Matthew

Outlined Bible

Introduction: Matthew is the first of the four "gospels". While these four gospels provide information about the life of Jesus Christ, they are not mere history or biographies. Rather they are designed like modern day tracts to bring sinners to faith. (cf. John 20:30-1; Luke 1:3-4) Matthew's gospel is a powerful picture of the life of Jesus. In fact, it was the most popular of the four gospels in the earliest days of the church.

Name: The book is named for the author.

Author: While none of the gospel writers identify themselves in their writings, the earliest traditions attribute the book to the apostle Matthew, a former tax collector.

A fragment of the lost work of Papias, bishop of Hierapolis in Phyrgia (AD 130) cites Matthew as the author.
Other early church fathers and historians (e.g. Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Jerome, Origen, and

Augustine) agree that the first gospel was penned by Matthew.

Because of Matthew's relative obscurity among the apostles, it is very doubtful that the book would have come to bear his name apart from the fact that he did indeed write it.

Purpose: Matthew was written primarily to the Jews to demonstrate that Jesus was the King of the kingdom. (cf. 2:2, 5; 21; 10; 27:29-42; 25:31)

Matthew has more Old Testament references than any other gospel.
Paradoxically, the book contains some of the harshest statements in the New Testament against the

Jews.

Background of the book.
The man Matthew.
He is also known by the name Levi. (Matthew 9:9-13; Mark 2:13-17, Luke 5:27-32)
Matthew was a tax collector in Capernaum (Matthew 9:9-13), who left everything and followed

Jesus. (Luke 5:27-29)

After his call, he invited many of his fellow tax collectors to come and meet Jesus. (Matthew 9:10- 13)
When Jesus later chose the Twelve, Matthew was selected to be in that group. (Matthew 10:3;

Mark 3:18; Luke 6:15; Acts 1:13)

