Introduction to the Gospel of Matthew
An overview of the Synoptic Gospels will introduce this study of the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew, Mark, and Luke provide differing perspectives (your point of view, what you see from where you are standing) of the life and work of Jesus Christ. In order to better understand the Gospels, we should be familiar with the perspectives from which they were written.
I. The writers.
A. Matthew aka., Levi. Compare Matthew 9:9,10 with Mark 2:14,15
1. He was a Jew from the city of Capernaum. Luke 5:27-29
2. He was a tax collector, a publican.
The Great West Road passed through Capernaum, where Matthew worked. To be a tax collector here required extraordinary gifts. His other name, Levi, seems to indicate that he belonged to the tribe of Levi and therefore he would have been well acquainted with the Old Testament and with Jewish ways. But he also needed to know thoroughly the languages of the Gentiles and their customs. So Jesus called Matthew to become His disciple, a man quick of pen, Jewish by race but at home in the Roman world, who understood Aramaic but who also wrote Greek easily and precisely.
Totaling the references to money in the Synoptics, the following tabulation becomes significant: Matthew—44; Mark—6; Luke—22. Luke’s total includes nine references in one parable to the (Luke 19:11–27) compared with Matthew’s fourteen references to the (Matt 25). If these frequent references to these two words are reduced to one word each, the totals are as follows: Matthew—31; Mark—6; Luke—14. Such a comparison would lead an impartial observer to conclude that Matthew certainly must have had a special interest in financial matters. Furthermore a study of Matthew’s use of a number of these money words supplies more convincing evidence. Werner G. Marx Money Matters in Matthew
3. He was called by Jesus to follow Him.
4. He was called by Jesus to be an apostle. Matthew 10:3
B. Mark.
1. He was a Jew from the city of Jerusalem. Acts 12:12
2. He was probably led to the Lord for salvation by Peter. 1 Peter 5:13
3. He was well known by Peter, Mark’s home being to first place Peter went when delivered from prison. Acts 12:12
4. He was the nephew of Barnabas and traveled with Paul (Acts 12:25; 13:5;15:36-39), Timothy (2 Timothy 4:11), and Peter (1 Peter 5:13)
C. Luke.
1. He was a Gentile, a physician by trade. Colossians 4:14
2. His conversion is not noted.
3. He joined Paul and the missionaries in the city of Troas and accompanied them on most of their journey (Compare Acts 16:6-8 with 16:10)., including the final ministry in Rome (2 Timothy 4:11).
II. The writings.
A. Matthew.
1. He presented Jesus as the Messiah, the King of the Jews.
2. He established from the first sentence that Jesus is the Messiah, the promised One. 1:1
3. His writings are directed to the Jew.
a. The genealogy presents Him as a son of Abraham. Partaker of the Covenant.
b. The genealogy presents Him as the son of David. Partaker of the Promise.
c. He is presented as the King of the Jews. Chapter 2
d. Matthew quotes from or alludes to the Old Testament about 65 times.
e. Matthew expounded in chapters 21 through 23 the reason why the Kingdom was not being immediately established on earth.
f. Matthew does not explain many Jewish traits which are explained by the other writers because the Jews would have no need of an explanation.
B. Mark.
1. He presented Jesus as the “Servant of Jehovah” to the Romans.
a. The Romans were an occupying force in Israel and a dominating force in the world.
b. The Romans were an active people, building and empire which including a highway system and a system of waterworks which is still active today.
2. Mark wrote to a people who understood one that would serve.
C. Luke.
1. Luke presented Jesus “the man” to the Greeks.
2. The Greeks looked to man and man’s knowledge.
3. Luke presented Jesus as the “Kinsman Redeemer”.
D. Comparisons for illustration of their presentations.
1. The temptation of Jesus following His baptism.
a. Matthew 4:1 speaks of Jesus being “led up by the Spirit”: anagw To launch out – the picture of them launching out together to go to the wilderness.
b. Mark 1:12 speaks of Jesus being driven, “The Spirit driveth Him…”: ekballw To send Him forth as one would send forth a servant into the wilderness. To put forth – go before you.
c. Luke 4:1 speaks of Jesus being “led by the Spirit”: agw To bring along as one would bring one (a man) to another person’s abode.
2. The crossing of the Sea of Galilee.
a. Matthew 8:23-27. The disciples followed Him. The King.
b. Mark 4:35-41. The disciples took Him. The Servant.
c. Luke 8:22-25 The disciples went with Him. The Man.
III. The wonder that these men displayed.
Matthew 8:27; Mark 4:41; Luke 8:25.
John 1:29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
Part One
The Presentation and authentication of the King
Matthew 1:1-11:1
Chapter One
The presentation of the King
1:1 -4:11
I. His Pedigree Matthew 1:1-17
A. Divided into three sections.
1. Presents Israel’s history.
a. Developing the nation. 1:1-6
Matthew 1:1-6 The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon; And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias;
b. Decline of the nation. 1:6-11
Matthew 1:6-11 And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa; And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias; And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias; And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon:
c. Destruction of the nation. 1:11-16
Matthew 1:12-16 And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
2. Promotes remembering facts. 1:17
a. The form aided in memorizing the facts.
b. Jewish writers used a variety of formats for this purpose, for example – Psalm 119. This psalm contains 22 stanzas of 8 verses each. Each stanza begins with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet.
Psalms 119:11 Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
B. Discloses that Jesus is the child of Mary. Matthew 1:16
Matthew 1:16 And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
1. Joseph is noted as the husband of Mary but is not the father of Jesus.
2. Mary is noted as being the mother of Jesus.
a. Born of a woman. Genesis 3:15
b. Born of a virgin. Isaiah 7:14
C. Demonstrates that Jesus met the criteria set forth in God’s Word to identify the Messiah.
1. The line of Abraham.
a. Abraham. Genesis 12:3
b. Isaac. Genesis 17:19
c. Jacob. Genesis 28:13-15
2. The line of David.
a. The Tribe of Judah. Genesis 49:10
b. The family of Jesse. Isaiah 11:1,10
c. The family of David. Jeremiah 23:5,6
3. The line to Joseph – of the family of David of the tribe of Judah.
Note that once the nation was taken captive by the Babylonians, they no longer had a Jewish king ruling them. When Jesus began His ministry, Israel had not had a king from the lineage of David for over 600 years. The king that we read of in God’s Word was not a Hebrew, but was an Idumaen, an Edomite. He would trace his lineage back to Esau, Jacob’s brother. Herod was not a legitimate heir to the throne of David.
Note of interest.
The genealogy includes the names of or references to five women – Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba (the wife of Uriah), and Mary. At the time of Matthew writing the genealogy, the first four women were counted as being faithful in Israel. In their own times, each would have had their characters questioned, but they were proved faithful over time. They may have been included to encourage those of that day to give Mary the benefit of time. She would be proved faithful and truly blessed of God.
II. His Parents Matthew 1:18-25
A. Nazareth, the home of Joseph and Mary
Why Nazareth? They were both of the tribe of Judah, of the house of David.
Fulfilled prophecy
1. The person of the Messiah. Lowly and humble.
Isaiah 53:2,3 compare with John 1:45,46.
2. The ministry of the Messiah Isaiah 9:1,2 compare with Matthew 4:12-16
B. Mary, the faithful servant of God. Refer to the Gospel of Luke 1:26-38
1. She loved God. Luke 1:28,30
a. Note her relationship.
1). “…highly favoured…”
2). “…The Lord is with thee…”
3). “…blessed among women…”
4). “…found favour with God…”
b. Note her knowledge of the Scriptures. Luke 1:46-55
1). God’s Word to Mary.
2). Mary’s praise to God.
2. She listened to God. Luke 1:31-33
She heard and considered His Word
a. Sarah laughed in unbelief at the Word of God.
b. Zacharias lost the ability to speak because of his unbelief at the Word of God.
c. Mary simply believed God.
3. She learned from God. Luke 1:34-37
a. The question. 1:34
b. The answer 1:35
c. The explanation. 1:36,37
4. She lived for God. Luke 1:38
a. She submitted to God. 1:38a
b. She trusted in God. 1:38b
C. Joseph, the quiet man of God. Matthew 1:18-25
1. A man of compassion. 1:18,19
2. A man of conviction. 1:20-23
Joseph was included in the working of God’s plan.
a. His role, although not that of biological father, was that of the proper role of man, husband, and father.
b. His was not a secondary part, but primary. “Thou shalt name Him…”
3. A man of courage. 1:24,25
Because of his courage in leading his family, they were accepted by the townspeople.
a. Jesus was identified by them as the son of the carpenter. Matthew 13:55
b. Jesus was honored by them as a teacher. Luke 4:16-20
III. His protection Matthew 2:1-23
A. The Magi sought the King. 2:1-12
1. The Mission. 2:1,2
a. The time of their visit.
1). Following the birth of Jesus. 4 BC
2). Before the death of Herod the Great. 4 BC
(The date is set by the occurrence of a lunar eclipse)
3). Jesus was older than two months but less than one year.
a). He was presented in the Temple 40 days following His birth.
Note of interest: The offering given was the offering of the poor. Luke 2:21-24
b). Herod questioned the Magi as to the time that the star appeared.
c). He then ordered all of the children two years and under to be killed. 2:7,16
b. The identity of the visitors. 2:1,2
1). They are noted as being Magi from the East.
2). They were following heavenly signs. (Astronomers?)
3). They were aware that the signs heralded the birth of a King of the Jews.
c. The intent of the visitors. “…are come to worship him.”
1). They came to worship to the King.
a). Present themselves to Him.
b). Present gifts to Him.
2). They may have been instructed from the teachings of God’s Word.
a). The star – Numbers 24:17
b). The time – Daniel 9:24-27
2. The Meeting. 2:3-10
a. Herod was informed of the visitors arrival. 2:3
1). He was disturbed by their questions.
a). Herod was an Idumaean, and descendent of Esau.
b). He was not a legal heir to the throne.
c). He was king at the appointment of Caesar.
2). He was threatened by their mission.
b. Herod investigated the visitor’s quest. 2:4-7
1). He insisted that the priest reveal the location of the Messiah’s birth. 2:4-6
2). He inquired of the Magi when they had first seen the sign. 2:7
c. Herod attempted to deceive the Magi. 2:8-10
1). He shared information.
2). He sent them on their way.
3. The Messiah. 2:11
a. His dwelling place. – A house – not a manger!
b. His deity. He was a young child and yet – the Almighty God.
1). The Magi humbled themselves before Him.
2). The Magi worshipped Him.
3). The Magi gave offerings to Him.
4. The Magi warned. 2:12
B. The Message of warning to Joseph. 2:13-15
1. The message was delivered. 2:13
2. The means of travel was provided. Compare verse 2:11 with 2:14
3. The prophecy was fulfilled. 2:15 Refer to Hosea 11:1
C. The Murder of the children 2:16-18
1. The anger of being mocked. 2:16a
Herod’s anger was renowned.
a. He had his wife killed because of her blood line. He is thought to have truly loved her.
b. He had a number of his sons killed.
c. He planned the execution of some of the most revered men in Israel upon his death in order to keep the people from rejoicing that the was dead.
d. Augustus Caesar said that “He would rather be Herod’s swine that his son”!
2. The atrocity of the murder of the children. 2:16b-18
D. The Move to Nazareth. 2:19-23
1. Waited upon the Lord. 2:19-21
a. He was obedient to wait.
b. He was obedient to walk.
c. He followed the leadership of God according to His Word.
2. Warned again of danger. 2:22
a. Archelaus ruled this area of Israel upon the death of his father.
b. Archelaus ruled in the manner of his father and was a man to be avoided.
3. Word of God fulfilled. 2:23
Note Matthew noted fulfilled prophecy four times in these 23 verses.
Matthew 2:5,6; 15; 17,18; 23
IV. His presentation Matthew 3:1-17
A. The Messenger. 3:1-6
Note that Matthew assumed that his readers would be familiar with John the Baptist.
1. When he came. Matthew 3:1,2
a. Luke carefully dates the time of John’s ministry. Luke 3:1-3
1). Tiberius Caesar began as co-regent with Augustus in 12 AD.
2). John began his ministry in 26 or 27 AD.
a). Jesus and John, cousins, were born in 4 BC.
b). Jesus is noted to be about 30 years old. Luke 3:23
c). The dates all agree to the time set forth of about 26 to 27 AD.
b. God appointed the time.
1). He had prepared to send His Son to come at this time. Galations 4:4
“But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,”
2). He had prepared His messenger to go before His Son. Luke 3:2,3
2. Why he came. Matthew 3:3,4
a. To preach – no prophet in Israel since Malachi (for 400 years).
1). The Law was with the people.
2). They had turned from God to tradition.
b. To prepare – John was sent as a farmer that begins to work in a field that has lain dormant for years. Hosea 10:12. He must remove the rocks and break up the hard ground.
1). The people needed to be shaken out of complacency.
2) The people would need to be prepared to produce.
3. What was the response? Matthew 3:5,6
a. Multitudes humbled themselves before God. 3:5
b. They showed their faith in the promise of the coming Messiah. 3:6
1). John preached belief in the Messiah. Acts 19:3,4
2). They trusted in the One that was to come.
c. Many were not sure as to the identity of the Messiah at the time, but the ultimate results proved John’s work to have been effective.
1). Thousands went to hear Jesus teach.
2). Thousands trusted Him as Saviour. Acts 2:41,47; 5:14. (Many of which had been prepared by John)
Acts 2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Acts 2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
B. The Message to the religious leaders. Matthew 3:7-12
1. The warning. 3:7-10 Notice the requirement for forgiveness of sin. Leviticus 5:1-13
a. He focused attention on them.
b. He required repentance of them. 3:8
1). Because of their pride. 3:9
a). John’s message – 3:2,6
(1). Repent
(2). Be baptized
b). Obedience to the message required action –
(1). Repentance
(2). Be baptized
c). Pharisee’s reaction to the message –
(1). Refused to repent
(2). Refused baptism
Luke 7:29-30 “And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John. But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.”
d). Requirement – simple obedience to the message – the whole message
2). Because of their need – in danger of destruction. 3:10
3). Because some would listen and repent. (Nicodemus)
2. The witness (John’s testimony of the Messiah) 3:11,12
a. John fully realized the extent of his own ministry. 3:11a
b. John testified of the work of the Messiah. 3:11b,12
1). He would seal to Himself those who trust in Him.
2). He would judge and punish the ungodly.
“…burnt up…” to be destroyed “…with unquenchable fire…” forever = to be destroyed forever.
C. The Messiah. 3:13-17
1. His intention – to be baptized. 3:13-15
a. Jesus came from Nazareth to where John was baptizing. 3:13
b. John was obedient to God’s commission to him. 3:14,15
1). He did not choose the work or invent the office. John 1:33
2). His authority to preach and baptize were given by God.
3). He, the lesser, received authority from God, the greater.
2. His instruction – John to baptize Him. 3:15b
a. He humbled Himself to authority. 3:14
b. He followed the will of God. 3:15
John 5:30 “I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.”
John 6:38 “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.”
c. He will be blessed and a blessing. “…becometh us to fulfill all righteousness.”
3. His identification – the testimony of God.. 3:16,17
a. The Spirit of God identified Jesus as God the Son. 3:16
John 1:32-33 “And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.”
b. The Father identified Jesus as God the Son. 3:17
V. His temptation and early ministry Matthew 4:1-11
A. Temptation in the wilderness. 4:1-11
1. The place. 4:1,2
a. A wilderness area. (Nothing to refresh – physically or emotionally)
b. Jesus was there forty days fasting. not unprecedented (Moses Exodus 34:28; Elijah 1 Kings 19:8)
c. Satan was active the entire time. Luke 4:2
2. The pattern.
a. The lust of the flesh 4:3 food “What I want to do” passion
b. The lust of pride 4:5,6 ministered unto“What I want to be” position
c. The lust of the eyes 4:8,9 kingdoms “What I want to have” possession
d. The repeating pattern. I John 2:15,16
e. The deception. 4:3 ‘…if thou be…’ Suggestive, manipulative. Refer to Genesis 3:1
3. The proof. 4:10,11
a. Jesus was not tempted to sin. (Satan offered, Jesus was not inclined)
1). Immutable. Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
While adding a human nature and body, His essence did not change. He is the eternal Son of God working out the eternal plan.
