I. Introduction
The Gospel of Matthew speaks directly to those in need of hope. It is a message for the oppressed, the impoverished, the sick, the lonely, and the unloved—anyone seeking freedom from life’s troubles. As the first book of the New Testament, it introduces Yeshua/Jesus, the Messiah, who came to bring healing, redemption, and a promise of new life. In His time, Aramaic was the language spoken by all of His apostles, friends, and family. In Aramaic, His name is Yeshua so in this document we recognize Yeshua as His original name and Jesus as the modern day translation into English. The two will be used interchangeably.
The Gospel of Matthew was authored principally to a Jewish audience of the day. It emphasizes the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy, Jewish genealogy and lineage, Jewish customs and law, the kingdom of heaven, tension with religious leaders, and concludes with a universal mission that includes Gentiles.
In Jesus’ day, the Jewish people lived under Roman occupation, yearning for the promised Messiah to deliver them from suffering and restore their dignity. This context resonates deeply with anyone who has ever felt powerless or abandoned. Thus, the Gospel of Matthew presents not only a King descended from David but also a compassionate Redeemer who invites everyone, regardless of their past, into His kingdom.
This article will delve into the Gospel’s rich themes and teachings, examining Yeshua’s identity, His call to discipleship, and His enduring relevance. We hope to uncover what The Gospel of Matthew reveals about the Messiah’s mission, and how it offers hope for a better life?
II. The Lineage and Birth of the Messiah
A. The Genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:1-17)
The Gospel of Matthew begins with a genealogy that firmly establishes Yeshua as the fulfillment of God’s covenant promises. By tracing His lineage through Abraham, the father of Israel, and David, Israel’s greatest king, Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ identity as the promised Messiah and rightful heir to the throne of David. This connection to both Abraham and David not only roots Yeshua’s mission in Jewish history but also underscores His role as the one through whom all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3).
Notably, Matthew includes several women in the genealogy—Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and Bathsheba (referred to as “the wife of Uriah”). Their inclusion is significant for several reasons. First, these women were Gentiles or outsiders, highlighting the universal scope of Yeshua’s mission. Second, their stories often involve unexpected or extraordinary circumstances, reflecting God’s redemptive power and His ability to use flawed or marginalized individuals for His purposes. This inclusion foreshadows the Gospel’s overarching theme: the invitation of all people, Jew and Gentile alike, into the kingdom of heaven.
B. The Birth Narrative (Matthew 1:18-25)
Critically, Matthew’s account of Jesus’ birth underscores both divine intervention and human obedience. Yeshua is conceived by the Holy Spirit, fulfilling Isaiah 7:14: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel”—meaning “God is with us.” As a result, His miraculous birth signals the arrival of the Messiah, who embodies God’s presence among His people.
Joseph, engaged to Mary, demonstrates extraordinary faith and obedience to God. For example, when he learns of Mary’s pregnancy, he initially plans to divorce her quietly to avoid public shame. However, after an angel appears to him in a dream and explains the divine nature of the child, Joseph trusts God’s plan. Critically, he takes Mary as his wife and names the child Jesus, which means “YHWH is salvation”—a name that encapsulates His mission to save His people from their sins (Matthew 1:21).
C. The Visit of the Magi and the Flight to Egypt (Matthew 2:1-23)
The contrasting reactions to Yeshua’s birth reveal much about His identity and mission. Gentile magi from the East, guided by a miraculous star, travel great distances to worship the newborn King and offer Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:1-11). Their homage signifies the recognition of Yeshua’s kingship by the nations.
In stark contrast, King Herod reacts with hostility and fear, seeing the child as a threat to his power. Herod’s attempt to kill Jesus forces Joseph to take his family and flee to Egypt. This event fulfills Hosea 11:1: “Out of Egypt I called my son.” Just as Israel was called out of Egypt in the Exodus, Yeshua embodies the true Son of God, reliving and surpassing Israel’s story.
After Herod’s death, Joseph is instructed to return to Israel, settling in Nazareth. This fulfills another prophecy: “He shall be called a Nazarene” (Matthew 2:23). Through these events, Matthew weaves together prophecy and narrative to highlight Yeshua’s divine purpose and the sovereign hand of God in protecting His Messiah.