The exact date of the composition of Matthew's gospel is unknown.
The phrase "to this day" (Matthew 27:8; 28:15) is evidence for some years after the buying of "Potter's Field."
The fall of Jerusalem is predicted but not described in Matthew 24, implying the book was written before AD 70.
Most conservative scholars place the writing date between AD 60 and AD 70.
The Main Message of the book - The main message of Matthew is identifying Jesus as king of the kingdom of Heaven
Many of the parables focus on the kingdom and its value. (cf. 13)
The book also makes it clear that the kingdom is near. (Matthew 3:2; 4:17; 6:10)
The Outline of the book.
The Early Years of Jesus. (Matthew 1:1 - 4:17)
The genealogy from Abraham to Jesus is given.
The birth of Jesus is briefly detailed. (1:18-25)
The Magi’s visit. (2:1-12)
Joseph, Mary, and Jesus escape to Egypt. (2:13-23)
John the Baptist prepares the way. (3:1-12)
Jesus is baptized by John. (3:13-17)
Jesus faces temptations in the wilderness. (4:1-11)
The Ministry of Jesus in Galilee. (Matthew 4:12 - 18:35)
In fulfillment of the prophecy, Jesus begins preaching in Galilee. (4:12-17)
He calls his first disciples. (4:18-22)
Jesus teaches and heals the sick. (4:23-25)
The Sermon on the Mount. (5:1-7:29)
Christ offers his credentials through miracles and other good works. (8:1-9:38)
Jesus sends out the Twelve. (10:1-42)
He teaches and preaches to the cities of Galilee. (11:1-12:50)
Seven parables concerning the kingdom are given. (13:1-58)
John the Baptist is beheaded. (14:1-12) 10 Jesus offers various miracles and teachings, including:
The feeding of the 5000. (14:13-21)
Jesus walking on the water. (14:22-33)
Teaching what is clean and unclean. (15:1-20)
The healing of a Canaanite woman's daughter. (15:21-28)
The feeding of the 4000. (15:29-39)
Rebukes to Pharisees and Sadducees. (16:1-12)
Peter's confession of Christ. (16:13-28)
The Transfiguration. (12:1-13)
The healing of a boy with a demon. (17:14-23) 7
Teachings about humility and forgiveness. (18:1-35)
Jesus' Ministry in Perea and Judea. (Matthew 19:1 - 20:34)
Jesus teaches about divorce and remarriage. (19:1-12)
He welcomes little children. (19:13-15)
He encounters the rich young man. (19:16-30)
Jesus teaches the parable of the laborers in the vineyard. (20:1-16)
He again predicts his death and resurrection. (20:17-19)
The mother of James and John asks for preeminence for her sons. (20:20-28)
Jesus heals two blind men in Jericho. (20:29-34)
The Ministry of Jesus in Jerusalem. (Matthew 21:1-25:46)
Jesus makes a triumphal entry into Jerusalem. (21:1-11)
He teaches parables and answers questions. (21:12-22:46)
He denounces the scribes and Pharisees. (23:1 -36)
He laments over disobedient Jerusalem. (23:37-39)
Jesus foretells the destruction of Jerusalem and the eventual end of time. (24:1-25:46)
The Trial of Jesus. (Matthew 26:1-27:32)
Jesus again predicts his death. (26:1-2)
The chief priests and elders plot his death. (26:3-5)
Our Lord is anointed with precious perfume. (26:6-13)
Judas makes a bargain for Jesus' betrayal. (26:14-16)
Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper. (26:17-30)
He predicts Peter's denial. (26:31-35)
Jesus prays in Gethsemane. (26:36-46)
He is arrested. (26:47-56)
Jesus is tried before Caiaphas and condemned. (26:57-68)
Peter denies the Lord three times. (26:69-75)
Jesus is handed over to Pilate. (:1-2)
Judas returns the betrayal money and commits suicide. (27:3-10) 13, Jesus is judged before Pilate. (27:11-26)
He is mocked by Roman soldiers. (27:27-30)
He is led away to be crucified. (27:31 -32)
The Crucifixion. (Matthew 27:33-56)
The Burial of Jesus. (Matthew 27:57-66)
Joseph of Arimathea requests the body of Jesus. (27:57-58)
Jesus is buried in Joseph's new tomb. (27:59-61)
The tomb is secured. (27:62-66)
The Resurrection. (Matthew 28:1-15)
After a severe earthquake, Jesus' tomb is opened. (28:1-4)
An angel speaks to the women who report the resurrection to others. (28:5-10)
A lie is prepared to explain Jesus' missing body. (28:11-15)
The Last Words of Christ. (Matthew 28:16-20)
All authority is given to Jesus. (28:16-18)
The Great Commission is given by Jesus. (28; 19-20)
Key Themes of the Book.
The “Synoptic-Problem:”
The synoptic problem is the phrase used to describe the difficulty scholars have in dealing with the apparent interrelationship of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
Many conclude that there was literary dependence among the three.
Did one write first and the others borrow from his work?
Did they borrow from a common source, called Q, an unknown document?
Were they retelling oral traditions?
There really is no problem here.
Scripture plainly tells us that the writers used different sources - eyewitness information, oral reports, written information, etc.
In the early days of the church, factual legends of Christ's teachings and miracles surely had become rather standardized. (cf. John 14:26)
These men wrote as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.

[1] Writing from a common source of information about a common figure (Jesus Christ), it is no wonder that they sound so much alike. [2] Yet, each writer had a different slant or emphasis, geared for a particular audience. [3] Frankly, much more concern would be generated if there were not a basic similarity in their writing.

The Son of God/Son of Man identity.
Jesus as the Son of God is one of the primary themes in Matthew. (Matthew 3:17; 17:5; 16:16: 28:19)
But Jesus is referred to as the "Son of Man” 31 times in the gospel of Matthew. (cf. Matthew 8:20; 9:6; 17:22-23; 24:44, etc.)
The emphasis placed on both these titles emphasizes the fact that Jesus was fully God and fully man.
The Kingdom of Heaven.
Matthew speaks repeatedly about the Kingdom of Heaven (38 times).
Mark and Luke use the term "Kingdom of God" to refer to the same entity.
The Greek word for kingdom is basilea. It has the idea of "sovereignty", "dominion", or "rule."
The world is generally under the rule of Satan, the Prince of the world. (Luke 4:6; John 12:31; 14:30)
But Jesus came to defeat Satan and set his captives free. (Matthew 12:25-30; Luke 11:20)
The Kingdom of Heaven (or God) is the reign or rule of God in the hearts and minds of His people.
The decisive reign of God is realized in His church. (Daniel 2:44; cf. Acts. 2)
However, the kingdom and the church are not exactly identical terms.

