BibleReadingPlan
Dear Friend!
We are now reading the book of Matthew.
Author:
Although not named as the author in the book, a long tradition has assigned it to Matthew, the tax collector who became an apostle (9:9-13).
Date:
Uncertain, but probably between A.D. 50-70.
Theme:
Jesus, the long-promised Messiah and authoritative teacher.
Historical Background:
The first three Gospels cover many of the same events in Jesus' life in the same way. For that reason they are often called the "synoptic Gospels" meaning that they are "able to be seen together." It is generally assumed that Matthew and Luke used Mark as their prime source in compiling their writings. In Matthew nearly 90% of the material in Mark is reproduced. These similarities, however, do not mean that the Gospels are merely a restatement of each other. Matthew adds many teaching sections and other details not found in Mark. Matthew slants his material to a Jewish readership as he cites numerous Old Testament prophecies that were fulfilled in Jesus' life and ministry. His purpose was to show that Jesus is the promised Son of David, the Messiah, come to establish the kingdom of God.
Characteristics:
Matthew is built around five teaching sections (chs. 5-7; 10; 13; 18; 24-25) which illustrate what life in the kingdom of heaven is all about. Matthew's frequent citation of Old Testament prophecies makes it the perfect book to bridge the Old Testament and the New Testament. While strongly oriented to be a witness to the Jews. Matthew also makes it clear that the Messiah has come for all peoples.
You are most welcome to get in contact with me during the week about any questions, thoughts or suggestions about these Bible reading notes. My Tel: 0828250499 or email me at
God bless you and give you a lot of joy in reading HIS word and speaking to HIM about it and your life.
Regards, Jochen Volker
Monday, 6 July 2009
Read Matthew 1:1-17
What titles does Matthew assign Jesus in verses 1 and 16? What is the meaning of each title? Which people do you recognize in this genealogy? What do you remember about each of these people? Which people on the list are the most significant in establishing who Jesus is? Why do you think some women were named when it was not the Jewish custom to include women's names in genealogies? What do you know about these women? Into what three sections does Matthew divide his genealogical table? What great event climaxes each section? From the promises to Abraham (Ge 12:2-3: 17:6-8), why is it significant that Jesus is Abraham's son (Gal 3:16-18)? From 2 Samuel 7:11-13, why is it significant that he is David's son as well? Of what does that assure us? If Luke's genealogy (Lk 3:23-38) goes all the way back to Adam to emphasize the universality of the gospel, what is Matthew's point in beginning with Abraham? What does this account of lineage say to Matthew's Jewish readers?
What does it mean to you that God's promises are trustworthy over the generations? At what point in your life have you most felt Jesus' presence? Who are the significant people in your spiritual upbringing? What has been passed on to you spiritually from your forebearers?
Tuesday, 7 July 2009
Read Matthew 1:18-25
How would you feel in Joseph's place in verse 19? In verses 20-21? What would you say to family and friends? To God? What reason does Matthew give as to why Jesus was born (v.21)? 3. Apart from fulfilling prophecy, why was Jesus' virgin birth necessary?
How have you experienced Jesus as "Immanuel" in your life lately? What do you learn about faith from Joseph?
Wednesday, 8 July 2009
Read Matthew 2:1-12
Why was it important that Jesus be born in Bethlehem? Since the Magi were pagan astrologers, why would they leave everything in order to follow that star? In light of the prophecy (v.6), why was Herod so concerned that the baby be found? Trace the responses of the Magi upon seeing Jesus. How is that similar to the response that Christians make to Jesus? How is it different? What do the star, the Magi, the gifts, the homage, the hostility, and the prophecy teach about the significance of Jesus?
In your "journey" toward God, how are you like the Magi? Unlike them? Have you had to leave anything to follow Jesus? What is the "gold, incense, and myrrh" in your life? How have you offered this to Jesus?
Thursday, 9 July 2009
Read Matthew 2:13-23
What type of king do you imagine Herod to be? What does his response of fear and anger show about his view of the Messiah? What is Matthew's point in emphasizing God's watchcare over Jesus? In the fulfillment of Hosea's and Jeremiah's prophecies (vv.17-18, 23)? What relocation options face Joseph? How did God use prophecy, dreams, faith, and circumstances to guide him?
When, like Herod, have you felt threatened by Jesus' kingship? How do you react at those times? From Joseph's responsiveness, what do you learn about faith and obedience? How long would it take you to say "yes" if God asked you to move on with him? Why the delay?
Friday, 10 July 2009
Read Matthew 3:1-17
What was John the Baptist like? Why would anyone go out of their way to hear this radical preacher (v.7)? Who did they think he was (see 2Ki 1:8)? How would you paraphrase John's message (v.2) for people today? What is the "kingdom of heaven"? What angered John so much about the Pharisees and Sadducees? What do the images of judgment mean: The coming wrath? The ax? The fire? His winnowing fork? How do John's and Jesus' ministries compare? Why did Jesus, who was without sin, come to John to be baptized? What "righteousness" did he fulfill (see Isa 53:12)? In the context of chapters 3 and 4, what do you think verse 17 meant to Jesus? How does this set the stage for his ministry to begin?
Who has been a "John the Baptist" in your life? How did he or she prepare you to meet Jesus? Who are today's "Pharisees and Sadducees"? How is repentance linked to your experience of salvation: In the past? How has God affirmed you as his child in Christ?
Memory Verse:
This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.
Matthew 3:17