III. The Ministry of Jesus Begins
A. John the Baptist’s Proclamation (Matthew 3:1-12)
The ministry of Yeshua is introduced through the bold proclamation of John the Baptist, a fiery prophet and forerunner of the Messiah. John calls people to repentance, urging them to prepare for the coming kingdom of heaven (Matthew 3:2). The baptism of Yeshua in the Jordan River symbolizes purification and readiness for divine renewal. Quoting Isaiah 40:3, John identifies himself as “the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord.’”
John’s message highlights the urgency of repentance, warning of imminent judgment. He chastises the Pharisees and Sadducees, calling them a “brood of vipers” and challenging their reliance on heritage rather than genuine faith (Matthew 3:7-9). John’s declaration that “one mightier than I is coming” (Matthew 3:11) shifts the focus to Yeshua, who will baptize not with water but with the Holy Spirit and fire—a clear reference to the transformative power of the Messiah.
B. The Baptism of Jesus (Matthew 3:13-17)
Yeshua’s baptism marks the beginning of His public ministry and reveals His divine identity. Though John hesitates, recognizing that he is unworthy to baptize the Messiah, Yeshua insists, saying, “It is proper for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15). His baptism underscores His solidarity with humanity, identifying with sinners despite His sinlessness.
This pivotal moment includes a profound Trinitarian revelation. As Yeshua emerges from the water, the heavens open, the Spirit of God descends like a dove, and the voice of the Father declares, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). This scene confirms Yeshua’s divine mission and relationship with the Father while signifying the presence of the Holy Spirit to empower His ministry.
C. The Temptation in the Wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11)
Immediately after His baptism, Yeshua is led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by HaSatan (Satan). This 40-day trial echoes Israel’s 40 years in the desert, but where Israel failed, Yeshua triumphs. HaSatan tests Him with three temptations: turning stones to bread, throwing Himself from the temple, and worshiping HaSatan in exchange for worldly kingdoms.
Yeshua’s responses, grounded in Scripture, demonstrate His unwavering obedience to the Father. To the first temptation, He replies, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Deuteronomy 8:3). To the second, He states, “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test” (Deuteronomy 6:16). Finally, to HaSatan’s offer of power, He commands, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve’” (Deuteronomy 6:13).
Yeshua’s victory over HaSatan not only affirms His divine authority but also prepares Him for the ministry ahead. By overcoming temptation, He demonstrates His qualification as the sinless Messiah who will ultimately triumph over evil.
IV. The Teachings of Jesus: The Five Discourses
A. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7)
The Sermon on the Mount, often called the centerpiece of Yeshua’s teachings, begins with the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12). These declarations of blessing redefine what it means to be favored by God. The poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, and the peacemakers—individuals often overlooked by society—are revealed as the true heirs of the kingdom of heaven. This radical redefinition shifts the focus from external circumstances to internal attitudes of humility and dependence on God.
Yeshua then addresses the fulfillment of the Mosaic Law (Matthew 5:17-48). Far from abolishing it, He intensifies its demands through the “antitheses,” saying, “You have heard it said… but I say to you.” For example, He extends the commandment against murder to include anger and insults, and the prohibition against adultery to encompass lustful thoughts. This deepening of the law emphasizes internal transformation over mere outward compliance, calling His followers to a righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees (Matthew 5:20).
The Sermon also calls for authentic faith, contrasting true devotion with hypocritical practices. Yeshua teaches His followers to pray, fast, and give alms not for public recognition but to honor God (Matthew 6:1-18). The Lord’s Prayer, introduced here, reflects trust in God’s provision, forgiveness, and guidance. Yeshua concludes the Sermon with the parable of the wise and foolish builders, urging His listeners not just to hear His words but to live by them (Matthew 7:24-27).
B. The Missionary Discourse (Matthew 10:5-42)
In the second discourse, Yeshua commissions His twelve disciples, sending them to proclaim the kingdom of heaven. He instructs them to rely on God’s provision, taking no money or extra belongings, and to focus their mission on the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 10:5-15).
Yeshua warns the disciples of the persecution they will face, emphasizing that their mission will not be easy. “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves” (Matthew 10:16). Despite the challenges, He reassures them of God’s care, stating that even the hairs on their heads are numbered (Matthew 10:30). The discourse ends with a promise of reward for those who remain faithful: “Whoever loses his life for my sake will find it” (Matthew 10:39).