[1] For example, little children are part of the kingdom of God but not in the church. (Matthew 19:14) [2] There are some who are added to the church who lose the perspective of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. (Matthew 7) [3] In Luke, Jesus says, "The kingdom is within you."

It is certainly true that every adult who is in the kingdom of God is in Christ's church.
The sermons of Jesus.
The book of Matthew is organized around five great sermons.
The Sermon on the Mount. (5-7) b. The teaching to the Twelve. (10)
The parables of the kingdom. (13)
Teachings on forgiveness. (18)
Teaching about the "last things." (24-25)
Most of the material in these lessons is about the most basic and practical matters in life. (e.g. 5-7, 18)
Much more difficult material is dealt with as well. (e.g. 24) 95

Summarized Bible MATTHEW

Some 400 years before Matthew wrote about Jesus of Nazareth, the Messiah, Zechariah wrote “I took my staff called Favor and broke it, revoking the covenant (covenant God made through Moses) I had made with all the nations. It was revoked on that day, and so the afflicted of the flock who were watching me knew it was the Word of the Lord.” (Zechariah 11:10) “I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication (Christ, the atoning sacrifice). They will look on me, the one they have pierced (a Roman soldier pierced Jesus while on the cross).” (Zechariah 12:10) On that day a fountain will be opened to the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, to cleanse them from sin and impurity. (Zechariah 13:1)

Genealogy od Jesus Therefore, Matthew begins his book about the coming Messiah with “The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.” A little later in verses 16-17 he states “Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ. So, all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ fourteen generations. Jesus was born to Mary in Bethlehem as prophesied in Micah 5:2 – “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.” Because of Herod’s edict an angel instructed Joseph and Mary flee to Egypt. Following Herod’s death, they returned to Nazareth where he lived until he began His ministry. A chart of Jesus’ Genealogy can be found in http://www.thebiblewayonline.com/Genealogy/genealogy.htm. Message of John the Baptist

“In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.”… “All the region about the Jordan were going out to him, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. … Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have stopped him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” (Matt 3:1-3; 5-6; 13-15) Comment: The long-awaited Messiah is here, get ready to hear Him.

Devil’s Temptations of Jesus Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil in three different approaches. These are the same approaches he uses today against those who are in Christ – His Church.

Desire for food - lust of the flesh.
Desire for power - pride of life
Desire for things - lust of the eye.

With each temptation, Jesus reply with “It is Written” so the devil left for a more opportune time.

“When he (Jesus) heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee. Leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, so that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: ‘The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles.’ … He then went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom and healing every disease and every affliction among the people. His fame spread and “great crowds followed him from Galilee and the Decapolis, and from Jerusalem and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan.” (Matt 4:12-15; 23-25) Comment: The devil will use these three human vulnerable weaknesses to tempt.

Jesus Taught How to Live Pleasing to God Beatitudes

The Poor in Spirit – those recognizing their own sinfulness and God’s righteousness. (Matt 5:3)
Those who Mourn – those unhappy about their spiritual weakness rather than with their physical plight in life. (Matt 5:4)
The Gentle – those not proud, arrogant or haughty. (Matt 5:5)
Those who Hunger and Thirst for righteousness, – those constantly seeking to do what is right and pleasing to God. (Matt 5:6)
The Merciful – those not judgmental or condemning. (Matt 5:7)
The Pure in Heart –sincere people, free from what is false, free from anything that soils, adulterates, or corrupts. (Matt 5:8)
The Peacemakers – those living at peace with their fellowman and helping others to do the same. (Matt 5:9)
The Faithful/Righteous – Living true to Christ regardless of persecution, pressure, temptations or desires. (Matt 5:10)

Salt and Light “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.” (Matt 5:13-15) Comment: When you do good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven it is observed by others.

Fulfill the Law “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the Scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt 5:17-18) Comment: Time is near for a change from the covenant God made through Moses to a covenant Christ will make.

Comment: To the Pharisees righteousness as a way of life is something to be seen of men; e.g., look at me how good I am.

Resolve and Reconcile Differences “You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.' But I say to you that everyone who is angry (a desire to kill) with his brother will be liable to judgment. If you have something against your brother be reconciled immediately. Come to terms quickly with your accuser.” (Matt 5:21-22; 24-25)

Comment: “You have heard it said” is probably a rabbinical a teaching.

