o Genesis 5:1 – "This is the book of the generations of Adam..." (parallel structure).
o Luke 3:23-38 - Luke’s genealogy is different (and is likely Mary’s genealogy).
o Galatians 4:4 - "God - Yehovah sent His Son, born of woman..."
o Samuel 7:12-16 - Davidic covenant the lord Messiah Jesus comes from David’s genealogy).
o Genesis 12:3, 22:18 - Abrahamic covenant (all nations blessed through his offspring).
o Romans 1:3 - Jesus "descended from David according to the flesh."
The Genealogical Record (2-17)
(Verses 2-17) “Abraham became the father of Isaac,
and Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of Judah and
his brothers, and Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and
Perez became the father of Hezron, and Hezron became the father of Aram, and
Aram became the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab became the father of
Nahshon, and Nahshon became the father of Salmon, and Salmon became the father
of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz became the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed became the
father of Jesse, and Jesse became the father of David the king [of Israel]. And
David became the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, and Solomon became the
father of Rehoboam. Rehoboam became the father of Abijah, and Abijah became the father of Asaph. Asa became the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat became the father of Joram. Joram became the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah became the father of Jotham, and Jotham became the father of Ahaz. Ahaz became the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh. Manasseh became the father of Amon, and Amon became the father of Josiah. Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers at the time of the
deportation to Babylon. And after the deportation to Babylon, Jechoniah became
the father of Shealtiel. Shealtiel became the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel became the father of Abiud. Abiud became the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim became the father of Azor. Azor became the father of Zadok, and Zadok became the father of Achim, and Achim became the father of Eliud. Eliud became the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar became the father of Matthan. Matthan became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of Joseph,
the husband of Mary by whom was born Jesus, who is called the Messiah.
Therefore, all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations,
and from David to the deportation to Babylon are fourteen generations, and from
the deportation to Babylon to the Messiah are fourteen generations.
Structure: Three sets of 14
generations (symbolic, mnemonic).
Key Figures
Highlighted:
o Abraham (v. 2) - Father of faith (Hebrews 11:8-12).
o Judah & Tamar (v.3) - Genesis 38 (God’s – Yehovah’s providence in scandalous lineage).
o Rahab (v. 5) - Joshua 2 (Gentile included in the Messiah’s genealogy).
o Ruth (v. 5) - Moabite convert (Ruth 4:13-17).
o David (v. 6) - Messianic king (Psalm 89:3-4).
o "Uriah’s wife" (Bathsheba, v. 6) - Acknowledges David’s sin (2 Samuel 11-12).
o Jeconiah (v.11-12) - Jeremiah 22:30 (curse on his line, yet God - Yehovah preserves Messiah’s legitimacy through Joseph’s legal, not biological, fatherhood).
The Climax of the Genealogy (v. 16)
(Verse 16: “Jacob fathered Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom Jesus was
born, who is called the Messiah.
"Joseph
the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born"
o Luke 1:26-35 - Virgin birth announced to Mary.
o John 1:14 - "The word became flesh."
Note: The prophetic word became flesh in Genesis 3:15: I will also put hostility between you and the woman - Eve, and between your offspring and her offspring. He [the lord Messiah Jesus] will strike you on the head, and you will strike him on the heel [cause him to be crucified].The Virgin Birth of Jesus (vv.18-25)
(Verses 18-25) “Now the genesis - birth of Jesus
the Messiah occurred in this way. For after his mother, Mary, was betrothed to
Joseph, before they came together, she was found to be pregnant⸥ by the Holy Spirit. So, Joseph, her husband, being
a just man and not wanting to disgrace her, planned to divorce her secretly.
But as he was considering these things, behold, an angel of the Lord - Yehovah
appeared to him in a dream, saying: “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to
take Mary as your wife, for what has been conceived in her is from the Holy
Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you shall call his name Jesus
[Yehoshua – Yehovah is Salvation],’ because he will save his people from their
sins." All this took place to fulfill what the Lord – Yehovah had spoken
by Isaiah the prophet: “Behold, the virgin will become conceive and bear a son,
and they shall call his name Immanuel” [Isaiah 7:14],” which means: “with us is God - Yehovah [Isaiah 8:8].”
And Joseph, when he woke up from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord [Yehovah]
had commanded him, and he took his wife and did not have sexual relations with⸥ her until she gave birth to a son. And he called
his name Jesus [Yehoshua - which means Yehovah is Salvation].
"Betrothed to Joseph" (v.18)
Jewish betrothal (kiddushin) was legally binding (Deuteronomy 22:23-24)
"Found
to be with child from the Holy Spirit"
o Isaiah 7:14 (quoted in v. 23) - "Behold, the virgin shall conceive..."
o Luke 1:35 – "The Holy Spirit will come upon you..."
· Joseph’s Righteousness (v.19)
o He sought to divorce quietly (Numbers 5:11-31)
Angel’s Message (v. 20-21)
o "Jesus" (Yehoshua = "Yehovah saves") - Psalm 130:8; Acts 4:12.
o "He will save his people from their sins" – Jeremiah 31:34 (New Covenant forgiveness).
Fulfillment of Prophecy (v. 22-23)
o Isaiah 7:14 – "Immanuel" (God is with us) - John 1:14; Revelation 21:3.
Joseph’s Obedience (v. 24-25)
o Took Mary as wife but kept her a virgin until Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:7).
Key Themes
1. Messianic Lineage - Jesus fulfills the covenants to Abraham and David.
2. Divine Providence – God - Yehovah works through flawed people (Tamar, Rahab, David).
3. Virgin Birth - Jesus’ miraculous conception affirms he was completely human as
the Son of God - Yehovah.
4. Immanuel [with us is God – Yehovah] – God [Yehovah] dwelling with His people (Revelation
21:3).
Note: Immanuel dwelling with His people did so
completely by indwelling the lord Messiah Jesus with the fullness of His
nature.
Cross-References for Further Study
Genealogies: Ruth 4, 1 Chronicles 1-3, Luke 3:23-38.
Virgin
Birth: Luke 1:26-38, Galatians 4:4-5.
Jesus as
Messiah: Psalm 2, Daniel 7:13-14,
Revelation 22:16.
MATTHEW CHAPTER TWO
Below is a detailed scriptural concordant outline, organized
thematically with key verses, cross-references, and theological insights.
Outline & Scriptural Concordance
Theme: The Worship and
Rejection of the lord Messiah Jesus.
The Magi Seek and Worship the King (vv. 1–12)
The Arrival of the Magi (vv. 1–2)
(Verse 1) “Now when Jesus was
born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, magi -
astrologers from the east arrived in Jerusalem,
Jesus - Yehoshua, born in
Bethlehem (Micah 5:2; Luke 2:4–7)
(Verse 2) “saying, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?
For we saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.”
Note: Worship - express in attitude or gesture one's complete dependence
on or submission to a high authority figure, i.e., a king, judge, magistrate,
or angel.
The Magi seek the "King of the Jews" (Numbers 24:17; Daniel
9:24–25)
o Star symbolism (Job 38:7; Revelation 22:16) - Possibly a supernatural sign (cf. Balaam’s prophecy, Numbers 24:17)
Herod’s Fear and Deception (vv. 3–8)
(Verses 3-8) “And when King Herod heard this, he was troubled, and
Jerusalem with him, and gathering together all the chief priests and
scribes of the people, he inquired where the Messiah was to be born. And
they said: ‘In Bethlehem of Judea; for thus it has been written by the
prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among
the rulers of Judah; from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people
Israel [Micah 5:2].’ Then, Herod
secretly called the magi – astrologers and determined from them the exact time
the star appeared. And sending them to Bethlehem, he said: ‘Go and
search carefully for the child; and when you have found him, report
to me, so that I too may come and worship – pay homage to him.’”
v.3 – Herod is troubled (cf. Exodus 1:8–10; Psalm
2:1–3)
v.4 – Priests cite Micah 5:2 (John 7:42)
v.8 – Herod’s false worship (cf. Proverbs
26:24–26; Matthew 22:16)
The Magi Worship Jesus (vv. 9–12)
(Verses 9-11) “And having heard the king, they went on their way, and
behold, the star which they had seen in the east, led them until it came and
stood over the child. And when they saw the star, they rejoiced
exceedingly with great joy. And entering the house, they found the child
with Mary his mother; and falling down, they worshipped him; and opening their
treasures, they presented to him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh..”
Gifts
symbolize Jesus’ identity:
o Gold (King - Psalm 72:10–11)
o Frankincense (Priest – Exodus 30:34; Matthew 1:11)
o Myrrh (Suffering – Mark 15:23; John 19:39)
(Verse 12) “And having been
warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their own country
by another way.”
Divine warning (cf. Genesis
20:3; Matthew 1:20)
Herod’s Massacre & Jesus Escape to Egypt (vv. 13–18)
Joseph’s Flight to Egypt (vv. 13–15)
(Verses 13-15) “Now when they had departed. behold, an angel of the Lord
- Yehovah appeared in a dream to Joseph, saying: ‘Arise, take the child and his
mother, and flee to Egypt, and stay there until I tell you; for Herod is about
to search for the child to destroy him. So, he arose, took the child and his
mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and was there until the death of Herod;
that what was spoken by the Lord - Yehovah through the prophet might be
fulfilled, saying: ‘Out of Egypt I called my Son.’”
v.13 – Angel warns Joseph (cf. Matthew 1:20; 2:19)
v.15 – Fulfills Hosea 11:1 ("Out of Egypt I
called My Son")
o
Typology: Israel’s exodus
(Exodus 4:22–23)
o
Jesus as the true Israel (cf.
Matthew 4:1–11)
Herod’s Slaughter of the Innocents (vv. 16–18)
(Verses 16-18) “Then Herod, seeing that he was mocked by the magi -
astrologers, was very angry, and sending forth, he killed all the children in
Bethlehem and in all its borders, from two years old and under, according to
the time which he had carefully inquired from the magi. Then was fulfilled what
was spoken through Jeremiah saying: ‘A voice was heard in Ramah,
lamentation and weeping and great mourning; Rachel weeping for her
children, and she would not be comforted because they are no more.’”
v.16 – Herod’s rage (cf. Exodus 1:16, 22;
Revelation 12:4)
v.17–18 – Fulfills Jeremiah 31:15 (Rachel weeping)
o
Ramah = Exile symbolism (Jeremiah 40:1)
o
Hope follows judgment (Jeremiah
31:16–17)
The Return to Nazareth (vv. 19–23)
Herod’s Death & Return to Israel (vv. 19–21)
(Verses 19-21) “Now when Herod had died, behold, an angel of the Lord -
Yehovah appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying: ‘Get up, take the
child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel; for those who sought the
child's life are dead. So, he got up, took the child and his mother, and
entered into the land of Israel.’”
v.19 – The Angel reappears (cf. Matt 1:20; 2:13)
v.20 – Echoes Exodus 4:19 (Moses’ return)
Settlement in Nazareth (2:22–23)
(Verses 22-23) “But when he heard that Archelaus
was reigning over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go
there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the region of Galilee, and
he went and lived in a city called Nazareth; so that what was spoken through
the prophets might be fulfilled, that he would be called a Nazarene.”
v.22 – Fear of Archelaus (cf. Luke 3:1)
v.23 – "He shall be called a Nazarene"
Possible OT allusions:
§ Branch
(Netzer) – Isaiah 11:1; Jeremiah
23:5
§ Rejected
Messiah – John 1:46; Psalm 22:6
Key Theological Themes
1. Fulfillment of Prophecy – Micah 5:2;
Hosea 11:1; Jeremiah 31:15
2. Gentile Inclusion – Magi as first worshippers (foreshadows Great Commission, Matthew 28:19)
3. Rejection & Persecution – Herod foreshadows Jewish leaders’ r rejection
(John 1:11).
4. Divine Protection – God preserves Jesus (cf. Revelation 12:4–6)
Cross-References for Further Study
Star of
Bethlehem: Numbers 24:17; Daniel 2:44;
Revelatoin 22:16
Flight to
Egypt: Exodus 1–2 (Moses parallel)
Rachel’s
Weeping: Genesis 35:19–20 (Rachel’s
death near Bethlehem)
Nazarene Prophecy: Judges 13:5 (Nazirite Samson as
deliverer.
This outline highlights Matthew’s emphasis on Jesus
- Yehoshua as the prophesied Messiah, rejected by his own but worshipped – paid
homage by the Gentiles, fulfilling Scripture at every turn.
MATTHEW CHAPTER THREE
Below is a detailed scriptural concordant
outline, organized thematically with key verses and cross-references for
deeper study.
Outline & Scriptural Concordance
The Ministry of John the Baptist (vv. 1-6)
John’s Preaching in the
Wilderness
(Verse 1) "In those days John the Baptist
came preaching in the wilderness of Judea..."
Cross-reference: Isaiah 40:3 (fulfillment of prophecy), Mark 1:2-4, Luke
3:2-3
(Verses 2-3) "saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of the heaven [God]
has come near.” For this is the one spoken of by the prophet Isaiah,
saying: “A voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the
Lord [Yehovah], make his paths straight.’”
Cross-reference: Matthew 4:17; Luke 4:42 (Jesus same message), Acts 2:38 (repentance in NT)
John’s Appearance & Lifestyle(Verse 4) "Now John had a garment of camel's hair and a leather
belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey.”
Cross-reference: 2 Kings 1:8
(Elijah’s similar attire), Zechariah 13:4 (prophetic garb)
Response to John’s Message
(Verses 5-6) "Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region around
the Jordan went out to him, and they were baptized in the river Jordan confessing
their sins."
Cross-reference: Mark
1:5, Acts 19:4 (baptism of repentance)
John’s Rebuke of the Pharisees & Sadducees (vv. 7-12)
A. Condemnation of Hypocrisy
(Verse 7) "But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees
coming to {his}g baptism, he said to them, ‘offspring’ of
vipers, who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?'"
Cross-reference: Matthew 12:34, 23:33 (Jesus similar rebuke)
Call to True Repentance
(Verses 8-9: "Therebefore, produce fruit worthy of repentance and
do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I
tell you that God - Yehovah is able to raise up children for Abraham from these
stones."
Cross-reference: Luke 3:8, Galatians 5:22-23 (fruit of the Spirit)
Warning of Judgment
(Verse 10) "Indeed, the axe is already laid at the root of the trees;
therefore, every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and
thrown into the fire.
Cross-reference: Luke 13:6-9 (parable of the barren fig tree)
The Coming Messiah & Baptism
of the Spirit
(Verse 11) "I indeed baptize you with water for repentance, but the
one coming is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to
carry; that one will baptize you with the Holy Spirit."
Cross-reference: Acts 1:5, 2:3-4 (fulfillment at Pentecost)
(Verse 12) "His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clean his
threshing floor and gather his wheat into the storehouse, but the chaff he
will burn with unquenchable fire." (Messianic judgment)
Cross-reference: Malachi
3:2-3, 4:1 (refining fire)
The Baptism of Jesus (vv. 13-17)
A. Jesus Comes to Be Baptized
(Verse 13) "Then Jesus comes from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to
be baptized by him."
Cross-reference: Mark 1:9, Luke 3:21
John’s Reluctance & Jesus Insistence
(Verse 14) "But John tried
to prevent him, saying, ‘I need to be baptized by you, and you come to me?’"
Cross-reference: John 1:29-34 (John’s recognition of Jesus as the Lamb)
(Verse 15) "But Jesus answered and said to him ‘Allow it now,
for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.’ Then he
allowed him.’”
Cross-reference: Isaiah 53:11 (righteousness fulfilled in the Messiah)
The Trinitarian Revelation
(Verse 16) "Having been baptized, Jesus immediately went up from the
water; and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of
God - Yehovah descending like a dove coming upon him;”
Cross-reference: Ezekiel 1:1
(heavens opening), Acts 7:56
(Verse 17) "And behold, a voice from the heavens said to him, ‘You
are my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.’"
Cross-reference: Psalm
2:7 (Messianic Sonship), Isaiah 42:1 (Servant Song)
Key Themes in Matthew 3:
- Repentance
& Kingdom Preparation (vv.
1-6)
- True vs.
False Righteousness (vv. 7-10)
- Messianic
Judgment & Salvation (vv.
11-12)
- Jesus Identification with Sinners (vv.
13-15)
- Divine
Affirmation of Christ (vv. 16-17)
This outline provides a scriptural
concordance, linking Matthew chapter 3 with OT prophecies and NT
fulfillments.
MATTHEW CHAPTER FOUR
Below is a detailed scriptural concordant
outline of Matthew Chapter 4, organized thematically with
key verses, cross-references, and theological insights.
Outline
Theme: The Temptation of Jesus and the
Beginning of His Galilean Ministry
I. The Temptation of Jesus (vv.1–11)
Key Idea: Jesus, led by the Spirit, overcomes
Satan’s temptations, demonstrating His perfect obedience as the Son of God.
The Setting of the Temptation (vv. 1–2)
(Verses 1-2) “Then Jesus was led up into the wilderness by the Spirit to
be tempted by the devil. And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he
was hungry.”
- Jesus
is led by the Spirit into the wilderness (v.
1)
- Parallel:
Mark 1:12–13; Luke 4:1–2
- Significance:
Testing follows divine appointment (cf. Deuteronomy 8:2).
- Forty
days and nights of fasting (v.
2)
- Typology:
Reflects Moses (Exodus 34:28) and Elijah (1 Kings 19:8).
- Contrast:
Unlike Israel’s 40-year failure (Numbers 14:34), Jesus succeeds.
The Three Temptations (vv. 3–10)
First Temptation: Turning Stones to Bread (3–4)
(Verses 3-4) “And the tempter came to him and said: ‘If you are the
Son of God, command these stones to become bread.” But Jesus answered and
said: ‘It is written, man shall not live by bread alone, but on every word
of God]’”
- Satan’s
challenge: "If you are the Son of God…" (v. 3)
- Jesus’ response: "Man shall not live by bread
alone…" (Deuteronomy 8:3)
- Spiritual
nourishment > physical needs.
Second Temptation: Jumping from the Temple (5–7)
(Verses 5-7) “Then the devil takes him to the holy
city and stands him on the pinnacle of the temple and says to him, “If you
are the son of God, throw yourself down from here, for it is written: ‘He
will command His angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their
hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone [Psalms 91:11-12].’” Jesus said to him, ‘Again
it is written: You shall not put the Lord - Yehovah your God to the test.’”
- Satan
misuses Psalm 91:11–12 (v. 6).
- Jesus’ response: "Do not put the Lord - Yehovah your God
to the test" (Deuteronomy
6:16)
- Rejects
presumption on God’s protection.
Third Temptation: Worship Satan for Kingdoms (vv. 8–10)
(Verses 8-10) “Again, the devil took him to a very
high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the inhabited earth and
their glory, And he said to him: ‘I will give you all these things, if you
fall down and worship me.’ Then Jesus said to him: ‘Go behind me Satan!
For it is written: ‘You shall worship the Lord - Yehovah your God and serve Him
alone.’”
- Satan
offers worldly power (v. 9).
- Jesus’ response: "Worship the Lord your God
only" (Deuteronomy 6:13)
- Affirms
exclusive allegiance to God.
The Defeat of Satan (v. 11)
(Verse 11) “Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and
ministered to him.”
- Angels
minister to Jesus (cf.
Mark 1:13)
- Fulfillment: Satan is
defeated (Hebrews 4:15; 1 John 3:8).
The Beginning of Jesus’ Ministry in Galilee (vv. 12–17)
Key Idea:
A. Jesus Withdraws to Galilee (vv. 12–13) Jesus
fulfills prophecy by preaching repentance in Galilee.
