Who Wrote the Book of Matthew?

by Rehema Jonathan | 20 June 2024 08:46 am06

Question: Who is the author of the Book of Matthew?

The title of the book itself, “The Gospel According to Matthew”, suggests that the Gospel was written by Matthew. But the question remains: which Matthew is this referring to?

While the Bible doesn’t explicitly state the author, most biblical scholars and theologians agree that the Book of Matthew was written by Matthew the Apostle, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. Matthew was also known as Levi, a tax collector before following Jesus (Mark 2:14). His conversion from a despised tax collector to a devoted follower of Christ provides a profound example of God’s grace and mercy.

Matthew’s Gospel is the first book in the New Testament, and it presents the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was primarily written for a Jewish audience, which is evident in its frequent references to Old Testament prophecies. The Gospel aims to demonstrate that Jesus is the promised Messiah, the fulfillment of the Hebrew Scriptures. Matthew uses many Old Testament references to show how Jesus’ life and ministry align with Jewish expectations of the Messiah.

Here are some key theological details from the Book of Matthew:

The Genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:1–17)
Matthew begins with a genealogy that traces Jesus’ lineage back to Abraham and David, highlighting Jesus’ rightful place as the King of Israel and the fulfillment of the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants (see 2 Samuel 7:16; Genesis 12:3).
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7)
This section is perhaps the most famous teaching of Jesus and is packed with theological depth. It contains the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3–12), which describe the characteristics of those who are blessed in God’s Kingdom. Jesus reinterprets the law, teaching that true righteousness goes beyond outward actions to the condition of the heart (Matthew 5:17-48). The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) is also part of this discourse.
The Kingdom of Heaven
Matthew frequently mentions the “Kingdom of Heaven” (as opposed to “Kingdom of God,” which is used more commonly in the other Gospels). This reflects a Jewish tradition of avoiding the direct use of God’s name. The Kingdom of Heaven represents both the reign of God on earth and the future hope of eternal life (Matthew 4:17; 6:33; 13:44-46).
The Mission of the Disciples (Matthew 10)
In this discourse, Jesus commissions His disciples to go out and preach the gospel, heal the sick, and cast out demons. He warns them of the persecution they will face but also assures them of God’s provision and protection (Matthew 10:16–42). This chapter underscores the cost of discipleship and the necessity of faithfulness in the face of opposition.
The Parables of the Kingdom (Matthew 13)
Matthew records several of Jesus’ parables, which teach deep spiritual truths in simple, relatable ways. Parables like the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1–23) and the Parable of the Weeds (Matthew 13:24–30) illustrate the nature of the Kingdom of God and the different responses to God’s message.
The Church Discourse (Matthew 18)
This section focuses on the nature of the Church and Christian community. Jesus teaches on humility (Matthew 18:1-4), forgiveness (Matthew 18:21-22), and the importance of resolving conflicts within the community (Matthew 18:15-20). These teachings lay the foundation for the Church’s life together in Christ.
The Olivet Discourse (Matthew 24–25)
This discourse contains Jesus’ prophecies concerning the end times. He speaks of the signs of the end of the age, the coming of the Son of Man, and the final judgment. Jesus emphasizes the need for readiness and vigilance, urging His followers to live faithfully as they await His return (Matthew 24:36-51; 25:1-13).

Theological Themes in Matthew’s Gospel:

Jesus as the Fulfillment of Prophecy:
Matthew’s Gospel is rich with Old Testament references. He often quotes the prophets to show that Jesus’ life fulfills the ancient promises made to Israel. For example, Matthew quotes Isaiah 7:14 in Matthew 1:23 to show that Jesus’ virgin birth fulfills the prophecy about the coming Messiah.
Christology:
Matthew emphasizes the divinity and authority of Jesus. He presents Jesus not only as a teacher and prophet but as the Son of God, the Savior of the world. Jesus is portrayed as the King who inaugurates God’s Kingdom on earth and will return as Judge (Matthew 25:31-46).
Discipleship and the Cost of Following Jesus:
Throughout the Gospel, Matthew teaches that following Jesus is a costly commitment. Disciples must be willing to take up their cross (Matthew 16:24) and remain faithful, even in the face of persecution and hardship.
The Kingdom of Heaven:
Matthew’s focus on the Kingdom of Heaven emphasizes both the present reality and the future fulfillment of God’s reign. Jesus teaches that the Kingdom has already begun with His ministry but will be fully realized in the future (Matthew 12:28; 25:34).

For further reflection and study, you can explore the lessons that can be drawn from Matthew’s Gospel in more depth by visiting: Lessons from the Book of Matthew.

May the Lord bless you as you study His Word.
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