The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus, the promised Messiah
Matthew, a tax collector turned apostle, writes first for Jewish readers: his gospel demonstrates that Jesus is the Messiah announced by the Scriptures, quoting the Old Testament more than any other. From the genealogy that opens the book to the final sending — "go and make disciples of all nations" — everything shows the promises fulfilled.
Matthew is where you read the Sermon on the Mount (chapters 5–7) with the Beatitudes and the Lord's Prayer, the parables of the kingdom (chapter 13), and the great fresco of the judgment (chapter 25). A structured, teaching gospel, designed to form disciples.
Frequently asked questions about Matthew
Who was Matthew?
A tax collector from Capernaum, also called Levi, whom Jesus called to follow him (Matthew 9:9). Despised for his trade, he became one of the twelve apostles — and the evangelist of Scripture fulfilled.
What makes this gospel distinctive?
Its anchoring in the Old Testament: some sixty explicit quotations showing Jesus fulfilling the promises. Matthew also organizes Jesus' teaching into five great discourses, including the Sermon on the Mount.
Where is the Sermon on the Mount?
Chapters 5–7: the Beatitudes (5:3-12), salt and light, love for enemies, the Lord's Prayer (6:9-13), and the house built on the rock that concludes the whole.