(Verses 12-13) “Now when Jesus heard that John was arrested, he
withdrew into Galilee. And leaving Nazareth, he went and lived in
Capernaum by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali.”
- Reason: John’s imprisonment (v. 12; cf. Matthew 14:3–4)
- Settles
in Capernaum (v. 13) – Strategic ministry hub.
Fulfillment of Isaiah’s Prophecy (vv. 14–16)
(Verses 14-16) “so that what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah might
be fulfilled, saying: ‘Land of Zebulun and Naphtali, by the way of the
sea, beyond the river Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, the people sitting
in darkness saw a great light, for those sitting in the region and shadow of
death, a light has risen for them.”
- Quotation
of Isaiah 9:1–2 (v. 15–16)
- "The
people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light."
- Jesus
is the Messianic Light (John 8:12).
The Message of Repentance (v. 17)
(Verse 17) “From then on, Jesus began to preach and to say, “Repent, for
the kingdom of the heaven [God] has come near.
- "Repent,
for the kingdom of heaven is at hand."
- Continuation
of John’s message (Matthew 3:2).
- The central theme of Jesus’ preaching (Mark 1:15).
The Calling of the First Disciples (vv. 18–22)
Key Idea: Jesus calls fishermen to become
"fishers of men."
The Call of Simon Peter and Andrew (vv. 18–20)
(Verses 18-20) “While walking by the Sea of Galilee, Jesus saw two
brothers, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into
the sea; for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them: ‘Follow me,
and I will make you become fishers of men.’ Immediately, they left their
nets, followed him”
- "Follow
me, and I will make you fishers of men." (v. 19)
- Immediate obedience (v. 20; cf. Luke 5:1–11 – another account).
The Call of James and John (vv. 21–22)
(Verses 21-22) “Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James
the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father,
mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately, they left their boat
and their father and followed him.]
- Leave their
father and boat (v. 22)
- Radical discipleship (Luke 9:59–62).
Jesus’ Ministry of Teaching, Preaching, and Healing (vv. 23–25)
Key Idea: Jesus’ authority extends over disease
and demons, drawing crowds.
Threefold Ministry (v. 23)
(Verse 23) “And Jesus went about in all of Galilee, teaching them in
their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every
disease and every sickness among the people.”
- Teaching – Synagogues (cf. Matthew 7:28–29).
- Preaching
the gospel of the kingdom (cf.
Luke 4:43).
- Healing
diseases (cf. Isaiah 53:4).
Widespread Fame and Following (vv. 24–25)
(Verses 24-25) “And the report about him went out into all of Syria; and
they brought to Jesus all those who were ill, afflicted with various diseases
and torments, and those who were demon-possessed and epileptics and
paralytics and he healed all of them. And large crowds followed him from
Galilee and the Decapolis and Jerusalem and Judea and beyond the Jordan.
- Healing
all kinds of sickness (v.
24).
- Large crowds from
Galilee, Decapolis, Jerusalem, Judea, and beyond the Jordan (v. 25).
Theological Summary:
- The
Messiah’s Victory Over Temptation –
Jesus succeeds where Adam and Israel failed (Romans 5:18–19).
- The
Kingdom Announcement –
Repentance prepares for the Messianic reign.
- Discipleship –
Immediate, costly, and mission-oriented to preach the good news of the
kingdom of God and the name of the lord Messiah Jesus.
- Jesus’
Authority – Demonstrated in word (teaching)
and deed (healing).
This outline provides a scriptural
concordance, linking Matthew 4 to OT prophecies, NT parallels, and key
theological themes.
MATTHEW CHAPTER FIVE
Below is a detailed scriptural concordant
outline of Matthew Chapter 5, which includes the Beatitudes, Jesus’
teachings on righteousness, and key themes from the Sermon on the Mount.
Matthew Chapter 5 – Scriptural Outline
Introduction: The Setting of the Sermon (vv. 1-2)
(Verses 1-2) “And seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and
when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And opening his mouth, he
taught them, saying:”
- 5:1 – Jesus sees the crowds and goes up on a mountainside
(symbolic of Moses receiving the Law).
- 5:2 – He begins teaching His disciples (indicating this is for
followers, not just the general public).
The Beatitudes: The Character of Kingdom Citizens (vv. 3-12)
(Each beatitude follows a
pattern: "Blessed are… for…")
The Poor in Spirit (v. 3) – Those who recognize their spiritual need
inherit the Kingdom.
(Verse 3) “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for
theirs is the kingdom of the heaven.”
Those Who Mourn (v. 4) – Mourning over the sins they have committed.
(Verse 4) “Blessed are those who mourn, for they
will be comforted.”
The Meek (v. 5) – The humble will inherit the earth (cf. Psalm 37:11).
(Verse 5) “Blessed are the meek [humble], for
they themselves will inherit the earth.”
Those Who Hunger for Righteousness (v. 6) – They will be satisfied.
(Verse 6) “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst
for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.”
The Merciful (vv. 7) – Mercy received leads to mercy given.
(Verse 7) ‘“Blessed are the merciful, for they will
be shown mercy.”
The Pure in Heart (v. 8) – They will see God (cf. Psalm 24:3-4).
(Verse 8) “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they
will see God.”
The Peacemakers (v. 9) – Called "sons of God" for
reconciling others.
(Verse 9) “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they
will be called sons of God.”
The Persecuted for Righteousness (vv. 10-12) – Great reward in heaven (cf. prophets’
treatment).
(Verses 10-12) ““Blessed are those who are
persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of the
heavens. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you, say every evil against
you because of me. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for your reward
is great in the heavens; for so they persecuted the prophets who were before
you.”
The Role of Disciples: Salt and Light (vv. 13-16)
(Verses 13-16) “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt becomes
tasteless, with what will it be salted? It is good for nothing anymore, except
to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world.
A city cannot be hidden when it is set on a hill; nor do they light a lamp
and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who
are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that
they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is
in heaven.”
- 5:13 – Believers are the salt of the earth (preserving,
flavoring, purifying).
- 5:14-16 – Believers are the light of the world (revealing
truth, glorifying God).
Jesus Fulfills the Law (vv. 17-20)
(Verses 17-20) “Do not think that I came to abolish the law or the
prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill [the law]. For truly I say
to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one iota or one stroke will pass
from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever, therefore, breaks one of the
least of these commandments and teaches others to do so, will be called least
in the kingdom of the heaven [God]; but whoever does and teaches them, this one
will be called great in the kingdom of the heaven [God]. “For I say to you that
unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will
not enter the kingdom of the heaven [God].”
- 5:17 – Jesus did not abolish the Law but fulfilled it
(prophecies, types, moral principles).
- 5:18 – Not the smallest part will pass away until all is
accomplished.
- 5:19-20 – Righteousness must exceed that of the Pharisees (internal,
not just external).
Jesus Teachings on Righteousness (vv. 21-48)
(Six antitheses: "You have
heard… but I say…")
On Murder (vv. 21-26)
(Verses 21-26) ““You have heard that it was said to
the elders: that is those of old: ‘You shall not murder; and whoever
murders will be liable to judgement. But I say to you that everyone who is
angry with their brother [[without cause]]l will be liable to
judgment; whoever says to their brother, ‘Raca [An Aramaic insult] will be
liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to the hell
[Gehenna] fire. “So, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there
remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift
there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then
come and offer your gift. “Be quick to settle matters with your adversary,
while you are with him on the way, lest your adversary hand you over to the
judge, and the judge hand you over to the officer, and you be thrown into
prison; truly, I say to you, you will not get out until you have paid the
last penny.”
- Not
just physical killing but anger and contempt (cf. 1 John
3:15).
- Reconciliation
precedes worship (vv. 23-24).
- Judgement
(Exodus 20:13; Deuteronomy 5:17)
On Adultery (vv. 27-30)
(Verses 27-30) “You have heard that it was said
[[to the elders]],q ‘You shall not commit adultery. But I say
to you that everyone who looks at a woman with desire has already committed
adultery with her in his heart. But if your right eye causes you to stumble,
remove it and throw it away from you; for it is better for you that one of your
members should perish, and not your whole body be thrown into Gehenna [fire]. And
if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away from
you; for it is better for you that one of your members should perish, and not
that your whole body should go into Gehenna [fire]. And if your right hand
causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you; for it is better
for you that one of your members should perish, and not your whole body be
cast into Gehena [fire]”
- Lust
= adultery in the heart (cf. Job 31:1).
- Radical
holiness (cutting off sin, (vv. 29-30).
On Divorce (vv. 31-32)
(Verses 31-32) “It was said: ‘Whoever divorces his
wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce. But I say to you everyone
who divorces his wife, except for the reason of sexual immorality, makes her
commit adultery.
- Divorce
(except for sexual immorality) leads to adultery.
On Oaths (vv. 33-37)
(Verses 33-37) “Again, you have heard that it was
said to the elders, to those of old: ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall
fulfill to the Lord - Yehovah your oaths.’ But I say to you: ‘do not swear at
all; neither by heaven, for it is the throne of God, nor by the earth, for
it is the footstool of his feet, nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the
great King, nor shall you swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair
white or black. But let your word be ‘Yes, yes,’ or ‘No, no’; anything
more than this is from the evil one.’”
- Let
your "yes" be yes, and "no" be no (James 5:12).
On Retaliation (vv. 38-42)
(Verses 38-42) “You have heard that it was said:
‘An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, do not resist
the evil one; but whoever slaps you on the cheek, turn to him the other
also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have
your cloak as well; and whoever forces you to go one mile, go with
him two. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one
who wants to borrow from you.
- "Turn
the other cheek" (reject vengeance, cf. Romans 12:17-21).
Love for Enemies (vv. 43-48)
(Verses 43-48) “You have heard that it was said:
‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you: ‘love
your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, pray
for those who are harassing you and persecute you, so that you may be
sons of your Father [Yehovah] who is in the heaven; for He causes His sun to
rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the
unrighteous. 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 your brothers only,
what more are you doing? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Therefore,
you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.’”
- Love your
enemies (imitating God’s – Yehovah’s grace, (v. 45).
- Perfection (maturity
in love, (v. 48).
Key Themes
✅ Kingdom Ethics – Has a higher standard than legalism.
✅ Heart Transformation –
Not just outward obedience.
✅ Fulfillment of the Law –
Jesus completes and deepens it.
✅ Radical Love &
Grace – Beyond human expectations.
This outline provides a concordant (cross-referenced)
and thematic breakdown of Matthew chapter 5, showing how Jesus
redefines righteousness for his followers.
MATTHEW CHAPTER SIX
Here is a detailed scriptural concordant
outline of Matthew Chapter 6, organized thematically with key verses
and cross-references. This outline follows a logical progression of Jesus'
teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on righteous motives,
prayer, and priorities in the Kingdom of God.
Outline with Scriptural Concordance
Theme: True Righteousness – Motives, Prayer,
and Priorities in God’s Kingdom
The Righteousness of Giving (vv.
:1-4)
Key Verse: "Be careful not to practice your
righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have
no reward from your Father in heaven" (6:1)
Warning Against Hypocrisy in Giving (vv. 1-2)
(Verses 1-2) “Be careful not to do you charitable
deeds in front of men, in order to be seen by them; otherwise, you have no
reward from your Father who is in heaven. So, when you give to the needy, do
not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in
the streets, so that they may be praised by men; truly truly I say to you,
they have received their reward.
- Pharisees’
practice of public almsgiving (cf. Matt 23:5; Luke 18:9-14)
- Reward:
Temporal praise vs. eternal reward (Proverbs 19:17; 2 Corinthians 9:6-7)
Secret Giving Pleases God (vv. 3-4)
(Verses 3-4) “But when you give to the needy, do
not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving
may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”
- Do
not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing" (symbol
of secrecy)
- God
sees and rewards in secret (Psalm 41:1-3; Hebrews 6:10)
The Righteousness of Prayer (vv. 5-15)
(Verses 5-6) “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for
they love to stand in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets,
standing and praying. so that they may be seen by men; truly I say to you, they
have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your inner room, and
having shut the door, pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who
sees in secret will reward you.”
Key Verse: "But when you pray, go into your
room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father,
who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." (v. 6)
Proper Attitude in Prayer (vv. 7-8)
(Verses 7-8) ‘And when you pray, do not use vain
repetitions as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for
their many words. Therefore, do not be like them; for God - Yehovah your
Father knows what you need before you ask him.
- Avoid
hypocritical, repetitive prayers (Matthew 23:14; Mark 12:40)
- God
knows our needs before we ask (Psalm 139:4; Isaiah 65:24)
The Model Prayer (The Lord’s Prayer) (vv. 9-13)
(Verses vv. 9-13) “In this manner, therefore, pray:
Our Father who is in heaven; let your name be sanctified [set apart]; let your
kingdom come; let your will be done, in heaven, so also on earth. Give us
today our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our
debtors; and do not lead us into temptation, but deliver us from the evil
one, for yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory, forever. Amen.”
- Adoration - "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name"
(Exodus 3:15; Isaiah 57:15)
- Submission - "Your kingdom come, Your will be done" (Matthew
26:39; Revelation 22:20)
- Petition:
- Daily bread (Proverbs 30:8; Philippians 4:19)
- Forgiveness (as we forgive others) (Ephesians 4:32; Colossians
3:13)
- Deliverance from temptation (1 Corinthians 10:13; James 1:13-14)
Emphasis on Forgiveness (www. 14-15)
(Verses 14-15) “If you forgive men their
trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you; but if you do not
forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your
trespasses.
Conditional forgiveness (Mark 11:25-26; Matthew
18:21-35)
The Righteousness of Fasting (vv. 16-18)
Key Verse: "But when you fast, put oil on
your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you
are fasting, but only to your Father, who is invisible" (vv. 17-18)
Hypocritical Fasting (v. 16)
(Verse 16) “But when you fast, do not become just like
the hypocrites, with a sad countenance, for they disfigure their faces so that
they may appear to men to be fasting. For, truly I say to you [that they
have their reward.”
- Pharisees’
outward displays (Luke 18:12; Isa 58:3-7)
Genuine Fasting (6:17-18)
(Veres 17-18) “But when you fast, anoint your head
and wash your face, so that you may not appear to men as fasting, but to
your Father [Yehovah] who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will
reward you.”
- Fasting
as a private devotion (Joel 2:12; Acts 13:2-3)
- God
rewards sincerity (Zechariah 7:5-6; Matthew 9:14-15)
The Righteousness of Priorities (vv. 19-34)
Key Verse: "But seek first His kingdom and
His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (v.
33)
Eternal Treasures Over Earthly Wealth (vv. 19-21)
(Verses 19-21) “Do not store up for yourselves
treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal;
but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust
destroys and where thieves do not break in; for where your treasure is,
there will your heart be also.”
- Moths,
rust, and thieves (James 5:2-3; Luke 12:33-34)
- "Where
your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Colossians 3:1-2)
The Light of the Eye (Spiritual Focus) (ww. 22-23)
(Verses 22-23) “The lamp eye is the lamp of the
body. If your eye is clear [without a hidden agenda, open and above board], your
whole body will be full of light; but if your eye is evil [full of guile],
your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you is
darkness, how great is the darkness!
- Single-minded
devotion (Luke 11:34-36; Psalm 119:37)
- The darkness
of greed vs. the light of generosity (Proverbs 28:22; 1 Timothy 6:9-10)
Serving God, Not Money (v. 24)
(Verse 24) “No one can serve two masters; for
either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one
and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.”
- Impossible
to serve two masters (Luke 16:13; Joshua 24:15)
Trusting God’s Provision (vv. 25-34)
Do Not Worry About food, clothing, life (vv. 25-30)
(Verses 25-30) “Therefore I say to you, do not
worry about your life, what you will eat nor about your body, what you will
wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at
the birds of the sky, that they do not sow, nor reap, nor gather into barns,
and your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth more than they? And
which of you by worrying can add eighteen inches to his height? And why do you
worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they
neither toil nor spin; yet I say to you even Solomon in all his glory was
not arrayed like one of these of the field. “Now if God so clothes the grass of
the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not
much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
- Food
(6:25-26; Psalm 34:10; Philippians 4:6)
- Clothing
(6:28-30; 1 Peter 5:7)
- Life’s
length (6:27; James 4:14)
Seek First the Kingdom (vv. 31-33)
(Verses 31-33) “Therefore do not worry, saying,
‘What shall we eat?’ Or what shall we drink? Or what shall we wear? For
all these things the nations seek; for your Father knows that you need all
these things. Seek you first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and
all these things shall be added to you.
- Gentiles
chase after material things (1 Timothy 6:8)
- God provides for His children (Psalm 37:25; Romans 8:32)
Live One Day at a Time (v. 34)
(Verse 34) “Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow,
for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
- Tomorrow has its own worries (James 4:13-15)
Summary
- Motives
Matter – Righteousness is about the heart,
not outward show (1 Samuel 16:7).
- Prayer
as a Relationship – Not a ritual, but a communion
with your God and Father - Yehovah (John 4:23-24).
- Kingdom
Priorities – Trusting God’s – Yehovah’s
provisions while pursuing His righteousness, walk as a slave of
righteousness.
This outline integrates cross-references to
show the continuity of Jesus' teaching backed by the Old Testament and the rest
of the New Testament.
MATTHEW
CHAPTER SEVEN
Below is a
detailed, scripturally grounded explanation of Matthew chapter 7, which is
part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. This chapter focuses on judging
others, divine discernment, prayer, the narrow and wide gates, false prophets,
true discipleship, and the wise and foolish builders.
Theme: Jesus Teachings on Right Judgment, Discipleship, and True Obedience
Detailed Breakdown
Judging
Others (vv. 1-6)
(Verses 1-6) “Stop judging so that you will not be judged. Otherwise, you will be judged by the same standard you use to judge others. The standards you use for others will be applied to you. So why do you see the piece of sawdust in another believer’s eye and not notice the wooden beam in your own eye? How can you say to another believer, ‘Let me take the piece of sawdust out of your eye,’ when you have a beam in your own eye? You hypocrite! First, remove the beam from your own eye. Then you will see clearly how to remove the piece of sawdust from another believer’s eye. Don’t give what is holy to dogs or throw your pearls to pigs. Otherwise, they will trample them and then tear you to pieces.’” Key Verses:
"Judge
not, that you be not judged." (7:1)
"Why
do you see the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the beam in your
own eye?" (7:3)
Explanation:
Jesus warns
against hypocritical judgment - condemning others while ignoring one’s own
sins.
He does not
forbid all judgment (cf. John 7:24, "judge with righteous
judgment") but condemns self-righteous, harsh criticism.
Verse 6 ("Do
not give dogs what is holy...") suggests discernment - truth should
not be wasted on those who mock or reject it (cf. Proverbs 9:7-8).
Ask, Seek,
Knock (vv. 7-12)
(Verses 7-12) “Ask, and you will receive. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. Everyone who asks will receive. The one who searches will find, and for the one who knocks, the door will be opened. If your child asks you for bread, would any of you give him a stone? Or if your child asks for a fish, would you give him a snake? Even though you’re evil, you know how to give good gifts to your children. So how much more will your Father [Yehovah] in heaven give good things to those who ask him? Always do for other people everything you want them to do for you. That is the meaning of Moses’ Teachings and the Prophets. Key Verses:
"Ask,
and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be
opened to you." (7:7)
"If
you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much
more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask
Him!" (7:11)
Explanation:
Jesus
encourages persistent prayer with faith in God’s – Yehovah’s
goodness.
The Golden
Rule (7:12) summarizes the Law and Prophets: treat others as you want to
be treated (Leviticus 19:18; Luke 6:31).