Comment: It is harmful to harbor ill will or grudges.

Actions Detrimental to Eternal Life “You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matt 5:27-28) Comment: One who desires another’s spouse is not true to the marriage covenant – an adulterer.

Divorce or Putting Away “It was also said, 'Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.' But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery. And whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” (Matt 5:31-32) Comment: Breaking a covenant is a sin. thebiblewayonline.com/HTML/Marriage and Divorce.html.

Comment: “You have heard it” strongly suggest making an oath, calling of God as your witness, was a common practice.

Comment: Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil intent.

Getting Even by Doing Good “You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' (Getting even) If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.” (Matt 5:38)

Comment: God is love. Christ gave His life. Do good - not evil.

Love and Hate “You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?” (Matt 5:43-47)

Comment: God loves. The devil hates. It is your choice which to follow.

Seeking Personal Recognition and Attention “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. But when you give to the needy do not seek recognition allow God to receive the glory.” (Matt 6:1-2) “When you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites for they love to be seen by others, pray privately and not for your many words.” (Matt 6:5-6) “When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, to seen by others. But when you fast do it privately without bringing attention to self.” (Matt 6:16)

Comment: Desire for personal recognition rather than glorifying God is not righteous living.

Treasures in Heaven “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven as your heart is there.” (Matt 6:19-20) “The eye is the lamp of the body. Be careful what it lingers on.” (Matt 6:22) “No one can serve two masters. You cannot serve God and set your heart on getting rich.” (Matt 6:24) Comment: – Our actions show the focus of our heart’s desire.

Anxious “Therefore, I tell you, do not be anxious about your life. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all things you are anxious about will be added to you.” (Matt 6:25, 33)

Judging “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment, you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.” (Matt 7:1-2)

Ask For The Will Of God To Be Done

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you (things that conform to the will of God.) … for your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” (Matt 7:7, 11)

Golden Rule “Whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them.” (Matt 7:12)

Heaven’s Entryway “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matt 7:13-14)

Being Recognized By Your Fruit / Actions “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits (their actions). Recognition requires knowing God’s word which requires diligent study, not just listening to others’ opinions and interpretations.” (Matt 7:15)

I Never Knew You “Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.'” (Matt 7:21-23)

Build Your House on the Rock “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock (solid foundation). Those who hear these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand (not solid foundation) and great was the fall of it." The crowds were astonished at his teaching. While continuing His teachings He then began demonstrating His teaching through miraculous healings.” (Matt 7:24-28)

Teachings Demonstrated by Actions Cleanses a Leper “When he (Jesus) came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, ‘Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.’ And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, ‘I will; be clean.’ And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. And Jesus said to him, ‘See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a proof to them.’” (Matt 8:1-4)

Calms a Storm “When he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, ‘Save us, Lord; we are perishing.’ And he said to them, ‘Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?’ Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, ‘What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?’” (Matt 8:23-26)

you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?" Now a herd of many pigs was feeding at some distance from them. And the demons begged him, saying, ‘If you cast us out, send us away into the herd of pigs.’ And he said to them, ‘Go.’ So, they came out and went into the pigs, and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the waters. The herdsmen fled, and going into the city they told everything, especially what had happened to the demon-possessed

And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him, they begged him to leave their region.” (Matt 8:28-34)

Paralytic Healed “Getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. And behold, some people brought to him a paralytic, lying on a bed. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.’ And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, ‘This man is blaspheming.’ But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, ‘Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, 'Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, 'Rise and walk'? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins’—he then said to the paralytic—'Rise, pick up your bed and go home.’ And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.” (Matt 9:1-8)

Restored Life “While he was saying these things to them, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, ‘My daughter has just died, but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.’ And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples.” (Matt 9:18-19)

Woman Healed “Behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, for she said to herself, ‘If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.’ Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, ‘Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.’ And instantly the woman was made well. And when Jesus came to the ruler's house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, he said, ‘Go away, for the girl is not dead but sleeping.’ And they laughed at

But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. And the report of this went through all that district.” (Matt 9:20-26)