2). Impeccable. The impeccability of Jesus Christ not only means that He did not sin, but that He could not sin. Titus 1:2
John 14:30 “Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.”
1 Peter 2:22 “Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:”
b. Jesus used the Word of God to rebuke Satan. (Instructs believers of the power of Scripture) Psalm 119:9-11
c. Jesus commanded Satan to depart. 4:10 Satan was compelled to obey.
d. Jesus was ministered to. (The purpose of the trial was fulfilled)
B. Travels and Ministry as noted by the Apostle John.
Some time elapsed between the temptation in the wilderness and the ministry in Galilee. The events during this time were recorded only by the Apostle John. (Refer to John 1:29 through 4:43)
1. The return from the wilderness. John 1:29-42
a. John’s testimony of Jesus proclaimed. 1:29-34
b. John’s testimony of Jesus believed. 1:35-42
2. The ministry in Galilee. 1:43-2:12
a. The witness to men. John 1:43-51
b. The wedding in Cana. John 2:1-11
c. The way to Capernaum. John 2:12
1). He was still in the company of His family.
2). He was stopping over for a short stay only, as He was on the way to Jersusalem.
a). People would be talking about what happened in Cana.
b). Peter, Andrew, James, and John would be sharing the testimony with their families.
c). People would be hearing about the words and works of Jesus. We will see them coming to Jesus as He returned to these areas.
3). He would later make His home in this city.
3. The ministry in Judah. John 2:13-4:2
a. Withstood the self-righteous. Note the power manifested – one against many.
b. Witnessed to Nicodemus.
c. Witnessed of by John the Baptist.
4. Return to Galilee. John 4:3-44
a. The message received in Samaria. 4:3-42
b. The message rejected in Nazareth. 4:43,44
unbelievers accepted the truth, believers rejected he truth
Chapter Two
Proclamations of the King
Matthew 4:12-7:29
I. Teaching in Galilee. Matthew 4:12-17
A. Report of John’s imprisonment. Matthew 4:12
1. Jesus’ ministry in Judaea. John 3:22-4:54
a. His ministry was growing. John 4:1,2
b. His message was intriguing. John 3:3
2. John was arrested by Herod.
a. His message. Herod was openly rebuked by John. Matthew 14:3,4; Mark 6:17-20
b. His might. Herod was anxious about the large following of John. Matthew 14:5
B. Return to Galilee Matthew 4:12-17
1. Preaching in Nazareth. 4:13a (Refer to Luke 4:16-29)
a. He visited familiar places.
b. He presented the truth to the people.
c. He was rejected by family and citizens of the town. Luke 4:24
1). His own townspeople were trusting in their heritage instead of faith in God.
2). Jesus’ message to them brought the same response as that of the Pharisees – rejection.
2. Prophecy fulfilled in Capernaum. 4:13b-17 (Isaiah 9:1,2)
II. Calling disciples to follow Him. 4:18-22
A. The call of Andrew and Peter. 4:18-20
1. Andrew was a disciple of John the Baptist. John 1:35-40
2. John the Baptist told Andrew to follow Jesus.
3. Peter was brought to Jesus by Andrew.
B. The call of James and John. 4:21,22
1. They were disciples of John.
2. The followed Jesus early in His ministry.
3. They were “middle-class” working men.
4. They were nicknamed “Sons of Thunder” Mark 3:17
(Their nature may have led to notice by officials – James was killed by Herod. Acts 12:1,2)
C. They had been Jesus’ disciples prior to this call. They left all and followed Him according to faith and knowledge.
III. Ministering to the people. 4:23-25
A. Meeting spiritual needs. 4:23
1. The people were in spiritual darkness.
2. The Son of God, the Light of the world, revealed their need. John 1:5
B. Meeting physical needs. 4:24,25
1. His compassion reached them physically as well as spiritually.
2. He met their needs – all of their needs.
C. The people came out to see Jesus – They had heard the testimony of Him.
Romans 10:14
Introduction to the Kingdom
(Parenthesis)
In order to help understand the teaching of the Lord, we need to know the expectations of those that heard His message. We are not involved in a study of Eschatology (the doctrine of the end times) but we will be helped by having an idea of life in the Kingdom, the 1,000 year reign of the Lord Jesus Christ which follows the Tribulation.
I. The Place – Earth.
A. Prior to the new heaven and new earth as noted in Revelation 21:1; 2 Peter 3:10-13
This work of God is a complete recreation of Heaven and Earth.
Revelation 21:1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
B. The earth will undergo physical changes at the coming of Jesus to Earth at the end of the Tribulation period, the introduction of the 1,000 year reign.
Zechariah 14:4-5 And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south. And ye shall flee to the valley of the mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach unto Azal: yea, ye shall flee, like as ye fled from before the earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah: and the LORD my God shall come, and all the saints with thee.
Zechariah 14:9-10 And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one. All the land shall be turned as a plain from Geba to Rimmon south of Jerusalem: and it shall be lifted up, and inhabited in her place, from Benjamin’s gate unto the place of the first gate, unto the corner gate, and from the tower of Hananeel unto the king’s winepresses.
II. The people.
A. The inhabitants of earth. The believers that survive the Tribulation and later, their children born in the Kingdom.
B. The inhabitants of New Jerusalem.
1. God. Revelation 21:1,2,23; 22:3-5
2. The believers of the New Testament age. John 14:2,3; Revelation 21:9
(Resurrected at the coming of Jesus in the air for His saints, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)
3. The believers of the Old Testament age (Old Testament and Tribulation saints) Revelation 21:12; Hebrews 11:10
(Resurrected at the coming of Jesus to the earth at the end of the Tribulation,
Revelation 20:3-5)
Daniel 12:2 And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.
Isaiah 26:19 Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead.
4. The unfallen angels. Hebrews 12:22,23
III. The peace.
A. Righteous judgment. Psalm 2:8-12
Isaiah 9:7 Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.
B. The Word of God is known.
Isaiah 61:10-11 I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth; so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.
C. Rebellion is punished swiftly.
Isaiah 11:3-5 And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
Zechariah 14:16-19 And it shall come to pass, that every one that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to year to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, and to keep the feast of tabernacles. And it shall be, that whoso will not come up of all the families of the earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain. And if the family of Egypt go not up, and come not, that have no rain; there shall be the plague, wherewith the LORD will smite the heathen that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles. This shall be the punishment of Egypt, and the punishment of all nations that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles.
Illustrate the difficulty in having a clear understanding of what is going to take place. We are given descriptions and examples of what is going to happen, but we do not have anything in our experience to identify these things with. Consider this –
78 years ago, a passenger airplane made its first trip from the state of Florida to the island of Cuba. This was the first intercontinental passenger flight. The Cubans may have been told “next week, a plane carrying passengers will land here. It will fly from the West and land in this field.” The truth has been told but what did the people understand about the truth? Most may have never seen an airplane, so the concept of one large enough to carry passengers meant very little. Next week could be anytime from Sunday to Sunday. Coming from the West leaves a 90 degree field of direction. Due west, west northwest, west southwest? When they actually saw the plane land and the passengers emerge, they could say “Oh, that is what I thought or they may say, wow, I had no idea”. Their lack of understanding did not affect the flight of the plane as was promised.
(Study notes continued)
IV. The Blessings. Qualifications. Matthew 5:1-12
A. The character of the blessings.
1. They are from God.
2. They are conditional.
3. They are bestowed upon man.
B. The time period covered by the blessings.
1. The Kingdom of Heaven.
a. The Tribulation Period. Note 5:6,9
b. The Millenial Reign of the Lord Jesus Christ. Note 5:1
2. The purpose of the sermon.
a. The interpretation of the sermon reveals truths for the Kingdom of Heaven.
b. The application of the sermon describes the character of a Godly man.
C. The blessings as spoken by the Lord. 5:3-12
1. The poor in spirit. 5:3
a. Although much is said in Scripture about the materially poor, this statement is qualified by the words “in spirit”.
b. The poor are so noted because the have a need (in spirit)
c. The self-righteous man believes that he has no needs.
d. The man referred to here knows the he needs God.
e. He is in the kingdom, not will be, but “theirs is…”
2. They that mourn. 5:4
a. The emotional aspect of the intellectual portion of 5:3
b. Notice the emotion of Isaiah as recorded in Isaiah 6:5. Emotion (5a) from intellect (5b).
c. Comfort comes from God. Psalm 126:5,6
3. The meek. 5:5
a. This is a quote from Psalm 37, verses 10 and 11.
1). The wicked have their reward – they are separated from God.
2). The meek shall inherit that promise from God – the land.
b. What does the Word of God have to say about the meek?
1). Paul’s admonition to Titus (3:1-9). contrast verses 2,3 with 8,9.
2). God is pleased with this spirit. 1 Peter 3:4 2:19,20; 1 Corinthians 6:7
3). Jesus is the example. 1 Peter 2:21-23
4. They that hunger and thirst after righteousness. 5:6
a. Man is aware of the appetites of the flesh.
b. Jesus used this knowledge to focus upon those that must be filled or else they die.
c. Study is difficult but it is satisfying when pursued. Proverbs 27:7
5. They that are merciful. 5:7
a. Jesus taught by example. “His mercy endureth forever”
b. Note the contrast given in Luke 18:10-14
1). The publican was aware of what mercy was and his need of it.
2). The Pharisee had none as shown by his attitude.
6. The pure in heart. 5:8
a. Note again the statement, as at the first, is qualified – this time it is with the word “heart”.
1). Jesus was not speaking of those that are ceremonially pure. Acts 10:14,15
2). Jesus was speaking of spiritual things.
b. God is He that purifies. 1 John 1:6,7
7. The peacemakers. 5:9
a. Man is at war with God. Romans 8:7
b. Jesus gave Himself to bring man to peace with God.
c. Believers are given the ministry of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:18-21;
Romans 10:9-17
8. The persecuted. 5:10-12
a. Persecution will come when one follows God’s will and serves Him faithfully.
b. Jesus is the perfect example of these characteristics and we know that He was persecuted.
c. Recognize blessings.
1). God’s power, grace, mercy working in your life. 2 Corinthians 4:7-11
2). The company that you are placed in – “prophets”
3). The reward to be received.
V. The responsibilities. Matthew 5:13-16
(Those qualified to be blessed of God are informed clearly of responsibilities.)
A. They are likened to salt. Matthew 5:13
1. Common use of salt was as a preservative and purifier.
a. Elisha’s use of salt to clean the corrupted water in the well. 2 Kings 2:19-22
b. Paul’s exhortation to pure, uncorrupted speech.
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.”
1). Salt purifies the speech, enhances the new nature.
2). Abimelech used salt to keep the ungodly city from being rebuilt. Judges 9:43-45
2. Jesus’ statement to the disciples.
a. Not what they should be, what they are.
b. Notice the qualifying words “but if…”
1). It is not possible for salt to become void of being salt.
2). Salt does not change its chemical properties.
3). “But if…” shows that if it could lose its usefulness – what good would it be?
a). Cannot be used to add flavor or enhance taste.
b). Cannot be used to purify.
c). Cannot be thrown out onto the land. (The chemical remains active)
d). It is only good for foot paths.
c. Have you kept your salt in a container, stored away and inactive and useless?
B. They are likened to light. Matthew 5:14-16
1. Again this is a statement of what believers are.
a. Jesus Christ is the Light. John 1:1-9
Revelation 21:23 “And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.”
b. The believers reflect the light of Jesus.
2. Light illuminates.
a. The lighted city is easily seen, placed in full sight.
b. It is not normal to hide light. Matthew 5:15
1). Darkness is not evil, but it is the result of no light.
2). Light is energy, active, bright, enables one to work.
3). Darkness is a type of the world with the absence of the Light, the Son of God.
3. Jesus states the visible light will glorify God. Matthew 5:16
C. Their testimony will be necessary during the Kingdom, the Millennial reign of the Lord Jesus Christ.
1. The removal of the church. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
2. The reinstatement of Israel – the seven years of tribulation.
3. The residents of the Kingdom. (Enter the Kingdom from the Tribulation, being saved)
a. The Jews of the nation Israel. Isaiah 43:5-7
b. The gentiles of the nations. Isaiah 49:22,23; Jeremiah 16:19-21 (saved)
3. The reason for the testimony.
Zechariah 8:20-23 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; It shall yet come to pass, that there shall come people, and the inhabitants of many cities: And the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us go speedily to pray before the LORD, and to seek the LORD of hosts: I will go also. Yea, many people and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem, and to pray before the LORD. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, that ten men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.
Application in this present age –
The purpose of our lives is to bring glory to God. We glorify God by –
Being useful like salt, preserving and purifying
Being useful like light, dispelling the darkness by reflecting the Lord Jesus Christ in our lives.
VI. The standards. Matthew 5:17-48
The Pharisees and Scribes had reduced the Law of God to a system of traditions which they interpreted and enforced. Jesus instructed the people in the true motive of the Law. The system prevailing at the time, the Law mixed with tradition, did not reflect God’s will for man. Notice that Jesus purposefully explained His intention in the giving of the Law and His expectation of those living under it. The rule of the Kingdom is set by God, not by man!
A. Right purpose. Matthew 5:17-20
1. The law is good.
a. It cannot be destroyed. 5:17
1). God does not desire to destroy it.
2). Man does not have the power to destroy it or to change it.
b. It will not be altered. 5:18
1). Jot and tittle – these are Hebrew vowel pointings.
2). The words cannot be changed.
c. It shall be fulfilled. 5:18
Colossians 2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
2. The warning. 5:19,20
a. Break any law – break the law. 5:19a.
James 2:10-11 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.
b. Man’s righteousness is not sufficient. 5:20
1). It never has been. Abraham was declared righteous due to his faith.
Romans 4:2-3 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.
2). It never will be.
Romans 3:20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
Galatians 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
B. Right understanding. Matthew 5:21-47
Examples are given to illustrate the standard set by God.
Note that God has always held man accountable for his thoughts as well as his acts. (Exodus 20:17; 23:4,5; Leviticus 19:17; Deuteronomy 22:4; 1 Chronicles 28:9; Psalms 66:18; Proverbs 26:24-26). Jesus is not raising the standard of the Law, but He is condemning the Pharisee’s system of tradition. (refer to Matthew 23:25,26). Danger faces those that live by man’s law/tradition instead of God’s law.
Proverbs 4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
Note the teaching method of Jesus is a literary device known as syntactic parallelism. He develops the thought by using that which is common knowledge and then He reinforces it through repetition.
1. Murder. 5:21-26
a. The teachings. 5:21,22
1). The tradition. 5:21
2). The truth. 5:22
b. The recommendations. 5:23-26
“Therefore” – the knowledge of truth should lead to right attitudes.
1). Attitude of the victim. 5:23,24
2). Attitude of the guilty. 5:25,26
c. Responsibility to seek restoration devolves on the believer (self).
Note that justice will be swift and sure. Psalm 2:7-9; 72:4; Isaiah 65:20
2. Adultery. 5:27-32
a. The teachings. 5:27,28
1). The Law. 5:27
2). The application. – cannot separate mind/heart and actions. Refer to Mark 7:20-23
b. The recommendations.
