Matthew
Audience
This Gospel presents Jesus in relation to Israel's Scriptures and follows His teaching, death, resurrection, and commission. It does not name a specific original recipient. Read individual sayings within their narrative and discourse settings.
Key References
Explore the Structure
Explore the structure of each book.
| Section | Focus | Connection to the whole |
|---|---|---|
| The promised Messiah introduced Matthew 1:1–4:16 Interpretation | Origins and preparation | The genealogy, birth, baptism, and temptation establish Jesus' identity and mission before His public preaching expands. |
| The kingdom proclaimed Matthew 4:17–7:29 Interpretation | Ministry and the mountain discourse | Jesus announces the kingdom, calls disciples, and teaches the righteousness and obedience that characterize His hearers' response. |
| Authority and mission Matthew 8:1–10:42 Interpretation | Works of mercy and sent disciples | Healings and other mighty works display Jesus' authority; He then commissions disciples and prepares them for opposition. |
| Responses to the kingdom Matthew 11:1–13:58 Interpretation | Opposition, revelation, and parables | Contrasting responses to Jesus lead into parables that explain hearing, growth, judgment, and the kingdom's value. |
| Following the Messiah Matthew 14:1–18:35 Interpretation | Identity, suffering, and community | Jesus teaches disciples about His coming suffering and about humility, care for others, correction, and forgiveness. |
| Jerusalem and accountability Matthew 19:1–25:46 Interpretation | Conflict, judgment, and watchfulness | The journey to Jerusalem and temple disputes lead into warnings about judgment and the need for faithful readiness. |
| Death, resurrection, and commission Matthew 26:1–28:20 Interpretation | The crucified and risen Lord | Jesus' passion and resurrection bring the narrative to the commission to teach all nations and obey His commands. |
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.