What are the key teachings and events in Matthew?

Authorship and Background

The Gospel of Matthew has been traditionally attributed to the Apostle Matthew, also referred to as Levi (cf. Matthew 9:9). Early church historians such as Papias (as recorded by Eusebius) mention Matthew as the author, supporting the longstanding view that his firsthand experiences undergird the text. Scholars note that the earliest extant Greek manuscripts—including fragments such as P64 and P67—corroborate the Gospel’s consistent transmission through the centuries. The internal evidence matches the authorship claim as well, demonstrated by detailed knowledge of Jewish customs and Old Testament Scripture.

Archaeological and historical data further affirm the reliability of Matthew’s setting. Excavations in Capernaum (a town repeatedly mentioned in the Gospel) have uncovered first-century synagogues, which align with the biblical record (cf. Matthew 4:13). Existing records from Roman historians and Jewish writings—like those of Flavius Josephus—provide external context regarding figures such as Herod the Great and Pontius Pilate, supporting the historical plausibility of Matthew’s narrative.

The Genealogy and Birth of Jesus (Matthew 1–2)

Matthew begins by tracing Jesus’ genealogy from Abraham through David to Joseph, underscoring the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies that the Messiah would descend from David (cf. Matthew 1:1, Isaiah 9:7). The Evangelist employs a deliberate arrangement, frequently applying the phrase “this was to fulfill” to highlight prophetic fulfillment, confirming Jesus’ identity as the promised Messiah.

One of the most notable examples is the virgin birth prophecy from Isaiah 7:14: “Behold, the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a Son, and they will call Him Immanuel” (Matthew 1:23). Matthew notes that Jesus was born in Bethlehem under miraculous circumstances involving divine intervention (Matthew 1:20–2:1). Following His birth, the Magi from the East visit to worship Him, guided by a celestial phenomenon often referred to as the Star of Bethlehem (Matthew 2:2). Additionally, Joseph and Mary’s flight to Egypt, and their subsequent return, further fulfill Old Testament promises (Matthew 2:13–15; cf. Hosea 11:1).

The Baptism and Temptation (Matthew 3–4)

Matthew highlights the ministry of John the Baptist, who prepares the way for Jesus by calling the people to repentance. Jesus’ baptism by John (Matthew 3:13–17) reveals both His identification with humanity and the approval of the Father. Immediately following the baptism, the Spirit descends on Jesus “like a dove,” and the voice from heaven declares, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17).

After His baptism, Jesus is led into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil (Matthew 4:1–11). This event showcases Jesus’ sinlessness and His reliance on Scripture to overcome temptation. Each response Jesus gives is a quotation from the Old Testament (Deuteronomy), demonstrating His perfect obedience and highlighting Scripture’s authority.

Early Ministry and the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 4–7)

Upon returning from the wilderness, Jesus begins public ministry in Galilee. The region’s archaeological layers reveal towns like Capernaum and Bethsaida, matching places named in the narrative, demonstrating the Gospel’s historical consistency. Jesus calls His first disciples, who leave their nets to follow Him (Matthew 4:18–22), embodying the obedient response essential to Christian discipleship.

Matthew 5–7 contains the famous Sermon on the Mount, a foundational block of Jesus’ teaching. The Sermon includes the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3–12), which emphasize heart attitudes reflecting humility, righteousness, mercy, and purity. Jesus also addresses the Law, teaching that He comes not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17).

This teaching portion further explores true righteousness, charitable giving, prayer, and fasting. Within its framework is the Lord’s Prayer: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name...” (Matthew 6:9). The Sermon on the Mount culminates with the call to act upon His words. His teaching, given with “authority” (Matthew 7:29), underscores that Jesus speaks as the Lawgiver and Judge, a vital insight into His divine identity.

Miracles, Signs, and the Revelation of Authority (Matthew 8–9)

Following the sermon, Jesus demonstrates His messianic authority through miracles. These signs affirm His power over sickness, nature, demonic forces, and even death. The scope includes healing a leper (Matthew 8:1–4), calming a storm (Matthew 8:23–27), casting out demons (Matthew 8:28–34), and raising the daughter of a synagogue ruler (Matthew 9:18–26).

Such demonstrations of divine authority simultaneously verify His message and depict compassion. Historical eyewitness accounts, paired with the testimony of the other Synoptic Gospels, underscore these events’ credibility. Early Christian communities preserved and shared these miracle accounts, with no serious textual variations in extant manuscripts indicating a consistent belief in the actual events.

Parables and Spiritual Teachings (Matthew 13, 18, 20, 25)

Matthew places a prominent emphasis on parables—short narratives that convey spiritual truths. Chapter 13 is particularly rich with the parables of the Sower, the Weeds, the Mustard Seed, and the Hidden Treasure. These illustrations highlight the nature of God’s Kingdom: it starts small and often hidden, but it grows with transformative power.

