Matthew 2

Matthew 2:1-2 Bethlehem was a small village on the outskirts of Jerusalem. The religious leaders knew that Bethlehem would be the birthplace of the Messiah from the prophecy of Micah, and they tell this to Herod in v. 5-6 (Mic. 5:2; John 7:42). Herod the Great, referred to here, ruled from 37–4 B.C. He was … Read more

Matthew 1:1-25

The reason Matthew begins with a study of the Genealogy is to establish the credentials of the promised King of Israel. Genealogy in Greek has the same root as Genesis or beginning. In Israel genealogy was essential to establish one’s credentials.  Ezra 2:62 speaks of the returning exiles who ‘searched for their family records but could … Read more

Matthew 5:3-12 – Beattitudes

Once in a while I’m asked to do a study on a specific portion of Scripture.  While we’re waiting for the other shoe to drop in the Middle East, I’d like to respond to one I received recently concerning a portion of the Sermon on the Mount commonly called “The Beatitudes”.  It’s found in Matthew … Read more

Matthew 23:1-39

Matthew 23:1 – The seat of Moses referred to both a literal seat where the most honored Rabbi sat. It was called the seat of Moses because not only did Moses know the Law but was able to interpret the Law and render judgment. This was the role of the chief Rabbi in every community … Read more

Matthew 27:1-26

Matthew 27:1-2 – When morning came the Sanhedrin gathered again to pretend that they were reaching a decision in the day, which was legal. According to law the Sanhedrin had to wait 3 days before carrying out the sentence and in the intervening time they were to fast. This would give more time to allow … Read more

Matthew 26:1-75

Matthew 26:1-2 – Jesus declares that in two days He is going to be delivered up for crucifixion. The leadership had determined to rid themselves of Jesus because he was a continual threat to their authority. They worried about the volatile atmosphere that existed in Jerusalem and their cozy arrangement that they had with Rome. … Read more

Matthew 25:1-46

Matthew 25:1-5 – When the Messiah appears it will be the Groom coming with His bride at an unexpected time. The wise virgins are those who are ready when the groom comes while the unwise are not prepared for His coming. The illustration that Jesus gives here lets it be understood that there will be … Read more

Matthew 24:1-51

Matthew 24:1– This section is known as the Olivet discourse because it was given to His disciples on the Mt. of Olives. It describes the sign of the Messiah’s coming and the discourse was precipitated by Jesus’ remarks concerning the destruction of Herod’s Temple. The Apostles had just spoken in complementary words of the beauty … Read more

Matthew 2:1-23

Matthew 2:1-2 Bethlehem was a small village on the outskirts of Jerusalem. The religious leaders knew that Bethlehem would be the birthplace of the Messiah from the prophecy of Micah, and they tell this to Herod in v. 5-6 (Mic. 5:2; John 7:42). Herod the Great, referred to here, ruled from 37–4 B.C. He was … Read more