Blind Men Healed “As Jesus passed on from there, two blind men followed him, crying aloud, ‘Have mercy on us, Son of David.’ When he entered the house, the blind men came to him, and Jesus said to them, ‘Do you believe that I am able to do this?’ They said to him, ‘Yes, Lord.’ Then he touched their eyes, saying, ‘According to your faith be it done to you.’ And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, ‘See that no one knows about it.’ But they went away and spread his fame through all that district.” (Matt 9:27-31)

A Mute Healed “A demon-oppressed man who was mute was brought to him. And when the demon had been cast out, the mute man spoke. And the crowds marveled, saying, ‘Never was anything like this seen in Israel.’ But the Pharisees said, ‘He casts out demons by the prince of demons.’” (Matt 9:32-34)

Pharisees “The Pharisees said, ‘It is by the prince of demons that he drives out demons.’” (Matt 9:34)

Comment: The Pharisees and leaders saw miracles but refused to glorify God even though they were leaders of the “Children of Israel.”

Comment: Jesus’ healings were proof that He was more than mortal man. He was God in a human body glorifying “The Father.” Some recognized His deity others refused. See Deity of Jesus at thebiblewayonline.com/html/DeityJesusEmptied.html

Parables “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop — a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” (Matt. 13:3-8) Explanation: “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path. The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” (Matt. 13:18-23)

“The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. ‘The owner's servants came to him and said, ‘Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field?’ ‘Where then did the weeds come from?’ ‘An enemy did this,’ he replied. The servants asked him, ‘Do you want us to go and pull them up?’ ‘No,’ he answered, ‘because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time, I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.” (Matt. 13:24-30) Explanation “The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. "As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.” (Matt 13:37-43)

“The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and perch in its branches.” (Matt 13:31-32

“The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough.” (Matt 13:33)

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” (Matt 13:44)

“The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” (Matt 13:45-46)

“Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away. This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” (Matt 13:47-50)

“What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.” (Matt 18:12-14)

“Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him. Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. ‘The servant fell on his knees before him. 'Be patient with me,' he begged, 'and I will pay back everything.' The servant's master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go. "But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii. He grabbed him and began to choke

'Pay back what you owe me!' he demanded. ‘His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, 'Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.'”

“But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt. When the other servants saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed and went and told their master everything that had happened. ‘Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?' In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.’ This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.” (Matt 18:21-35)

“The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire men to work in his vineyard. He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day and sent them into his vineyard. About the third hour he went out and saw others standing in the marketplace doing nothing. He told them, ‘You also go and work in my vineyard, and I will pay you whatever is right.’ So, they went. ‘He went out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour and did the same thing. About the eleventh hour he went out and found still others standing around. He asked them, ‘Why have you been standing here all day long doing nothing?’ ‘Because no one has hired us,’ they answered. ‘He said to them, You also go and work in my vineyard.’ When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first. The workers who were hired about the eleventh hour came and each received a denarius. So, when those came who were hired first, they expected

to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. These men who were hired last worked only one hour, they said, ‘and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.’ But he answered one of them, ‘Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn't you agree to work for a Denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ So, the last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Matt 20:1-16)

“There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. Which of the two did what his father wanted?” (Matt 21:28-31)

“Tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes

And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.” (Matt 21:31-32)

“There was a landowner who planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a winepress in it and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to some farmers and went away on a journey. When the harvest time approached, he sent his servants to the tenants to collect his fruit. The tenants seized his servants; they beat one, killed another, and stoned a third. Then he sent other servants to them, more than the first time, and the tenants treated them the same way. Last of all, he sent his son to them. 'They will respect my son,' he said. But when the tenants saw the son, they said to each other, 'This is the heir. Come, let's kill him and take his inheritance.' So, they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants? He will bring those wretches to a wretched end, they replied, and he will rent the vineyard to other tenants, who will give him his share of the crop at harvest time.” (Matt 21:33-41)

“The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes'? Therefore, I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. He who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces, but he on whom it falls will be crushed." When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus' parables, they knew he was talking about them. They looked for a way to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet.” (Matt 21:42-46)