The Narrow
and Wide Gates (vv. 13-14)
(Verses 13-14) “Enter through the narrow gate because the gate and road that lead to destruction are wide. Many enter through the wide gate. But the narrow gate and the road that lead to life are full of difficulties. Only a few people find the narrow gate.”
Key Verses:
"Enter
by the narrow gate... For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to
destruction... but the gate is narrow, and the way is hard – difficult that leads to life." (7:13-14)
Explanation:
Jesus
contrasts two paths:
The Broad Way (popular,
easy, but leading to destruction).
The Narrow
Way (difficult, less traveled, but leading to eternal life).
This
echoes Deuteronomy 30:19 ("choose life") and Jeremiah
21:8 ("the way of life and the way of death").
4. False
Prophets and Their Fruits (vv. 15-20)
(Verses
15-20) ‘Beware of false prophets. They come to you disguised as sheep, but in
their hearts, they are vicious wolves. You will know them
by what they produce [their fruits].
“People don’t pick grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles, do they? In the same way every good tree produces good fruit, but a rotten tree produces bad fruit. A good tree cannot produce bad fruit, and a rotten tree cannot produce good fruit. Any tree that fails to produce good fruit is cut down and thrown into a fire. So, you will know them by what they produce [their fruits]. Key Verses:
"Beware
of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are
ravenous wolves." (7:15)
"You
will recognize them by their fruits." (7:16, 20)
Explanation:
False teachers
may appear righteous but promote deception (cf. 2 Peter 2:1-3).
Fruit-testing involves
examining doctrine (1 John 4:1) and behavior (Galatians 5:22-23).
True vs.
False Disciples (vv. 21-23)
(Verses 21-23) “Not everyone who says to me, ‘lord, lord!’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the person who does what my Father [Yehovah] in heaven wants. Many will say to me on that day, ‘lord, lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name? Did we not we force out demons and do many miracles by the power and authority of your name?’ Then I will tell them publicly, I have never known you. Get away from me, you evil people.’ Key Verses:
"Not
everyone who says to Me, ‘lord, lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven [God],
but the one who does the will of my Father [Yehovah]." (7:21)
"I
never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness." (7:23)
Explanation:
Mere
profession of faith is insufficient - obedience to God’s – Yehovah’s will is required
(James 2:14-17).
Some perform
miracles in the name of the lord Messiah Jesus name but lack a true
relationship with him (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:1-3).
The Wise and
Foolish Builders (vv. 24-27)
(Verses 24-27) “Therefore, everyone who hears what I say and obeys it will be like a wise person who built a house on rock. Rain poured, and floods came. Winds blew and beat against that house. But it did not collapse, because its foundation was on rock. Everyone who hears what I say but doesn’t obey it will be like a foolish person who built a house on sand. Rain poured, and floods came. Winds blew and struck that house. It collapsed, and the result was a total disaster.” Key Verses:
"Everyone
who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built
his house on the rock." (7:24)
"The
rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house,
but it did not fall." (7:25)
Explanation:
Obedience to the
lord Messiah Jesus instructions provide an unshakable foundation (Psalm
18:2).
The foolish
builder (hearing but not obeying) faces destruction (cf. Ezekiel
13:10-16).
Conclusion:
The Authority of the lord Messiah Jesus (Matthew 7:28-29)
Key Verses:
"The
crowds were astonished at His teaching, for He was teaching them as one who had
authority, and not as their scribes." (vv. 28-29)
(Verses
29-29) “When Jesus finished this speech, the crowds were amazed at his
teachings. Unlike their experts in Moses’ Teachings, he
taught them with authority.”
Explanation:
Unlike the
scribes (who quoted rabbis), Jesus spoke with divine authority ( John
7:46).
This sets the
stage for His miracles and claims to be the Messiah.
Key Themes
Righteous
Judgment (vs. hypocritical condemnation).
Persistent
Prayer and trust in God’s - Yehovah'sprovision.
The Two Paths - Salvation
requires deliberate choice.
Discerning
False Teachers by their fruits.
True
Discipleship—obedience, not just words.
The Foundation
of Obedience to the lord Messiah Jesus words.
This
chapter concludes the Sermon on the Mount, urging listeners to not
just hear but obey Jesus’ instructions.
MATTHEW CHAPTER EIGHT
Detailed
Description
This chapter is a rich and profound chapter in
the New Testament that demonstrates the lord Messiah Jesus' authority and
compassion through his teachings, healings, and miracles.
Below is a detailed
exploration, broken down into the main sections of the chapter, referencing the
text and its scriptural significance.
The Healing of a Leper (vv. 1–4)
(Verses 1-4) “And when he came down from the
mountain, large crowds followed him. And behold, a leper came up and
reverence him, saying, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me
clean.” And stretching out his hand, Jesus touched him, saying, “I am
willing; be cleansed.” And his leprosy was cleansed. And Jesus said to
him, “See that you tell no one; but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the
sacrifice that Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.”
- Scriptural Passage: A
man with leprosy approaches the lord Messiah Jesus as he descends from the
mountain after delivering the Sermon on the Mount. The man expresses faith
by saying, “Lord, if You are willing, you can make me clean.” The lord
Messiah Jesus touches the leper, an act that broke social norms, and
declares, “I am willing; be clean!” The man is immediately healed. The
lord Messiah Jesus instructs him to show himself to the priest and offer
the gift Moses commanded, in accordance with the Law (Leviticus 14:2–32).
- Key Themes:
- Compassion and Willingness: The
lord Messiah Jesus’ response highlights his compassion and readiness to
heal those who come to him in faith.
- Fulfillment of the Law: The
lord Messiah Jesus’ instruction to follow Mosaic Law shows His respect
for Jewish customs while revealing his God – Yehovah given authority to
heal.
The Faith of the Centurion (vv. 5–13)
(Verses 5-13) “When Jesus went to Capernaum, a
Roman army officer came to beg him for help. The officer said, "Sir, my servant is lying at home paralyzed and
in terrible pain." Jesus said to him, "I'll come to heal him.” The
officer responded, "Sir, I don't deserve to have you come into my house.
But just give a command, and my servant will be healed. As you know, I'm
in a chain of command and have soldiers at my command. I tell one of them,
'Go!' and he goes, and another, 'Come!' and he comes. I tell my servant, 'Do
this!' and he does it." Jesus was amazed when he heard this. He said to
those who were following him, "I can guarantee this truth: I haven't found
faith as great as this in anyone in Israel. I can guarantee that many will come from all over the world. They will
eat with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. The citizens of
that kingdom will be thrown outside into the darkness. People will cry and be
in extreme pain there. Jesus told the officer, "Go! What you believed will
be done for you." At that moment, his servant was healed.
- Scriptural Passage: A
Roman centurion requests healing for his paralyzed servant. He
acknowledges his unworthiness to have the lord Messiah Jesus enter his
home and demonstrates faith in the lord Messiah Jesus’ authority by
saying, “Just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” The lord
Messiah Jesus marvels at his faith and declares, “I have not found anyone
in Israel with such great faith.” The servant is healed at that moment.
Key Themes:
- Faith Across Boundaries: The
centurion’s faith is notable as he is a Gentile, emphasizing the
universality of the lord Messiah Jesus’ mission.
- Authority of the lord Messiah Jesus: The healing demonstrates Jesus' authority over physical ailments
and affirms the enabling indwelling power of his God and Father Yehovah, who filled him with the fullness of His nature.
Healing
Peter’s Mother-in-Law and Many Others (vv. 14–17)
(Verses
14-17) “When Jesus went to Peter's house, he saw Peter's mother-in-law in bed
with a fever. Jesus touched her hand, and the fever went away. So, she got
up and prepared a meal for him. In the evening, the people brought him many
who were possessed by demons. He cast out the unclean spirit with a word and
healed all who were sick. So, what the prophet Isaiah had said came true:
"He took away our weaknesses and removed our diseases [Isaiah 53:4]."
- Scriptural Passage: The
lord Messiah Jesus visits Peter’s house and heals Peter’s mother-in-law of
a fever by touching her hand. She immediately begins to serve them. Later,
many demon-possessed and sick people are brought to the lord Messiah Jesus,
and he heals them all. Matthew links these acts to Isaiah 53:4: “He took
up our infirmities and bore our diseases.”
Key Themes:
- Service as a Response:
Peter’s mother-in-law's immediate service after healing reflects
gratitude and restored purpose.
- Fulfillment of Prophecy:
Matthew connects the lord Messiah Jesus' healing ministry to the
Messianic prophecy in Isaiah, emphasizing that the lord Messiah Jesus is
the promised Savior.
The Cost of
Following Jesus (vv. 18–22)
(Verses 18-229)
“Now, when Jesus saw a crowd around him, he ordered his disciples to cross to
the other side of the Sea of Galilee. A scribe came to him and said,
"Teacher, I'll follow you wherever you go." Jesus told him,
"Foxes have holes, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to
sleep." Another disciple said to him, "Sir, first let me go to
bury my father." But Jesus told him, "Follow me, and let the dead
bury their own dead."
- Scriptural Passage: The
lord Messiah Jesus addresses the cost of discipleship. A scribe declares
his desire to follow Jesus, and Jesus responds, “Foxes have dens, and
birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head.”
Another disciple asks to first bury his father, and Jesus replies, “Follow
Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.”
Key Themes
- Sacrifice in Discipleship: The
lord Messiah Jesus emphasizes that following him requires prioritizing
spiritual commitments over worldly concerns.
- Urgency of the Call: The
responses highlight the urgency and total devotion - commitment required to follow
Jesus.
Jesus Calms
the Storm (vv. 23–27)
(Verses
23-27) “Jesus' disciples went with him as he left in a boat. Suddenly, a
severe storm came across the sea. The waves were covering the boat. Yet, Jesus
was sleeping. So they woke him up, saying, "Lord! Save us! We're
going to die!" Jesus said to them, "Why are you afraid, you of
little faith?" Then he got up, gave an order to the wind and the sea, and
the sea became very calm. The men were amazed and asked, "What kind
of man is this? Even the wind and the sea obey him!"
- Scriptural Passage: The
lord Messiah Jesus and his disciples are in a boat when a fierce storm
arises. The disciples, terrified, wake Jesus, saying, “Lord, save us!
We’re going to drown!” Jesus rebukes their lack of faith, calms the storm
with a command, and amazes the disciples, who marvel, “What kind of man is
this? Even the winds and the waves obey Him!” Note: The lord
Messiah Jesus had his God and Father Yehovah dwelling in him with the fullness
of His nature.
Key Themes:
- Authority Over Nature:
This miracle demonstrates the lord Messiah Jesus God – Yehovah giving him power
over creation, which he now exercises as lord and Messiah over all of
God’s – Yehovah’s creation, with only Yehovah excluded.
- Faith in Trials: The
disciples’ fear contrasts with the peace and authority of the lord
Messiah Jesus, teaching the importance of trusting him in difficult
times.
Jesus Heals
Two Demon-Possessed Men (vv. 28–34)
(Verses
28-34) “When he arrived in the territory of the Gadarenes on the other side of
the Sea of Galilee, two men met him. They were possessed by demons and had come
out of the tombs. No one could travel along that road because the men were so
dangerous. They shouted, "Why are you bothering us now, Son of God?
Did you come here to torture us before it is time?" A large herd of
pigs was feeding in the distance. The demons begged Jesus, "If you're
going to force us out, send us into that herd of pigs." Jesus said to
them, "Go!" The demons came out and went into the pigs. Suddenly, the
whole herd rushed down the cliff into the sea and died in the water. Those
who took care of the pigs ran into the city. There, they reported everything,
especially about the men possessed by demons. Everyone from the city went
to meet Jesus. When they saw him, they begged him to leave their territory.
- Scriptural Passage: In
the region of the Gadarenes, the lord Messiah Jesus encounters two
demon-possessed men living in tombs. The demons recognize him as the Son
of God - Yehovah and plead to be sent into a herd of pigs rather than be
cast into the abyss. Jesus consents, and the demons enter the pigs, which
then rush into the sea and drown. The townspeople, fearful of Jesus’
power, ask Him to leave their region.
Key Themes:
- Spiritual Authority: The
lord Messiah Jesus’ power over demonic forces reveals his God given dominion over
the spiritual realm.
- Human Fear and Rejection: The
townspeople’s reaction highlights how fear and material loss can lead
people to reject the lord Messiah Jesus.
Overarching
Themes in Matthew Chapter Eight
- Authority of the lord Messiah Jesus: Throughout the chapter, the lord Messiah Jesus' authority is
evident over sickness, nature, spiritual forces, and human discipleship.
- Faith and Healing: Many
of the miracles are tied to the faith of those seeking help, showing that
trust in the lord Messiah Jesus is central to receiving his blessings.
- Fulfillment of Prophecy:
Matthew repeatedly connects the lord Messiah Jesus’ actions to Old
Testament prophecies, affirming his identity as lord and Messiah.
- Universal Mission: From the centurion’s faith to the healing of Gentiles, the
chapter foreshadows the inclusion of all nations in the Kingdom of God.
Conclusion
Matthew
chapter eight illustrates Jesus’ compassion, power, and the cost of
discipleship. It invites readers to reflect on their faith, recognize Jesus’ God
– Yehovah given authority, and embrace the call to follow him wholeheartedly,
regardless of the challenges.
MATTHEW CHAPTER NINE
Below is a detailed scriptural concordant
outline of Matthew chapter nine, organized thematically with key verses
and cross-references.
This outline highlights the chapter's major events, teachings, and theological themes.
Outline & Scriptural Concordance
Theme: The lord Messiah Jesus
demonstrates the authority given to him by his God and Father Yehovah over sickness,
sin and death.
Jesus Forgives and Heals a Paralytic (vv. 1-8)
(Verses 1-8) “And entering into a boat, he crossed over and
came to his own city. And behold, they brought to him a paralytic lying on
a bed. And seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, “Take courage,
child, your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to
themselves: “This one blasphemes.” Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, “Why
do you think evil in your hearts? Which is easier, to say: ‘Your sins are
forgiven,’ or to say: ‘Rise and walk’? But so that you may know that the
Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins,” he then says to the
paralytic, “Rise, take up your bed and go to your house.” And rising,
he went to his house. But when the crowds saw this, they were filled with
awe and glorified the God - Yehovah who had given such authority to men.
- 9:1-2 – The lord Messiah Jesus returns to Capernaum and forgives a
paralyzed man’s sins.
- Cross-ref: Mark 2:1-12; Luke 5:17-26
- Key phrase: "Take
heart, son; your sins are forgiven."
- 9:3-5 – The scribes accuse the lord Messiah Jesus of blasphemy
(claiming divine authority).
- Cross-ref: Isaiah 43:25 (Only God - Yehovah forgives sins)
- 9:6-8 – the lord Messiah Jesus heals the paralytic to prove his God and Father Yehovah has given him the authority to forgive sins.
- Key phrase: "The
Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins."
Jesus Calls Matthew the Tax Collector (vv. 9-13)
(Verses 9-13) “And as Jesus passed on, he saw a man sitting at the tax booth, called Matthew, and said to him, “Follow me.” And rising up, he followed him. And as he reclined at the table in the house [in Matthew’s house], behold, many tax collectors and sinners were reclining with Jesus and his disciples. And the Pharisees, having seen this, said to his disciples: “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But Jesus, having heard, said to them: “Those who are strong have no need of a physician, but those who are ill. Go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy and not sacrifice [Hosea 6:6].’ For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
- 9:32-33 – A mute man is freed from a demon and speaks.
- Cross-ref: Matthew 12:22-24 (Similar event leading to Pharisee accusations)
- 9:34 – Pharisees accuse the lord Messiah Jesus of casting out
demons by Beelzebul.
- Cross-ref: Mark 3:22-30 (Blasphemy against God’s Holy Spirit)
Jesus’ Compassion for the Harvest (vv. 35-38)
(Verses 35-38) “And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and every sickness among the people and many were following him. Seeing the crowds, Jesus had compassion for them because they were harassed and scattered, like sheep not having a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few; therefore, ask the Lord of the harvest [Yehovah] to send out workers into His harvest.
- 9:35 – Summary of the lord Messiah Jesus’ ministry: teaching, preaching,
healing.
- 9:36 – The lord Messiah Jesus has compassion because the people
are "harassed and scattered."
- Cross-ref: Numbers 27:17 (Sheep without a shepherd)
- 9:37-38 – "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are
few."
- Cross-ref: Luke
10:2 (Same instruction to the 72 disciples)
Key Themes
- Authority
of the lord Messiah Jesus –
Over sin (9:6), sickness (9:22), death (9:25), and demons (9:33).
- Mercy
Over Legalism - The lord Messiah Jesus
prioritizes compassion (9:13) over ritual (9:14-17).
- Faith
as a Condition for Healing -
Repeated emphasis on faith (9:2, 22, 29).
- Opposition
from Religious Leaders - Growing
conflict with Pharisees (9:3, 11, 34).
- Mission
Urgency - The need for laborers in God’s -
Yehovah’s harvest (9:37-38).
This outline provides
a cross-referenced structure, showing how Matthew chapter nine fits into
the broader Gospel narrative and Old Testament connections.
MATTHEW CHAPTER 10
Here is a detailed, scriptural, upgraded,
concordant outline of Matthew Chapter 10, structured thematically and
analytically for deeper study:
THE MISSIONARY DISCOURSE: AUTHORITY, INSTRUCTIONS, AND END-TIME
PERSPECTIVES
The Calling and Authorization of the Twelve (vv. 1-4)
Divine Empowerment (v. 1)
(Verse 1) “And calling to him his twelve disciples,
he gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out and to heal
every disease and every infirmity.”
o Jesus gives them authority (ἐξουσία) over
unclean spirits, diseases, and sicknesses (cf. Luke 9:1; Mark 6:7).
o Fulfills the Messianic delegation of power (Psalm
110:3; Isaiah 61:1).
The Twelve Apostles Listed (vv. 2-4)
(Verses 2-4) “The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; and James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas and Matthew the tax collector, James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, who was called Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.
o Peter named first (signifying leadership, cf.
Matthew 16:18).
o
Judas Iscariot is noted
as the betrayer (foreshadowing 26:14-16).
o
Structured
in pairs (Mark 6:7), possibly for mutual accountability.
The Commission: Instructions for the Immediate Mission (vv. 5-15)
Restricted Scope: Israel First (vv. 5-6)
(Verses 5-6) “Jesus sent out these twelve,
instructing them: “Do not go on the road to the Gentiles, and do not enter a
city of the Samaritans; rather go to the lost sheep of the house of
Israel.”
- "Do
not go among the Gentiles or Samaritans" – a temporary restriction
(cf. Matthew 15:24; Romans 1:16).
- Focus
on "the lost sheep of Israel" (Jeremiah 50:6; Ezekiel 34:5-6).
Proclamation and Power (vv. 7-8)
(Verses 7-8) ““As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The
kingdom of the heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, cleanse
the lepers, cast out demons; freely you have received, freely give.
- Message: "The
kingdom of heaven is near" (continuation
of John the Baptist and Jesus’ preaching, Matthew 3:2; 4:17).
- Miracles
as authentication (healing,
resurrection, cleansing lepers, exorcisms – cf. Isaiah 35:5-6).
- "Freely
you have received; freely give" – no commercialization of ministry
(cf. Acts 8:20; 2 Corinthians 11:7).
Travel Provisions (vv. 9-10)
(Verses 9-10) ““Do not acquire gold, or copper for
your belts, nor a bag for the journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor a
staff, for the worker is worthy of his wage.”
- No
gold, silver, or extra provisions – total dependence on God (cf.