Other parables, such as the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:23–35) and the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1–16), tackle themes of mercy, grace, and God’s generous nature. Near the conclusion of the Gospel, the parables of the Ten Virgins and the Talents (Matthew 25:1–30) underscore watchfulness and faithful stewardship in anticipation of the Lord’s return.

Confrontation with Religious Leaders and Teachings on Discipleship (Matthew 15–23)

As Jesus’ ministry unfolds, He frequently engages with the Pharisees, Sadducees, and other leaders. Matthew recording these encounters reflects the growing tension over Jesus’ claims. Whereas the religious leaders emphasize external conformity, Jesus stresses inward transformation. He exposes hypocrisy (Matthew 23) while upholding the deeper intent of the Law—love, justice, and mercy.

In this section, Jesus also illuminates the cost of discipleship—asking His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). His clear teaching on the necessity of authentic faith resonates across the centuries, guiding believers toward wholehearted devotion.

Jesus’ Triumphal Entry and Passion Predictions (Matthew 21–26)

Matthew reports Jesus entering Jerusalem on a colt, fulfilling Zechariah’s prophecy (Zechariah 9:9), as the people shout “Hosanna to the Son of David!” (Matthew 21:9). This sets the stage for His collision with the religious leadership.

Leading up to the Passion narrative, Jesus repeatedly predicts His own death and resurrection (cf. Matthew 16:21; 17:22–23; 20:17–19). These prophecies highlight that His sacrifice is neither accidental nor unforeseen; rather, it represents the centerpiece of God’s redemptive plan. The anointing at Bethany (Matthew 26:6–13), the Last Supper (Matthew 26:26–29), and Jesus’ betrayal by Judas (Matthew 26:14–16, 47–50) all unfold precisely as foretold in various Old Testament passages (cf. Psalm 41:9, Isaiah 53).

Crucifixion and Resurrection (Matthew 27–28)

Matthew 27 details the trial before Pilate, culminating in the Crucifixion of Jesus at Golgotha. Roman historical records confirm that crucifixion was a common execution method in that era, matching Matthew’s portrayal (Matthew 27:27–50). The darkness over the land (Matthew 27:45) and the tearing of the temple veil (Matthew 27:51) symbolize the cosmic significance of this event.

Crucially, the Gospel testifies to the resurrection. Matthew 28 narrates how the women visit the tomb and find it empty. The angel’s declaration—“He is not here; He has risen, just as He said” (Matthew 28:6)—echoes Jesus’ predictions. The fact that Jesus physically appears to His disciples (Matthew 28:9–10, 16–20) unequivocally confirms the resurrection. Multiple ancient sources inside and outside the New Testament attest to the earliest Christian conviction that Jesus indeed rose from the dead, forming the bedrock of the Christian faith.

Fulfillment of Prophecy and the Great Commission

From start to finish, Matthew weaves together prophecy and fulfillment. The Gospel uses numerous Old Testament references—some direct quotes, others broad allusions—to establish Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. These fulfillments include His birth in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2), His ministry in Galilee (Isaiah 9:1–2), and even details surrounding His crucifixion and resurrection (Psalm 22, Isaiah 53).

The Gospel ends on a triumphant, global note with the Great Commission: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). This charge envelopes Matthew’s entire message in a universal framework: the risen Messiah sends His followers to spread the gospel—the good news of salvation—to every nation.

Key Theological Themes

• Jesus as Messiah and King: Matthew’s focus on Old Testament prophecy shows Jesus as the promised Davidic King.

• Authority Over All: Miracles and teachings affirm Jesus’ authority both in word and deed.

• Fulfillment of the Law: Jesus’ teaching surpasses merely external rules, emphasizing heart transformation.

• Discipleship and the Kingdom of Heaven: Learning from Jesus involves faith, obedience, and repentance, leading to life in God’s kingdom.

• Global Mission of the Church: The Great Commission underlines a worldwide invitation to receive salvation in Christ.

Conclusion

The Gospel of Matthew offers a rich tapestry of Jesus’ life, teachings, miracles, death, and resurrection. It presents a meticulous narrative consistent with archaeological evidence and manuscript reliability, reflecting the unified testimony of the New Testament canon. From the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus’ lineage, birth, and ministry to His unmistakable resurrection appearances, Matthew stands as a historical and theological cornerstone, portraying Jesus as the Messiah whose reign surpasses cultural, geographical, and temporal boundaries.

Believers and seekers alike can explore Matthew’s writings to discover the transformative message that resonates through centuries: God’s plan of salvation is completed in Jesus, and this hope is extended to all who are willing to receive Him.