“The kingdom of heaven is like a king who prepared a wedding banquet for his son. He sent his servants to those who had been invited to the banquet to tell them to come, but they refused to come. Then he sent some more servants and said, ‘Tell those who have been invited that I have prepared my dinner: My oxen and fattened cattle have been butchered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding banquet.’ But they paid no attention and went off — one to his field, another to his business. The rest seized his servants, mistreated them and killed them. The king was enraged. He sent his army and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. ‘Then he said to his servants, the wedding banquet is ready, but those I invited did not deserve to come. Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find. So, the servants went out into the streets and gathered all the people they could find, both good and bad, and the wedding hall was filled with guests. But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing wedding clothes. ‘Friend,’ he asked, ‘how did you get in here without wedding clothes?’ The

man was speechless. ‘Then the king told the attendants, 'Tie him hand and foot, and throw him outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' For many are invited, but few are chosen.” (Matt 22:2-14)

Entrapment and Hypocrisy “Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: ‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?’ Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt 22:34-40)

“Then Jesus said "The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. So, you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. … ‘Everything they do is done for men to see.’ … ‘you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brothers. Call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Neither be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Christ. The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.’” (Matt 23:1-3; 5; 8-12 ESV)

Woes “Woe to you, blind guides! You say, 'If anyone swears by the temple, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.' You blind fools! Which is greater: the gold, or the temple that makes the gold sacred? You also say, 'If anyone swears by the altar, it means nothing; but if anyone swears by the gift on it, he is bound by his oath.' You blind men! Which is greater: the gift, or the altar that makes the gift sacred? Therefore, he who swears by the altar swears by it and by everything on it. And he who swears by the temple swears by it and by the one who dwells in it. And he who swears by heaven swears by God's throne and by the one who sits on it.” (Matt 23:16-22)

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to.” (Matt 23:13)

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as you are.” (Matt 23:15)

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices — mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law — justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. You blind guides! You strain out a gnat but swallow a camel.” (Matt 23:23-24)

Comment: They focused on the obscure and failed to see the important. Do we?

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First, clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.” (Matt 23:25-26)

Comment: People may appear to be righteous but are often evil. It is one’s actions not one’s appearance.

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous, but on the inside, you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.” (Matt 23:27-28)

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You build tombs for the prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous. And you say, 'If we had lived in the days of our forefathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.' So, you testify against yourselves that you are the descendants of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of the sin of your forefathers!” (Matt 23:29-32)

“You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell? Therefore, I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers. Some of them you will kill and crucify; others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town. And so, upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. I tell you the truth, all this will come upon this generation.” (Matt 24:33-36)

Comment: The prophets, wise men and teachers that Jesus sent were probably the apostles and evangelists.

Comment: The persecution by the Jews began with the stoning death of Stephen.

End of Age is near “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you … your house is left to you desolate.” (Matt 23:37-39)

Comment: The temple, would be destroyed and the Covenant given through Moses will be fulfilled.

“I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; everyone will be thrown down.” (Matt 24:2) Comment: This occurred in AD 70 by the Roman siege of Jerusalem with all their precious genealogical records destroyed. Thus, the Jews will never be able to have irrefutable proof to set forth another Messiah of the lineage of David or identify an Old Covenant high priest as Christ now the High Priest.

“For many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains.” (Matt 24:5-8) Comment: The birth of a new covenant given by Christ, the Son of God came with much pain by persecution by both the Jews and the Roman Empire.

“You will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me.” (Matt 24:9)

Comment: Jews did not accept the miracles and other evidence that Jesus was the Messiah so when New Covenant offering salvation and eternal life was implemented, it was also rejected and the followers of Christ and His New Covenant were persecuted.

Comment: The unprepared, those who reject Christ and His new covenant, will not be allowed to enter Heaven.

“Knowing all things Jesus knew the time for His atoning sacrifice was near, He assembled with His disciples to:

Partake of the Jewish Passover, the reminder of deliverance from slavery by those who escaped Egypt bondage.
Implement a memorial of His atoning sacrifice - a reminder of the deliverance from the bondage of sin for those who have chosen to depart from sin and accept His offer of forgiveness and salvation.
Identify His betrayer Jesus overwhelmed with sorrow, prayed "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup (His crucifixion) be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” (Matt 26:39)

“Judas with a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people arrested Jesus.” (Matt 26:47-48)

Jesus’ crucifixion – The Atoning Sacrifice “Those who had arrested Jesus took him to Caiaphas, the high priest, where the teachers of the law and the elders had assembled.” (Matt 26:57) “They were looking for false evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death.” (Matt 26:59) “They spit in his face and struck him with their fists. Others slapped him.” (Matt 26:67) “Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people came to the decision to put Jesus to death. They bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate, the governor.” (Matt 27:1-2)

“Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, ‘Are you the king of the Jews?’ ‘Yes, it is as you say,’ Jesus replied. “(Matt 27:11)

“‘What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called Christ?’ Pilate asked. They all answered, ‘Crucify him!’ ‘Why? What crime has he committed?’ asked Pilate.” (Matt 27:22-23)

“Yielding to the riotous crowd Pilate released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.” (Matt 27:26)

“When they had crucified him, they divided up his clothes by casting lots. And sitting down, they kept watch over him there. Above his head they placed the written charge against him: THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.” (Matt 27:35-37)

“Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit (he died). At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook and the rocks split. The tombs broke open and the bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs, and after Jesus' resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many people.” (Matt 27:50-53)

Comment: The entrance to the Most-Holy place was opened for all.

“Joseph (from Arimathea) took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.” (Matt 27:59-61)

Resurrection “After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow.” (Matt 28:1-4)

“The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen.” (Matt 28:5-6)

“The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing (immersing) them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.’” (Matt 28:16-20)

Key Points from Matthew ➢ The genealogy of Jesus was very important to the Jews as the Messiah was to be a descendant of David and these records were proof. ➢ Jesus’ teachings were validated by His miracles. ➢ Pride, power and prestige kept many from hearing, understanding and accepting evidence that Jesus was their long-looked-for Messiah. ➢ The covenant with Israel through Moses was fulfilled with a New Covenant established by Christ for all mankind, not just Jews. ➢ Christ willingly gave his earthly life as the only atoning sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. ➢ Christ’s resurrection from death and the grave is the victory over spiritual death, Satan’s hold over man.

Question: Was Jesus of Nazareth, as the Pharisees claim, the son of Joseph, human like everyone else; or both God and man as the voice from heaven said “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased”?

Message of John the Baptist “In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ For this is he who was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah when he said, The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.”… “All the region about the Jordan were going out to him, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. … Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him. John would have stopped him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” (Matt 3:1-3; 5-6; 13-15) Comment: The long-awaited Messiah is here, get ready to hear Him.

Desire for food - lust of the flesh.
Desire for power - pride of life
Desire for things - lust of the eye.

With each temptation Jesus reply with “It is Written” so the devil left for a more opportune time.

Jesus Taught How to Live Pleasing to God Beatitudes • The Poor in Spirit – those recognizing their own sinfulness and God’s righteousness. (Matt 5:3) • Those who Mourn – those unhappy about their spiritual weakness rather than with their physical plight in life. (Matt 5:4)

The Gentle – those not proud, arrogant or haughty. (Matt 5:5)
Those who Hunger and Thirst for righteousness, – those constantly seeking to do what is right and pleasing to God. (Matt 5:6)
The Merciful – those not judgmental or condemning. (Matt 5:7)
The Pure in Heart –sincere people, free from what is false, free from anything that soils, adulterates, corrupts. (Matt 5:8)
The Peacemakers – those living at peace with their fellowman and helping others to do the same. (Matt 5:9)
The Faithful/Righteous – Living true to Christ regardless of persecution, pressure, temptations or desires. (Matt 5:10)

Comment: To the Pharisees righteousness as a way of life is something to be seen of men; e.g., look at me how good I am.

Comment: It is harmful to harbor ill will or grudges.

thebiblewayonline.com/HTML/Marriage and Divorce.html.

False Swearing and Oaths “You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely (commit perjury - Strong's Concordance), but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.' But I say to you, do not take an oath at all.” (Matt 5:33) Comment: “you have heard it” strongly suggest making an oath, calling of God as your witness, was a common practice.

Comment: Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil intent.