Luke 22:35; 1 Corinthians 9:14)
Response Protocol (vv. 11-15)
(Verses 11-15) “And into whatever city you enter,
inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there until you leave. As you enter the
house, greet it saying: ‘Peace to this house,’ if the house is worthy, let your
peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. And
whoever does not receive you, nor listen to your words, as you go out of that city,
shake off the dust from your feet. Truly, I say to you, it will be more
bearable for the land of Sodom and land of Gomorrah in the day of judgment
than for that city.
- Find
a "worthy" (ἄξιος) person (one receptive to the
gospel).
- Peace
to the house (Numbers 6:24-26);
if rejected, peace returns (v. 13).
- Judgment
symbolism: Shaking dust off feet
(10:14; Acts 13:51) – disassociation from rejection (Nehemiah 5:13).
- Sodom
and Gomorrah’s fate (v. 15) – a warning of greater judgment for
rejecting Messiah’s messengers (cf. Genesis 19; Ezekiel 16:49-50).
Warnings of Persecution and Endurance (vv. 16-25)
Sheep Among Wolves (v. 16)
(Verse 16) “Behold, I am sending you out as sheep
in the midst of wolves; therefore, be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.”
- Wisdom
(φρόνιμοι) and innocence (ἀκέραιοι) required (cf. Romans 16:19; 1 Corinthians 14:20).
- Serpent
(Genesis 3:1) and dove (Holy Spirit, Matthew 3:16) imagery.
Trials Before Authorities (vv. 17-20)
(Verses 17-20) “But beware of men; for they will
deliver you over to councils and in the synagogues, they will flog
you; and you will be brought before governors for my sake, as a testimony
to them and to the nations. But when they deliver you up, do not be anxious
about how or what you should speak; for it will be given to you in that hour
what you should speak; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your
Father who speaks in you.”
- Synagogues
(Jewish persecution) and governors (Roman persecution) (cf. Acts 5:40; 12:1-4).
- The
Spirit will speak through them (cf.
Luke 12:11-12; Acts 4:8).
Family Betrayal and Hatred (vv. 21-22)
(Verses 21-22) “And brother will deliver up brother
to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and
put them to death. And you will be hated by all because of my name; but
the one who endures to the end, will be saved.”
- Fulfillment
of Micah 7:6 (division in households).
- "Endures
to the end will be saved" – perseverance as evidence of genuine
faith (cf. Matthew 24:13; Hebrews 3:14).
Fleeing Persecution (v. 23)
(Verse 23) “But when they persecute you in this
city, flee to the other, and if they persecute you in the other, flee to
another; truly I say to you, you will not finish the cities of Israel
until the Son of Man comes.
- Practical
wisdom: "When persecuted in one city, flee to the next."
- Eschatological
hint: "You will not
finish going through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes."
Refers to the Second Coming).
Disciples Not Above Master (vv. 24-25)
(Verses 24-25) “A disciple is not above his teacher,
nor a servant above his master. It is enough for the disciple to become like his
teacher and the servant like his master. If they have called the head of the
house Beelzebul, how much more the members of the household!”
- If the
lord Messiah Jesus (the "householder") was called Beelzebul,
his followers will face worse (cf. John 15:20).
Fear God - Yehovah, Not Man (vv. 26-33)
The Truth Will Be Revealed (vv. 26-27)
(Verses 26-27) “So do not fear them; for there is
nothing concealed that will not be revealed and hidden that will not be
known. What I say to you in the darkness, speak in the
light; and what you hear in the ear, proclaim on the rooftops.
- Hidden
things will be exposed (cf. Luke 12:2-3; 1 Corinthians 4:5).
- Proclaim
boldly what the lord Messiah Jesus teaches in private (disciples as
heralds).
Only Fear God (v. 28)
(Verse 28) “And do not fear those who kill the body
but cannot kill the soul; rather fear the one who can destroy both the soul
and the body in Gehenna [associated
with the Valley of Hinnom that was reviled and became a symbol of divine
judgment and destruction].”
- Soul
(ψυχή) and body (σῶμα) distinction –
God - Yehovah can destroy both in hell (γέεννα).
- Contrast
with human threats (cf. Proverbs 29:25; Isaiah 51:12).
Divine Providence (vv. 29-31)
(Verses 29-31) “Are not two sparrows sold for a
penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father
[Yehovah]. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. So do
not fear them; you are worth more than many sparrows.
- Sparrows
illustrate God’s – Yehovah’s meticulous care (cf. Psalm 50:11; Luke
12:6-7).
- The followers
of the lord Messiah Jesus are "worth more than many
sparrows."
Confessing the lord Messiah Jesus Before Men (vv. 32-33)
(Verses 32-33) “Therefore, everyone who
acknowledges me before men, I will also acknowledge him before my Father
[Yehovah] who is in heaven; but whoever denies me before men, I will also deny
them before my Father who is in heaven.
- Eschatological
promise: The lord Messiah Jesus
will confess - acknowledge those who confess - acknowledge him (cf. Revelation
3:5).
- Warning: Denial of the lord Messiah Jesus leads to denial before the
Father (2 Timothy 2:12).
The Cost and Reward of Discipleship (vv. 34-39)
The lord Messiah Jesus Brings Division, not Peace (vv.
34-36)
(Verses 34-36) “Therefore, do not think that I
came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a
sword. For I came to divide a son against his father, and a daughter
against her mother, and a bride against her mother-in-law, and the enemies
of a person will be the members of their own household.
- Fulfillment
of Micah 7:6 (family strife).
- Sword
(μάχαιρα) symbolizes spiritual division (cf. Luke 12:51; Hebrews
4:12).
Loving Jesus Above All (vv. 37-39)
(Verses 37-39) “The one who loves father or mother
more than me is not worthy of me, and the one who loves son or daughter more
than me is not worthy of me; and whoever does not take up his cross and
follow after me is not worthy of me. The one who finds their life will lose it,
and the one who loses their life [dies to self] for my sake will find it.”
- Supreme
allegiance to the lord Messiah Jesus over family (cf. Deuteronomy
13:6-8; Luke 14:26).
- Taking
up the cross (v. 38) – Dying to self and walking as a slave of
righteousness, obeying the word of the lord Messiah Jesus.
- Paradox
of life and death (v. 39) – losing life for the lord Messiah Jesus
gains eternal life (John 12:25).
Promise of Reward for Receiving the Messengers of the lord MEssiah Jesus(vv. 40-42)
Identification with the lord Messiah Jesus (v. 40)
(Verse 40) “The one who receives you receives me,
and the one who receives me receives the one who sent me.
- "Receives
you" = "receives Me" (cf. John 13:20; Galatians 4:14).
Prophet’s and Righteous Man’s Reward (v. 41)
(Verse 41) “The one who receives a prophet in the
name of a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and the one who receives a
righteous person in the name of a righteous person will receive a righteous
person's reward.”
- Hospitality
to God’s – Yehovah’s servants brings shared blessing (2 Kings 4:8-10; Hebrews
13:2).
Even a Cup of Water (v. 42)
(Verse 42) “And if anyone gives one of these
little ones a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, truly I say to you,
he will not lose his reward.”
- Small acts of kindness noted by God - Yehovah (cf. Mark 9:41; Matthew
25:40)
Key Themes & Theological Insights:
- Apostolic
Authority – Delegated power to advance the
Kingdom.
- Urgency
of the Mission – Limited time, dependence on God -
Yehovah.
- Persecution
and Promise – Suffering is inevitable but
rewarded.
- Christological
Focus – The lord Messiah Jesus is the
central allegiance.
- Eschatological
Tension – Present trials vs. future
vindication.
This outline integrates cross-references,
linguistic insights (Greek terms), and prophetic fulfillments for a concordant study.
MATTHEW CHAPTER ELEVEN
This Chapter is rich and multifaceted in the gospel of Matthew. It contains elements of the lord Messiah Jesus'
ministry, teachings about John the Baptist, rebukes to unrepentant cities, and
an invitation to rest in him.
Below is a detailed scriptural explanation of
Matthew 11, broken into sections:
John the
Baptist's Question and Jesus’ Response (vv. 1–6)
(Verses 1-6) “And it happened when Jesus finished giving instructions to his twelve disciples, he went from there to teach and preach in their cities. Now when John heard in the prison the works of the Messiah, he sent his disciples and said to him: ‘Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?’ And Jesus answered and said to them: ‘Go and report to John what you hear and see: the blind receives their sight, and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me.’”
- Context: John the Baptist, imprisoned by Herod
Antipas (Matthew 4:12, 14:1–4), sends his disciples to ask the lord
Messiah Jesus if he is the "One who is to come" (Messiah) or if
they should wait for another.
- Verses 1–3: John's
question reflects a moment of doubt or uncertainty, possibly due to his
suffering in prison and his expectations of the Messiah as a conquering
king.
- Verses 4–5: The
lord Messiah Jesus responds by pointing to his works, quoting Isaiah
35:5–6 and 61:1:
- The blind receive sight.
- The lame walk.
- Lepers are cleansed.
- The deaf hear.
- The dead are raised.
- The poor have the gospel preached to them.
- Verse 6: The lord Messiah Jesus emphasizes the blessedness of those
who do not stumble because of him, a gentle reassurance to John and his
followers.
The lord
Messiah Jesus' Testimony About John the Baptist (Matthew 11:7–15)
(Verses 7-15) “As these went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John, “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? But what did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who wear soft clothing are in the houses of kings. But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. For this is about whom it is written, ‘Behold, I am sending my messenger before your face, who will prepare the way before you.’ ‘Truly I say to you, among those born of women there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet the one who is least in the kingdom of the heavens is greater than he.’ From the days of John, the Baptist until now, the kingdom of heaven has been suffering violence, and forceful men seize it. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John; and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.
- Verses 7–8: The
lord Messiah Jesus affirms John’s character, contrasting him with a
"reed shaken by the wind" or one "dressed in soft
clothing." John’s resolute faith and ascetic lifestyle were evidence
of his prophetic role.
- Verse 9: The lord Messiah Jesus identifies John
as more than a prophet; he is the one foretold in Malachi 3:1 as the
forerunner of the Messiah.
- Verse 11: The lord Messiah Jesus declares John the
greatest of those born of women, yet the least in the Kingdom of Heaven is
greater than John, emphasizing the transformative power of the New Covenant.
- Verses 12–13: The
lord Messiah Jesus mentions the "violence" of the Kingdom, a
reference to the intense opposition and radical commitment it demands.
- Verse 14: John is identified as the Elijah figure
prophesied in Malachi 4:5-6, though not Elijah reincarnated.
- Verse 15: A call to spiritual discernment - “He
who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
The
Indifference of the Generation (vv. 16–19)
(Verses 16-19) “But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces who call out to their others and say: ‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we mourned for you, and you did not lament.’ John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Wisdom is justified by all her works.’”
- Verses 16–17: The
lord Messiah Jesus compares the current generation to children in the
marketplace, highlighting their fickleness and dissatisfaction with both
John and himself.
- Verse 18: John is accused of having a demon due to
his austere lifestyle.
- Verse 19: The lord Messiah Jesus is accused of
being a glutton and drunkard because of his association with sinners. Yet,
"wisdom is justified by her deeds," meaning the true nature of
their ministries is evident in the results.
Woes to
Unrepentant Cities (vv. 20–24)
(Verses 20-24) “Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which most of his mighty works had been done, because they did not repent: ‘Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and sitting in ashes.’ But I say to you: ‘it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you.’ ‘And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You will descend to the grave; for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.’ But I say to you: ‘it will be more bearable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.’”
- Verses 20–21: The
lord Messiah Jesus denounces Chorazin and Bethsaida for their unrepentance
despite witnessing his miracles. He compares them unfavorably to Tyre and
Sidon, pagan cities that would have repented had they seen the same works.
- Verses 22–24:
Capernaum, which had experienced much of the lord Messiah Jesus' ministry,
is warned of severe judgment. The lord Messiah Jesus declares it will be
more tolerable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for them, emphasizing
the greater accountability of those with greater revelation.
Jesus’
Prayer and Invitation to Rest (vv. 25–30)
(Verses 25-30) “At that time, Jesus answered and said, “I thank you, Father [Yehovah], Lord of heaven and earth because you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to infants; Yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. “All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows the Son except the Father, nor does anyone know the Father except the Son and to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. ‘Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest.’ ‘Take my yoke upon you and learn, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls; For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.’”
- Verses 25–26: The
lord Messiah Jesus thanks the Father for hiding the truths of the Kingdom
from the "wise and understanding" (proud or self-reliant) and
revealing them to "little children" (humble and receptive people).
- Verse 27: The lord Messiah Jesus asserts his unique relationship
with his God and his Father Yehovah, declaring that no one knows the Son
except the Father and vice versa.
- Verses 28–30: Jesus
invites the weary and burdened to come to him for rest. He offers:
- Rest for the soul - a profound spiritual peace (Jeremiah 6:16).
- A "yoke" that is easy and light, contrasting the heavy
burdens of legalism imposed by religious leaders (Matthew 23:4).
Themes and
Lessons in Matthew 11
- The Nature of Jesus’ Ministry: His
miracles and teachings fulfill Old Testament prophecies, proving his
Messiahship.
- Faith and Doubt: John the Baptist's question highlights the reality
of doubts even among the faithful, but the lord Messiah Jesus responds
with assurance rather than rebuke.
- Accountability:
Greater knowledge of God’s – Yehovah’s works brings greater
responsibility.
- Spiritual Rest: Jesus
offers a profound invitation to experience rest and peace through
submission to Him.
Key
Takeaway
Matthew chapter eleven reveals the complexity
of the lord Messiah Jesus’ ministry and its reception, blending elements of
divine grace, human responsibility, and the need for humble faith. It calls
readers to recognize Jesus as the Messiah and to respond with repentance,
trust, and a willingness to rest in his grace.
MATTHEW CHAPTER TWELVE
Matthew chapter twelve12 is significant in the Gospel of Matthew, filled with teachings, confrontations, and
parables that reveal Jesus’ mission, authority, and the nature of the Kingdom
of God.
Below is a detailed breakdown and explanation
of the chapter, divided into its key sections:
The lord
Messiah Jesus is lord of the Sabbath (vv. 12:1-8)
(Verses 1-8)
“At that time, Jesus went on the Sabbath through the grainfields; and his
disciples were hungry and began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. When the
Pharisees saw them, they said to him: ‘Look, your disciples are doing what
is not lawful to do.’ He said to them: ‘Have you not read what David did when
he was hungry, he and those with him, how he entered into the house
of God - Yehovah and eat the bread of the Presence, which it was not lawful for
him to eat, nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests alone?’ ‘Or
have you not read in the law that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple
profane the Sabbath and are guiltless?’ ‘I tell you that someone greater than
the temple is here.’ If you had known what this means: ‘I desire mercy, and not
sacrifice, you would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of
Man is lord even of the Sabbath.’”
Narrative:
- The lord Messiah Jesus and his disciples walk through grain fields on the Sabbath.
The disciples pluck heads of grain and eat them because they are hungry.
- The Pharisees accuse them of breaking the Sabbath law, according to
their man made tradition and additions to the law of Moses.
- The lord Messiah Jesus responds by citing:
- David’s example:
David ate the consecrated bread, which was lawful only for priests to eat.
(1 Samuel 21:1-6)
- The work of priests:
Priests work in the temple on the Sabbath and are considered innocent.
- The lord Messiah Jesus declares, “The Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath,” asserting the
authority that his God and his Father Yehovah gave him over the
Sabbath.
Key Themes:
- Mercy over ritual: The
lord Messiah Jesus highlights that God - Yehovah desires mercy, not
sacrifice, quoting Hosea 6:6. The spirit of the law is more important than
strict legalism.
- The lord Messiah Jesus’ authority: By calling himself "lord of the Sabbath," Jesus
demonstrates the authority that his God and his Father Yehovah gave to him,
to interpret and fulfill the Law.
Healing on
the Sabbath (vv. 9-14)
(Verses 9-14)
“And moving on from there, Jesus came into their synagogue; sand behold, there
was a man with a withered hand. And they questioned him, saying: ‘Is it
lawful to heal on the Sabbath?’ so that they might accuse him. He said to them:
‘Which of you, having one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the
Sabbath, will not take hold and lift it out? How much more valuable is a
man than a sheep! Therefore, it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Then
he said to the man: ‘Stretch out your hand.’ And he stretched it out, and it
was restored, healthy. The Pharisees took counsel against him, as to how they
might destroy - kill him.
Narrative:
- In a synagogue, a man with a withered hand is present.
- The Pharisees test the lord Messiah Jesus by asking if it is lawful
to heal on the Sabbath.
- The lord Messiah Jesus responds by reasoning that they would save a
sheep by pulling it out of a pit it had fallen into on the Sabbath, so it
is lawful to do good and heal on the Sabbath.
- The lord Messiah Jesus heals the man, and the Pharisees begin to
plot to destroy him.
Key Themes:
- Doing good on the Sabbath: The
lord Messiah Jesus redefines the Sabbath as a time for doing good,
emphasizing compassion over any legalistic restrictions the Pharisees had
added to the law of Moses.
- Opposition to the lord Messiah Jesus: The Pharisees’ hostility grows as they see the lord Messiah Jesus
challenging their interpretation of the Law.
The lord
Messiah Jesus, the Servant of God (vv. 15-21)
(Verses
15-21) “He knew about this [threat by the Pharisees to kill him], so he left that place. Many people followed him,
and he cured all of them. He also ordered them not to tell people who he was. So,
what the prophet Isaiah had said came true: ‘Here is my servant whom I have
chosen, whom I love, and in whom I delight. I will put my Spirit on him, and he
will announce justice to the nations. He will not quarrel or shout, and no one
will hear his voice in the streets. He will not break off a damaged cattail. He
will not even put out a smoking wick until he has made justice victorious. The
nations will have hope because of him.’".
Narrative:
- Aware of the Pharisees’ plot to kill him, the lord Messiah Jesus withdraws but
continues to heal the many people who were following him, instructing them not to make him known.
- Matthew quotes Isaiah 42:1-4 to show that the lord Messiah Jesus
fulfills the prophecy given about the Servant of the Lord [Yehovah].
Key Themes:
- Messianic fulfillment: The
lord Messiah Jesus is portrayed as the humble and gentle servant who
brings justice without shouting or quarreling.
- God’s – Yehovah’s chosen one: The
prophecy highlights the lord Messiah Jesus’ mission to bring hope to the
nations and justice through love and humility.
Jesus and
Beelzebul (vv. 22-37)
(Verses
22-37) “Then some people brought Jesus a man possessed by a demon. The demon
made the man blind and unable to talk. Jesus cured him so that he could talk
and see. The crowds were all amazed and said, "Can this man be the Son of
David?" When the Pharisees heard this, they said: ‘This man can cast demons out of people only with the help of Beelzebul, the ruler of demons.’ Since
Jesus knew what they were thinking, he said to them: ‘Every kingdom divided
against itself is ruined. And every city or household divided against itself
will not last. If Satan casts Satan out, he is divided against himself. How,
then, can his kingdom last? If I cast demons out of people with the help
of Beelzebub, who helps your followers cast them out? That's why they will be
your judges. But if I cast demons out with the help of God's – Yehovah’s
Spirit, then the kingdom of God has come to you.’ How can anyone go into a
strong man's house and steal his property? First, he must tie up the strong
man. Then he can go through his house and steal his property. ‘Whoever isn't
with me is against me. Whoever doesn't gather with me scatters.’
So, I can
guarantee that people will be forgiven for any sin or cursing. However, cursing
the Spirit will not be forgiven. Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man
will be forgiven. But whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be
forgiven in this world or the next.