1). Repent – have a change of heart or perish. 5:29,30; James 1:14,15;
Note Job’s determination to do right. Job 31:1-3
2). Return and submit to the Word of God. 5:31,32
a). Moses provided protection for women because of the hardness of men’s hearts.
Explain the marriage relationship – the difference between adultery and fornication.
(1). Fornication – porneia
(2). Adultery – moixaw
(3). Claims are made that the words have the same meaning. Refer to 1 Corinthians 6:9,10 and Galations 5:19,20
b). God’s will is for submission to His will, then there will be no need for protection.
3. Swearing. 5:33-37
a. The teaching. 5:33-37
1). The tradition. 5:33
a). Do not perjure yourself (swear falsely)
b). Do that which you have sworn unto the Lord to do.
2). The truth – swearing was legitimate only as proscribed by God.
Leviticus 19:12 And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.
Deuteronomy 6:13 Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.
The Pharisees and Scribes had turned the practice of swearing into that which would be to their advantage. If they swore to anything other than the Lord, they were not constrained to keep the promise.
3). The truth. 5:34-36 Refrain from this practice of swearing.
b. The recommendation – be honest and dependable. Do that which you said you would do.
4. Revenge. 5:38-42
a. The teaching. 5:38,39a
1). The standard of revenge. 5:38
a). The law was not intended for personal satisfaction.
b). The law was a standard of judgment. Exodus 21:22-26
2). The truth. 5:39a Leave personal vengeance to the Lord. Deuteronomy 32:35; Nahum 1:2
b. The recommendation. 5:39b-42 Do good and rest in the Lord
5. Love. 5:43-47
a. The teachings 5:43,44a
1). The tradition – seeking one’s own good. 5:43
2). The truth. 5:44a
b. The recommendation. 5:44b “…bless them that….”
Refer to Leviticus 19:17,18; Exodus 23:4,5
Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.
c. The reason. 5:45-47
Self serving or simply serving.
C. Right standard. Matthew 5:48
1. God is the only standard worthy of attaining to.
2. Man is exhorted to conform to God’s likeness.
a. Matthew 5:21-47 reveals the great difference between God and man.
b. Man’s duty is to repent and submit to God. Matthew 3:1,2
VII. Lessons in integrity. 6:1-34
The Scribes and Pharisees demanded control over their own lives. They used religion for their own benefit. Jesus warned the people about their pride and their desire for power.
1. They refused to submit to God’s will. Matthew 3:7,8; Luke 7:24-30.
2. They relied on their own self-righteousness. Luke 18:9-14
3. They retreated when faced with defeat. Matthew 21:23-27, 44,45
4. They reinforced themselves by seeking out partners. John 3:1,2; Matthew 23:15
The Lord revealed the hypocrisy (an actor under an assumed character) of the Scribes and Pharisees as He exhorted the believers to be people of integrity.
Integrity: The quality or state of being complete; incorruptibility; soundness; honesty. Merriam-Webster Dictionary
A. Pride. 6:1-18
1. The example of giving. 6:1-4
a. Warning. 6:1
b. Revealing. 6:2
c. Instructing. 6:3,4 Refer to Luke 6:38
2. The example of praying. 6:5-15
a. Warning. 6:5a, 7a
b. Revealing 6:5b, 7b “…for they love…”
c. Instructing. 6:6, 8-15
1). Private. 6:6
2). Practical 6:8-15
3. The example of fasting. 6:16-18
a. Warning. 6:16a
b. Revealing. 6:16b
c. Instructing. 6:17,18
Read Job’s defence of his character. His life was not a performance for man but a service unto God. Job chapter 31
B. Power 6:19-34
James described the attitude of self determination that the Scribes and Pharisees manifested. James 4:13-15. Jesus taught the disciples to trust in God, not in self.
1. Give Him your heart. 6:19-23
We will not seek to describe the treasure, but we will note the Jews expected a reward and Jesus did not deter them from their expectation. Matthew 19:27-30. The instruction deals with one’s motive – where is your heart?
a. The heart. 6:19-21 emotion
1). Treasure on earth.
2). Treasure in Heaven.
3). Self-examination – where is your heart?
Colossians 3:1-4 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
b. The eye. 6:22,23 intellect
1). Light in your soul.
2). Darkness in your soul. The natural man.
Ephesians 4:17-18 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
2 Corinthians 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
3). Self-examination – what can you see? Compare Matthew 23:16,17,19
c. Refer to Job’s evaluation of his state in chapter –
Job 31:7 If my step hath turned out of the way, and mine heart walked after mine eyes, and if any blot hath cleaved to mine hands;
2. Give Him your will. 6:24 will
The people hearing this sermon were Jews. They were taught to live according to the tradition of their teachers, the Scribes and Pharisees, yet they did have a knowledge of the Word of God. They would understand the law of the sabbaths,which law helped them to understand the truth before them in this sermon – they could not serve two masters. Genesis 2:2,3; Exodus 16:22,23; Leviticus chapter 25
a. According to the flesh, they would need to plant and harvest, not only to supply their daily needs but also to prosper.
b. According to the spirit, they would need to trust God and submit to His will, leaving Him to supply their daily needs and rewarding them with prosperity.
c. They could not serve both, the flesh and the spirit.
The keeping of the sabbaths required submission of the will.
3. Give Him your life. 6:25-34 The conclusion of the matter
Hebrews 13:5-6 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
Refer to the example of Abraham. Hebrews 11:8-10,13
VIII. Practical lessons
A. Attitudes. Matthew 7:1-12 (Theme: not self-serving as the Scribes and Pharisees)
1. Contemplation Matthew 7:1-5 (know yourself)
a. The example of the Scribes and Pharisees. Luke 13:13-16; 18:9-14; John 8:4-7
b. The example of the disciples. Matthew 26:7-9; Mark 9:33,34; 10:41; Luke 22:24
2. Discrimination Matthew 7:6 (know others)
Refer to Mark 6:1-6. The people would not listen – they would only react in anger and violence. Note the example of the Apostle Paul – Acts 13:50,51; 18:4-6 Refer also to –
Leviticus 10:10 And that ye may put difference between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean;
Ezekiel 22:26 Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shewed difference between the unclean and the clean, and have hid their eyes from my sabbaths, and I am profaned among them.
Ezekiel 44:23 And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.
3. Communication. Matthew 7:7-11
a. Refrain from manipulation. Matthew 7:7,8
James 4:2-3 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
b. Rely on the Lord. Matthew 7:9-11 His supply is that which is needed – accept His will, being thankful and content.
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
4. Expectation. Matthew 7:12 This is not a new command –
Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.
Refer to Mark 12:30,31 Should be normal manner of life.
Mark 12:30-31 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
B. Decisions. Matthew 7:13-23
1. Instructions. Matthew 7:13,14
a. Entry for all who will enter through the Entrance.
John 10:9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
b. Destruction for all who ignore the right way.
John 3:17-18 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
2. Cautions. Matthew 7:15-23
a. Evil men. Matthew 7:15-20 Beware of those that will lead you astray.
b. Deceived men. Matthew 7:21-23 Beware of those that have been led astray.
D. Examples. Matthew 7:24-29
1. The wise man. Matthew 7:24,25 The Words of God are sure – unchanging
2. The foolish man. Matthew 7:26,27 The words of man are unstable – shifting, changing.
Are they going to enter into the Kingdom of Heaven? – Not by following the traditions of man!
Conclusion. Matthew 7:28,29
Chapter Three
The Power of the King
Matthew 8:1-11:1
I. Proving His power. 8:1-9:8
A. Power over disease. 8:1-17
1. Healing the leper. 8:1-4
a. The Leper’s plea. 8:1,2 Healing would be according to God’s will – he had power!
b. The Lord’s response. 8:3
c. The Law’s testimony.. 8:4 Remember Matthew 5:17,18
1). Of the man – his condition.
a). What he was – unclean.
b). What he was made – clean.
2). Of the Lord – His power.
3). Of the priest – their need.
Galatians 3:24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
d. The loss. Refer to Mark 1:44,45
1. His disobedience resulted in a lost opportunity to testify of the Lord at the Temple.
2. His disobedience resulted in a lack of understanding among the people of God’s purpose.
3. His disobedience probably did not seem like disobedience to him.
a). He did not understand that Jesus was not seeking to be glorified among the people in this manner.
b). He actually hindered the ministry through his misguided zeal and disobedience.
Genuine love involves obedience. We will hurt the ministry when we follow our will over the will of God.
2. Healing the servant. 8:5-13
a. The servant’s need. 8:5,6
b. The Saviour’s care. 8:7
c. The soldier’s faith. 8:8-13
1). His faith revealed. 8:8,9
a). He knew about submission -“under authority” Jesus had come to do the Father’s will
b). He knew about being in command – “in authority” Jesus had all power
c). He knew everything was based on Jesus being willing to help.
(1). Jesus did not need to be in the presence of the one that was sick. Power not diminished by distance.
(2). Jesus did not need to evaluate the condition of the servant, neither sickness or faith.
(3). Jesus did only need to command and the man would be healed.
2). His faith regarded. 8:10-12
a). Remarkable faith. 8:10
b ). Adopted faith. 8:11
c). Neglected faith. 8:12
3). His faith rewarded. 8:13
c. The story harmonized. Compare Matthew 8:5-13 with Luke 7:1-10
1). Matthew. Written to the Jews, emphasized the faith of the Gentiles.
2). Luke. Written to Gentiles, emphasized the compassion of the Jews.
3). Read as follows: Luke 7:1-8, Matthew 8:5-13; Luke 7:10.
The Centurion’s servant was sick. The Centurion’s Jewish friends, coming to Jesus, interceded for him. The Centurion followed them and sought to personally intercede for his servant.
3. Healing Peter’s mother-in-law Matthew 8:14,15 Refer also to Mark 1:31 and Luke 4:38,39
a. Her condition. Read Luke 4:38
1). “…Taken with…” A continuing condition. To be confined, a city besieged.
2). “…a great fever…” A physician’s evaluation of the seriousness of the condition.
b. Their care.
1). They told the Lord of her condition as soon as they arrived. Mark 1:30 “…anon (immediately) they tell him…”
2). They asked the Lord to help her. Luke 4:38 “…they besought him…”
c. Jesus’ compassion. Matthew 8:15 Refer to the descriptions of what took place –
1). He came to her, stood over her, reached unto her, took her hand, and lifted her up. 2). He healed her completely. She rose up and ministered.
Note: What is the normal result of severe fever? – no strength. Rest needed for recuperation. Peter’s mother-in-law arose immediately, healed and with full strength to serve.
d. What conclusions do we draw from this narrative?
1). This type of sickness seems to be a typical situation faced in every home.
a). The blind, lame, leprous, and deaf may not see this fever as serious.
b). The Lord took it seriously and ministered to the woman.
2). The sickness in the home of the faithful is not an unusual situation. When doing all that one is supposed to do, sickness may still strike. The world is sin cursed resulting in sickness and death.
4. Healing the multitudes. Matthew 8:16,17 Refer also to Mark 1:32
a. The respect shown – the people waited until the Sabbath had ended.
1). They did not want to labour on the Sabbath.
2). They did not want to tempt the Lord to labour on the Sabbath.
b. The results recorded – The Lord healed them all.
c. The reason stated. Refer to –
Isaiah 53:4 Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.
“Not all the sufferers in that land or in the world were healed by Him, and no such offer is ever extended to them. Compassion naturally is drawn out toward those immediately observed. None could deny the reality of physical healing on the part of God today, but it is properly based on His compassion for His own, and not on the death-sufferings of Christ. Bibliotheca Sacra
As to the fourth verse and its precise meaning, surely the safest guide to its exact interpretation will be found in Matthew’s use of it in his Gospel. And what does Matthew say? Christ healed the sick, he declares (8:16 ), and in so doing He “fulfilled” this particular prophecy in Isaiah 53:4. It was by His ministry of healing while living, not when He died, that He “took our infirmities and bare our sicknesses.” There is no mention by Matthew of our Lord’s death or atonement in this connection. On the contrary, Matthew tells how He healed sickness, and then declares that by this ministry He fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah 53:4a. And since Matthew wrote by divine inspiration, this is God’s interpretation, not man’s. Alva J. McLain Grace Journal
B. Power over nature. Matthew 8:18-27
1. Conditions of discipleship. Matthew 8:18-22
a. Perseverance. Matthew 8:18-20
1). The simple command. “…depart to the other side.”
2). The scribes commitment. “…I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.”
3). The serious consideration. “…hath not where to lay his head.”
a). Jesus had not come to prosper materially.
b). The servant is not above his Master.
c). The heart must be set on relationship, not ownership. Matthew 6:31-34
b. Priorities. Matthew 8:21,22
1). Submit to cultural practices.
a). Honour father by mourning his passing and seeing to his burial.
b). Jewish custom was to rebury the bones on the first anniversary of the death.
c). The son’s choice, whether his father had already died or not, was to determine his priority in life –
2). Submit to the call of God. Refer to Luke 9:59,60
These anxious followers would soon have their faith tested!
2. Confronting their lack of faith. Matthew 8:23-26a
Note of interest: The boat very well could be the same as the boat discovered in the Sea of Galilee in the mid 1980s. The size of the boat is 8 meters by 2.3 meters by 1.4 meters (26.5’x7.5’x4.5’). The boat could safely hold 15 men. Mark 4:36 “little ships”
a. Wrestling with the storm. Matthew 8:23,24a Refer to Mark 4:37; Luke 8:23,24
1). Remember that at least four of these men worked on this sea as fisherman.
2). The others probably put their confidence in the skill of the fishermen instead of depending on the Carpenter.
3). They must have become completely frustrated as they worked and Jesus slept! Note that they finally cried out to Him – “Carest not…”
b. Resting in the storm. Matthew 8:24b Refer also to Mark 4:37,38
c. Reproving their fear. Matthew 8:25,26a
1). The disciples had learned enough to have some faith.
2). The disciples had shown more faith in their own ability than in the Lord and they had let themselves down.
a). Why did they wait so long to come to Jesus?
b). Why did they let things go so far that they go frustrated and anxious about their lives?
c). When they came, He acted – it was very simple!
3. Command of the elements. Matthew 8:26b,27
a. His person. Colossians 1:15-17
b. His power. Refer to Psalms 33:6-9 and 107:23-32
“What manner of man is this?” He, Jesus of Nazareth, is God the Son, King of Kings, the all powerful One. He has power of nature.
C. Power over Satan. Matthew 8:28-34
1. The encounter. Matthew 8:28
a. The men that confronted Jesus.
b. The multitude of devils.
2. The inquiry. Matthew 8:29
a. They recognized the Lord. “…what have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God?”
b. They realized their condemnation. “…come hither to torment us before the time?”
3. The illustration of evil. Matthew 8:30-32
The disciples were with Jesus and witnessed His power as well as the destruction wrought by the devils.
a. Their desire – to indwell.
1). Men
2). Animals
b. Their delight.
1). To torment.
2). To destroy.
a). They destroyed families – look at the condition of these two men. They made the townspeople fear to travel through this area. They may have brought their familles shame in the community.
b). They destroyed property.
4. The instruction. Matthew 8:33,34
a. The change the Lord makes in men’s lives. Refer to Mark 5:15-20
1). Satan overpowered him.
2). Men tried to bind him.
3). Jesus set him free.
b. The concession the Lord gives to men’s desires.
The Lord allows the operation of man’s free will. No man will be forced into the Kingdom! The Lord revealed His power over Satan as well as His ministry to man.
D. Power over sin. Matthew 9:1-8
1. The Lord saw men of faith.
a. Their faith led them to bring their friend to Jesus.
b. Their faith encouraged them to find a way to overcome the obstacles in getting to Jesus.
c. Their faith succeeded.