C. The Parable Discourse (Matthew 13:3-52)
In His third discourse, Yeshua uses parables to explain the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. The parable of the sower (Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23) describes different responses to the Gospel, illustrating the importance of a receptive heart. The parable of the wheat and tares (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43) highlights the coexistence of good and evil until the final judgment, when God will separate the righteous from the wicked.
Other parables, such as the mustard seed and the leaven (Matthew 13:31-33), portray the kingdom’s growth from humble beginnings to an all-encompassing reality. Yeshua’s teaching challenges His listeners to reflect on their own faith and readiness for the kingdom. “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field” (Matthew 13:44), He says, emphasizing its immeasurable value.
D. The Church Order Discourse (Matthew 18:1-35)
The fourth discourse focuses on the community of believers, emphasizing humility, forgiveness, and mutual care. Yeshua begins by teaching that greatness in the kingdom comes from becoming like a child—humble, trusting, and dependent on God (Matthew 18:1-5). He warns against causing others to stumble, underscoring the responsibility believers have toward one another (Matthew 18:6-9).
Forgiveness is a central theme, as illustrated by the parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:21-35). Yeshua calls His followers to forgive without limits, just as God has forgiven them. This discourse provides a framework for resolving conflict within the church, stressing reconciliation and the power of collective prayer (Matthew 18:15-20).
E. The Eschatological Discourse (Matthew 24-25)
In His final discourse, Yeshua turns to the end times, preparing His followers for His return. He predicts the destruction of the temple and describes the signs of the last days: wars, famines, earthquakes, and the rise of false prophets (Matthew 24:1-14). Despite these tribulations, He reassures His disciples that the Gospel will be proclaimed to all nations before the end comes (Matthew 24:14).
Through parables, Yeshua emphasizes readiness and faithful stewardship. The parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) warns of the consequences of being unprepared, while the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) challenges believers to use their gifts for God’s glory. The discourse concludes with the parable of the sheep and goats (Matthew 25:31-46), depicting the final judgment. Yeshua makes clear that acts of love and service to others reflect true discipleship: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
V. The Miracles of Jesus: Signs of His Authority
The miracles of Yeshua/Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew serve as powerful demonstrations of His authority and divinity. These acts of compassion, power over nature, and inclusion reveal not only His identity as the Messiah but also His mission to bring healing and salvation to all people.
A. Healing and Compassion (Matthew 8-9)
Yeshua’s miracles of healing showcase His deep compassion for those in need and affirm His divine authority. In Matthew 8:5-13, He heals the servant of a Roman centurion, marveling at the centurion’s faith: “Truly, I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith.” This act highlights Yeshua’s willingness to heal not only the people of Israel but also Gentiles who demonstrate trust in Him. Similarly, in Matthew 9:1-8, Yeshua forgives and heals a paralytic, causing astonishment among the crowd. When questioned by the scribes, Yeshua declares, “The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins,” emphasizing His divine power to restore both body and soul.
B. Power Over Nature (Matthew 8:23-27; Matthew 14:22-33)
Yeshua’s authority extends beyond human ailments to the natural world, as demonstrated in multiple miraculous acts.
Calming the Storm (Matthew 8:23-27)
In the account of the calming of the storm, Yeshua reveals His mastery over creation. While traveling by boat, He sleeps as a violent storm threatens to overwhelm the disciples. In panic, they wake Him, crying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” Yeshua rebukes their lack of faith and commands the winds and waves to be still. Instantly, the sea calms, and the disciples are left in awe, asking, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey Him!” This moment affirms Yeshua’s divine power and reassures His followers that He is sovereign over all creation.
Feeding the Five Thousand and Walking on Water (Matthew 14:13-33)
Another striking demonstration of Yeshua’s authority occurs following the feeding of the five thousand. After dismissing the crowd, Yeshua retreats to pray while His disciples cross the Sea of Galilee. Later, as their boat struggles against strong winds, He walks across the water toward them. This extraordinary act terrifies the disciples until Yeshua reassures them, saying, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
Peter, emboldened by Yeshua’s presence, steps out of the boat but begins to sink when fear overtakes him. Yeshua immediately saves him, saying, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” This miracle underscores Yeshua’s divine authority over nature and calls His followers to trust Him fully, even in life’s most turbulent moments.