‘Make a tree good, and then its fruit will
be good. Or make a tree rotten, and then its fruit will be rotten. A person can
recognize a tree by its fruit.’ You poisonous snakes! How can you evil people
say anything good? Your mouth says what comes from inside you [out of the
abundance of the heart the mouth speaks]. Good people do the good things that
are in them. But evil people do the evil things that are in them. ‘I can
guarantee that on judgment day, people will have to give an account of every
careless word they say. By your words you will be declared innocent, or by your
words you will be declared guilty.’"
Narrative:
- The lord Messiah Jesus heals a demon-possessed man who is blind and
mute, astonishing the crowds.
- The Pharisees claim that the lord Messiah Jesus casts out demons by
the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons.
- The lord Messiah Jesus rebukes them, explaining:
- A kingdom divided against itself cannot stand.
- His power comes from the Spirit of God - Yehovah, signaling that
the presence of the Kingdom of God has arrived.
- The lord Messiah Jesus warns that blasphemy against the Holy
Spirit is an unforgivable sin.
- He emphasizes that a tree is known by its fruit and warns about the
consequences of careless words.
Key Themes:
- Kingdom of God: The
lord Messiah Jesus’ miracles show the presence of God’s – Yehovah’s
Kingdom.
- Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit: This
is a serious warning against attributing the work of the Holy Spirit to
Satan.
- Moral accountability: Words
and actions reveal the heart and will be judged by God.
The Sign of
Jonah (vv. 38-42)
(Verses
38-42) “Then some scribes and Pharisees said, 'Teacher, we want you to
show us a miraculous sign.' He responded, 'The people of an evil and
unfaithful era look for a miraculous sign. But the only sign they will get is
the sign of the prophet Jonah. Just as Jonah was in the belly of a huge fish
for three days and three nights, so the Son of Man will be in the heart of the
earth for three days and three nights. The men of Nineveh will stand up with
you at the time of judgment and will condemn you, because they turned to God
and changed the way they thought and acted when Jonah spoke his message. But
look, someone greater than Jonah is here! The queen from the south will stand
up at the time of judgment with you. She will condemn you because she came
from the ends of the earth to hear Solomon's wisdom. But look, someone greater
than Solomon is here!'"
Narrative:
- The Pharisees and teachers of the law demand a sign from the lord
Messiah Jesus.
- The lord Messiah Jesus rebukes them as an “evil and adulterous
generation” and states that no sign will be given except the sign of
Jonah.
- The lord Messiah Jesus explains that just as Jonah was in the belly of the fish for
three days, the Son of Man will be in the heart of the earth for three
days and nights.
- The lord Messiah Jesus declares that the men of Nineveh and the
Queen of the South will condemn this generation for their lack of
repentance and belief.
Key Themes:
- Sign of Jonah: This
prefigures the lord Messiah Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.
- Repentance and judgment: The
lord Messiah Jesus warns that those who fail to repent and believe in him [and
the message about the coming kingdom of God] will face judgment.
Return of
an Unclean Spirit (vv. 43-45)
(Verses
43-45) “When an evil spirit comes out of a person, it goes through dry places
looking for a place to rest. But it doesn't find any. Then it says, 'I'll go
back to the home I left.' When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept
clean, and in order. Then it goes and brings along seven other spirits
more evil than itself. They enter and take up permanent residence there. In the
end, the condition of that person is worse than it was before. That is what will
happen to the evil people of this day.”
Narrative:
- The lord Messiah Jesus describes an unclean spirit leaving a person
but returning with seven other spirits more wicked than itself, leaving
the person worse off.
- This serves as a warning to the current generation.
Key Themes:
- Spiritual vigilance:
Spiritual emptiness can lead to greater vulnerability to evil.
- Generational accountability: The
lord Messiah Jesus warns of the dangers of rejecting him and his message,
leaving individuals and societies spiritually desolate.
The lord
Messiah Jesus’ True Family (vv. 46-50)
(Verses 46-50)
“While Jesus was still talking to the crowds, his mother and brothers were
standing outside. They wanted to talk to him. Someone told him, "Your
mother and your brothers are standing outside. They want to talk to you." He
replied to the man speaking to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my
brothers?" Pointing with his hand at his disciples, he said, "Look,
here are my mother and my brothers. Whoever does what my Father [Yehovah] in
heaven wants is my brother and sister and mother."
Narrative:
- While the lord Messiah Jesus is speaking, His mother and brothers
come seeking him.
- The lord Messiah Jesus responds by pointing to his disciples and
saying that whoever does the will of his Father [Yehovah] in heaven is his
brother, sister, and mother.
Key Themes:
- Spiritual family: The
lord Messiah Jesus redefines family in terms of obedience to God’s –
Yehovah’s will.
- Inclusivity in the Kingdom:
Anyone who follows God - Yehovah and does His will can be part of the lord Messiah Jesus’ spiritual family.
Overall
Themes
- The lord Messiah Jesus’ Authority: Throughout the chapter, the lord Messiah Jesus asserts the authority he has
received from his God and his Father Yehovah over the Law, the Sabbath,
and spiritual forces.
- Opposition to the lord Messiah Jesus: The increasing hostility of the Pharisees highlights the growing
divide between the lord Messiah Jesus and the religious leaders. The same condition applies to this day.
- The Kingdom of God: The
lord Messiah Jesus’ miracles and teachings reveal that the Kingdom of God was
breaking into the world.
- Faith and Repentance: The
lord Messiah Jesus calls for genuine faith and repentance, warning against
spiritual complacency and rejection of his message [about the coming
kingdom of God].
- Judgment and Accountability: Both
individuals and generations are accountable for their response to the lord
Messiah Jesus' message.
Matthew chapter twelve demonstrates the
tension between legalism and grace, traditions of men and renewal, and unbelief
and faith. It is a pivotal chapter that highlights the lord Messiah Jesus’
mission to bring salvation, expose hypocrisy, and call people into a
transformative relationship with his God and his Father Yehovah.
MATTHEW CHAPTER THIRTEEN
Matthew chapter thirteen is rich and profound, filled with parables that the lord Messiah Jesus used to teach about the Kingdom of
Heaven - God.
Here's a detailed breakdown:
The Parable of the Sower (vv. 1-9, 18-23):
(Verses 1-9) “On that day, Jesus went and sat by the sea. And
large crowds gathered to him, so that he got into a boat and sat down, and all
the crowd stood on the shore. He spoke to them many things in parables, saying,
“Behold, the Sower went out to sow. Some seeds fell by the road, and the
birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they
did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly because they had no depth of
soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched, and because they had no
root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns
grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and produced fruit,
some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears, let him
hear!’
(Verses 18-23) “Therefore, hear the parable of the Sower. When
anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand, the evil one
comes and snatches what has been sown in his heart; this is the one sown along
the path.
The one sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and
immediately takes and receives it with joy, yet have no root in themselves
but is temporary; when tribulation or persecution comes because of the word,
they immediately fall away.
The one sown among the thorns, this is the one who hears the word,
and the worry of the age and the deceit of wealth choke the word, and it
becomes unfruitful.
The one sown on the good ground, this is the one who hears [spiritually]
the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces, some a
hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty."
o The
lord Messiah Jesus tells the story of a farmer sowing seeds, which fall on
different types of soil: the path, rocky ground, among thorns, and good soil.
Each type of soil represents a different response to the word about the coming
kingdom of God. [Act 8:12]
o Later,
the lord Messiah Jesus explains the parable to his disciples, emphasizing how
the condition of one's heart determines their receptiveness to the Gospel – Good
News Message about the kingdom of God.
The Purpose of Parables (vv. 10-17):
(Verses 10-17) “And the disciples approached and said to him,
“Why do you speak to them in parables?” But in response, he said: ‘It
has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom [of God], but
to them it has not been given. For whoever has, to him more will be given,
and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be
taken away from him.’ ‘I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not
see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. And the
prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, saying,’ ‘You will hear with your ears and
will not understand, and seeing you will see and will not perceive. For
the heart of this people has become dull, and with their ears they hear with
difficulty, and their eyes were blinded, lest they should see with their eyes and
hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal
them.’
Blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. Truly,
I say to you, many prophets desired to see what you see and did
not see, and to hear what you hear and did not hear.’”
Note: All those who are followers of the lord Messiah Jesus should pray
that his God and their God, his Father and their Father Yehovah to give them
spiritual eyes to see and spiritual ears to hear all He has to reveal to them.
o The
disciples ask the lord Messiah Jesus, why he speaks in parables. He explains
that parables reveal truths to those who are open to understanding while
concealing them from those who are indifferent or resistant.
o The
lord Messiah Jesus quotes Isaiah to highlight the spiritual blindness and
hardness of heart among many people.
The Parable of the Weeds (vv. 24-30; 36-43)
(Verses 24-30) “He put before them
another parable, saying: ‘The kingdom of the heavens is like a man who sowed
good seed in his field. While the men were sleeping, his enemy came and
sowed weeds among the wheat and went away.’ When the wheat sprouted and
produced grain, the weeds also appeared. The servants of the master
of that house came and said to him: ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in
your field? Where then did the weeds come from?’ He said to them: ‘An
enemy has done this.’
The servants said to him: ‘Do you want us to go and gather
them?’ He said to them, ‘No, lest in gathering the weeds you uproot
the wheat along with them. Allow both to grow together until
the harvest, and at the time of the harvest I will tell the reapers, first
gather the weeds and bind them in bundles to burn them but gather the
wheat into my barn.’”
Note: This parable describes a farmer whose enemy sows weeds among his wheat. The farmer decides to let both grow together until the harvest, symbolizing the coexistence of good and evil until the final judgment.
o The
lord Messiah Jesus later explains this parable, identifying the Sower as the
Son of Man, the field as the world, the good seed as the children of the
Kingdom, and the weeds as the children of the evil one.
(Verses 36-43) “Then, leaving the crowds, Jesus came into the house.
And his disciples approached him, saying: ‘Explain to us the parable of the
weeds of the field.’ He answered and said: ‘The one who sows the good seed is
the Son of Man, and the field is the world, and the good seed, these are the
sons of the kingdom; and the weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the
enemy who sowed them is the devil, and the harvesters are angels.
Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so it will be at the
end of this age. The Son of Man will send the angels, and they will
gather out of his kingdom all the stumbling blocks and those who practice
lawlessness and will throw them into the furnace of fire; there will be
weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun
in the kingdom of their Father [Yehovah]. The one who has ears to
hear, let him hear.
The Parables of the Mustard Seed and the Yeast (vv. 31-35)
(Verses 31-35) “He put before them
another parable, saying: ‘The kingdom of the heavens is like a mustard seed,
which a man took and sowed in his field; which indeed is smaller than most
seeds, but when it has grown, it is larger than all the garden plants and
becomes a tree, so that the birds of the sky come and nest in its branches.’
He spoke to them another parable: ‘The kingdom of the heavens is
like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of flour until it was
all leavened.”
Jesus spoke all these things in parables to the crowds, and
without a parable, he spoke nothing to them, so that what was spoken
through the prophet might be fulfilled, saying: ‘I will open my mouth in
parables; I will utter things hidden since the foundation of the world - ages.’”
o The
mustard seed, though small, grows into a large tree, symbolizing the
exponential growth of the kingdom of God from humble beginnings.
o The
yeast represents the transformative power of the kingdom of God, spreading
through the whole batch of dough, which symbolizes the message of the kingdom sent
forth to the whole world.
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl of Great Value
(vv. 44-46)
(Verses 44-46) “The kingdom of heaven - God is like a treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and
hid; and from his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.
The kingdom of heaven - God is like a merchant, seeking fine
pearls; and having found a very valuable pearl, he went and sold all that
he had and bought it.”
o These
parables illustrate the immense value of the Kingdom of Heaven - God, that is worth
sacrificing everything to obtain it.
The Parable of the Net (vv. 47-52)
(Verses 47-52) “Again, the kingdom of the heavens is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into containers, but threw out the bad. So, it will be at the end of the age; the angels of God- Yehovah will come out and separate the evil ones from among the righteous ones and throw them [the evil ones] into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Jesus says to them: “Have you understood all these things?”
They said to him, ‘Yes, lord. ' Then Jesus said to them: ‘Therefore every
scribe who has been trained in the kingdom of the heavens is like a master of a
house, who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.’”
o The
lord Messiah Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a fishing net that gathers
all kinds of fish. At the end of the age, the righteous will be separated from
the wicked, much like fishermen sorting their catch.
Jesus' Rejection at Nazareth (vv. 53-58)
(Verses 53-58) “And when Jesus had finished these parables, he went away from there. Coming to his hometown, he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said: ‘Where did this one get this wisdom and the mighty works? Is not this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? Are his sisters not with us? Where then did this one get all these things?’ They took offense at him. Jesus said to them: ‘A prophet is not without honor except in his own hometown and in his own household.’ And he did not perform many miracles there because of their unbelief.
o After
teaching these parables, the lord Messiah Jesus returns to his hometown of
Nazareth, where he faces rejection due to the people's lack of faith.
This chapter is a treasure trove of spiritual insights, emphasizing the
growth, value, and ultimate judgment of the Kingdom of Heaven - God. It
challenges readers to reflect on their own response to God's – Yehovah’s word
about the coming kingdom of God and their role in His Kingdom.
MATTHEW
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Matthew 14 contains several significant events
in Jesus' ministry. Here's a comprehensive outline
John the Baptist's Death (vv. 1-12)
(Verses 1-12) “At that time, Herod, ruler of
Galilee, heard the news about Jesus. He said to his officials, "This
is John the Baptizer! He has come back to life. That's why he has the power to
perform these miracles." Herod had arrested John, tied him up, and put him
in prison. Herod did this for Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. John
had been telling Herod, "It's not right for you to be married to
her." So Herod wanted to kill John. However, he was afraid of the
people because they thought John was a prophet. When Herod celebrated his
birthday, Herodias' daughter danced for his guests. Herod was so delighted with
her that he swore he would give her anything she wanted. Urged by her mother,
she said, "Give me the head of John the Baptist on a platter." The
king regretted his promise. But because of his oath and his guests, he ordered
that her wish be granted. He had John's head cut off in prison. So, the head
was brought on a platter and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. John's
disciples came for the body and buried it. Then they went to tell Jesus.
Note: The only birthday celebration in the
scriptures ended in the beheading of John the Baptist. There is no place in the
scriptures where we are commanded or instructed to keep anyone’s birthday, and
that includes the birth of the lord Messiah Jesus. The celebration of Jesus' birth
at Christmas, December 25, as promoted by the Roman Catholic Church, is a farce
and false, and most of Christendom has followed that church's deception about the lord Messiah Jesus' birth. Jesus was actually born during the Jewish Fall Holy Days, probably
close to the Feast of Tabernacles [Booths].
- Herod's fear that the lord Messiah Jesus is John raised from the
dead (1-2)
- Flashback to John's imprisonment for criticizing Herod's marriage
(3-5)
- Herodias's daughter dances for Herod at his birthday feast (6-7)
- The daughter, prompted by her mother, asks for John's head (8-9)
- John is beheaded and his head was presented on a platter (10-11)
- John's disciples bury his body and tell the lord Messiah Jesus
(12)
Feeding the Five Thousand (vv. 13-21)
(Verses 13-21) “When Jesus heard about John,
he left in a boat and went to a place where he could be alone. The crowds heard
about this and followed him on foot from the cities. When Jesus got out of the
boat, he saw a large crowd. He felt sorry for them and cured their sick people.
In the evening, the disciples came to him. They said, "No one lives around
here, and it's already late. Send the crowds to the villages to buy food for
themselves." Jesus said to them, "They don't need to go away. You
give them something to eat." They told him, "All we have here are
five loaves of bread and two fish." Jesus said, "Bring them to
me." Then he ordered the people to sit down on the grass. After he
took the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and blessed the
food. He broke the loaves apart, gave them to the disciples, and they gave them
to the people. All of them ate as much as they wanted. When they picked up
the leftover pieces, they filled twelve baskets. About five thousand men
had eaten. (This number does not include the women and children who had eaten.)
- The lord Messiah Jesus withdraws by boat after hearing about John's death (13a)
- Crowds follow Him on foot (13b)
- The lord Messiah Jesus has compassion and heals their sick (14)
- Disciples suggest sending crowds away for food as evening
approaches (15)
- The lord Messiah Jesus instructs disciples to feed them instead (16)
- Disciples have only five loaves and two fish (17)
- The lord Messiah Jesus takes the food, blesses it, and distributes it (18-19)
- All eat and are satisfied; twelve baskets of leftovers collected
(20)
- About 5,000 men, women, and children were fed (21)
Jesus Walks on Water (vv. 22-33)
(Verses 22-33) “Jesus quickly made his
disciples get into a boat and cross to the other side ahead of him while he
sent the people away. After sending the people away, he went up a mountain to
pray by himself. When evening came, he was there alone. The boat, now hundreds
of yards from shore, was being thrown around by the waves because it was going
against the wind. Between three and six o'clock in the morning, he came to
them. He was walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea,
they were terrified. They said, "It's a ghost!" and began to scream
because they were afraid. Immediately, Jesus said, "Calm down! It's me.
Don't be afraid!" Peter answered, "Lord, if it is you, order me
to come to you on the water." Jesus said, "Come!" So, Peter
got out of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he
noticed how strong the wind was, he became afraid and started to sink. He
shouted, "Lord, save me!" Immediately, Jesus reached out, caught
hold of him, and said, "You have so little faith! Why did you doubt?" When
they got into the boat, the wind stopped blowing. The men in the boat
bowed down in front of Jesus and said, "You are truly the Son of
God."
- The lord Messiah Jesus sends disciples ahead by boat while He dismisses the crowds
(22)
- The lord Messiah Jesus goes up on a mountain alone to pray (23)
- The boat struggles against the wind and waves (24)
- The lord Messiah Jesus walks on the sea toward them in early morning (25)
- Disciples are terrified, thinking he is a ghost (26)
- Jesus identifies Himself and tells them not to fear (27)
- Peter asks to come to the lord Messiah Jesus on the water (28)
- Peter walks on water but begins to sink when afraid (29-30)
- The lord Messiah Jesus saves Peter and questions his doubt (31)
- The wind ceases when they get into the boat (32)
- The disciples revere the lord Messiah Jesus as the Son of God (33)
Healings at Gennesaret (vv. 34-36)
(Verses 34-36) “They crossed the sea and
landed at Gennesaret. The men there recognized Jesus and sent messengers all
around the countryside. The people brought him everyone who was sick. They
begged him to let them touch just the edge of his clothes. Everyone who touched
his clothes was made well.
- They cross over to Gennesaret (34)
- People recognize the lord Messiah Jesus and spread word of his arrival (35)
- Many sick people were brought to the lord Messiah Jesus (35b)
- People beg to touch even the fringe of his garment (36a)
- All who touch his garment are healed (36b)
This chapter showcases Jesus' authority
through miraculous provision (feeding 5,000), power over nature (walking on
water), and healing ministry, all while dealing with the sobering reality of
John the Baptist's martyrdom.
MATTHEW CHAPTER FIFTEEN
This chapter offers a narrative of the lord
Messiah Jesus’ teachings, confrontations with the Pharisees, and miraculous
healings.
