SERIES: The Great Adventure
TITLE: A Look Ahead (Overview of Matthew)
Scripture: Various Scriptures in Matthew
I. THE PARTICULARS ABOUT MATTHEW
The silent years following the writing of Malachi:
Persian Empire-> Alexander the Great-> Antiochus IV Epiphanes -> Maccabean Revolt -> Pompey -> Julius Caesar -> Gaius Octavius (Caesar Augustus)
During this time the Septuigant (Greek translation of the OT) was written, as was the Apocrypha and the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Several social and religious developments also took place: synagogues. Religious sects (Pharisees) and (Essenes) were born.
Matthew, Mark, and Luke called (Synoptic gospels) because similar to each other in viewpoint, content, narrative flow and style. Matthew wrote his book with a (Jewish flavor). His purpose was to show the Jews was (Messiah).
The (Law) is prevalent, in particular, as Jesus clashes with the religious rulers. Matthew shows the rejection of the Jews, and the acceptance of the Gentiles.
II. THE KEY POINTS ABOUT MATTHEW
2 prominent issues rise to the top;
- The (Kingdom of Heaven)
- (Hypocrisy) & (Self-Righteousness)
How does Matthew present Jesus?
- The King who was (revealed).
- The King who was (rejected).
- The King who will return to (judge and rule).
NEXT WEEK: TGA: Sound Advice
Title: Getting Your Head on Straight
Scripture: Matthew 22L34-40