C. Inclusion of Gentiles
The faith of the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:21-28 highlights Yeshua’s universal mission. Despite initial resistance, her persistent faith moves Yeshua to heal her demon-possessed daughter. He commends her, saying, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” This interaction foreshadows the Gospel’s expansion to include all nations, emphasizing that the kingdom of heaven is open to everyone who believes.
The miracles of Yeshua not only reveal His divine authority but also extend an invitation to trust in His power to heal, restore, and redeem. Through these acts, Matthew portrays Yeshua as the compassionate Savior and the Lord of all creation.
VI. Opposition and Rejection
A. Conflict with Religious Authorities (Matthew 11:2-12:50)
As Jesus’ ministry grows, so does opposition from the religious leaders of His day. The Pharisees, known for their strict adherence to the Mosaic Law, repeatedly clash with Yeshua over His teachings and actions. In Matthew 12:1-8, the Pharisees accuse Him of breaking the Sabbath when His disciples pick grain to eat. Yeshua responds by emphasizing the spirit of the law over its letter, declaring, “The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.” This bold assertion of authority over sacred tradition heightens tensions between Yeshua and the Pharisees.
Matthew also records a pivotal moment when the Pharisees accuse Yeshua of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul (HaSatan/Satan) (Matthew 12:22-24). Yeshua rebukes them, exposing the illogic of their claim: “If HaSatan drives out HaSatan, he is divided against himself. How then can his kingdom stand?” He further warns them of the unforgivable sin of blaspheming the Holy Spirit, underscoring the gravity of their rejection of divine truth.
These confrontations reveal the growing hostility toward Yeshua, as the Pharisees begin plotting to destroy Him (Matthew 12:14). Yet, Yeshua remains steadfast in His mission, continuing to heal and preach despite their opposition.
B. The Rejection by Israel (Matthew 13:53-58)
Yeshua also faces rejection from those closest to Him. Returning to His hometown of Nazareth, He teaches in the synagogue, astonishing listeners with His wisdom and miracles. However, instead of faith, the people respond with skepticism, saying, “Isn’t this the carpenter’s son?” (Matthew 13:55). Their familiarity with Yeshua’s earthly family blinds them to His divine identity, and their lack of faith prevents Him from performing many miracles there.
This rejection in Nazareth reflects a broader theme in Matthew’s Gospel: Israel’s unwillingness to accept Yeshua as the Messiah. In Matthew 11:20-24, Yeshua laments the unrepentant towns where most of His miracles had been performed, warning of the judgment awaiting them. Despite these challenges, Yeshua’s mission remains unshaken, foreshadowing the Gospel’s expansion to Gentiles who will embrace the kingdom of heaven.
The opposition and rejection Yeshua faced serve as a poignant reminder of the cost of discipleship. His example inspires believers to persevere in faith, even in the face of resistance and doubt.
VIII. The Relevance of Matthew’s Gospel Today
The Gospel of Matthew remains profoundly relevant to modern believers, offering timeless guidance and inspiration. Its emphasis on righteousness challenges Christians to live with integrity and authenticity. Yeshua calls His followers to a higher standard of moral conduct, one that transcends mere external compliance and seeks a transformation of the heart. The Sermon on the Mount continues to resonate as a blueprint for righteous living, urging believers to love their enemies, practice humility, and seek first the kingdom of heaven.
Discipleship is at the core of Matthew’s message. Yeshua invites individuals to take up their cross and follow Him, emphasizing commitment, sacrifice, and obedience. His teachings encourage Christians today to be active participants in their faith, serving others and spreading the Gospel. The Great Commission remains a compelling call to action, inspiring missions and evangelism across the globe.
Matthew’s Gospel also highlights the universal invitation to the kingdom of heaven. By including Gentiles in the lineage of Yeshua and portraying His interactions with people of all backgrounds, Matthew underscores that salvation is available to everyone who believes. This inclusivity encourages the modern Church to embrace diversity and extend compassion and grace to all people, regardless of their heritage or past.
If you’ve felt the call to live a life of purpose, love, and faith, consider starting with the Gospel of Matthew. Reflect on Yeshua’s teachings and His invitation to follow Him. Pray for guidance and courage to take the next step in your spiritual journey. The kingdom of heaven is open to all—will you accept the invitation?