Anxious “Therefore, I tell you, do not be anxious about your life. Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all things you are anxious about will be added to you.” (Matt 6:25, 33)

Judging

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment, you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.” (Matt 7:1-2)

Ask For The Will Of God To Be Done “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you (things that conform to the will of God.) … for your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” (Matt 7:7, 11)

Golden Rule “Whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them.” (Matt 7:12)

Heaven’s Entry Way “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.” (Matt 7:13-14)

Demon-Possessed Healed “When he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. And behold, they cried out, "What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?" Now a herd of many pigs was feeding at some distance from them. And the demons begged him, saying, ‘If you cast us out, send us away into the herd of pigs.’ And he said to them, ‘Go.’ So, they came out and went into the pigs, and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the waters. The herdsmen fled, and going into the city they told everything, especially what had happened to the demon-possessed

And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him, they begged him to leave their region.” (Matt 8:28-34)

But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. And the report of this went through all that district.” (Matt 9:20-26)

Pharisees “The Pharisees said, ‘It is by the prince of demons that he drives out demons.’” (Matt 9:34) Comment: The Pharisees and leaders saw miracles but refused to glorify God even though they were leaders of the “Children of Israel.” Comment: Jesus’ healings were proof He was more than mortal man. He was God in human body glorifying “The Father.” Some recognized His deity other refused. See Deity of Jesus at thebiblewayonline.com/html/DeityJesusEmptied.html

“The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough.” (Matt 13:33)

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” (Matt 13:44)

“The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” (Matt 13:45-46)

'Pay back what you owe me!' he demanded. ‘His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, 'Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.'”

to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. These men who were hired last worked only one hour, they said, ‘and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.’ But he answered one of them, ‘Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn't you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the man who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don't I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ So, the last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Matt 20:1-16)

And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.” (Matt 21:31-32)

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.” (Matt 23:25-26) Comment: People may appear to be righteous but are often evil. It is one’s actions not one’s appearance.

the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous, but on the inside, you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.” (Matt 23:27-28)

Comment: The persecution by the Jews began with the stoning death of Stephen.

End of Age is near “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you … your house is left to you desolate.” (Matt 23:37-39) Comment: The temple, would be destroyed and the Covenant given through Moses will be fulfilled.

“I tell you the truth, not one stone here will be left on another; everyone will be thrown down.” (Matt 24:2) Comment: This occurred in AD 70 by the Roman siege of Jerusalem with all their precious genealogical records destroyed. Thus, the Jews will never be able to have irrefutable proof to set forth another Messiah of the linage of David or identify an Old Covenant high priest as Christ now the High Priest.

“You will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me.” (Matt 24:9) Comment: Jews did not accept the miracles and other evidence that Jesus was the Messiah so when New Covenant offering salvation and eternal life was implemented, it was also rejected and the followers of Christ and His New Covenant were persecuted.

“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like those anticipating the arrival of the groom. Some were prepared others were not. The unprepared were not allowed to enter into to the wedding banquet.” (Matt 25:1-13) Comment: The unprepared, those who reject the Christ and His new covenant, will not be allowed to enter into Heaven.

“Knowing all things Jesus knew the time for His atoning sacrifice was near, He assembled with His disciples to:

Partake of the Jewish Passover, the reminder of deliverance from slavery by to those who escaped Egypt bondage.
Implement a memorial of His atoning sacrifice - a reminder of the deliverance from the bondage of sin for those who have chosen to depart from sin and accept His offer of forgiveness and salvation.
Identify His betrayer Jesus overwhelmed with sorrow, prayed "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup (His crucifixion) be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” (Matt 26:39)

“Judas with a large crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests and the elders of the people arrested Jesus.” (Matt 26:47-48)

“Jesus stood before the governor, and the governor asked him, ‘Are you the king of the Jews?’ ‘Yes, it is as you say,’ Jesus replied. “(Matt 27:11)

“‘What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called Christ?’ Pilate asked. They all answered, ‘Crucify him!’ ‘Why? What crime has he committed?’ asked Pilate.” (Matt 27:22-23)

“Yielding to the riotous crowd Pilate released Barabbas to them. But he had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.” (Matt 27:26)

“The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen.” (Matt 28:5-6)

Key Points from Matthew ➢ The genealogy of Jesus was very important to the Jews as the Messiah was to be a descendant of David and these records were proof. ➢ Jesus teachings were validated by His miracles. ➢ Pride, power and prestige kept many from hearing, understanding and accepting evidence that Jesus was their long looked for Messiah. ➢ The covenant with Israel through Moses was fulfilled with a New Covenant established by Christ for all mankind, not just Jews. ➢ Christ willingly gave his earthly life as the only atoning sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins. ➢ Christ’s resurrection from death and the grave is the victory over spiritual death Satan’s hold over man.

Text and illustrations reproduced from the study “Matthew”. The original PDF is the reference copy.