophetic word.
Matthew 3 presents John the Baptist’s call to repentance and his warning against empty religious confidence. The study examines water baptism, the coming work of the Spirit, and Jesus’ baptism, where the Father, Son, and Spirit are revealed together.
Matthew 4:1–11 follows Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness and His answers from Scripture. The study examines the devil’s appeals to appetite, presumption, and an easier path, showing the importance of knowing and obeying God’s word when temptation comes.
Matthew 4:12–25 traces the beginning of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee, His call to repentance, and His invitation for fishermen to follow Him. The study considers His ministry of teaching, preaching, and healing as the crowds begin to gather.
Matthew 5:1–12 introduces the Sermon on the Mount and the Beatitudes. Jesus describes the character and blessings of His disciples, from poverty of spirit and mourning to mercy, purity, peacemaking, and faithfulness under persecution.
Matthew 5:13–20 calls Jesus’ disciples to be salt and light, making the Father known through their lives. The study then examines Jesus’ fulfillment of the Law and the righteousness that goes beyond the outward religion of the scribes and Pharisees.
Matthew 5:21–32 moves beyond outward acts to the anger and lust within the heart. The study considers reconciliation, forgiveness, guarding the eyes, and Jesus’ teaching on adultery and divorce as expressions of God’s concern for inward righteousness.
Matthew 5:33–48 examines keeping our word, responding to mistreatment, and loving our enemies. Jesus challenges His disciples to reflect the Father’s character rather than repay evil with evil.
Matthew 6:1–13 examines giving and prayer that seek the Father rather than the approval of others. Jesus teaches sincere prayer through His model prayer, addressing God’s will, daily needs, forgiveness, and dependence on Him.
Matthew 6:14–24 connects forgiveness, sincere fasting, and the location of our treasure with the condition of our hearts. Jesus calls His disciples to seek the Father’s reward, store up lasting treasure, and serve God with undivided loyalty.
Matthew 6:25–34 addresses worry about daily needs and the future. Through the birds and flowers, Jesus points to the Father’s care and calls His disciples to seek God’s kingdom first, trusting Him for what they need today.
Matthew 7:1–14 examines judging others, first addressing our own faults, and exercising discernment. Jesus encourages asking the Father, treating others as we would want to be treated, and entering the narrow way that leads to life.
Matthew 7:15–29 warns that religious claims and impressive works can conceal a life that does not know Jesus. The study examines recognizing false prophets by their fruit and building securely by hearing and doing the words of Christ.
Matthew 8:1–17 follows Jesus cleansing a leper, healing a centurion’s servant, and restoring Peter’s mother-in-law. The study highlights Christ’s compassion and authority, the centurion’s remarkable faith, and the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy.
Matthew 8:18–34 considers the cost of following Jesus, the disciples’ fear during a storm, and His authority over demons. The study contrasts trusting Christ’s power with the refusal to welcome Him when obedience threatens personal comfort.
Matthew 9:1–17 reveals Jesus’ authority to forgive sins and His invitation to sinners through the healing of a paralytic and the call of Matthew. The study contrasts mercy and the new work of Christ with religious expectations that fail to recognize Him.
Matthew 9:18–38 follows people bringing impossible needs to Jesus: death, chronic illness, blindness, and demonic bondage. His compassion for the shepherdless crowds leads to the call to pray for laborers in God’s harvest.