2. The Lord dealt with the man’s basic problem, sin. Matthew 9:b
a. Sin results in everlasting affliction. 2 Thessalonians 1:8,9
b. Sin was the man’s most dangerous problem.
1). The man was aware of his sin.
a). The man must have been conscious of his sin, even anxious over it, for the Lord told him to be of good cheer.
1). He may have believed that his condition was a result of his sin.
2). He would have been thinking as others thought in that day. Refer to –
John 9:1-2 And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?
(a). Many Jews believed that they would be liberated from sin through suffering.
(b). Suffering brought freedom to slaves. Exodus 21:26,27 By this example, men should be made free of sin.
Exodus 21:26-27 And if a man smite the eye of his servant, or the eye of his maid, that it perish; he shall let him go free for his eye’s sake. And if he smite out his manservant’s tooth, or his maidservant’s tooth; he shall let him go free for his tooth’s sake.
Suffering does not set a man free. Freedom comes through the Lord Jesus Christ, man’s blood bought redemption through his death on Calvary. John 8:36 “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.”
b). The Lord forgave him of his sin.
1). The physical affliction would end at death.
2). The sin problem, which results in eternal separation from God, was dealt with. Refer to Romans 5:8-12
Not of works which the man did. Not of works that his friends did – but by the grace of God was he forgiven. No man is justified by works. Galations 2:16; Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:5
2). The man, forgiven of sin, was then freed of his sickness. Matthew 9:6,7
3). The man, being made whole, proved the power of God.
c. The Lord revealed His identity through His power. Matthew 9:3-8
1). He was accused of blasphemy for the claim that He could forgive sin. Only God can forgive. Matthew 9:3
2). He challenged His accusers by asking which is easier – to say or to do?
Matthew 9:4
a). He could say “thy sins be forgiven thee”. Who would know? How could this be proved?
b). He could say “arise, take up thine bed and walk.” This would be an immediate proof of His power.
3). Jesus healed the man’s body to prove His deity – He is God the Son and He has power over sin! Matthew 9:5-8
E. Power over tradition. Matthew 9:9-17
1. Fellowship. Matthew 9:9-13
a. The call to service. Matthew 9:9
1). A repentant publican. (tax collector)
2). A ready servant.
a). He followed the Lord.
b). He was a friend to the lost. We see Matthew’s care as we look at –
b. The call to salvation. Matthew 9:10-13
1). The servant’s care. Matthew 9:10 Refer to Luke 5:29
a). Matthew opened his home.
b). Matthew offered his provisions.
2). The self righteous charge. Matthew 9:11
The Pharisees would neither invite a publican to join them nor would they eat with sinners. Jesus demonstrated power over this self righteous discrimination, reminding all of the purpose of God.
3). The Saviour’s challenge. Matthew 9:12,13a “…go and learn….”
4). The sinner’s change. Matthew 9:13b “repentance” a change of heart – turn to God.
Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
See also Titus 3:3-7
Note that Jesus did not become like them in order to win them. They came to where He was as they were. He gave them the opportunity to come to Him as they were. He would be the one to change them upon their repentance and faith.
2. Fasting. Matthew 9:14-17
a. The question. A threefold look.
We should be interested in the fasting of these men as well as the reason the Jesus’ disciples refrained from it.
1). Why did John’s disciples fast? Matthew 9:14
a). We know they were sincere in their belief.
b). We know the Scriptures present many examples of fasting.
2 Samuel 12:16; Ezra 8:21-23; Esther 4:16; Daniel 9:3
c). Reasons they may have fasted.
(1). Seeking the establishment of the Kingdom.
(2). Securing the release of John from prison.
2). Why did the Pharisees fast? Matthew 9:14
a). They exploited religious practices for personal gain.
Their habit was to fast twice per week. Refer to Luke 18:12
b). They were confronted by Jesus for their hypocrisy. Matthew 6:16-18; Luke 11:44
3). Why did Jesus’ disciples refrain from fasting? Matthew 9:15-17
a). They had no reason to fast (mourn) while with the Lord. Matthew 9:15
b). They were given an illustration the reasoning. Matthew 9:16-17
(1). No sense to patch the old with the new. Matthew 9:16
(2). No sense to fill the old with the new. Matthew 9:17
(3). Therefore – no sense to fast while with the Lord.
The Lord taught that the man who fasts should have a pure motive, but He did not give instruction on the practice of fasting. He equated fasting with mourning. When a believer is in a legitimate state of mourning, fasting is appropriate. Note that the believers in Antioch fasted as they sought God’s will. (Acts 13:2,3) Compare that with the fact that the believers in Jerusalem are not noted as fasting as they prayed for the release of Peter from Herod’s prison. (Acts 12:5,12) Refer also to Isaiah 58:3-5
II. Providing relief. Matthew 9:18-38 The Lord showed His care for their –
A. Physical needs Matthew 9:18-35
1. He cared for the Ruler’s family. Matthew 9:18,19; 23-26
a. The plea of the father. Refer to Mark 5:22-24; 35-43
1). Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, needed help from Jesus.
a). Jairus’ daughter was dying.
(1). Matthew stated that Jairus said that she was dead.
(2). Mark stated that he received the news of her death as they returned to his house.
(3). She may have been at the point of dying when he departed and he was sure she was dead by the time he spoke with Jesus. (Worst case scenario)
(4). The mourners and minstrels were already at this home upon their arrival. They must have been summoned beforehand, preparing for her impending death.
b). Jesus was her only hope.
2). Jairus besought (beseech, call unto…) Jesus to heal the daughter.
b. The promise of Jesus.
1). Jesus’ action revealed His intention.
2). Jairus’ request was going to be honored.
c. The power over life. Matthew 9:24-26
1). He told them she would awake soon.
a). Jesus used the same terminology in John 11:11-14
b). Man saw her as dead but God saw her as sleeping. Refer to John 5:21-25
2). He chose five reliable witnesses.
a). They knew the daughter was dead and could testify to this fact.
b). They saw the power of God and could testify that Jesus restored her life. – “I am the resurrection and the life”
2. He cared for the woman’s physical condition. Matthew 9:20-22.
Matthew gives a simple account of her condition and the cure given by the Lord. Refer to Mark 5 for a detailed account.
a. The woman’s condition. Mark 5:25,26
1). What help did she have?
a). Her natural resistance to disease could not overcome the hemorrhaging. b). Her physicians could not help her.
c). Her condition separated her from the people around her and from worship in the Temple. (compassion and sympathy) Refer to Leviticus 15:19
2). What hope did she have?
a). She was not healed on her own.
b). When she turned to the physicians, they could not help.
(1). She suffered with her disease and with their cures.
(2). She used all her money to find a cure, but none was to be found.
(3). She continually grew worse. All they could do was to treat the symptoms, but the cause continued and the symptoms grew worse.
This is a portrait of sin. People try to treat the symptoms but they cannot treat the cause. Only God has the cure. Life is full of broken resolutions, promises to change, despair and discouragement.
b. The Lord’s care. Mark 5:27-29
1). He had an open testimony –
a). Others had come to Him for help.
b). He was on His way to help a family even at this time.
c). He was approachable. Matthew 11:28-30; Hebrews 4:14-16
2). He encouraged others in faith. vs. Mark 5:28
3). He blessed beyond measure. vs. Mark 5:29
a). His power is astounding and is simple, operating at His will.
b). She did not just receive relief from her discomfort, she was healed!
c. The Lord’s question. Mark 5:30-34 He stopped to inquire. (What does Jairus think at this time?)
1). Jesus knew the woman had come to Him in faith and now would she confess what she had done? A public profession is very important! Do not be ashamed. Romans 10:12,13
2). Jesus was one of the two that knew what touch He was speaking about.
a). There was no doubt that He was being touched the whole way.
b). Here He was touched in faith. A sad fact that so many come in contact, but without faith. Mere people among the crowd, onlookers. Hebrews 4:2
3). Jesus met the woman face to face. Mark 5:32,33
a). Her fear is awesome. Joy of healing and fear of rebuke. What mixed feeling she must have had.
(1). Jesus was on His way to visit a dying girl.
(2). The woman’s touch would make Him unclean until evening.
(3). She may have been trying to be careful to just touch the hem of His garment and not defile Him. Possibly no one would notice.
(4). She did not realize that God wants us to come to Him as we are, in faith, and He will make us whole. Ephesians 2:8,9
b). Her faith encouraged her to go to the Lord for help.
4). Jesus blessed the woman for her public testimony. Mark 5:34
The lessons learned –
1. God desires that we speak and give a testimony for Him. The wonderful work of faith. What a miracle!
2. What about the girl, Jairus’ daughter? Read Mark 5:35-43. She was made alive. Do not fear, it is God’s timing that matters, not man’s.
3. He cared for the blind men. Matthew 9:27-31
a. Their trust.
1). They followed Him.
2). They cried unto Him.
a). The testimony of the Scriptures. Isaiah 35:5
b). The testimony of their faith. “…thou Son of David…”
b. Their trial.
1). To believe that He is the Lord.
2). To believe that He would heal them.
3). To believe, even though circumstances were not what they may have expected –
a). He did not stop for them.
b). They were not immediately healed.
c. Their triumph. They acted upon what they believed and were rewarded for that belief.
4. He cared for the possessed. Matthew 9:32-34
a. The approach. Matthew 9:32
1). The people. – family, friends (?)
Many things in life are not about us as individuals. Mention of these people is only incidental to reveal the man’s condition and to instruct in the compassion of those around him.
2). The problem. Possessed by a demon.
a). Sinister – not able to express himself completely.
b). Frustrating – under the control of another.
3). The protection – salvation. In the era of grace, the believer is sealed by God unto Himself. 2 Corinthians 1:22; Ephesians 1:13; 4:30
b. The amazement. Matthew 9:33
1). The supernatural work of God in Israel was well known.
2). The supernatural work of God here was unique.
3). The supernatural work of God here was significant – The King had come!
c. The accusation. Matthew 9:34
1). Their hatred revealed.
a). They were envious.
(1). The indictment – “…it was never so seen in Israel”
(2). The indignation – all of their pious acts had been wasted on those ungrateful people!
b). They were exposed. Their hypocrisy had been revealed to the people
2). Their outrageous reply – they reacted as children would
3). Their blasphemy’s results. Refer to Matthew 12:31,32
The unpardonable sin
B. Spiritual needs. Matthew 9:36-38
1. His practice – (practiced what He preached) Matthew 9:36
2. His pity – He had compassion on the multitudes. Matthew 9:37
3. His proposal. Matthew 9:38
a. Presented the problem.
b. Prayer for service. Refer to Acts 13:1-4
III. Preparing His disciples. Matthew 10:1-11:1 (Result of 9:36-38)
A. The people. Matthew 10:2-4; 11:1
1. They were the disciples of the Lord. Refer to Acts 1:21-23 The Twelve were not the only followers
a. They were faithful in following.
b. They were called out from those that followed.
2. They were Apostles. (sent ones) See attachment See also Acts 1:13 for list.
b. The Power given to them. Matthew 10:1; 7,8
1. The message of God – The Kingdom was at hand.
2. The miracles of God.
a. The confirmation of the message.
b. The reminder of the works which followed the message, ie. Moses.
C. The place to preach. Matthew 10:5,6
1. These verses help us to understand God’s work and His word.
2. The Kingdom was promised to Israel.
3. The Kingdom promise was not to be preached to the Gentiles. (The Church and the Kingdom are different!)
D. The provision needed. Matthew 10:9-15
1. They were to accept with grace and thankfulness the hospitality offered. Luke 10:7,8
2. Note the results of their trust in His Word. Luke 22:35
E. The perils before them. Matthew 10:16-39
1. They were sent through dangerous territory. Matthew 10:16
a. God’s people are often compared to sheep.
b. God, the Good Shepherd, is the protector of His sheep – stay close.
2. They were sent to a people that would oppose them. Matthew 10:17-23
They were to live to preach, death would come soon enough!
3. They were to be realistic in their outlook. Matthew 10:24,25
4. They were to be steadfast in their ministry. Matthew 10:26-33
5. They were to understand their relationship with God. Matthew 10:34-39
a. Conflict with the world. Matthew 10:34
b. Contention in the family. Matthew 10:35,36
c. Crucified with Christ. Matthew 10:37-39; Refer to Romans 6:11,12; Galations 2:20
F. Their position. Matthew 10:40-42 2 Corinthians 5:18-21
Refer also to Acts 9:1-4
G. The plan. Daniel’s prophecy.(Daniel 12:12,13) Matthew 10:1,9-10,22-23.
H. The partnership. Matthew 11:1 The Lord did not send others to do what He was not doing
Notice what the disciples learned through this ministry of Jesus.
1. They learned of His power.
2. The learned of His pattern of life – compassion.
3. They learned to put into practice what they had seen and heard from the Lord.
Part Two
Opposition to the King
Matthew 11:2-16:12
Chapter One
Commencement of the Rejection
Matthew 11:2-30
I. Jesus confirmed John’s testimony. Matthew 11:2-6
A. The request. Matthew 11:2,3
The following information will aid in understanding the request of John –
1. His ministry.
a. His purpose – to prepare the way for the King.
1). He preached repentance and obedience to God
2). He prophesied of the coming King.
3). He provided and example in his own life. John 5:35 (a lamp – no light of its own)
Refer to John 1:6-9 luxnos : lamp fws: light
4). He pointed men to the King. John 1:29
b. His person – like Elijah
1). Physically resembled the prophet. 1 Kings 17:1; Matthew 3:4
2). Typically represented the prophet.
Malachi 4:5-6 Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD: And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse.
Luke 1:17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.
Matthew 17:12-13 But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John the Baptist.
2. His character.
a. He served faithfully. John 1:19-28
b. He submitted willingly. John 3:25-30
c. He stood firmly. Mark 6:17-29
3. His situation.
a. Incarcerated.
1). He could communicate with his disciples.
2). He heard accounts of Jesus’ ministry.
b. Inquisitive. How did Jesus’ ministry up to this time answer to John’s prophecies?
1). The mighty Judge. Matthew 3:11,12
2). The sacrificial Lamb. John 1:29
3). The ministry of Jesus had not developed into either one of these scenarios.
Note an important difference in the ministries of John the Baptist and Jesus of Nazareth. While the messages and methods may have seemed similar, there was a difference. Refer to John 10:41 Why was this important? –
1. It was important that there be a distinctive difference between the Herald and the King.
2. Some thought that John could have been the Promised One.
a. John was questioned – John 1:21, 25
b. Jesus had been identified as John and as Elijah. Why? It was not a physical likeness. It was –
1). The message – the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.
2). The power. The hand of God was upon them. Refer to John 7:32-52
(Note that Jonah was from this area and Elijah was probably from there)
c. The identification of the Messiah would have been difficult if John had performed miracles. The miracles were for a sign and we see the importance of this as we go to the next section –
B. The report. Matthew 11:4-6 Jesus told them to –
1. Testify – first hand information. 11:4
a. Established by two witnesses.
Deuteronomy 19:15 One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established.
b. Expected – according to prophecy.
Refer to Isaiah 35:4-6; Luke 4:18
2. Trust.
a. Believe. 11:5
1). The words.
2). The works.
b. Blessed. 11:6 Refer to 1 Peter 2:7,8
The unbelieving are offended in Christ.
Are you offended? It is because you do not believe!
II. Jesus commended John the Baptist. Matthew 11:7-15
A. Their expectation. 11:7-9
1. Steadfast. Same message for all. 11:7
2. Single-minded. Rebuked sin. 11:8
3. Sent by God. A prophet. 11:9
B. His identification. Matthew 11:10-15
1. The prophecy. “…it is written… 11:10
2. The position. 11:11
a. Prepared the way of the King. He was a great man.
b. Prevented from entering the kingdom, therefore was less than the least.
