INTRODUCTION TO THE GOSPEL OF ST. MATTHEW
The Gospel of Matthew is the first book of the New Testament and one of the three synoptic gospels. It is a foundational text for Christian theology, presenting Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah who fulfills Old Testament prophecies. This gospel is particularly known for its emphasis on Jesus’ teachings and its structured presentation of his life and ministry.
Authorship and Date
Traditionally, the Gospel of Matthew has been attributed to Matthew, also known as Levi, a former tax collector who became one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. According to early church tradition, Matthew wrote this gospel in the Hebrew language, which was later translated into Greek. However, modern scholarship often suggests that the gospel was written anonymously by a Jewish-Christian author familiar with Jewish customs and scripture. The date of composition is generally placed between 70 and 90 AD, after the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple.
Audience and Purpose
Matthew’s gospel was likely written for a Jewish-Christian audience. The text aims to demonstrate that Jesus is the Messiah, the rightful heir to the throne of David, and the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel. It seeks to bridge the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing continuity with Jewish tradition while also addressing the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s plan of salvation. The gospel encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith despite opposition and to embrace their role in spreading the message of Jesus.
Key Themes
– Jesus as the Messiah: Matthew portrays Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, emphasizing his messianic role and divine authority.
– Kingdom of Heaven: The gospel frequently references the “kingdom of heaven,” highlighting Jesus’ teachings about God’s reign and the ethical demands of discipleship.
– Jewish Tradition: Matthew underscores the importance of Jewish law and tradition, presenting Jesus as a teacher who deepens and fulfills the law.
– Inclusivity: While rooted in Jewish tradition, the gospel also opens the door for Gentile inclusion, reflecting the early church’s expanding mission.
Structure
The Gospel of Matthew is organized into several distinct sections:
1. The Birth and Early Life of Jesus (Chapters 1-2): Genealogy, birth narrative, and early events.
2. Preparation for Ministry (Chapters 3-4): John the Baptist, Jesus’ baptism, and temptation.
3. Sermon on the Mount (Chapters 5-7): Jesus’ foundational teachings.
4. Miracles and Ministry (Chapters 8-9): Demonstrations of Jesus’ power and compassion.
5. Mission of the Disciples (Chapter 10): Instructions and commissioning of the twelve apostles.
6. Parables of the Kingdom (Chapter 13): Teaching through parables.
7. Journey to Jerusalem (Chapters 16-20): Predictions of suffering and teachings on discipleship.
8. Passion and Resurrection (Chapters 26-28): The arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus.
Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector before becoming one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. His background as a tax collector, a profession often despised in Jewish society, highlights the transformative power of Jesus’ call. After his conversion, Matthew left his previous life to follow Jesus and later became a key figure in the early Christian community.
Historical and Traditional Accounts
According to tradition, Matthew preached the gospel in Judea before traveling to other regions, possibly including Ethiopia and Persia. His exact fate remains uncertain, with some accounts suggesting he died a natural death while others propose he was martyred. Matthew is often symbolized by an angel in Christian art and is considered the patron saint of tax collectors and accountants.
Contributions to the Gospel
Matthew’s gospel is distinguished by its detailed genealogy of Jesus, its extensive use of Old Testament quotations, and its structured presentation of Jesus’ teachings, particularly the Sermon on the Mount. These elements reflect Matthew’s deep engagement with Jewish tradition and his effort to present Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish hopes and prophecies.
In summary, the Gospel of Matthew serves as a vital link between the Old and New Testaments, offering a compelling portrait of Jesus as the Messiah and a guide for Christian discipleship. Matthew, the evangelist, provides a unique perspective shaped by his background and his transformative encounter with Jesus.