Here's a detailed breakdown and scriptural
account of this chapter, organized by key sections:
The Pharisees and Teachers of the Law Confront
Jesus (vv. 1-9)
(Verses 1-9) “Then scribes and Pharisees from
Jerusalem come to Jesus, saying: ‘Why do your disciples break the tradition of
the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.’ Jesus
answered: ‘Why do you also break the commandment of God - Yehovah for the sake
of your tradition? For God – Yehovah commanded them saying: ‘Honor your
father and mother,’ and: ‘Whoever speaks evil of father or mother must be put
to death [Exodus 20:12, Leviticus 20:9, Deuteronomy
5:16, Exodus 21:17].’ But you say: ‘whoever tells his father or mother, 'I
have given to God - Yehovah whatever support you might have received from me,
he need not honor his father or his mother.’ Thus, you nullify the commandment of
God - Yehovah for the sake of your tradition.
‘Hypocrites, Isaiah prophesied well about you, saying: ‘This people
draw near to me with their mouth and honors me with their lips, but their
heart is far from me; but they worship me in vain, teaching the doctrines,
commandments of men [Isaiah 29:13].’’”
Context:
The Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem
confront the lord Messiah Jesus, questioning him about his disciples' failure
to adhere to the tradition of handwashing before meals, a practice tied to the ceremonial
purity developed by the Pharisees to be enforced on the people.
Scriptural
Account:
- Verse 1-2: The
Pharisees ask, “Why do your disciples break the tradition of the
elders? They don’t wash their hands before they eat!”
- Verses 3-6: The
lord Messiah Jesus rebukes them for elevating human traditions over God’s
– Yehovah’s commandments. He cites the example of Corban (a practice where
people dedicate possessions to God - Yehovah to avoid supporting their
parents), criticizing their neglect of honoring their parents as commanded
in the Law.
- Verses 7-9: The
lord Messiah Jesus calls them hypocrites and quotes Isaiah: “These
people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They
worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules.”
The lord Messiah Jesus
Teaches About Inner Purity (vv. 10-20)
(Verses 10-20)
“Then Jesus called the crowd and said to them: ‘Listen and try to understand! What
goes into a person's mouth doesn't make him unclean. It's what comes out of the
mouth that makes a person unclean.’ Then the disciples came and said to him: ‘Do
you realize that when the Pharisees heard your statement they were offended?’ He
answered: ‘Any plant that my heavenly Father [Yehovah] did not plant will be
uprooted. Leave them alone! They are blind leaders. When one blind person leads
another, both will fall into the same pit.’ Peter said to him: ‘Explain this
illustration to us.’ Jesus said: ‘Don't you understand yet? Do you not know
that whatever goes into the mouth goes into the stomach and then into a toilet?
But whatever goes out of the mouth comes from within, and that's what makes a
person unclean. Evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual sins, stealing, lying,
and cursing come from within. These are the things that make a person unclean.
But eating without washing one's hands doesn't make a person unclean.’"
Context:
The lord Messiah Jesus turns to the crowd and his
disciples to teach a vital lesson about true purity, contrasting it with the
external practices of the Pharisees.
Scriptural
Account:
- Verses 10-11: Jesus
declares: “What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but
what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.”
- Verses 12-14: The
disciples express concern that the Pharisees were offended. The lord
Messiah Jesus dismisses their authority, calling them blind guides.
- Verses 15-20: In
response to Peter’s request for clarification, Jesus explains that what
comes out of the heart; evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual
immorality, theft, false testimony, and slander; defiles a person, not
unwashed hands.
The Faith
of the Canaanite Woman (vv. 21-28)
(Verses
21-28) “And going out from there, Jesus withdrew to the regions of Tyre and
Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from those borders came out and cried
out to him, saying: ‘Have mercy on me, lord, Son of David; my daughter is
severely demon-possessed.’ But Jesus did not answer her a
word. And his disciples came and asked him, saying: ‘Send her away, for she
cries out after us.’ He answered and said: ‘I was not sent except to
the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’ But she came and bowed down before
him, saying: ‘lord, help me.’ He answered and said, ‘It is not good to
take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.’ She said: ‘Yes, lord, for even
the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table.’ Then Jesus answered:
‘O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire.’ And her
daughter was healed from that very hour.
Context:
The lord Messiah Jesus travels to the region
of Tyre and Sidon, where he encounters a Gentile woman seeking healing for her demon-possessed
daughter.
Scriptural
Account:
- Verses 21-22: The
woman cries out, “lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is
demon-possessed and suffering terribly.”
- Verse 23: The lord Messiah Jesus remains silent, and the disciples
urge him to send her away.
- Verses 24-27: The lord Messiah Jesus
explains His mission to the “lost sheep of Israel,” but the woman
persists, humbly saying, “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from
their master’s table.”
- Verse 28: The lord Messiah Jesus is moved by her faith, saying, “Woman,
you have great faith! Your request is granted.” Her daughter is healed
at that moment.
The lord Messiah Jesus Heals
Many (vv. 29-31)
(Verses
29-31) “Jesus left there and went along the Sea of Galilee. Then he went up on
a mountainside and sat down. Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the
blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and
he healed them. The people were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the
crippled made well, the lame walking and the blind seeing. And they praised God
- Yehovah.
Context:
The lord Messiah Jesus moves to the Sea of
Galilee, where crowds gather to witness his healing power.
Scriptural
Account:
- Verses 29-30: Large
crowds bring the lame, blind, crippled, mute, and many others to the lord Messiah Jesus,
and he heals them.
- Verse 31: The people praise God- Yehovah for these
miracles, acknowledging His works preformed through His Son the lord Messiah Jesus.
The lord Messiah Jesus
Feeds the Four Thousand (Verses 32-39)
(Verses 32-39) "Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.” His disciples answered, “Where could we get enough bread in this remote place to feed such a crowd?” “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied, “and a few small fish.” He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people. They all ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The number of those who ate was four thousand men, besides women and children. After Jesus had sent the crowd away, he got into the boat and went to the vicinity of Magadan.
Context:
In a desolate area, the lord Messiah Jesus
demonstrates his compassion and divine provision by miraculously feeding a
multitude.
Scriptural
Account:
- Verse 32: The lord Messiah Jesus expresses concern
for the crowd, saying they have been with him for three days without food.
- Verses 33-34: The
disciples question how they can feed such a large crowd in the wilderness.
Jesus asks them how many loaves they have, and they reply, “Seven, and a
few small fish.”
- Verses 35-38: The
lord Messiah Jesus gives thanks, breaks the loaves and fish, and
distributes them. All 4,000 men, besides women and children, eat and are
satisfied. The disciples collect seven basketfuls of leftovers.
- Verse 39: The lord Messiah Jesus sends the crowd away and travels to the
region of Magadan.
Key Themes:
- Tradition vs. Commandment: The
lord Messiah Jesus emphasizes that inner purity and obedience to God’s –
Yehovah’s commandments are more important than human traditions.
- Faith and Persistence: The
Canaanite woman’s faith demonstrates the inclusivity of God’s – Yehovah’s
kingdom and the power of persistence in prayer.
- Compassion and Provision: The
feeding of the 4,000 highlights Jesus’ compassion for physical needs and his
ability to provide abundantly.
- Divine Authority: The
lord Messiah Jesus' miracles underscore the authority his God and his
Father Yehovah gave him over nature, illness, and spiritual forces.
This
chapter offers profound lessons on faith, humility, and prioritizing the
heart's condition over external rituals.
MATTHEW CHAPTER SIXTEEN
A Comprehensive Scriptural Explanation
This chapter contains several key events and teachings
that help establish the lord Messiah Jesus's identity and mission. The chapter
includes the demand for a sign from heaven, the lord Messiah Jesus's warning
about false teaching, Peter's confession of the Messiah, the lord Messiah Jesus's
first explicit prediction of his death and resurrection, and the lord Messiah Jesus's
teaching on discipleship.
The Demand for a Sign (vv. 1-4)
(Verses 1-4) “The Pharisees and Sadducees came to Jesus
and tested him by asking him to show them a sign from heaven. He replied, ‘When evening comes, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the
sky is red, and in the morning, today it will be stormy, for the sky is
red and overcast. You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you
cannot interpret the signs of the times. A wicked and adulterous
generation looks for a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of
Jonah.’” Jesus then left them and went away.’”
The chapter opens with the Pharisees and Sadducees
approaching the lord Messiah Jesus to test him, asking for a sign from heaven.
Despite their theological differences, these religious groups unite in their
skepticism toward Jesus.
The lord Messiah Jesus responds by pointing out their
ability to interpret weather signs but inability to recognize the "signs
of the times" - the evidence of his messianic identity already present in
his teachings and miracles. He refuses to give them another sign except
"the sign of Jonah." This refers to Jonah's three days in the fish's
belly, foreshadowing Jesus's death and resurrection (as explicitly stated in
Matthew 12:40).
Warning About False Teaching (vv. 5-12)
(Verses 5-12) “When they went across the lake, the
disciples forgot to take bread. “be careful,’ Jesus said to
them. ‘Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees. They
discussed this among themselves and said: ‘It is because we didn’t bring any
bread.’ Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked: ‘You of little faith,
why are you talking among yourselves about having no bread? Do you still
not understand? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and
how many basketfuls you gathered? Or the seven loaves for the four
thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? How is it you don’t
understand that I was not talking to you about bread? But be on your guard
against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.’ Then they understood
that he was not telling them to guard against the yeast used in bread, but
against the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”
When the disciples forget to bring bread while crossing
the lake, the lord Messiah Jesus uses this as a teaching moment, warning them
to "beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees." The
disciples misunderstand, thinking the lord Messiah Jesus is concerned about
their lack of bread.
The lord Messiah Jesus reminds them of his previous
feeding miracles to emphasize that physical bread isn't his concern. He
clarifies that the "leaven" represents the teaching of the Pharisees
and Sadducees - specifically their hypocrisy, legalism, and skepticism that
could spread and corrupt true faith.
Peter's Confession of Jesus as the Messiah (vv. 13-20)
(Verses 13-20) “When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea
Philippi, he asked his disciples: ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ They
replied: ‘Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others,
Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ ‘But what about you?’ he asked: ‘Who
do you say I am?’ Simon Peter answered: ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of
the living God.’ Jesus replied: ‘Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah,
for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father - Yehovah
in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock [this
confession that I am the Messiah] I will build my congregation, and the gates
of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the
kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and
whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.’ Then he
ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.
At Caesarea Philippi, the lord Messiah Jesus asks his
disciples about his identity in the public eye and then asks them directly who
they think he is. Peter's response is monumental: "You are the Messiah,
the Son of the living God - Yehovah." This confession affirms Jesus's
messianic role in God’s – Yehovah’s plan of salvation.
The lord Messiah Jesus declares this revelation came not
from human understanding but from God - Yehovah the Father. He then makes a
pivotal statement to Peter: "You are Peter, and on this rock [the declaration
that Peter made that Jesus is the Messiah] I will build my church."
Peter is not the rock and foundation of the called-out
Assembly, the lord Messiah Jesus is.
- Peter's
confession that the lord Messiah Jesus is the Messiah is the foundation and
rock of the called-out Assembly, that the lord Messiah Jesus is still
building.
- The
lord Messiah Jesus is the rock and the foundation of the called-out
Assembly. Jesus promises Peter "the keys of the kingdom of
heaven" and the authority to "bind and loose," representing
leadership responsibility in the early congregation. The other disciples
received the same authority to "bind and to loose."
The lord Messiah Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (vv. 21-23)
(Verses 21-23) “From that time on Jesus began to explain
to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the
hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he
must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. Peter took him
aside and began to rebuke him. ‘Never, lord!’ he said: ‘This shall never happen
to you!’ Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You
are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God -
Yehovah, but merely human concerns.”
For the first time, the lord Messiah Jesus explicitly
tells his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem to suffer, be killed, and rise
on the third day. This marks a turning point in the Gospel narrative, shifting
focus toward the lord Messiah Jesus death on the cross - crucifixion.
Peter, who had just confessed Jesus as the Messiah, receives
a rebuke from the lord Messiah Jesus when Jesus mentions his death, and
resurrection and Peter says: “Never lord, this shall not happen”. The lord
Messiah Jesus responds sharply, saying, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a
hindrance to me." This shows that Peter's understanding of the Messiah was
influenced by human expectations of political power rather than God's – Yehovah’s
redemptive plan.
The Cost of Discipleship (vv. 24-28)
(Verses 24-28) “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever
wants to be my disciple must deny themselves [die to their selfish desires] and
take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will
lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. What good will
it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can
anyone give in exchange for their soul? For the Son of Man is going to
come in his Father’s [Yehovah’s] glory with his angels, and then he will reward
each person according to what they have done. ‘Truly I tell you, some who
are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in
his kingdom.’”
The lord Messiah Jesus teaches about the cost of
following him: "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself [die
to self interest] and take up his cross and follow me." This metaphor of
cross-bearing would have been vivid to his audience, who knew crosses as
instruments of Roman execution.
The lord Messiah Jesus contrasts worldly gain with
spiritual value: "What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world,
but forfeits his soul?" He emphasizes that eternal rewards will be based
on one's deeds, not worldly success.
The chapter concludes with the lord Messiah Jesus's
promise that some standing there would "not taste death until they see the
Son of Man coming in his kingdom." This refers to the Transfiguration
(which immediately follows in chapter 17).
Theological Significance
This chapter is crucial for understanding:
- The
lord Messiah Jesus's messianic identity
- The
nature of the called-out Assembly
- The
necessity of the cross - stake
- The
cost of discipleship
- The
contrast between God’s – Yehovah’s plan and human perspectives, desires.
This chapter represents a significant transition in
Jesus's ministry, where he begins to explicitly teach about his suffering and
death, preparing his disciples for what lies ahead in Jerusalem.
MATTHEW
CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Outline &
Exposition
The Transfiguration of Jesus (ww. 1–8)
The Setting (v. 1–2)
(Verses 1-2) “After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John
the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he
was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes
became as white as the light.
Jesus takes Peter, James, and John to a high mountain (cf.
Mark 9:2; Luke 9:28).
He is transfigured before them: His face shines like the sun,
His clothes become radiant (Exodus 34:29–35; Daniel 7:9; Revelation 1:16).
The Appearance of Moses and Elijah (v. 3–4)
(Verses 3-4) “Just then there appeared before them Moses and Elijah,
talking with Jesus.
Peter said to Jesus: “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I
will put up three shelters; one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.”
Representing the Law and the Prophets, they discuss Jesus’
coming exodus (departure/death) in Jerusalem (Luke 9:31).
Peter’s impulsive response: "Let us make three tabernacles
[booths – temporary dwellings" (misunderstanding Jesus’ supremacy,
cf. John 1:17; Hebrews 3:5–6).
The Divine Affirmation (v. 5–8)
(Verses 5-8) “While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them,
and a voice from the cloud said: ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am
well pleased. Listen to him!’ When the disciples heard this, they fell
facedown to the ground, terrified. But Jesus came and touched them. ‘Get
up,’ he said. ‘Don’t be afraid.’ When they looked up, they saw no one
except Jesus.
The Father’s [Yehovah’s] voice from the cloud: "This
is My beloved Son… listen to Him!" (Psalm 2:7; Isaiah 42:1; Matthew
3:17).
The disciples fall in fear, but Jesus touches and reassures them (Revelation
1:17).
Theological Significance:
Confirms the lord Messiah Jesus’ as the Son of God - Yehovah and
superiority over the Old Covenant.
Foreshadows the lord Messiah Jesus glorification post-resurrection
(2 Peter 1:16–18).
The Discussion About Elijah (vv. 9–13)
The Command to Silence (v. 9)
(Verse 9) “As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them: ‘Don’t
tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the
dead.’”
The lord Messiah Jesus instructs them not to tell the vision until
after His resurrection (cf. Matthew 16:20; Mark 9:9).
The Disciples’ Question About Elijah (vv. 10–11)
(Verses 10 – 11) “The disciples asked him: ‘Why then do the teachers of
the law say that Elijah must come first?’ Jesus replied: ‘To be sure, Elijah
comes and will restore all things.’”
They ask why Malachi 4:5–6 prophesies Elijah’s return before
the Messiah.
The lord Messiah Jesus confirms the spirit of Elijah has come in
the person of John the Baptist (Matthew 11:14; Luke 1:17).
The Rejection of the Forerunner [John the Baptist] (vv. 12–13)
(Verses 12 – 13) “But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they did
not recognize him, but have done to him everything they wished. In the same way
the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples
understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist.
Just as John was mistreated, so will the Son of Man suffer (Matthew
11:18; 14:10).
Theological Significance:
Shows continuity between prophecy and fulfillment.
Highlights the suffering motif of Messiah and his forerunner.
The Healing of a Demon-Possessed Boy (vv. 14–21)
The Father’s Desperation (vv. 14–16)
(Verses 14 – 16) “When they came to the crowd, a man approached Jesus
and knelt before him. ‘Lord, have mercy on my son,’ he said: ‘He has seizures
and is suffering greatly. He often falls into the fire or into the water. I
brought him to your disciples, but they could not heal him.’”
A man kneels before Jesus, pleading for his epileptic and demonized
son (Mark 9:17–18; Luke 9:38–40).
The disciples could not heal him (lack of faith, cf. Matthew
10:1).
Jesus’ Rebuke and Healing (vv. 17–18)
(Verses 17 – 18) ‘You unbelieving and perverse generation,’ Jesus
replied: ‘how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you?
Bring the boy here to me.’ Jesus rebuked the demon, and it came out of
the boy, and he was healed at that moment.
The lord Messiah Jesus laments the "faithless and twisted
generation" (Deuteronomy 32:5, 20).
He casts out the demon, healing the boy instantly (cf. Mark
9:25–27).
Note: Jesus was enabled to do all he did because the full nature of his
God and Father Yehovah indwelt him.
The Disciples’ Question on Failure (vv. 19–21)
(Verses 19 – 21) Then the disciples came to Jesus in private and asked: ‘Why
could we not drive it out?’ He replied: ‘Because you have so little faith.’
‘Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to
this mountain: ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be
impossible for you.”
The lord Messiah Jesus attributes their failure to "little
faith" (Matthew 6:30; 14:31).
Even mustard-seed faith can move mountains [Great Problems]
(Matthew 21:21; 1 Corinthians 13:2).
"This kind [demon] does not go out except by prayer and
fasting" (Mark 9:29; Acts 13:3).
Theological Significance:
Demonstrates kingdom authority over demons.
Emphasizes faith, prayer, and dependence on God - Yehovah for
spiritual victory.
Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (vv. 22–23)
(Verses 22 – 23) “When they came together in Galilee, he said to them: “The
Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill
him, and on the third day he will be raised to life.” And the disciples
were filled with grief.
Jesus repeats His passion prediction (Matthew 16:21; Mark
8:31).
The disciples are deeply grieved, still not fully understanding
(Luke 18:34).
Theological Significance:
Reinforces the necessity of the cross (Luke 24:26–27; 1
Corinthians 15:3–4).
The Temple Tax Miracle (vv. 24–27)
The Tax Collectors’ Challenge (v. 24)
(Verse 24) “After Jesus and his disciples arrived in Capernaum, the
collectors of the two-drachma temple tax came to Peter and asked: “Does your
teacher pay the temple tax?”
The temple tax (two-drachma, Exodus 30:13–16) is demanded from Jesus.
Jesus’ Teaching on Sonship (vv. 25–26)
(Verses 25 – 26) ‘Yes, he does,’ he replied. When Peter came into the
house, Jesus was the first to speak. ‘What do you think, Simon?’ he
asked: ‘From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes; from their
own children or from others?’ ‘From others,’ Peter answered. ‘Then
the children are exempt,’ Jesus said to him.
He affirms that kings tax foreigners, not sons.
Yet, to avoid offense, He provides miraculously (cf. Romans
14:13–21).
The Coin in the Fish’s Mouth (v. 27)
(Verse 27) “But so that we may not cause offense, go to the lake and
throw out your line. Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will
find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.”