3. The point of change. 11:12,13
a. The power. Changed lives, repentance. 11:12
b. The preparation. 11:13 The prophets and the law focused on that “voice of one crying in the wilderness”
4. The proclamation. 11:14 “This is Elias…” Plain speaking.
5. The proof. 11:15 Truth
III. Jesus castigated the self-righteous. Matthew 11:16-19
A. The illustration. 11:16,17 (Childhood games)
B. The accusations. 11:18,19a (Revealed childish self-will, contradictory actions)
1. Against John 11:18
2. Against Jesus. 11:19a
C. The justification. 11:19b
“…wisdom is justified of her children.”
1. Fear – “…wisdom…”
Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
2. Faith. “…her children…”
3. Fruit – “…justified…”
The accusations of these men revealed their spiritual condition. They had no fear of God.
Proverbs 1:7 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
IV. Jesus condemned unbelieving cities. Matthew 11:20-24
A. The woes against Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum. 11:20,23
1. Their opportunity. Received the Word of God with power.
2. Their opposition. Refused to repent and turn to God.
B. The witness of the ungodly cities – Type, Sidon, and Sodom. 11:21,23
They would have recognized the power of God and would have repented and turned to God.
C. The wicked are justly punished. 11:22,24
Note on judgment – severity of judgment is not necessarily physical, but is compounded by mental anguish. Those that had opportunity and neglected it will regret their decision for all time.
V. Jesus’ conversation with the Father. Matthew 11:25-27
A. His appreciation 11:25,26 Of the Father’s –
1. Revelation.
a. Withheld. 11:25a (They would abuse it; use it for their own gain) Matthew 13:14
b. Revealed. 11:25b (They were ready and willing to know and do God’s will)
Matthew 5:6
1 Peter 2:1-2 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:
Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
2. Righteousness. 11:26 God’s will is right- always!
C. His authority. 11:27
1. Absolute. 11:27a John 13:3; Matthew 28:18
2. Exclusive. 11:27b John 1:18; 14:9-11
3. Available. 11:27c To whosoever
The question then arises – to whom will He be revealed? –
VI. Jesus’ call to the weary. Matthew 11:28-30
A. The invitation. 11:28 “…all ye…”
B. The fellowship. 11:29,30
Chapter Two
. Controversies with the authorities
Matthew 12:1-50
I. Sabbath Day controversies Matthew 12:1-13
A. Harvesting on the Sabbath. 12:1-8
1. The apparent transgression. 12:1
a. The disciples actions were obedient to the Law. Deuteronomy 23:25
b. The disciples actions were challenged –
2. The accusation of the Pharisees. 12:2
a. The act of the disciples was legal.
b. The time of the act made it illegal. “…upon the sabbath day.”
3. The answer of the Lord. 12:3-8 The disciples were not constrained by the law. The case was illustrated by the –
a. Service of the king – David 12:3,4 Refer to 1 Samuel 21:1-6
b. Service of the Temple – priests 12:5
c. Service of the Lord – disciples 12:6-8
1). Their call.
a). The priests. Refer to Exodus 28:1; Hebrews 5:4
b). The disciples. Matthew 4:19
2). Their service.
a). They were free to serve (They served on the Sabbath as well as every other day)
b). They were provided for through their service. Matthew 10:9,10
3). Their authority. 12:8
B. Healing on the Sabbath. 12:9-13
1. The hypocrisy of the Pharisees. 12:10
a. They presented a man in need of help.
b. They pretended to care about his need.
c. They prepared to accuse Jesus of wrongdoing.
2. The healing of the man. 12:11-13
a. The question. 12:11
b. The justification. 12:12
c. The action. 12:13
II. Strife was avoided. Matthew 12:14-21
A. The danger. 12:14 Religious and political alliance formed. Mark 3:6
B. The departure. 12:15
Was –
1. In accordance with His command to the disciples. Matthew 10:23
2. To the area of Capernaum, the Sea of Galilee Matthew 13:1; Mark 3:9,20
3. Noted by the multitudes. Mark 3:7,8
C. The declaration. 12:16 To refrain from acclaiming Him. Why? –
To conform to the Word of God, “…that it might be fulfilled”. Refer to Isaiah 42:1,2
D. The description of His character. 12:17-21 See Philippians 2:6,7
(Contrary to the common expectation of a conquering king.)
1. He is appointed. 12:18 “Servant”.
2. He is anointed. 12:18 “…put my spirit upon him…”
3. He is victorious. 12:19,20
4. He is Lord. 12:21 “…in his name…”
Salvation is in the Person of Jesus Christ our Lord, not in a program.
III. Substantiation of His identity. Matthew 12:22-37
Note: A change in time occurred at this point. Refer to Mark 3:19-21 for the context.
A. Jesus’ integrity questioned. 12:22-24
1. The power of God manifested. 12:22
2. The people’s cautious response. 12:23 It was –
a. Not a direct acknowledgment of His identity.
The people were aware of the Pharisee’s anger. Refer to 12:14
b. An indication of their belief.
3. The protest of the Pharisees. 12:24
a. They could not question His power.
b. They determined to question His integrity.
B. Jesus refuted their allegation. 12:25-30
1. He argued against their logic. 12:25,26
2. He argued against their actions. 12:27
3. He concluded by presenting them with the truth. 12:28-30
a. The Kingdom of Heaven was at hand.
b. The power over Satan was evident.
c. The devils feared and fled at His Word.
Jesus of Nazareth is God the Son. John 14:30; 1 John 1:5; 3:5
C. Jesus reproved their speech. 12:31-37
1. The power of words. 12:31
2. The permanence of words. 12:32 No hope – ever!
a. Blasphemous words against Jesus could be forgiven.
1). He was in the form of a man.
2). Supernatural works, miracles, had been performed by men before.
3). It would be possible that in this short ministry, people could mistake Him for a normal man instead of the God-man.
b. Blasphemous words against the Holy Spirit would never be forgiven.
Notice Paul’s admission of his foolish words he spoke before he was saved. 1 Timothy 1:12-14 He spoke in ignorance but these men are speaking with knowledge of the truth. Refer to Mark 3:28-30
3. The proof of words. 12:33-37
a. Hypocrisy condemned. 12:33-35
b. Hypocrisy revealed. 12:36,37
IV. Stern warning from the Lord. Matthew 12:38-45
A. Proof requested. 12:38
1. The sanctimonious inquirers. “…Master, we would see…”
They were hypocrites, tempting the Lord. Luke 11:16 And others, tempting him, sought of him a sign from heaven.
2. The sign requested.
a. Not to validate the reality of the miracles.
b. Necessary to validate the source of the miracles.
B. Truth rejected. 12:39-42
1. They received a sign. 12:39,40
2. They refused to repent. 12:41
The men of Ninevah repented at the message of the Lord. Jonah 3:5
3. They refused to believe. 12:42
The Queen of the South believed when she heard the truth. 1 Kings 10:1-7
C. Judgment reserved. 12:43-45
1. The repentant will testify against them. 12:41
2. The believing will testify against them. 12:42
3. The wicked state of their being will testify against them. 12:43-45 (Partnership with the unclean)
V. Sought by family. Matthew 12:46-50
A. The desire of the family. 12:46,47
1. They were skeptical of His claims. John 7:2-7
2. They were scared by His actions. Mark 3:20,21 “…he is beside himself.”
3. They were seeking His retirement.
He was not going to stop doing “…the will of my Father…”
B. The definition of family. 12:48-50.
1. A new relationship. Refer to John 3:3; Romans 8:14-16
2. A spiritual fellowship. 12:50 “…shall do the will of my Father…
C. The family
1. Identified in the Gospels.
Luke 2:7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
Matthew 13:55 Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas?
Mark 6:3 Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.
John 2:12 After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days.
John 7:3 His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest.
John 7:5 For neither did his brethren believe in him.
2. Identified in the church at Jerusalem.
Acts 1:14 These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.
Galatians 1:19 But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord’s brother.
Refer to –
Acts 15:13 And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me:
Galatians 2:9 And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.
Jude 1:1 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:
Chapter Three
Consequences of Rejection.
Matthew 13:1-52
Note: The message “the kingdom of heaven is at hand” is not presented again.
I. Overview. Jesus began using a new –
A. Method of teaching – parables.
“Parables serve the double purpose of revealing and concealing; presenting “the mysteries of the kingdom” to those who know and relish them, though in never so small a degree, in a new and attractive light; but to those who are insensible to spiritual things yielding only, as so many tales, some temporary entertainment.” Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew
B. Content in teaching – “mysteries of the kingdom of heaven” 13:11
The mysteries of the kingdom. The word mystery, in the Bible, properly means a thing that is concealed, or that has been concealed. It does not mean that the thing was incomprehensible, or even difficult to be understood. The thing might be plain enough if revealed, but it means simply that it had not been made known. Thus the mysteries of the kingdom do not mean any doctrines incomprehensible in themselves considered, but simply doctrines about the preaching of the gospel, and the establishment of the new kingdom of the Messiah which had not been understood, and which were as yet concealed from the great body of the Jews. Albert Barnes Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew
C. Results of teaching.
1. The self-righteous – cannot understand. 13:11-15
2. Those seeking righteousness – can understand. 13:51
II. Outline.
A. Introduction. 13:1,2
1. The Time. “The same day”
A continuation of the ministry recorded in chapter 12.
2. The setting.
Removed from the house to the seaside. Most likely in Capernaum.
a. Matthew 4:13
b. Matthew 9:1
B. Instruction. 13:3-53
1. Message to the multitudes. 13:3-35
a. Parable 1 13:3-23 Introductory parable.
1). It is not related specifically to the kingdom as noted by those that follow.
2). It is not a mystery to the hearers. The response to preaching is not unique to any age.
3). It is an illustration of the response of the multitudes.
b. Parable 2 13:24-30 “the kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man…”
c. Parable 3 13:31,32 “the kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed..”
d. Parable 4 13:33 “the kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven…”
e. Summary 13:34,35
2. Message to the disciples. 13:36-52
a. Explanation 13:36-43
b. Parable 5 13:44 “the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure…”
c. Parable 6 13:45,46 “the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant…”
d. Parable 7 13:47-50 “the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net…”
e. Parable 8 13:51,52 Concluding parable
III. Exposition.
Introductory notes.
The key to interpretation is noted in –
Matthew 13:51 “Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord.”
The disciples understood the parables.
1. Two parables had been explained by the Lord – The sower and the seed and the wheat and the tares.
2. One parable was partially explained by the Lord – The net.
3. Five parables needed no explanation. The meaning must have been easily discerned.
4. The parables were not about the church. The disciples understood the parables, yet they had no knowledge of the church.
Therefore, the simple and evident meaning of the parables must be accepted.
A. Message to the multitudes. 13:3-35
1. The parable of the sower. 13:3-23
a. The parable spoken. 13:3-9
b. The method questioned by the disciples. 13:10-17
c. The parable explained. 13:18-23
2. The parable of the wheat and the tares. 13:24-30
The parable spoken to all, the multitudes and the disciples.
3. The parable of the mustard seed. 13:31,32
The mustard seed, small and seemingly insignificant to many, when sown will grow into a large herb plant/tree suitable for protection (shade) and lodging (nesting for birds).
4. The parable of the leaven. 13:33
The leaven, though small, will permeate the entire host.
5. The summary of the parables to the multitudes. 13:34,35
B. Message to the disciples. 13:36-52
1. The parable of the wheat and tares explained. 13:36-43
The parable explained to the disciples only.
2. The parable of the hidden treasure. 13:44
The Treasure is worth all that one has.
3. The parable of the precious pearl. 13:45,46
The pearl merchant is giving all that he has for that one priceless thing – a pearl.
Note that the treasure and the pearl are complimentary parables. The one focusing on the thing of value “…the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure…” and the pearl “the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man…” focusing on the one that is looking for the one thing of great value.
4. The parable of the fishing net. 13:47-50
a. The parable spoken. 13:47,48
b. The parable explained. 13:49,50
5. The parable of the householder. 13:51,52
The scribe (instructed disciples) will declare that which they know from the old and from the new (mysteries revealed) –
Matthew 10:27 What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops.
Conclusion: An overview of the teaching through these parables – through the end of the Millennial reign of Jesus Christ.
Many will hear the Word of God. They will respond in various ways. Some will reject; some will emotionally and intellectually accede to the truth. Others will wholeheartedly believe and live for the Lord.
The believers and the unbelievers will dwell together.
The Kingdom had a small beginning but will grow –
The Kingdom will eventually fill the earth.
The Kingdom is worth all that a man has. (The rich young ruler, Matthew 19:16-22)
The Kingdom is a delight to all that find it. (Note those that gave up all to follow the Lord)
The Kingdom will come to a time of judgment. The unbelievers will be gathered out and cast away to everlasting punishment. The believers will glory eternally in the Lord.
These facts being known and understood, the believers are to give out that which they have freely.
Chapter Four
Culmination of rejection.
Matthew 13:53 – 16:12
I. Rejected by family and friends. 13:53-58
A. Return of Jesus to Nazareth. 13:53.54a
B. Results of unbelief. 13:54b-58
1. They were confused. 13:54b-56
a. They had not know this Jesus, revealing to them His wisdom and power.
b. The had only known Jesus, their neighbor in Nazareth.
1). The son of Joseph and Mary.
2). The carpenter, the son of a carpenter.
3). The brother, one among brothers and sisters.
2. They were condemned. 13:57,58
a. They denied worship to the One who is worthy.
b. They denied themselves the blessings of God.
II. Retired to seek rest. 14:1-21 Refer to Mark 6:31
A. Murder of John the Baptist by Herod 14:1-12
1. His interest in Jesus.
a. He heard about His ministry. 14:1; Mark 6:14-16
b. He desired to meet Him. Luke 9:7-9
Future encounters with Herod –
1). Herod threatened His life. Luke 13:31,32
2). Herod interrogated Him. Luke 23:7-11
2. His imprisonment of John. Matthew 14:3-5
3. His foolish promise. Matthew 14:6-11
He was manipulated by his wife. Refer to 14:8 Refer to Mark 6:18-20
4. His weak character. He was led by his emotions.
a. Desire – he took his brother’s wife.
b. Anger – he imprisoned John.
c. Fear – he was afraid of his wife and retaliation from people.
d. Excitement – made a foolish promise.
e. Pride – had John executed.
f. Superstition – believed John had returned to life in the person of Jesus
Herod Antipas’ life was chaotic. He could have had a good and benevolent rule, but he did not. He was eventually removed from power by the Roman government and lived out his life in exile.
B. Ministry to multitudes. 14:13-21
1. The ministry.
a. He was weary in the work.
1). Weary emotionally because of the death of John the Baptist.
2). Weary physically because of the magnitude of the work. followed
b. He was not weary of the work.
1). He taught the people. Mark 6:34
2). He healed the people. Luke 9:11
2. The Master.
a. Jesus gave Philip a problem to solve. John 6:5,6
1). The Lord may have mentioned this to Philip early in the day.
2). As Jesus taught and ministered, the disciples tried to come up with a solution.
b. Philip and the disciple’s solution was based on sight and not on faith.
1). They did not have enough in their treasury to supply the need. John 6:7; Mark 6:37
2). Since they personally had no food to offer, they probably had planned on going into the town and buy food for themselves.
3). They wanted to send the people away to do as they had planned.
4). Andrew suggested the only other alternative – to divide up a boy’s lunch, 2 fish and 5 loaves. John 6:8,9
3. The miracle.
The principle. 2 Corinthians 8:12 “For if there first be a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.”
a. The food was supplied.
b. The people were seated.
c. The disciples were serving.
d. The multitudes were satisfied.
