Introduction To Matthew: Matthew 1:1
“The record of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham:” Matthew 1:1
Some believe the first verse of this book was actually its original title. The early church held that the book was written by the Apostle Matthew and that eventually became the common name for this Gospel, though no place does the book itself attribute it to Matthew.
The name “Matthew” means “gift of God” in Hebrew. He was formerly a tax gather. Matthew 9:9-13 tells of his call by Jesus. Matthew 10:3 lists him as one of the twelve apostles that Jesus called. Jesus radically changed his life.
As you read the book, it becomes clear that he wrote to the Jewish mindset. He refers often to the Old Testament and sights numerous prophecies that Jesus fulfilled. His goal was to present to Israel the evidence that Jesus Christ was indeed the promised Messiah.
For the most part, the book follows a very chronological account of the birth and public ministry of Jesus. The first two chapters covers his birth and the flight of Mary and Joseph to Egypt followed by their return to Nazareth. Then chapter three picks up abruptly with the ministry of John the Baptist as the forerunner of Jesus.
A full harmony of the life of Jesus requires a study of all four gospels. Matthew stands out as being very logical and factual. It aimed at answering the Jewish skeptics.
I look forward to a daily study of this amazing gospel. Years ago as a teenager, I was on a Bible Quizzing team. That year we focused on the gospel of Matthew and our coach had us commit it to memory. Subsequently, this Gospel has a special place in my heart. God used it to greatly impact my life as a new believer.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