Peter finds a shekel (four-drachma, enough for two) in a
fish’s mouth (cf. Psalm 50:10–12).
Theological Significance
The lord Messiah Jesus submits to civil/religious obligations without
compromising his identity.
Demonstrates providential power the lord Messiah Jesus was given by
his God and Father Yehovah over creation.
Conclusion
Key Themes
The lord Messiah Jesuss Glory & Suffering (Transfiguration
& Passion Prediction).
Faith & Spiritual Authority (Healing the demonized boy).
Fulfillment of Prophecy (Elijah’s role in John the Baptist).
Divine Provision & Submission (Temple tax miracle).
Application Points
Listen to the lord Messiah Jesus (17:5) as the ultimate revelation
of God - Yehovah.
Faith, not doubt, unlocks God’s – Yehovah’s power (17:20).
The lord Messiah Jesus’ death/resurrection is central to his
mission (17:22–23).
This outline harmonizes scriptural context, typology, and practical
theology for a comprehensive study.
MATTHEW
CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
Detailed
Scriptural Description
This is a significant chapter that focuses on the
lord Messiah Jesus's teachings about relationships within the community of his
followers. It addresses themes of humility, temptation, forgiveness, and discipline
in the called-out Assembly.
Here's a detailed description of the chapter:
True Greatness
(Verses 1-5)
“At that time the disciples came to Jesus, asking, "Who is the greatest in
the Kingdom of heaven?" So Jesus called a child to come and stand in front
of them, and said, "I assure you that unless you change and become like
children, you will never enter the Kingdom of heaven. The greatest in the
Kingdom of heaven is the one who humbles himself and becomes like this child. And
whoever welcomes in my name one such child as this, welcomes me.
The chapter opens with the disciples asking the
lord Messiah Jesus, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"
Jesus responds by calling a child to stand among them and declares that unless
they change and become like little children (in a submissive attitude of mind),
they will never enter the kingdom of heaven (God). The lord Messiah Jesus
emphasizes that whoever humbles themselves like this child will be great in the
kingdom of heaven (God), and whoever welcomes such a child in the lord Messiah Jesus's
name welcomes the lord Messiah Jesus himself.
Warnings About Temptations to Sin
(Verses 6-9)
"If anyone should cause one of these little ones to lose his faith in me,
it would be better for that person to have a large millstone tied around his
neck and be drowned in the deep sea. How terrible for the world that there are
things that make people lose their faith! Such things will always happen - but
how terrible for the one who causes them! If your hand or your foot makes
you lose your faith, cut it off and throw it away! It is better for you to
enter life without a hand or a foot than to keep both hands and both feet and
be thrown into the eternal fire. And if your eye makes you lose your faith,
take it out and throw it away! It is better for you to enter life with only one
eye than to keep both eyes and be thrown into the fire of hell [The fire of the
White Throne Judgement].
The lord Messiah Jesus issues strong warnings
about causing "little ones" to stumble in their faith. He says it
would be better for a person to have a large millstone hung around their neck
and be drowned in the sea than to cause a believer to stumble. The lord Messiah
Jesus then uses vivid metaphorical language about cutting off one's hand or
foot or plucking out one's eye if this cause one to sin, stating it's better to
enter life maimed than to be thrown into eternal fire with two hands, feet, or
eyes. This metaphorical language is used to emphasis that the followers of the
lord Messiah Jesus must cut off sinful thoughts and sinful activity in their
lives!
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
(Verses
10-14) “See that you do not despise one of these little ones who believe in me;
for I tell you that their angels always see the face of my Father [Yehovah]
who is in heaven. For the Son of Man came to save the lost. What do you think?
If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the
ninety-nine sheep on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray?
And if he finds it, truly, I say to you, he rejoices over it more than over the
ninety-nine that never went astray. So, it is not the will of my Father
[Yehovah] who is in the heavens that one of these little ones should perish.
The lord Messiah Jesus warns against looking
down on "little ones" (referring to humble believers), saying their
angels in heaven always see the face of the Father [Yehovah]. He then shares
the parable of the shepherd who leaves ninety-nine sheep on the hills to search
for one that went astray, explaining that the Father [Yehovah] is not willing
that any of these little ones should perish.
Discipline in the called-out Assembly
(Verses
15-20) “If your brother sins against you, go to him and show him his fault. But
do it privately, just between yourselves. If he listens to you, you have won
your brother back. But if he will not listen to you, take one or two other
persons with you, so that "every accusation may be upheld by the testimony
of two or more witnesses,' as the scripture says. And if he will not
listen to them, then tell the whole thing to the called-out Assembly. Finally,
if he will not listen to the called-out Assembly, treat him as though he were a
pagan or a tax collector. And so I tell all of you: what you prohibit on earth
will be prohibited in heaven, and what you permit on earth will be permitted in
heaven. And I tell you more: whenever two of you on earth agree about anything
you pray for, it will be done for you by my Father [Yehovah] in heaven. For
where two or three come together in my name, I am there with them."
The lord Messiah Jesus provides a framework
for handling conflicts between his followers:
- First, address the person privately
- If they won't listen, take one or two others as witnesses
- If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the called-out Assembly
- If they refuse to listen even to the called-out Assembly, treat
them as a pagan or tax collector
The lord Messiah Jesus then speaks about the
authority given to the disciples, saying whatever they bind on earth will be
bound in heaven, and whatever they loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. He
promises that if two believers agree about anything they ask for, it will be
done by the Father [Yehovah]. The lord Messiah Jesus concludes this section
with the famous words, "For where two or three gather in my name, there am
I with them."
The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
(Verses
21-35) “Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘lord, if my brother keeps on
sinning against me, how many times do I have to forgive him? Seven times?’ ‘No,
not seven times,’ answered Jesus: ‘but seventy times seven, because the Kingdom
of heaven (God) is like this. Once there was a king who decided to check on his
servants' accounts. He had just begun to do so when one of them was brought in
who owed him millions of dollars. The servant did not have enough to pay his
debt, so the king ordered him to be sold as a slave, with his wife and his
children and all that he had, in order to pay the debt. The servant fell on his
knees before the king. "Be patient with me,' he begged, "and I will
pay you everything!' The king felt sorry for him, so he forgave him the debt
and let him go. Then the man went out and met one of his fellow servants who
owed him a few dollars. He grabbed him and started choking him. “Pay back what
you owe me!’ he said. His fellow servant fell down and begged him: ‘Be patient
with me, and I will pay you back!' But he refused; instead, he had him thrown
into jail until he should pay the debt. When the other servants saw what
had happened, they were very upset and went to the king and told him
everything. So he called the servant in. ‘You worthless slave!' he said. ‘I
forgave you the whole amount you owed me, just because you asked me to. You
should have had mercy on your fellow servant, just as I had mercy on you.' The
king was very angry, and he sent the servant to jail to be punished until he
should pay back the whole amount." And Jesus concluded: ‘That is how my
Father [Yehovah] in heaven will treat every one of you unless you forgive your
brother from your heart."
Peter asks the lord Messiah Jesus how many
times should he forgive someone who sins against him; up to seven times? Jesus
responds, "Not seven times, but seventy times seven.”
The lord Messiah Jesus then tells the parable
of the unmerciful servant:
- A king wants to settle accounts with his servants
- One servant owes him ten thousand talents (an enormous sum)
- Unable to pay, the servant begs for patience
- The king has compassion and cancels the debt entirely
- The forgiven servant then finds a fellow servant who owes him a
hundred denarii (a much smaller amount)
- He demands payment and has this man thrown into prison
- When the king hears of this, he is angry and hands the first
servant over to be tortured until he pays his debt
The lord Messiah Jesus concludes by saying
this is how the heavenly Father [Yehovah] will treat those who do not forgive
their brothers and sisters from their heart.
This chapter emphasizes humility, care for
fellow believers, reconciliation procedures, and the boundless forgiveness
expected of those who have been forgiven by God - Yehovah.
MATTHEW CHAPTER NINETEEN
This chapter deals with significant teachings
of the lord Messiah Jesus on topics such as marriage, divorce, celibacy,
children, wealth, and eternal life. Below is a detailed, scriptural breakdown
and explanation of the chapter:
1. Jesus
Teaches on Divorce (vv. 1–12)
(Verses 1–2) “When Jesus finished saying these
things, he left Galilee and went to the territory of Judea on the other side of
the Jordan River. Large crowds followed him, and he healed them there.
The lord Messiah Jesus leaves Galilee and goes to Judea beyond the Jordan.
Crowds follow him, and he heals them there.
- This marks a transition in the lord Messiah Jesus' ministry as he
heads toward Jerusalem, indicating his final journey before his
crucifixion.
(Verses 3–6) “Some Pharisees came to him and
tried to trap him by asking: ‘Does our Law allow a man to divorce his wife for
whatever reason he wishes?’ Jesus answered: ‘Haven't you read the
scripture that says that in the beginning the Creator made people male and
female? And God - Yehovah said: ‘For this reason a man will leave his father
and mother and unite with his wife, and the two will become one.' ‘So, they are
no longer two, but one. No human being must separate, then, what God has joined
together.’
The Pharisees test Jesus with a question: "Is
it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason?"
- The lord Messiah Jesus responds by citing Genesis 1:27 and 2:24,
affirming God's original design for marriage as a lifelong union:
- "The two shall become one flesh."
- Marriage is intended to be permanent, as God - Yehovah joins the
couple together.
(Verses 7–9) The Pharisees asked him: ‘Why,
then, did Moses give the law for a man to hand his wife a divorce notice and
send her away?’ Jesus answered: ‘Moses gave you permission to divorce your
wives because you are so hard to teach. But it was not like that at the time of
creation. I tell you, then, that any man who divorces his wife for any
cause other than her unfaithfulness, commits adultery if he marries some other
woman.’
The Pharisees challenge Jesus, referring to Moses' allowance for divorce
(Deuteronomy 24:1–4).
- The lord Messiah Jesus explains that Moses permitted divorce due to
human hard-heartedness, but this was not God's – Yehovah’s original
intent.
- The lord Messiah Jesus establishes a higher standard, stating that
divorce is permissible only in cases of sexual immorality (Greek: porneia),
and remarriage after an unlawful divorce constitutes adultery.
(Verses 10–12) “His disciples said to him: ‘If
this is how it is between a man and his wife, it is better not to marry.’ Jesus
answered: ‘This teaching does not apply to everyone, but only to those to whom
God - Yehovah has given it. For there are different reasons why men cannot
marry: some, because they were born that way; others, because men made them
that way; and others do not marry for the sake of the Kingdom of heaven. Let
him who can accept this teaching do so.’
The disciples react, suggesting that it might be better not to marry.
- The lord Messiah Jesus acknowledges that celibacy is a gift not
everyone can accept, but those who can, for the sake of the kingdom of
heaven, should embrace it.
Jesus
Blesses Little Children (vv. 13–15)
(Verses 13–15) Some people brought children to
Jesus for him to place his hands on them and to pray for them, but the
disciples scolded the people. Jesus said: ‘Let the children come to me
and do not stop them, because the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ He
placed his hands on them and then went away.
Parents bring children to Jesus for Him to
bless them, but the disciples rebuke them.
- The lord Messiah Jesus corrects the disciples, emphasizing the
value of childlike faith:
- "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them,
for the kingdom of heaven belongs
to such as these."
- This highlights humility, trust, and dependency on God - Yehovah as
key characteristics of those who enter the kingdom.
The Rich
Young Ruler (vv. 16–22)
(Verses 16–19) Once a man came to Jesus. ‘Teacher,’
he asked: ‘what good thing must I do to receive eternal life?’ ’Why do you ask
me concerning what is good?’ answered Jesus. ‘There is only One who is good God
- Yehovah alone. Keep the commandments if you want to enter life.’ ‘What
commandments?’ he asked. Jesus answered: ‘Do not commit murder; do not
commit adultery; do not steal; do not accuse anyone falsely; respect your
father and your mother; and love your neighbor as you love yourself.’
A young man asks the lord Messiah Jesus what
he must do to gain eternal life.
- The lord Messiah Jesus points him to the commandments, listing
those that relate to loving one’s neighbor (Exodus 20:12–16; Leviticus
19:18).
(Verse 20) The young man said to him: ‘All
these I have kept from my youth; what do I still lack?’
The young man claims to have kept all these commandments but still feels
lacking.
(Verses 21–22) Jesus said to him: ‘If you want
to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will
have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.’ But when the
young man heard this, he went away sorrowful, for he had many possessions.
The lord Messiah Jesus tells him to sell his
possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him to have treasure in heaven.
- The man leaves sorrowful because he has great wealth, showing his attachment
to material possessions.
The
Difficulty of Wealth and Entering the Kingdom (vv. 23–30)
(Verses 23–24) Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Truly
I say to you that a rich person will enter the kingdom of the heavens with
difficulty.’ I say to you: ‘it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a
needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.”
The lord Messiah Jesus declares how difficult
it is for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of heaven, using the metaphor of a
camel passing through the eye of a needle.
- This emphasizes that wealth can be a barrier to total reliance on
God - Yehovah.
(Verses 25–26) When the disciples heard
this, they were greatly astonished and were afraid, saying: ‘Who then can
be saved?’ Jesus, looking at them, said, ‘This is impossible, for human
beings, but with God - Yehovah all things are possible.”
The disciples are astonished, asking: ‘Who then can be saved?’
- The lord Messiah Jesus responds that salvation is impossible by
human effort but possible with God - Yehovah.
(Verses 27–30) Then Peter answered and said to
him: ‘Behold, we have left everything and followed you; what then will be for
us?’ Jesus said to them: ‘Truly I say to you, you who have followed me, in the
regeneration, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you also will
sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And whoever has
left brothers or sisters or mother or wife, or children or fields for my name's
sake, will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. But many who
are first will be last, and the last will be first.’
Peter asks what reward the disciples will have for leaving everything to
follow the lord Messiah Jesus.
- The lord Messiah Jesus promises them positions of authority in the
renewal of all things and eternal life.
- He concludes with the principle: "Many who are first will be
last, and many who are last will be first."
Themes and
Key Lessons
- God’s = Yehovah’s Design for Marriage
- Marriage is sacred and intended to be lifelong. It reflects God's –
Yehovah’s covenant with His people.
- The Importance of Childlike Faith
- Humility, trust, and openness are essential to entering the
kingdom of God.
- The Cost of Discipleship
- Following the lord Messiah Jesus requires complete surrender and a
total commitment, often challenging worldly attachments.
- The Grace of Salvation
- Eternal life is a gift from God - Yehovah, it can not be earned by
human effort or wealth.
- Eternal Rewards
- God - Yehovah honors sacrifices made for His kingdom, promising
eternal blessings to those who follow and obey Him.
This chapter serves as a profound teaching on
living a life fully devoted to God's – Yehovah’s will, emphasizing the values
of commitment, faith, and reliance on God’s – Yehovah’s amazing grace.
MATTHEW CHAPTER TWENTY
This chapter is a rich and multi-faceted,
packed with teachings, parables, and lessons from the lord Messiah Jesus.
Here's a comprehensive breakdown:
Verses 1–16: The Parable of the Workers in the
Vineyard (vv. 1-16)
(Verses 1-16) “The Kingdom of heaven is like
this. Once there was a man who went out early in the morning to hire some men
to work in his vineyard. He agreed to pay them the regular wage; a silver
coin a day and sent them to work in his vineyard. He went out again to the
marketplace at nine o'clock and saw some men standing there doing nothing, so
he told them: ‘You also go and work in the vineyard, and I will pay you a fair
wage.' So, they went. Then at twelve o'clock and again at three o'clock he
did the same thing. It was nearly five o'clock when he went to the
marketplace and saw some other men still standing there. ‘Why are you wasting
the whole day here doing nothing?' he asked them. ‘No one hired us,' they
answered. ‘Well, then, you go and work in the vineyard,' he told them. When
evening came, the owner told his foreman: ‘Call the workers and pay them their
wages, starting with those who were hired last and ending with those who were
hired first.' The men who had begun to work at five o'clock were paid a silver
coin each. So, when the men who were the first to be hired came to be
paid, they thought they would get more; but they too were given a silver coin
each. They took their money and started grumbling against the employer. ‘These
men who were hired last worked only one hour,' they said, "while we put up
with a whole day's work in the hot sun - yet you paid them the same as you paid
us!' ‘Listen, friend,' the owner answered one of them: ‘I have not cheated you.
After all, you agreed to do a day's work for one silver coin. Now take
your pay and go home. I want to give this man who was hired last as much as I
gave you. Don't I have the right to do as I wish with my own money? Or are
you jealous because I am generous?' And Jesus concluded: ‘So those who are
last will be first, and those who are first will be last.
In this parable, the lord Messiah Jesus
describes the kingdom of heaven [God] as being like a landowner who hires
workers for his vineyard at various times throughout the day. The workers agree
to work for a denarius, a typical day's wage. At the end of the day, the
landowner pays each worker the same amount, regardless of how many hours they
worked.
Key Themes
and Scriptural Insights:
- Grace and Generosity:
- The landowner represents God [Yehovah], who is generous and
sovereign in dispensing His blessings.
- God's [Yehovah’s] grace is not earned but given freely, outside of
human effort or merit.
- The First and the Last:
- Verse 16 states, "So the last will be first, and the first
last." This challenges human ideas of fairness and meritocracy in
favor of divine grace and equality in God's – Yehovah’s kingdom.
- Salvation is Equal for All:
- Whether one comes to faith early in life or late, the reward
(eternal life) is the same.
- Human Jealousy:
- The complaint of the workers who labored longer mirrors human
tendency to compare blessings and begrudge others' fortune.
Jesus
Predicts His Death (vv. 17-19)
(Verses
17-19) As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside
and spoke to them privately, as they walked along. ‘Listen,’ he told them: ‘we
are going up to Jerusalem, where the Son of Man will be handed over to the
chief priests and the teachers of the Law. They will condemn him to death and
then hand him over to the Gentiles, who will make fun of him, whip him, and
crucify him; but three days later he will be raised to life.’
The lord Messiah Jesus, for the third time,
predicts his impending death and resurrection. He explains that he will be
betrayed, condemned to death, mocked, flogged, crucified, and then raised on
the third day.
Key Themes
and Scriptural Insights:
- Foreknowledge of the lord Messiah Jesus:
- The lord Messiah Jesus demonstrates knowledge about future events,
emphasizing the enabling power of his God and Father indwelling him with
the fulness of His nature.
Purposeful Suffering:
- His death offering himself up to his God and Father Yehovah is not
accidental but part of God's – Yehovah’s redemptive plan for humanity
(see Isaiah 53).
Tone of Finality:
- The lord Messiah Jesus is resolute, preparing his disciples for
the events to come.
A Mother’s
Request and the Lesson on Servanthood (vv. 20–28)
(Verses
20-28) “Then the wife of Zebedee came to Jesus with her two sons, bowed before
him, and asked him for a favor. ‘What do you want?’ Jesus asked her. She
answered: ‘Promise me that these two sons of mine will sit at your right and
your left when you are King.’ ‘You don't know what you are asking for,’ Jesus
answered the sons: ‘Can you drink the cup of suffering that I am about to
drink?’ ‘We can,’ they answered. ‘You will indeed drink from my cup,’ Jesus
told them: ‘but I do not have the right to choose who will sit at my right and
my left. These places belong to those for whom my Father [Yehovah] has prepared
them.’ When the other ten disciples heard about this, they became angry with
the two brothers. So Jesus called them all together and said: ‘You know
that the rulers of the heathen have power over them, and the leaders have
complete authority. This, however, is not the way it shall be among you.