Simple obedience and faith led to satisfaction and abundance. With God’s blessing, there is more than enough. 14:12,13
III. Reunited with the disciples. 14:22-33 Miraculous meeting on the sea.
A. Kept from being caught up.
1. The people wanted to establish Jesus as their king.
a. Galilee was a state with strong national inclinations.
b. The people saw Jesus as the One who would overthrow Rome.
2. The disciples were also from Galilee and would be put into a difficult position if they had remained at the scene.
a. They also did not know what to expect about the Kingdom, even later they still had questions. Acts 1
b. They were moved away from a dangerous situation.
3. Jesus relieved the situation.
a. He sent the disciples away.
b. He sent the crowd away.
c. He went up into the mountain to pray by Himself.
Jesus will set up His kingdom according to His timing and conditions, not man’s.
B. Keeping watch upon His children. 14:23,24
1. He watched in prayer. We do not know what His prayer was at this time, but can see His heart in prayer through the record noted in John 17:6-26
2. He watched by His presence. Mark 6:48; Psalm 34:15; Matthew 28:20
a. The disciples were laboring in difficult circumstances.
1). They had only gone about 4 km in 9 hours of rowing.
2). Being put in a place of busy work kept them out of trouble.
a). If they had stayed, they could have had problems with the crowd.
b). They were building strength and character by being obedient to the Lord. So much work and so little progress, yet they did not quit, even though the Lord was not with them.
b. The Lord was watching them work out in that dark and stormy sea.
C. Coming to the disciples in the storm. 14:25-33
1. The encouragement of His presence. 14:25-27
a. The disciples were fearful. They had never seen such a thing as this.
b. The disciples were encouraged by the Lord. “It is I”
Many of our fears would be removed if we would just know that it is the Lord working in our lives.
2. The challenge of His power. 14:28-31
a. Was Peter sure of his request? 14:28 Uncertainty tends to fail!
b. Peter was distracted by circumstances. 14:30
c. Peter made the right decision – to look to Jesus. 14:31
3. The Lord received the glory. 14:32,33
IV. Relieved the sick in Gennesaret. 14:34-36
A. The entrance into the land. 14:34 Renowned for produce. A good place to rejuvenate after ministry.
B. The excitement of the people. 14:35
1. The presence of the Lord excited them.
2. The possibility of family and friends being healed excited them
a. revealed a zeal for the good of the people.
b. Revealed a willingness to give of self to bring those in need to the Lord.
C. The expectation realized. 14:36
V. Rebuked the religious leaders. 15:1-20
A. He denounced their traditions. 15:1-9
1. The Pharisees attempted to discredit the Lord. 15:1,2
a. The Pharisees reproved Jesus for the nontraditional habits of the disciples.
b. The Pharisees aim was to disgrace the Lord in the sight of the people.
2. The Pharisee’s hypocrisy was revealed. 15:3-9
a. The disciples had broken with traditions.
b. The Pharisees had broken the Law.
1). They were required by God to care for their parents.
2). They used that which would benefit their parents to benefit themselves.
a). By reserving goods for redemption once the parents had no need or were dead.
Such also as dedicate themselves to God, as a corban, which denotes what the Greeks call a gift, when they are desirous of being freed from that ministration, are to lay down money for the priests; thirty shekels if it be a woman, and fifty if it be a man; but if any be too poor to pay the appointed sum, it shall be lawful for the priests to determine that sum as they think fit.
Josephus Antiquities
b). By giving the goods for self-exaltation. Refer to Matthew 6:2, Mark 12:41-44
B. He defended His position. 15:10-14
1. The statement to the people. 15:10,11
2. The instruction to the disciples. 15:12-14
C. He declared the meaning of the parable. 15:15-20
1. The lack of understanding. 15:15,16
2. The lesson explained. 15:17-20
VI. Rewarded a Gentile woman’s faith. 15:21-28 Refer to Mark 7:24-30
A. Request of the woman. 15:21,22
1. She approached the Lord. “…have mercy on me…”
She approached Him on the basis of His mercy and not her merit!
2. She acknowledged his person. “…O Lord, thou Son of David…”
3. She asked for His help.
B. Reply of the Lord. 15:23,24
1. She received no immediate response.
2. She turned to the disciples for help. She asked them to intercede on her behalf.
3. She was outside the scope of the ministry.
C. Response of faith. 15:25-28
1. Humble in spirit. 15:25
2. Humble in being. 15:26,27
a. Her reasoning – “As a dog, I will not take that which is needful away from the children, but will only receive that which falls from their table”.
b. He request was not based upon any claim of the Gentiles for the blessings of the Messiah. She was simply seeking the mercy of God who is the God of all.
3. Honored by the Lord. 15:28
VII. Right response from the people, they glorified God. 15:29-39
(Note especially 15:31)
A. They gathered unto the Lord. 15:29,30
B. They glorified the Lord. 15:31
C. They gave of themselves – three days in the wilderness. 15:32
D. The gracious supply of the Lord. 15:33-39
VIII. Reproved the unlearned. 16:1-12
A. The Pharisees. 16:1-4
1. Pretext. 16:1
2. Practice. 16:2,3
3. Promise. 16:4
B. The disciples. 16:5-12
1. The lack of discernment. 16:5-8
a. The concern – meeting physical needs. 16:5
b. The context – teaching a spiritual lesson. 16:6
c. The confusion 16:7
They were preoccupied with worldly needs and did not understand the spiritual lesson.
2. The lack of faith. 16:8-10
a. Food had been provided.
b. Food would be provided.
3. The lesson learned. 16:11,12
The rejection of the Kingdom is settled with Jesus turning His attention to building His church.
Part Three
Final Rejection of the King
16:13 – 28:20
Chapter One
Preparation of the Disciples
Matthew 16:13 – 20:34
I. Orientation – a new direction. 16:13 – 17:13
A. He received the testimony – 16:13-17
1. Of men. 16:13,14
a. The query about their opinion. 16:13
b. The confusion of men noted. 16:14
1). The popular consensus – He is a man of God. (All of these men were highly esteemed)
2). The predicted confusion. Refer to Matthew 13:13-15
2. Of the disciples. 16:15-17
a. The query about their view. 16:15
b. The confession of Peter commended. 16:16,17
1). The singular reply. 16:16a
2). The Saviour exalted. 16:16b
3). The spiritual discernment. 16:17
a). The truth is revealed by God.
b). The truth is believed by faith. Refer to –
John 1:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. See also –
2 Corinthians 5:7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
(1). Walking by sight.
(a). The Pharisees, Scribes, and Saducees sought signs.
(b). People sought service and supply.
(2). Walking by faith. Peter believed God. 1 Peter 1:21-23 Refer also to –
Acts 16:14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.
Romans 10:13-14 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
B. He revealed the church. 16:18-20
1. He complimented Peter’s growth. 16:18a
John 1:42 And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.
a. You shall be – Cephas – Kefas (Aramaic) a stone – petros (Greek)
b. You are – Peter – Petros a rock, stone
c. You will – use the keys to the kingdom
2. He commended Peters confession. 16:18b The foundation of the church
1 Corinthians 3:10,11/15:1-4
3. He commanded Peter’s ministry. 16:19
a. The ministry of preaching. The keys
1). To the Jews. Acts 2:14-41
2). To the Samaritans. Acts 8:14-17
3). The Gentiles. Acts 10
b. The ministry of instruction – binding and loosing. Refer to Acts 11:1-18
Ephesians 4:11-12 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
C. He revealed the crucifixion. 16:21-28
1. Suffering and death explained. 16:21
a. He surprised the disciples.
1). They had testified of His deity. “Thou are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
2). They had trusted in His message – the Kingdom of Heaven was at hand.
b. He spoke openly, plainly.
1). They understood the words He said.
2). They did not understand the meaning of what He said.
3). They did not understand the prophecy (at this time). Compare Isaiah 53 with Acts 8:30-35
c. He shared the Gospel message. Refer to 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
2. Self interest displayed. 16:22
a. Peter’s conviction – Jesus is the Christ.
b. Peter’s confusion – How could men overcome God? (Especially since Jesus had been victorious in every confrontation with these men).
c. Peter’s conclusion – The Son of God need not to suffer or to die.
3. Severe reprimand. 16:23
a. The identification.
1). Peter identified with Satan. Why? –
2). Peter acted as a stumblingblock in the path of Jesus. “..an offense…”
b. The indictment – Peter cared for the things of the world instead of the things of God.
1). Unwilling to listen and to learn.
2). Unable to receive the Word of God. Refer to John 16:12-14
4. Single mindedness enjoined. 16:24-28
Identification with the Lord –
a. Involves denying self. 16:24-26
1). Follow the Lord. “…take up thy cross…” 16:24 Refer to Luke 9:23-26
2). Faith in the Lord. 16:25,26
a). Man cannot save himself.
(1). Man can gather material wealth.
(2). Man is tempted to gratify self. Matthew 4:1-10; 1 John 2:16
(2). Man cannot give material wealth in exchange for life. Refer to Psalm 49:6-8
b). Man can trust Jesus Christ for life. 2 Timothy 1:12; 2 Peter 1:3,4
b. Results in reward 16:27,28
1). At His coming. 16:27
2). In this life. 16:28
a). Some will see His glory in this life.
b). Some will hear of His glory in this life. John 17:20-23
II. Observations – 17:1-20:16
A. They saw that nothing was diminished in – 17:1-23
(The hope, healing, and the hard sayings)
1. His person (Fact) 17:1-13
a. The revelation of His glory. 17:1-3
b. The reasoning of Peter. 17:4-6
c. The reassurance of the Lord. 17:7-13
1). He calmed them. 17:7
2). He conversed with them. 17:8-13
a). He spoke again of His resurrection. 17:8
b). He spoke of the ministry of Elijah. 17:9-13 Referenced to Malachi 4:5,6
Note also the mention of Moses in Malachi 4:4. It is interesting to see Moses (Law) and Elijah (Prophets) identified with the Messiah (Fulfillment).
2. His power (Faith) 17:14-21 Refer to Mark 9:20-24
a. The plea. 17:14-17
b. The power. 17:18
c. The perplexity. 17:19-21 Refer to Luke 10:17-20
3. His plan. (Fear) 17:22,23 Refer to Luke 9:43-45
a. They knew a change was coming
b. They feared the change.
c. They feared to ask about the change.
B. They saw that He complied with the law. 17:24-27
1. His exemption by position. 17:24-26
a. The tribute money –
1). This tribute was not a governmental tax.
2). This tribute was a religious tax.
a). The tribute was instituted in Exodus 30:13-16 (Not established as an annual tax)
b). The tribute was a voluntary offering – not a tithe.
b. The tribute money was for the service of the ministry.
1). As ministers, they were not required to give.
2). As ministers, they were to receive.
2. His example of submission. 17:27
a. The willing mind. (He would not use this voluntary offering as a point of contention.)
b. The work involved. (Peter was a fisherman by trade. He worked for the money)
c. The wonderful power.
1). The amount required – 1 “did-rakh-mon” for each person..
2). The amount provided – 1 “stat-air” = 2 “did-rakh-mon”. Just enough for the need.
C. They saw the seriousness of their responsibilities. 18:1-35
1. That which they sought. 18:1 Refer to Mark 9:33,34; Luke 9:46-48
a. Position.
b. Power
c. Praise
2. That which was required. 18:2-35
a. Please the Lord (as a child) 18:2-4 Refer to Psalm 131; James 4:10
b. Protect the brethren. 18:5-14
1). They trust in the Lord in simple faith. 18:5-10
(Small children are oblivious to man’s aspirations to greatness)
Children are used here as examples. God’s care is not exclusive to the children, but is toward all who are like them – humble and believing.
a). The care of the Lord. 18:5-9
(1). Blessing. 18:5
(2). Retribution. 18:6-9
b). The interest of the Lord. 18:10 Refer to Hebrews 1:14
See also Hebrews 13:2 (Referring to Genesis 18:1-3 and Matthew 25:35)
2). They are the object of His love and care. 18:11-14
Refer to Luke 15:11-32 (The Parable of the Prodigal Son) A different time but a repeated truth.
c. Personal responsibility. (Promote unity) 18:15-20
d. Practice forgiveness. 18:21-35
1). The right attitude. 18:21,22
Note the consistent teaching of this subject. Refer to Mark 11:25,26; Luke 11:2-3; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:12-14
2). The righteous judgment. 18:23-35
a). Compassion. 18:23-27
b). Cruelty 18:28-30
c). Consequences 18:31-34
3). The rule of forgiveness. 18:35
Note that the servant did not lose his relationship but he did lose his master’s favour. The servant was then judged according to the standard which he set – without mercy.
D. They saw the authority of the Word. 19:1-12
1. The ignorance of the Pharisees. 19:1-9
a. Among those seeking help. 19:1-3a
b. Attempted to find fault. 19:3b
They used an issue that was sure to be controversial and could provoke emotional responses from the people (those on either side of the issue)
2. The importance of the Word of God. 19:4-9
The Lord used the Scriptures to settle the issue. According to the Scriptures, the people would be either right or wrong. There was no room for argument.
3. The influence of tradition. 19:10 (The disciples noted that that adherence to the Scriptures raised the values of life to a new level!)
4. The intent to remain unmarried. 19:11,12
a. Those incapacitated. 19:12a
b. Those inclined to single-minded service. 19:12b
E. They saw the importance of children. 19:13-15 Refer to Mark 10:13-16
F. They saw the importance of submission. 19:16-20:16
1. Inquiry. 19:16-22 Refer to James 2:14-18; 1 John 3:16:18
a. Praise 19:16
b. Performance. 19:17 Keep the commandments
c. Practice. 19:18-20 Moral relationships
d. Perfection. 19:21 Love. Refer to 1 Corinthians 13:3
e. Possessions. 19:22
He loved those material possessions more than life. (Often one uses possessions to define who they are)
2. Danger. 19:23-26
The disciple’s amazement is based on their belief that God’s blessings result in material wealth and influence. (Abraham, Job, David, Solomon)
3. Plan and provision for the faithful. 19:27-30
4. Paradox. 20:1-16 Illustrated through a parable.
Note the lesson in the section. The young man had an expectation which was not realized in the answer of Jesus. The man was disappointed and rejected the Word. Peter was intrigued at the mention of treasure in Heaven and asked what reward they would receive. The Lord acknowledged that the faithful would receive blessings, but He warned them of unwise expectations. He is good and will do with what is His according to His will and not according to man’s expectation. While the rich young man would not sacrifice and thereby had no reward in the Kingdom, those that had sacrificed received reward, not because of the amount of sacrifice, but because of the grace of God! The parable makes this truth clear!
“If you want more, give up more” is not what is being taught!
III. Occurrences (on the way to Jerusalem) – 20:17-34
A. Meeting with the twelve. 20:17-19
1. The disciples were apprised of the situation. 20:17
2. The detailed account of events. 20:18,19
a. Apprehension and trial. 20:18
b. Execution and triumph. 20:19
B. Maneuvering for position. 20:20-29
1. The approach. 20:20,21
2. The appraisal. 20:22,23
3. The admonishment. 20:24-29
C. Mercy on the blind men. 20:30-34
The Lord had been teaching about ministry, when the opportunity to minister arose, the disciples rejected it.
1. The cry for help. 20:30
2. The coarse reply. 20:31
3. The compassion of the Lord. 20:32-34
Chapter Two
Presentation and Rejection of the King
Matthew 21:1-27:66
I. Entry into Jerusalem. Matthew 21:1-17
A. Announced in prophecy. Matthew 21:1-7
1. Observance of God’s Word. Matthew 21:1-5
a. In accordance with Zecharaiah 9:9
b. In contrast to Revelation 19:11-16
2. Obedience to the Lord. Matthew 21:6,7
B. Adoration and praise. Matthew 21:8-11
1. The expectation. The Kingdom – Luke 19:11; Acts 1:6; Luke 24:21
2. The exaltation. Matthew 21:8,9 Refer to Psalm 118:20-26
(See use of the palm branch in Leviticus 23:40)
3. The explanation. Matthew 21:10,11 Luke 24:18,19
C. Anticipated destruction. Luke 19:41-44 Note Jerusalem = city of Peace
D. Authority established Matthew 21:12-14
1. Marketplace cleared Matthew 21:12,13 Collusion between the priests and merchants.
a. It was intended to be a place of communion with God.
