Birth and Preparation of Jesus (Matthew 1:1–4:11)
The Gospel of Matthew begins by showing that Jesus is the promised Savior from the family line of Abraham and King David. His birth fulfilled many prophecies, proving that God was keeping His promise to send a Messiah. An angel told Joseph that Mary’s child was from the Holy Spirit and that He should be named Jesus, because He would save His people from their sins. Jesus’ birth showed God’s love coming directly into the world.
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, wise men from the east followed a special star to find Him. They brought Him gifts fit for a king—gold, frankincense, and myrrh. But King Herod felt threatened and tried to kill Jesus. God protected the family by sending them to Egypt until it was safe to return. These events showed that Jesus was God’s chosen King, even from the beginning.
As Jesus grew, He was prepared for His mission. Years later, John the Baptist began preaching in the wilderness, calling people to turn from their sins. He baptized them as a sign of a changed life. John also said that the Messiah was coming—someone far greater than himself.
Jesus came to John and was baptized, even though He had no sin. When He rose from the water, the Holy Spirit came down like a dove, and God’s voice announced, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.” This moment revealed Jesus’ identity and purpose.
Before starting His ministry, Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness. Each time, He resisted by using God’s Word. His victory over temptation showed that He was fully prepared to bring salvation to the world.
Message and Ministry of Jesus (Matthew 4:12–25:46)
After His temptation, Jesus began His public ministry in Galilee. He preached a simple but powerful message: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” Jesus called people to turn away from sin and follow God with their whole hearts. He chose twelve disciples to learn from Him and to help share the good news. Ordinary fishermen became His closest followers, showing that God can use anyone who is willing.
Jesus traveled from town to town, teaching in synagogues and sharing God’s truth with large crowds. His Sermon on the Mount taught people how to live in God’s kingdom—with humility, purity, mercy, and love. He explained that obedience to God is not just about outward actions but also about the heart. Jesus showed that God cares about every aspect of life, including prayer, forgiveness, and relationships.
As Jesus taught, He also healed the sick, cast out demons, and performed miracles. These acts showed God’s compassion and power at work through Him. People who were blind, lame, or outcast found hope in Jesus. His miracles confirmed that God’s kingdom had truly come near.
Jesus also used parables—short stories with deeper meanings—to teach about faith and God’s plan. Some people welcomed His message, but others, especially religious leaders, rejected Him. Jesus warned them about hypocrisy and urged everyone to love God and love their neighbors as themselves.
Throughout this section of Matthew, Jesus prepared His followers for the future. He promised to return and judge the world with fairness. Matthew 4–25 shows that Jesus came not only to teach and heal but also to call people to faith, obedience, and readiness for His kingdom.
Death and Resurrection of Jesus (Matthew 26:1–28:20)
As Jesus’ ministry came to an end, He told His disciples that He would soon be arrested and killed. The religious leaders plotted against Him, and one of His own disciples, Judas, agreed to betray Him. At the Last Supper, Jesus shared bread and a cup with His disciples and explained that His body and blood would be given for the forgiveness of sins. This meal became a reminder of His great sacrifice.
Later, Jesus went to the garden of Gethsemane to pray. He felt deep sorrow, but He submitted to God’s will. Soldiers arrived, and Judas betrayed Him with a kiss. Jesus was arrested, put on trial, and falsely accused. Peter, afraid of being arrested too, denied knowing Jesus three times—just as Jesus had predicted.
Jesus was sentenced to die by crucifixion. He suffered greatly but showed love even from the cross, praying for those who harmed Him. When He died, the earth shook and the temple curtain tore in two, showing that through His sacrifice, people could now come directly to God. Jesus was placed in a tomb, and guards were posted to keep watch.
On the third day, something amazing happened. An angel rolled the stone away, and Jesus rose from the dead! The women who came to the tomb were the first to hear the good news. Jesus appeared to His disciples, proving that He was alive. Their fear turned into joy and strong faith.
Before returning to heaven, Jesus gave His followers the Great Commission: to go and make disciples of all nations, teaching them to obey His commands. He promised, “I am with you always.” Matthew ends with hope—Jesus conquered death and offers new life to everyone who believes in Him.