If one of you wants to be great, you must be the servant of the rest, and if
one of you wants to be first, you must be the slave of the others, like
the Son of Man, who did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his
life to redeem many people.’
The mother of James and John asks Jesus to
grant her sons places of honor in his kingdom. The lord Messiah Jesus responds
that these positions are not his to grant and then teaches about servant
leadership.
Key Themes
and Scriptural Insights:
- Misunderstanding of the Kingdom:
- The request shows a misunderstanding of the nature of the lord
Messiah Jesus' kingdom.
- Suffering as a Path to Glory:
- The lord Messiah Jesus asks if the disciples are willing to
"drink the cup" (suffering) that he will drink, indicating the
cost of following him.
- Servant Leadership:
- Verse 28: "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve,
and to give his life as a ransom for many."
- The lord Messiah Jesus sets the ultimate example of humility and
sacrificial service.
The Healing
of Two Blind Men (vv. 29–34)
(Verses 29-34)
As Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd was following. Two
blind men who were sitting by the road heard that Jesus was passing by, so they
began to shout: ‘Son of David! Have mercy on us, sir!’ The crowd scolded them and told them to be
quiet. But they shouted even more loudly: ‘Son of David! Have mercy on us, sir!’ Jesus
stopped and called them. ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ he asked them. ‘Sir,’
they answered: ‘we want you to give us our sight!’ Jesus had pity on them and
touched their eyes; at once they were able to see, and they followed him.
As the lord Messiah Jesus and his disciples
leave Jericho, two blind men cry out, "lord, Son of David, have mercy on
us!" Despite being rebuked by the crowd, they persist, and the lord
Messiah Jesus heals them.
Key Themes
and Scriptural Insights:
- Faith in Action:
- The blind men demonstrate faith by acknowledging the lord Messiah Jesus
as the "Son of David," a Messianic title.
- Persistence in Prayer:
- Their persistence reflects the importance of fervent and
unwavering faith in approaching the lord Messiah Jesus.
- The lord Messiah Jesus’ Compassion:
- Despite his impending suffering, the lord Messiah Jesus takes time
to show compassion and heal.
- Restoration:
- Physical healing signifies spiritual restoration and the
transformative power of the lord Messiah Jesus' ministry.
Broader
Application of Matthew Chapter Twenty:
- God's – Yehovah’s Sovereignty:
- Through the parable of the vineyard, the lord Messiah Jesus
highlights God's – Yehovah’s absolute authority and the boundless nature
of His grace.
- Selflessness and Service:
- The lord Messiah Jesus calls his followers to a life of humility,
servanthood, and sacrificial love.
- Faith and Persistence:
- The blind men’s story reminds believers to have faith and persist
in seeking Jesus, no matter the opposition.
- Preparation for the Cross:
- The chapter transitions toward the culmination of Jesus’
mission—His crucifixion and resurrection—signaling the ultimate
expression of God’s – Yehovah’s love.
This chapter teaches profound lessons about
the nature of God's – Yehovah’s kingdom, the necessity of faith/obedience, and
the call to emulate the lord Messiah Jesus' humility and service. It invites
readers to reflect on their attitudes toward grace, fairness, and the cost of
discipleship.
MATTHEW CHAPTER 21
Detailed Scriptural Outline
Theme: The Triumphal
Entry, Temple Authority, and Rejection of the Messiah
I. The Triumphal Entry (vv. 1-11)
A. The Prophetic Fulfillment (vv.
1-5)
(Verses 1-5) As Jesus and his
disciples approached Jerusalem, they came to Bethphage at the Mount of Olives.
There Jesus sent two of the disciples on ahead with these instructions: ‘Go
to the village there ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied up
with her colt beside her. Untie them and bring them to me.’ And if anyone says
anything, tell him: ‘The Master needs them'; and then he will let them go at
once.’ This happened in order to make come true what the prophet had said: ‘Tell
the city of Zion, look, your king is coming to you! He is humble and rides
on a donkey and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’
- The lord
Messiah Jesus sends his disciples for a donkey and colt (Zechariah 9:9;
Isaiah 62:11).
- Fulfillment
of Messianic prophecy: "Behold, your King comes… humble, mounted on a
donkey."
- Significance:
The lord Messiah Jesus presents himself as the peaceful King, not a
warlike conqueror.
B. The Crowd’s Acclamation (vv. 6-9)
(Verses 6-9) So the disciples
went and did what Jesus had told them to do: they brought the donkey and
the colt, threw their cloaks over them, and Jesus got on. A large crowd of
people spread their cloaks on the road while others cut branches from the trees
and spread them on the road. The crowds walking in front of Jesus and
those walking behind began to shout: ‘Praise to David's Son! God - Yehovah
bless him who comes in the name of the Lord - Yehovah! Praise be to God -
Yehovah!’
- Disciples
place cloaks on the donkey; crowds spread garments/branches (2 Kgs 9:13).
- Shouts
of "Hosanna to the Son of David!" (Psalm 118:25-26) –
a cry for salvation.
- "Blessed
is he who comes in the name of the Lord - Yehovah!" –
Recognition of Jesus as the Messiah.
C. Jerusalem’s Response (vv. 10-11)
(Verses 10-11) “When Jesus
entered Jerusalem, the whole city was thrown into an uproar. ‘Who is he?’ the
people asked. ‘This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth in Galilee,’ the crowds
answered.
- The
city is stirred, asking, "Who is this?"
- Crowds reply: "This
is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth."
The Temple Cleansing (vv. 12-17)
Judgment on Corruption (vv. 12-13)
(Verses 12-13) “Jesus went into
the Temple and drove out all those who were buying and selling there. He
overturned the tables of the moneychangers and the stools of those who sold pigeons
and said to them: ‘It is written in the Scriptures that God - Yehovah said, ‘My
Temple will be called a house of prayer.' But you are making it a hideout for
thieves!’
- The
lord Messiah Jesus drives out moneychangers & sellers (Malachi 3:1-3;
Jeremiah 7:11).
- "My
house shall be called a house of prayer, but you make it a den of
robbers." (Isaiah 56:7)
- Symbolic
act: Reclaiming worship in the Temple from commercial exploitation.
Healing and Praise (vv. 14-16)
(Verses 14-16) The blind and the
crippled came to him in the Temple, and he healed them. The chief priests and
the teachers of the Law became angry when they saw the wonderful things he was
doing and the children shouting in the Temple: ‘Praise to David's Son!’ So,
they asked Jesus: ‘Do you hear what they are saying?’ ‘Indeed, I do,’ answered
Jesus. ‘Haven't you ever read this scripture? You have trained children and
babies to offer perfect praise.'
- The
lord Messiah Jesus heals blind and lame in the Temple (Isaiah 35:5-6).
- Children
cry, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" – True worship vs.
religious leaders’ indignation.
- The lord Messiah Jesus
quotes Psalm 8:2 – God - Yehovah ordains praise from infants.
The Cursing of the Fig Tree (vv. 17-22)
Symbolic Judgment on Israel (vv.
17-19)
(Verses 17-19) Jesus left them
and went out of the city to Bethany, where he spent the night. On his way
back to the city early next morning, Jesus was hungry. He saw a fig tree
by the side of the road and went to it, but found nothing on it except leaves. So,
he said to the tree: ‘You will never again bear fruit!’ At once the fig tree
dried up.
- The
lord Messiah Jesus finds a fig tree with leaves but no fruit (Hosea 9:10;
Micah 7:1).
- Curses
it: "May no fruit ever come from you again!"
- Meaning: Israel’s
outward religiosity without true repentance (cf. Luke 13:6-9).
Lesson on Faith (vv. 20-22)
(Verses 20-22) “The disciples
saw this and were astounded. ‘How did the fig tree dry up so quickly?’ they
asked. Jesus answered: ‘I assure you that if you believe and do not doubt,
you will be able to do what I have done to this fig tree. And not only this,
but you will even be able to say to this hill, get up and throw yourself in the
sea,' and it will. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in
prayer.’
- Disciples
marvel at the withered tree.
- The
lord Messiah Jesus teaches: "If you have faith and do not doubt…
even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be cast into the sea,’ it will
happen."
- Key Principle: Faith
in God’s – Yehovah’s authority brings the about the impossible.
The Authority of Jesus Challenged (vv. 23-27)
Religious Leaders Question Jesus
(v. 23)
(Verse 23) Jesus came back to
the Temple; and as he taught, the chief priests and the elders came to him and
asked: ‘What right do you have to do these things? Who gave you such right?’
- Chief
priests/elders ask: "By what authority are you doing these
things?"
- Implication:
They reject the lord Messiah Jesus Messianic claims.
The lord Messiah Jesus’
Counter-Question (vv. 24-26)
(Verses 24-26) “Jesus answered
them: "I will ask you just one question, and if you give me an answer, I
will tell you what right I have to do these things.’ ‘Where did John's
right to baptize come from: was it from God or from human beings?’ They started
to argue among themselves: ‘What shall we say?’ If we answer, ‘From God,' he
will say to us: ‘Why, then, did you not believe John?' ‘But if we say, From
human beings,' we are afraid of what the people might do, because they are all
convinced that John was a prophet.’
- The
lord Messiah Jesus asks about John’s baptism: "Was it from
heaven or men?"
- Their
dilemma:
- If
"heaven," why didn’t they believe him?
- If
"men," they fear the crowd (Matthew 21:26).
- Result: They refuse to answer (showing hypocrisy).
The lord Messiah Jesus Declares
Their Unbelief (v. 27)
(Verse 27) So they answered
Jesus: ‘We don't know.’ And he said to them: ‘Neither will I tell you, then, by
what right I do these things.’
- "Neither
will I tell you by what authority I do these things."
- They forfeit revelation
by rejecting John’s testimony (Luke 7:29-30).
The Parables of Judgment (vv. 28-46)
Parable of the Two Sons (vv. 28-32)
(Verses 28-32) ‘Now, what do you
think?’ There was once a man who had two sons. He went to the older one and
said: ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.' ‘I don't want to,' he answered,
but later he changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other
son and said the same thing. ‘Yes, sir,' he answered, but he did not go. ‘Which
one of the two did what his father wanted?’ ‘The older one,’ they answered. So,
Jesus said to them: "I tell you: the tax collectors and the prostitutes
are going into the Kingdom of God ahead of you. For John the Baptist came
to you showing you the right path to take, and you would not believe him; but
the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. Even when you saw this,
you did not later change your minds and believe him.’
- First
son: Says "no" but repents and
obeys.
- Second
son: Says "yes" but disobeys.
- Application: Tax
collectors/prostitutes enter the Kingdom of God before hypocritical
leaders (cf. Luke 18:9-14).
Parable of the Wicked Tenants (vv.
33-44)
(Verses 33-44) “Listen to
another parable," Jesus said: ‘There was once a landowner who planted a
vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a hole for the wine press, and built a
watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to tenants and left home on a trip. When
the time came to gather the grapes, he sent his slaves to the tenants to
receive his share of the harvest. The tenants grabbed his slaves, beat
one, killed another, and stoned another. Again, the man sent other slaves,
more than the first time, and the tenants treated them the same way. Last
of all he sent his son to them. "Surely they will respect my son,' he
said. But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves: ‘This is
the owner's son. Come on, let's kill him, and we will get his property!' So,
they grabbed him, threw him out of the vineyard, and killed him. ‘Now, when the
owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?’ Jesus asked. ‘He
will certainly kill those evil men,’ they answered, ‘and rent the vineyard out
to other tenants, who will give him his share of the harvest at the right time.’
Jesus said to them: ‘Haven't you ever read what the Scriptures say? The stone
which the builders rejected as worthless turned out to be the most important of
all. This was done by the Lord - Yehovah; what a wonderful sight it is!' ‘And
so I tell you,’ added Jesus, ‘the Kingdom of God will be taken away from you
and given to a people who will produce the proper fruits.’
- Landowner (God - Yehovah) leases vineyard (Israel) to tenants
(religious leaders) (Isaiah 5:1-7).
- Servants (prophets) sent, beaten, killed (2 Chronicles 36:15-16).
- Son (Jesus) sent, murdered outside the vineyard (Hebrews 13:12).
- Judgment: Kingdom of God is given to "a people
producing its fruits" (the Called-out Assembly, 1 Peter 2:9-10).
- Stone Rejection Motif: (Psalm 118:22-23; Acts 4:11) – the lord
Messiah Jesus, the rejected cornerstone.
Religious Leaders’ Reaction (vv.
45-46)
(Verses 45-46) “The chief
priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus' parables and knew that he was talking
about them, so they tried to arrest him. But they were afraid of the crowds,
who considered Jesus to be a prophet.
- They
perceive that the lord Messiah Jesus speaks against them.
- Fear of the crowds, so
they do not seek to arrest him (cf. John 11:48).
Key Theological Themes:
- Messiah’s
Humble Kingship (Zechariah 9:9) vs. Israel’s expectations.
- Temple
Judgment & True Worship – the lord Messiah Jesus redefines God’s –
Yehovah’s dwelling (John 2:19-21).
- Faith
vs. Fruitlessness – Israel’s hypocrisy leads to judgment.
- Transfer
of the Kingdom of God – From unbelieving Israel to faithful believers
of the lord Messiah Jesus who have been grafted into spiritual Israel
(Matthew 8:11-12; Romans 11).
This outline integrates prophetic fulfillment, the lord Messiah Jesus
authority, and impending judgment while maintaining concordance with
OT and NT parallels.
MATTHEW CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
This chapis is complex that continues the lord Messiah Jesus’ engagement with religious leaders in Jerusalem, using parables and public discourse to reveal truths about the Kingdom of God, expose hypocrisy, and affirm divine authority.
A CONCORDANT OUTLINE
(The King’s Authority Challenged: Parables, Polemics, and Prophetic Wisdom)
THE PARABLE OF THE WEDDING FEAST (vv. 1-14)
The King’s Invitation Rejected (vv. 1-7)
(Verses 1-7) Again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying: “The kingdom of heaven [God] may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. Again, he sent other servants, saying: ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.”’ But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city.
- The Wedding Banquet Prepared (v. 2) – Symbolizes the Messianic Kingdom (cf. Isaiah 25:6; Revelation 19:7-9).
- Israel’s Rejection of the Invitation (vv. 3-5) – Mirrors the prophets’ rejection (2 Chronicles 36:15-16; Matthew 23:37).
- Violent Hostility Toward the King’s Servants (v. 6) – Foreshadows persecution of apostles (Acts 7:52; 1 Thessalonians 2:15).
- Judgment on the Rejecters (v. 7) – Fulfilled in AD 70 (Daniel 9:26; Luke 19:41-44).
The Feast Opened to All (vv. 8-10)
(Verses 8-10) Then he said to his servants: ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.’ And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So, the wedding hall was filled with guests.
- The Call to the "Highways and Hedges" (v. 9) – Gentiles included (Romans 11:11; Eph 2:12-13).
- The Wedding Hall Filled (v. 10) – The Called-out Assembly as the new guests (Revelation 5:9-10).
The Man Without a Wedding Garment (vv. 11-14)
(Verses 11-14) But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. And he said to him: ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants: ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.’
- The Garment of Righteousness Required (v. 11) – Symbolizes Christ’s imputed righteousness (Isaiah 61:10; Revelation 3:18).
- Judgment on the Unprepared (vv. 12-13) – Eternal exclusion (Matthew 25:30; 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9).
- The Principle of Election (v. 14) – Many called, few chosen (cf. Romans 9:6; 1 Peter 2:9).
THREE CHALLENGES TO JESUS’ AUTHORITY (vv. 15-40)
The Pharisees’ Trap: Paying Taxes to Caesar (vv. 15-22)
(Verses 15-22) Then the Pharisees went and plotted how to entangle him in his words. And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying: “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God - Yehovah truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” But Jesus, aware of their malice, said: “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. And Jesus said to them: “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said: “Caesar's.” Then he said to them: “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away.
- Hypocritical Flattery (vv. 15-16) – Their deceit (Psalm 5:9; Matthew 22:18).
- Jesus’ Response: Divine and Civil Authority (vv. 17-21)
- "Render to Caesar… and to God" (Romans 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:17).
- Their Astonishment (v. 22) – Wisdom silences opponents (Colossians 4:6).
The Sadducees’ Challenge: Resurrection Debate (vv. 23-33)
(Verses 23-33) “The same day Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection, and they asked him a question, saying: “Teacher, Moses said, ‘If a man dies having no children, his brother must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother.’ Now there were seven brothers among us. The first married and died, and having no offspring left his wife to his brother. So too the second and third, down to the seventh. After them all, the woman died. In the resurrection, therefore, of the seven, whose wife will she be? For they all had her.”
Jesus answered them: “You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. For in the resurrection, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. And as for the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was said to you by God: ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not God of the dead, but of the living.’” And when the crowd heard it, they were astonished at his teaching.
- The Hypothetical Scenario (vv. 23-28) – Misuse of levirate marriage (Deuteronomy 25:5-6).
- Jesus’ Correction (vv. 29-30):
- "You err, not knowing Scripture" (cf. Hosea 4:6; 2 Timothy 2:18).
- Resurrection life is angelic, not earthly (1 Corinthians 15:42-44).
- Proof from Exodus 3:6 (vv. 31-32) – God of the living (Luke 20:38).
- The Crowd’s Amazement (v. 33) – Contrasts with leaders’ hardness (Matthew 7:28-29).
The Pharisees’ Question: The Greatest Commandment (vv. 34-40)
(Verses 34-40) When the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they gathered together. And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question to test him. “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And he said to him: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.”
- The Lawyer’s Test (v. 35) – Another trap (cf. Luke 10:25-28).
- Jesus’ Summary of the Law (vv. 37-39):
- Love God (Deuteronomy 6:5) and Love Neighbor (Leviticus 19:18).
- The Fulfillment of the Law (v. 40) – Christ as the telos of the Law (Romans 10:4; Galatians 5:14).
JESUS’ COUNTER-QUESTION: THE MESSIAH’S IDENTITY (22:41-46)
(Verses 41-46) ow while the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them a question, saying: “What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son, is he?” They said to him: “The son of David.” He said to them: “How is it then that David, in the Spirit, calls him Lord, saying: “‘The Lord - Yehovah said to my Lord – the Messiah: “Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet”’? “If then David calls him lord, how is he, his son?” And no one was able to answer him a word, nor from that day did anyone dare to ask him any more questions.
A. The Pharisees’ View of Messiah (v. 42) – Expecting merely David’s descendant.
B. Jesus’ Challenge from Psalm 110:1 (vv. 43-45)
- David Calls Him "lord" – Messiah is the Son of God and David’s lord (John 8:58; Hebrews 1:13).
- The Unanswerable Question (v. 46) – Silence before Wisdom (Proverbs 30:4; John 7:46).
THEOLOGICAL THEMES & CONNECTIONS
- Divine Sovereignty & Human Responsibility – Election (v. 14) vs. Rejection (v. 7).
- The True People of God – Not ethnic Israel alone, but those who are ‘new creations’ in the lord Messiah Jesus (Galatians 3:28-29).
- Jesus as Supreme Authority – Over politics (v. 21), Scripture (vv. 29-32), and theology (vv. 41-46).
Theological Overview:
Explanation
Kingdom of God: Open to all but requires a righteous response, repentance, death to selfish interests, baptism, rising up in newness of life in the lord Messiah Jesus.
Authority of Jesus: Affirmed in every interaction; He answers traps with the wisdom his God and Father Yehovah who indwells him, enabling him to answer wisely.
Judgment & Grace: God - Yehovah judges those who reject Him but extends grace to those who accept Him.
Resurrection: Real and spiritual.