1). Moses went to seek for leadership.
2). Hannah went to seek for a blessing.
3). Solomon went to seek for dedication.
4). Josiah went to seek for revival.
5). Hezekiah went to seek for deliverance.
6). Zerubabel went to seek for restoration.
7). Jesus went to offer the Kingdom.
b. It had become a place of business.
1). The Temple court became popularly known as the “Bazaar of Annus”.
2). The announced intention was the market would benefit the pilgrims.
3). Jesus called it what it actually was – “a den of thieves”.
a). The place was not just a market frequented by thieves.
b). The place was designated by Him as a “den” – their hiding place..
1). It was their headquarters – the center of their operations.
2). It was their refuge, a place of safety.
3). The priest were in collusion with the merchants and were involved in their ungodly business practices.
2. Mercy and grace restored. Matthew 21:14 Refer to Matthew 11:28-30
a. People came freely to offer to the Lord. Mark 12:41-44
b. People came freely to learn of the Lord. Luke 21:37,38
c. People came freely to receive mercy and help from the Lord. Matthew 21:14
E. Answered complaints Matthew 21:15,16
1. Wonders Matthew 21:15a
2. Words Refer to Luke 24:47,48
3. Witness Matthew 21:15b
4. Worry Matthew 21:15c
5. Worthy Matthew 21:16 Luke 19:40
F. Activities of the day completed, He retired from the city. Matthew 21:17
II. Example of power. Matthew 21:18-22
A. The action. Matthew 21:18-20
1. Desire Matthew 21:18 Normal desire – satisfy hunger.
2. Deception Matthew 21:19a
3. Destruction. Matthew 21:19b
4. Declaration Matthew 21:20
B. The instruction. Matthew 21:21,22
1. Potential Matthew 21:21 God’s power is unlimited.
Refer to Zechariah 4:6,7; 1 Corinthians 13:2
2. Practice. Matthew 21:22 God’s promise – faith
C. The application. A common application of this incident, but not one the disciples would have understood
1. The condition.
a. The fig tree is known as a symbol of Israel.
b. The leaves of the tree are an outward sign of the presence of fruit.
c. The tree did not bear fruit as it should have.
2. The curse.
a. The tree was useless and therefore was uprooted.
b. Israel, like the tree, had form without function.
c. The Lord had given Israel opportunities to repent and produce fruit.
d. The Lord revealed the limit of His patience. Refer to Luke 13:6-9
III. Encounters with adversaries. Matthew 21:23-22:46
A. The Lord Jesus was challenged in four areas of authority –
1. Religious The chief priests and the elders. Matthew 21:23-22:14
a. The assembly – The Sanhedrin 21:23a
b. The query 21:23b
1). God’s authority? What were His credentials? Refer to John 7:45-53
2). Man’s authority? Sanhedrin was the source of man’s authority. (ministry)
c. The response 21:24-22:14
1). Confession. 21:24-46 They implicated themselves
a). Their hypocrisy. 21:24-27 (vs. 27 – they determined to lie)
b). Their disobedience. 21:28-32
c). Their rebellion. 21:33-46 Refer to Isaiah 5:1-7
See also Psalm 118:22,23
They were convicted by their own words!
2). Condemnation. 22:1-14
a). Offer 22:1,2 (to the subjects of the King)
b). Opposition 22:3-7
(1). Rejection. 22:3
(2). Rebellion 22:4-6
(3). Retribution. 22:7 Refer to Acts 7:44
c). Opportunity 22:8-14
(1). Proclamation. 22:8-10 (John’s ministry)
(2). Provision. 22:11 (God’s mercy)
(3). Presumption 22:12,13 (Pharisee’s pride – Matthew 21:31,32)
(4). Pronouncement. 22:14 refer to 1 Timothy 4:10
2. Civil The Pharisees with the Herodians. Matthew 22:15-22
a. The assembly – The Pharisees and the Herodians. 22:15,16a
1). The Pharisees.
2). The Herodians.
a). Their allegiance to Herod Antipas who was in Jerusalem.
Refer to Luke 13:31,32 and 23:6-11
b). Their alliance.
(1). They did not normally associate with one another.
(2). They united against the Lord Jesus.
b. The query 22:16b,17
1). The preparation – flattering words. 22:16b
2). The proposal – to deceive Jesus and incite the people. 22:17
a). To pay tribute to Caesar – an act commonly rejected by the people.
b). To not pay tribute to Caesar – an act of rebellion against the government.
c. The response 22:18-22
1). The expose’ – their character. 22:18
2). The examination – the coin. 22:19-21a
3). The exhortation – the conclusion. 22:1b
a). Respect authority.
b). Render custom due the authority.
4). The enemy’s frustration. 22:22
3. Theological The Sadducees Matthew 22:23-33
a. The assembly – The Sadducees 22:23
1). Their belief – no resurrection.
2). Their fellowship.
a). Members of the Sanhedrin. Religious affiliation
b). Members of the political party. Secular affiliation
b. The query 22:24-28
1). Requirements of Moses. 22:24 Refer to Deuteronomy 25:25,26
2). Riddle posed. 22:25-28
3). Resurrection ridiculed.
a). Law perpetuates property rights.
b). Law proves impossibility of resurrection. – God ordained monogamous relationship.
c. The response 22:29-33
1). Confusion – they did not understand the Word of God. 22:29
(Note their appeal to the Scriptures to prove their beliefs, yet they rejected Scripture that did not support their beliefs)
Scriptural testimonies of a resurrection.
a). Job. Job 19:26,27
b). Daniel. Daniel 12:1-3
2). Condition – the state of the resurrected saints. 22:30
No longer in the position of parents but are all children, the children of God. Refer to Luke 20:34-36; Romans 8:14-17
3). Comfort – the truth brings comfort to believers. 22:31-33
Refer to Exodus 3:15
4. Scriptural The Lawyer Matthew 22:34-40
a. The assembly 22:34,35
1). The Pharisees. 22:34
2). The spokesman. 22:35 Refer to Mark 12:28-34
a). Practice – a scribe (Lawyer) among the Pharisees. Mark 12:28
b). Profession – believed the Word over traditions of men. Mark 12:32,33
c). Position – unsaved Mark 12:34 “Thou art not far from the kingdom of God”.
See also Acts 26:27-29
b. The query An exciting opportunity 22:36
1). Perceived Jesus’ knowledge – Mark 12:28a
2). Prove his own abilities – Matthew 22:35 “…tempting him…”
2). Presented his question – Mark 12:28b
c. The response 22:37-40
1). Immediate 22:37a
Note there is no reprimand as in Matthew 21:23; 22:18,29. There must be a different attitude in this man’s approach to the Lord.
2). Instructive. 22:37b-40 Refer to Mark 12:33
a). Authority – Scripture Refer to Deuteronomy 6:4,5 and Leviticus 19:18
b). Application – service Refer to 1 Samuel 15:22; Proverbs 21:3
B. The Lord Jesus established His authority. Matthew 22:41-46
1. Scriptural authority. Matthew 22:41-45
a. Messiah’s position – the Son of David. 2 Samuel 7:12-16; Isaiah 9:6,7; 11:1
b. Messiah’s person – deity. Psalm 110:1
1). Inspired. 22:43 “…David in spirit…”
2). Interpreted. 22:22:44
“The Lord (Jehovah) said unto my (David) Lord (Messiah), sit thou (Messiah) on my (Jehovah) right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool”.
3). Inquiry – what is the conclusion? Messiah is God the Son. Luke 1:32,33
2. Silenced the adversaries. Matthew 22:46
IV. Exhortations. Matthew 23:1-39
A. To the multitudes. Matthew 23:1-12
1. Respect authority. Matthew 23:1-3a
2. Reject hypocrisy. Matthew 23:3b-8 Fringe – numbers 15:38,39
3. Right attitude Matthew 23:8-12
B. To the Pharisees. Matthew 23:13-33
1. Their condemnation. Matthew 23:13-22
a. Disobedient. 12:13
b. Deceitful. 12:14
c. Determined. 12:15
d. Destitute of righteousness. 12:16-22
1). The Temple and the altar represent God.
2). The gold and the gifts represent creation.
3). The Pharisees exalted creation above God. Refer to Romans 1:21-25
2. Their character Matthew 23:23-33 The hypocrites should show forth fruits of integrity –
a. Scrupulous 23:23,24
b. Service 23:25,26
c. Soundness 23:27,28
d. Submission 23:29-33
C. To the nation. Matthew 23:34-39
1. Declaration. Matthew 23:34-36
2. Desire. Matthew 23:37
3. Desolation. Matthew 23:38,39
V. End Times Revealed. Matthew 24:1-25:46
The Lord revealed –
A. The ruin of the Temple. Matthew 24:1-3. Refer to Luke 21:20-24
1. Jesus foretold of complete destruction. Matthew 24:2
2. Note the differences written between Matthew and Luke.
a. The warning.
1). Luke – Jerusalem would be surrounded by armies. Luke 21:20 (a time of war)
2). Matthew – The desecration of the Temple. Matthew 24:15 (from the inside)
b. The result.
1). Luke-The Jews were conquered, captured, and dispersed among the nations.
Luke 21:24
2). Matthew – The Jews shall be destroyed except for a small remnant. Matthew 24:22
3. This prophecy noted by Luke was fulfilled in 70 AD. The first question answered
For 1,878 years there was no nation of Israel – there were only the people of Israel.
The answer to the second question – “What will be the sign of they coming?”
B. The signs of –
1. The end times. Matthew 24:4-26
Made aware of –
a. Deception. 24:4,5 The first half (3 ½ years) of Tribulation -24:4-8
b. Destruction. 24:6-8
c. Danger. 24:9-22 The second half of Tribulation – 24:9-26
d. Declarations. 24:23-26
1). Public demonstrations. 24:23-25
2). Private initiations. 24:26
2. The Lord’s appearing. Matthew 24:27-35
1). Appearance to all. 24:27,28
2). Assembly of the elect. 24:29-31 Israel has been scattered
3). Assurance of His appearing. 24:32-34
4). Authority 24:35
C. The certainty of His coming. Matthew 24:36-41
1. The unexpecting. Matthew 24:36
2. The unaffected. Matthew 24:37-39
3. The unbelieving – judged. Matthew 24:40,41
D. The readiness of the people. Matthew 24:42-25:30
1. Vigilance enjoined. Matthew 24:42-51
2. Vigilance illustrated. Matthew 25:1-30
a. The Virgins. 25:1-13
1). The ladies and their lamps. Matthew 25:1-5
a). They all knew the groom was expected to come that night.
b). They each brought their own lamp.
c). They all knew oil was necessary for their lamps.
(1). Five were prepared and brought all that was needed.
(2). Five were not prepared. They had neglected to consider their need.
2). The arrival of the groom. 25:6-10
a). They were waiting for him to arrive.
b). They were surprised at his sudden appearance, even though expecting him!
c). The prepared women met the groom and had fellowship.
d). The unprepared women were rejected. They had no excuse. 25:10-13
“…Watch therefore…” Be prepared!
b. The Servants. 25:14-30
1). Their responsibility. 25:1,15
2). Their activity. 25:16-18
3). Their accountability. 25:19-30
E. The judgment. Matthew 25:31-46
1. Appearance of the Lord Matthew 25:31
2. Assembly of the nations Matthew 25:32,33
3. Announcement of judgment. Matthew 25:34-46
a. Commendation of the righteous. 25:34-40
b. Condemnation of the unrighteous. 25:41-46
c. Compare verses 37 and 44. Refer to Isaiah 45:22-25 and Philippians 2:9-11
1). The righteous confess that Jesus is Lord to His glory and to their honour.
2). The unrighteous confess that Jesus is Lord to His glory and to their dishonour and doom
VI. Events leading to arrest. Matthew 26:1-56
A. Arrangements made. Matthew 26:1-16
1. The announcement of the crucifixion. Matthew 26:1,2
a. Date – the time is set
b. Deception
1). Betrayed by Judas
2). Betrayed by His countrymen. Refer to Acts 7:52
c. Death – the method of execution noted – crucifixion
2. The action of the council. Matthew 26:3-5
a. The council. 26:3
b. The caution. 26:4,5
1). They failed in previous attempts. Refer to Luke 4:29,30;
John 7:32,45-47; 8:57-59; 10:39
2). They feared the people.
The people had witnessed their embarrassment when silenced by Jesus. They may have suffered a loss of prestige and determined to be careful in their actions.
3. The anointing at Bethany. Matthew 26:6-13
a. Desire – to be in His presence. 26:6,7a
b. Delight – to give the best unto the Lord. 26:7b
c. Displeasure – from those that should encourage this love. 26:8,9
d. Defense – of the devotion of one that loves. 26:10-13
4. The agreement among conspirators. Matthew 26:14-16
B. Acknowledgment given. Matthew 26:17-25
1. Directions for the meal. Matthew 26:17-20 See also Luke 22:10-13
2. Disclosure of betrayal Matthew 26:21-24 Refer to John 13:1-17
3. Dismissal of betrayer. Matthew 26:25 Refer to John 13:26-30
C. Apostles warned. Matthew 26:26-35
1. Order of the meal.
a. The Passover meal – significance explained by the head of the house.
1). The Lamb – God protected those houses marked with the blood of the lamb.
2). The unleavened bread – People were delivered from Egypt in haste.
3). Bitter herbs – Egyptians had made their lives bitter.
a). Lettuce, endive, coriander, beets.
b). Taken together and dipped into salt water.
c). Taken a second time and dipped into a mixture made from dates and raisins.
b. The Passover meal – order
1). Pour first cup of wine.
a). Significance – Sanctification
b). Clean of yeast
2). Pray – giving thanks
3). Drink the first cup.
4). Wash hands – dip them in water.
5). Pray
6). Dip herbs in salt water – eat – pass on to others.
7). Clear the table.
8). Pour the second cup of wine.
a). Significance – the Plagues
b). Remembrance of the plagues in Egypt
9). The son would asks questions about the meaning of the supper.
10). The head of the house explained the meaning of the food.
11). Sing Psalms 113 and 114.
12). Prayer “Blessed art thou, Jehovah our God, King of the universe, Who has redeemed our fathers from Egypt.”
13). Drink the second cup.
14). Wash hands
15). Break unleavened cakes (bread). The bread of the poor.
16). Thanks given for the bread.
17). Cakes placed with bitter herbs, dipped in the charoseth.
(This is probably the point that Judas was dismissed. John 13:1)
18). The meal was eaten – cakes, herbs, meat.
19). Wash hands
20). Pour the third cup. Refer to Luke 22:17
a). Significance – Redemption
b). Symbolizes the blood of the Passover lamb.
The Lord departed from tradition – breaking bread again. Luke 22:19
21). Drink the third cup. Refer to Luke 22:20
22). Pour the fourth cup.
