This is not a comprehensive covering of what the book of Matthew has to say about Jesus, but rather a very brief overview. First of all, Jesus is shown to be the Messiah. I know what a very bold claim that is, but Matthew clearly taught Jesus was absolutely the fulfillment of many of the Old Testament prophecies, which I sometimes refer to as the Tanach as well. I have some Jewish friends and people I converse with that call it the Tanach. At any rate, there are promises from these books of the Tanach (OT) which I see as being fulfilled in Jesus. To not see it or deny it would take a leap of faith for me personally.
For instance, you can find parallels in verses like Matthew 5:17, but especially interesting are those that show the coming Messiah. Look at Matthew 1:18 through verse 23, as well as chapter 2 verses 13-15. You might also find Matthew 8:16-17 and 21:1-9 to be of interest.
Of course, each person needs to decide for themselves, but I do hope all at least look, for I think there is a lot to miss if you don't at least look. Keep in mind, this book of Matthew was written for Greek speaking, Jewish Christians. The book was written between A.D. 50 - 80. Many think it was written in Syrian Antioch, in the Holy Land.
If you think there is another in the future that fits the bill better than Jesus, I would love to hear about that. Please feel free to leave comments, and thank you for reading!
Jesus and the Woman at the Well
This story has to be one of my favorites, for it shows the knowledge, love, and forgiveness of Jesus in a big way. He didn't condemn the woman for committing adultery over and over with many different men, he encouraged her to stop though, and not do it anymore. He showed amazing love, and acceptance, and a way to a better life for her. This is true for all of us, if we will just hear the words of Jesus and respond to his great love, mercy, invitation and accept what he has offered to us. Seek Him, ask for wisdom, pray and ask God anything you want. He already knows your heart, and what can it hurt? The same message that he gave to the woman, he gives to us all.
Jesus preaching in Capernaum
By Maurycy Gottlieb. I love the different art out there, where artists are giving their rendition of what they think Jesus may have looked like.
1878–1879, though unfinished
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