The fourth cup of wine is called the “Cup of Praise,” or Elijah’s cup. In many homes, not only a cup of wine but a full place setting is left, in case Elijah the prophet should come, in fulfillment of Malachi 4:5: “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.” The youngest child is sent to the door to see whether or not Elijah has come this year. Jesus did not drink this fourth cup at his Seder. When he drank the third cup he said “I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s Kingdom.” There was no more need to wait for Elijah to announce Messiah. Jesus had said that John the Baptist had already come in the spirit of Elijah ( and Elijah himself had appeared on the night of the transfiguration), and Messiah had already come. But most Jews, (and most people in general) do not recognize these facts. When the child does not find Elijah at the door, it is assumed that another year must pass before Messiah can come, and so the head of the family will say “Next year in Jerusalem,” in hope that Messiah will come next year and fully restore the kingdom-temple and all — and Passover can be celebrated the way it used to be. What they are really looking for is the second coming of Messiah. When the time is right, he will return in triumph to establish his earthly kingdom as described in Revelation 20. AMF international web site
23). Drink the fourth cup.
24). Sing Psalms 115 through 118.
25). Prayer is offered.
2. Ordination of the Lord’s Supper. Matthew 26:26-30 refer to Luke 22:19
a. The symbols. 26:26-28 Refer to 1 Corinthians 11:23-34
1). The bread. 26:26 His body broken
2). The wine. 26:27,28 His blood shed
b. The statement of intent. 26:29 His time was at hand
c. The songs of blessing. 26:30 Psalms 115-118
3. Offense foretold. Matthew 26:31-35
a. The reason. 26:31,32 “…because of me…”
1). The Shepherd smitten. Refer to Zechariah 13:7; Isaiah 53:1-10
(Refer also to Zechariah 11:12,13; 12:9,10 for prophecy of the Messiah)
2). The sheep scattered.
3). The Saviour’s promise. Refer to Mark 16:17
b. The reaction. 26:33
c. The reproof. 26:34
d. The response. 26:35
D. Attended to prayer. Matthew 26:36-45
1. The place of prayer. Matthew 26:36 Refer to Luke 22:39
2. The partners in prayer. Matthew 26:37,38; 40,41
3. The passion in prayer. Matthew 26:39, 42-44 Refer to Luke 22:42-44; John 12:27,28
4. The praise through prayer. Matthew 26:45
a. He was strengthened. Luke 42:43
b. He was settled. John 18:11; Luke 24:25,26
Refer also to Romans 5:19, Philippians 2:6-11
E. Arrest accomplished. Matthew 26:46-56
1. Confirmation of His identity.
a. Assembled the disciples. Matthew 26:46
b. Approached by the company. Matthew 26:47,48
(Group of Jewish leaders, servants and Roman soldiers deputized by the High Priest)
c. Address of Jesus to the company. John 18:4-9
d. Affection feigned by Judas. Matthew 26:49,50; Luke 22:48
2. Confrontation of the multitude.
a. Attack by Peter. Matthew 26:51-54
b. Argument of Jesus. Matthew 26:55,56
(Their aggression has caused blood to be shed)
3. Chaos following the arrest.
a. Arrest of Jesus. John 18:12
b. Flight of the disciples. Mark 14:50-52
VII. Execution of the Lord. Matthew 26:57-27:66
A. Arraigned by the counsel. Matthew 26:57 – 26:68
1. Interrogation. John 18
a. Annas. John 18:12-14, 19-24
1). Respect. 18:12-14 Annas was the patriarchal leader.
2). Reason. 18:19
a). To intimidate – by his position.
b). To incriminate – Jesus would reveal information that would be used against Him.
3). Response. 18:20,21
a). He ignored the question about the disciples.
b). He instructed the High Priest on due process of law. 18:20,21
4). Rebuke. 18:22,23
a). The officer chastised Jesus. 18:22
b). The officer challenged by Jesus. 18:23 Justify your action!
Note the difference between Jesus’ reaction and Paul’s. Acts 23:3
5). Result. 18:24 Sent to Caiaphas after the failure to indict him.
b. Caiaphas Matthew 26:57
1). The person. Refer to John 11:47-53
2). The plan.
a). The assembly prepared.
b). The accusation presented.
c). The accused bound over for trial.
3). The predicament. No charges brought against Him.
2. Fabrication. Matthew 26:59-61 Exodus 23:7
(A case had to be built which would result in the death penalty)
3. Examination. Matthew 26:62-65
4. Accusation. Matthew 26:66-68
B. Abandoned by Peter. Matthew 26:69 – 27:2
1. Peter feared. Matthew 26:58; John 18:15,16
a. Confusion.
1). The command. “…put up again thy sword…” Matthew 26:52 Not to fight
2). The confession. “To whom shall we go…”? John 6:68
3). The capitulation. Matthew 26:57a
They had no idea what was going to take place. Would they have been sleeping had they realized the danger they all faced? They proved themselves to be sheep and not shepherds. John 10:11
b. Concern “…to see the end…” He placed himself in a dangerous situation!
2. Peter faltered. Matthew 26:69,70
a. The accusation by the maid – “You are one of His disciples”.
b. The denial by Peter.
1). He refused to acknowledge his allegiance to the Lord.
2). He excused himself by claiming ignorance. Refer to Mark 14:68
3. Peter forsook. Matthew 26:71-75; Luke 22:61,62
a. The second accusation. 26:71,72
1). Recognized as a disciple of Jesus.
2). Responded in anger.
b. The third accusation. 26:73-75
1). Positive identification as a disciple of Jesus.
2). Provoked to wrath.
4. Peter forgiven –
We do not want to leave this section without revealing the Lord’s forgiveness of Peter.
a. The principle of overcoming fear. 1 John 4:15-19; John 15:13; 1 John 3:16
b. The principle applied by Jesus. John 21:15-17
c. The principle proved by Peter. Acts 4:1-13
C. Anguish of Judas. Matthew 27:3-10 Refer to 1 Timothy 6:9,10
1. Remorse. Matthew 27:3,4
a. Convinced of his sin. “…I have betrayed the innocent blood.”
b. Convicted by his greed. “…brought again the thirty pieces of silver…”
c. Condemned by his heart. Refer to 2 Corinthians 7:10; Psalm 7:14-16
2. Restitution. Matthew 27:5 Refer to Proverbs 13:21a; 28:1
a. Rid himself of the evidence – money
b. Rid himself of the guilt – life.
3. Reputation. Matthew 27:6-10
a. The priest’s hypocrisy is again revealed. 27:6 ‘seared consciences’
b The purchase of the field for strangers. 27:7
c. The prophesy of rejection. 27:8-10
d. The private betrayal is public knowledge. Refer to Acts 1:16-19
D. Accusation and judgment. Matthew 27:11-25
1. The accusations of the priests. Matthew 27:11,12
a. As determined in the arraignment – blasphemy. Refer to Matthew 26:63-66
1). A capital offense among the Jews.
2). An insignificant issue to the Romans. Refer to Acts 18:12-17
b. As declared before Pontius Pilate – Refer to Luke 23:1,2
1). The charge of rebellion.
a). Perverting the nation.
b). Forbidding to give tribute to Caesar. Refer to Matthew 22:17-21
c). Making Himself a King. Refer to John 18:33-38
2). The charge required to warrant execution.
2. The anxiety of Pontius Pilate. Matthew 27:13-23,26
a. The agreement to hear the case. 27:11-14, 19
1). His soldier’s participated in the arrest. Refer to John 18:3,12
2). His wife had a dream about Jesus during the night. 27:19 “…just man…”
3). His court was prepared at an early hour. Refer to John 18:29-32
b. The attempt to release Jesus.
1). His judgment declared. Refer to John 18:33-38
2). His judgment contested. Refer to Luke 23:4,5
c. The abdication of responsibility.
1). He deferred judgment to King Herod. Refer to Luke 23:6-11
2). He declared the judgment – no fault was found in him. Refer to Luke 23:14,15
3). He determined to appease the people. 27:26; Refer to Luke 23:16; John 19:1-15
Refer also to 1 Timothy 6:13
3. The acquiescence to the priests. Matthew 27:24,25
a. The compromise of justice.
1). The innocent. 27:24 “…this just person…”
2). The guilty. 27:25 “…his blood be upon us…” Refer to Acts 3:13, 5:28
b. The condemnation of Jesus. 27:24 “…see ye to it.” Pilate’s statement –
1). I am innocent.
2). Be guilty if you will.
Note: A governor may pardon a guilty man but he cannot execute an innocent man!
c. The culpability of Pilate and the Jews.
1). The message of the Law. Deuteronomy 19:15-19
2). The mercy of the Lord. Luke 23:34
E. Abuse by the guards. Matthew 27:27-31
1. Their actions were foretold. Psalm 22:16
2. Their actions were –
a. Cowardly – He was bound and beaten.
b. Cruel – their intention was to humiliate a condemned man.
Note: The guards were free to abuse Jesus, innocent yet convicted, because He had no advocate – no one to step in to control their actions.
F. Accomplishment of purpose. Matthew 27:32-50
1. The religious leaders. Matthew 27:32-37
a. They manipulated the people. 27:32
1). The Law. Matthew 26:65,66
2). The government. John 19:15 “…we have no king but Caesar.”
3). The people. Matthew 27:32 “…compelled to bear his cross…”
b. They accomplished their purpose. 27:33-37 (continued to use others to carry out their wicked scheme, trusting that they would not be held accountable, refer again to Acts 5:28)
1). The place – Golgatha 27:33 Refer to Matthew 27:39, John 19:20
2). The procedure. 27:34-37
a). They provided relief from pain. 27:34
b). They pierced the Lord, nailing Him to the cross. 27:35a Refer to Psalm 22:16
c). They parted His possessions. 27:35b,36 Refer to Psalm 22:18
d). They prepared for His death. 27:36
e). They posted His accusation. 27:37 Refer to John 19:19-22
“THIS IS JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS”
2. The righteous Lord. Matthew 27:38-50
a. His composure. 27:38-44
1). The thieves – He was innocent, dying with the guilty.
2). The throngs
a). The people. 27:39,40
b). The priest. 27:41-43
c). The thieves. 27:44
b. His compassion. 27:44 Refer to Luke 23:39-43
c. His cry. 27:46-49 The agony, the one act that elicited a cry –
1). Not the abandonment by his disciples.
2). Not the false accusations.
3). Not the unjust trial.
4). Not the vicious scourging.
5). Not the mocking.
6). Not the crucifixion.
7). Not the cursing by the people.
8). But the judgment of sin upon Him by the Father. Refer to 2 Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24
d. His commitment. Refer to John 19:28
e. His commendation. 27:50 Refer to Luke 23:46; John 19:30
1). His Spirit unto the Father. “…into thy hands I commend my spirit:…”
2). His body unto the grave. “… he gave up the ghost.”
f. His cause.
1). His propitiation. Refer to Romans 3:24,24; 1 John 2:1,2
2). His sacrifice. Matthew 26:28; Refer to Ephesians 5:2; Hebrews 9:11-14; 1 Peter 1:18,19
3). His substitution. Matthew 27:46; Refer to 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galations 3:13; 1 Peter 2:24
G. Amazing events upon His death. Matthew 27:51-61
1. The rending of the veil. Matthew 27:51
a. Jesus Christ provides access to God. Hebrews 4:14-16
b. Jesus Christ broke down the partitions of division.
1). The Gentile. Ephesians 2:14
2). The Jew. Hebrews 10:19-22
2. The raising of the dead. Matthew 27:52,53
Refer to Acts 26:23; 1 Corinthians 15:20-23
3. The reaction of the witnesses. Matthew 27:54-56
a. The fear of the soldiers. 27:54
b. The faith of the women. 27:55,56 Refer to Luke 8:1-3
1). Their identities.
a). Mary, the mother of Jesus. Refer to John 19:26
b). Salome, the mother of James and John; the sister of Mary.
Refer to Mark 15:40,41; John 19:25
c). Mary Magdalene.
d). Mary, the mother of James the less and Joses.
2). Their intentions.
a). To mark the place of internment. Matthew 27:61
b). To minister to his burial. Matthew 28:1; Refer to Mark 16:1,2
4. The resolution of the secret disciples. Matthew 27:57-61
a. Their concern. John 19:38 Refer to John 12:42
b. Their courage. Mark 15:43; John 19:38-42
c. The consequence. Refer to Isaiah 53:9
H. Apprehensiveness of the Counsel. Matthew 27:62-66
1. They were anxious. Matthew 27:62 Their concern –
a. Motivated their appeal
b. United them in their purpose. (Seeking power in numbers)
(Refer to John 18:28 – the business at hand had kept them from their families on this convocation day)
2. They were afraid. Matthew 27:63,64
a. The events at the crucifixion may have alarmed them.
1). Unusual occurrences
2). Unknown disciples. (Joseph and Nicodemus revealed their faith in Jesus Christ)
b. The evidence they presented to Pilate. 27:63
1). They maintained their position and stated that Jesus was a deceiver. (They continued to justify themselves because of their demand for his execution)
2). They testified to His death. “…while he was yet alive…”
3). They knew of His promise. “…after three days…”
Refer to Matthew 16:21, 17:23; John 2:19
c. The empty tomb would expose their sin. 27:64
3. They were allowed to secure the tomb. Matthew 27:65,66
a. They were given permission to use soldiers.
b. They were given power to –
1). Secure it – with Roman soldiers guarding the tomb.
2). Seal it – a stamp that would be broken if the stone were moved.
Chapter Three
Proof of the Messianic Right of the King
Matthew 28:1-20
I. The events of the morning. Matthew 28:1-10
A. The early morning visitors Matthew 28:1-4
1. The Angels. Matthew 28:2-4
a. The form of the angel. Matthew 28:3
1). Power. “…lightning…”
2). Purity. “… raiment white as snow…”
b. The fearsomeness of the angel. Matthew 28:4
2. The Women. Matthew 28:1
a. The company. Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, Salome, Joanna, and others. Matthew 28:1 Refer to Mark 16:1; Luke 24:1,10; John 20:1
b. The concern. Mark 16:3
c. The confusion.
1). The stone was moved. Mark 16:4; Luke 24:2; John 20:1
2). The body of Jesus was missing. Luke 24:3
3). The Angel’s message. Matthew 28:5-7; Refer to Mark 16:5-7; Luke 24:4-8
B. The enthusiastic messengers Matthew 28:8-10
Note: The following is a possible sequence of events derived by comparing the four gospels.
1. The report of the women. Matthew 28:8; Refer to Mark 16:8; Luke 24:9-11; John 20:2
2. The reaction of the disciples.
a). The race to the tomb. Luke 24:12; John 20:3-9
b). The return home. John 20:10
3. The reunions.
a. Mary Magdalene at the tomb. Mark 16:9; John 20:11-13
b. Women departed, leaving Mary alone, and met Jesus in the way. Matthew 28:9
c. The two disciples departed for Emmaus and meet Jesus. Mark 16:12,13; Luke 24:13-35
d. Mary Magdalene rejoined the disciples and reported on her meeting with Jesus.
Mark 16:10; John 20:18
e. Jesus appeared to all of the disciples. John 20:19,20
II. The conspiracy. Matthew 28:11-15
A. The report of the guards. Matthew 28:11
B. The reconvened counsel. Matthew 28:12a Refer to Acts 7:51
C. The response Matthew 28:12b-15
1. Of the counsel – to bribe Matthew 28:12b
2. Of the guards – to lie. Matthew 28:13,14
3. Of the people – to believe a lie Matthew 28:15
a. Who would believe that all of the guard would sleep while on duty?
b. Who would believe that they would know who stole the body if they were asleep?
c. Who would believe that the disciples would put their lives at risk to rescue the dead?
III. The commission. Matthew 28:16-20
A. The preparation. (meeting by appointment) Matthew 28:16,17
B. The power Matthew 28:18
C. The presentation Matthew 28:19,20
1. To preach the Gospel. Matthew 28:19a “maqhteusate = make disciples”
2. To baptize the believers. Matthew 28:19b
3. To instruct the believers. Matthew 28:20 “didaskonteV = instructing”
Refer to Acts 2:37-42; 13:1-4
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