20231003 NBST515 Gospel Christology Paper DK

1 The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus the Messiah Douglas A Kuhl NBST515: New Testament Orientation I October 5, 2023

2 Contents Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 3 Messianic Prophecies and Genealogy in Matthew (Matthew 1:1-4:16) .................................... 4 Teachings and Ministry of Jesus in the Messianic Context (Matthew 4:17-18:35) ................. 7 Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7) ......................................................................................... 7 Authority Over Disease and Demons (Matt 8-9) ................................................................. 7 The Parables of the Kingdom (Matt13) ............................................................................... 8 Peter's Confession (Matt 16:13-20) ..................................................................................... 8 The Transfiguration (Matt 17:1-13) ..................................................................................... 9 Jesus' Messianic Mission: From the Cross to the Future Kingdom (Matthew 19:1-25:46). 10 The Looming Shadow (Matt 19:1-29) ............................................................................... 10 Triumphal Entry (Matt 21:1-11) ........................................................................................ 10 Jesus Enters the Temple (Matt 21:12-16) .......................................................................... 11 Son Of David? (Matt 22:41) .............................................................................................. 11 Olivet Discourse (Matt 24:1-25:46) ................................................................................... 12 Crucifixion and Resurrection as Fulfillment (Matthew 26:1 -28:20) ..................................... 13 The Cross at the Center (Matt 26:1-16) ............................................................................. 14 The Passover with the Disciples (Matt 26:17-35) ............................................................. 14 The Garden of Gethsemane (Matt 26:36-56) ..................................................................... 15 Sanhedrin Trial: Confrontation and Contempt (Matt 26:57-75) ........................................ 15 Roman Trial and Crucifixion: Manipulation and Responsibility (Matt 27:1-31) .............. 15 The Crucifixion (Matt 27:32-44) ....................................................................................... 16 Resurrection (Matt 28:1-20) .............................................................................................. 16 Conclusion .................................................................................................................................... 17 Bibliography ................................................................................................................................. 18

4 Testament prophecies and themes. This deliberate alignment emphasizes that Jesus is the long- awaited Messiah, the promised deliverer of Israel who brings to fruition the hopes and aspirations of generations past. In Matthew's perspective, the life and ministry of Jesus provide a profound testament to the enduring connection between the Jewish faith and the Messiah, demonstrating how Jesus, in fulfillment of divine prophecy, bridges the gap between the ancient promises and their ultimate realization in the person of the Messiah. 2 Messianic Prophecies and Genealogy in Matthew (Matthew 1:1-4:16) In the opening chapters of Matthew's Gospel, we witness a deliberate effort to establish Jesus as the rightful heir to the two great covenants and the Davidic throne. Matthew artfully ties Jesus to the lineage that validates His Messianic claims. He skillfully weaves together the threads of Old Testament prophecy and covenantal theology to present a compelling case for Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. 3 Matthew's Gospel begins by emphasizing Jesus' connection to the two great covenants of the Old Testament: the Abrahamic and the Davidic covenants. These two figures were crucial starting points for tracing the lineage of the Messiah. By tracing Jesus' genealogy back to Abraham, the father of the Jewish people, and through King David, the ancestor of the promised Messiah, Matthew underscores that Jesus is the fulfillment of these sacred covenants. Through 2 Richard T. France, “Matthew,” in New Bible Commentary: 21st Century Edition , ed. D. A. Carson et al., 4th ed. (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994), 904. 3 Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures , ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 18.

5 Jesus, the promises made to Abraham regarding a blessing to all nations and the promise of a royal descendant to David find their ultimate realization. 4 Matthew goes further to establish Jesus as the rightful heir to the throne of David. This is not merely a genealogical exercise but a theological affirmation of Jesus' Messianic role. By showcasing Jesus' lineage and descent from David, Matthew presents Jesus as the legitimate suitor to the Messianic throne. Dr. Stacy explores the distinct portrayals of Jesus by each of the gospel writers in his lectures, claiming that each writer provides a "unique perspective." 5 Jesus' Messianic significance is emphasized throughout Matthew's gospel. Matthew alludes to the prophecy found in Jeremiah 22:30, which states, "Thus says the LORD: “Write this man down as childless, a man who shall not succeed in his days, for none of his offspring shall succeed in sitting on the throne of David and ruling again in Judah” (English Standard Version). By demonstrating that Jesus is a descendant of the royal line despite this prophecy, Matthew suggests a significant theological point: Jesus' Messianic role transcends the limitations of human prophecies and expectations. In essence, Matthew's meticulous presentation of Jesus' genealogy not only ties Him to the great covenants and the Davidic throne but also emphasizes His divine appointment as the ultimate fulfillment of these promises. This establishes a strong foundation for the overarching 4 Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset, and David Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible , vol. 2 (Oak Harbor, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 1997), 5. 5 Robert Wayne Stacy. “The Four Gospels – Matthew and Mark” (video lecture in NBST 515 at Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA. n.d. Accessed October 5, 2023) https://liberty university.instructure.com/courses/517863/pages/watch-the-four-gospels-matthew-and- mark? module_item_id=55694946

7 genuine transformation of heart and mind was a prerequisite for citizenship in the kingdom of heaven. This dynamic shift in perspective reveals the depth of spiritual renewal required and underscores the significance of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, the central figure in the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, making way for a new understanding of the kingdom that was about to unfold. 7 Teachings and Ministry of Jesus in the Messianic Context (Matthew 4:17-18:35) Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7) Through both His words and actions, Jesus unmistakably validated His identity as the Messiah in the early chapters of the Gospel (chapters 3-4). However, it was in the profound Sermon on the Mount (chapters 5-7) that He not only articulated the prerequisites for entering His Kingdom but also revealed the path to access it. In this iconic discourse, Jesus taught with unparalleled authority, setting forth a loftier standard of righteousness. He emphatically stated, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them" (Matthew 5:17), underscoring His role as the ultimate fulfillment of the law. Within this comprehensive teaching, Jesus laid out a blueprint for life in the Kingdom of Heaven, centering on principles of love, forgiveness, and inner transformation, thereby illuminating the path for all who seek to follow Him. 8 Authority Over Disease and Demons (Matt 8-9) Questions loomed in the minds of the Jewish people: Could this mysterious figure truly be the Messiah, and could He enact the transformative changes needed to usher in the long- anticipated kingdom? Did He possess the power to bring about such profound shifts? To 7 Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures , ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 24. 8 Ibid., 36.

8 address these inquiries, Matthew meticulously presented a series of miracles, effectively verifying the King's legitimacy to Israel and substantiating His capability to fulfill His divine promises. Through these miracles, Christ demonstrated His authority across various domains. His remarkable ability to heal the infirm and expel demons with a mere word or touch showcased His Messianic authority, serving as tangible signs heralding the imminent arrival of the Kingdom, where suffering and evil would ultimately be vanquished. 9 The Parables of the Kingdom (Matt13) As the long-awaited Messiah and King demonstrated His authority through numerous miracles, opposition to Him grew, culminating in Israel's leaders claiming that Jesus drew His power from evil forces (Matthew 9:34; 12:22-37). Although their complete rejection of Him would come later, a defining moment had been reached. Consequently, Jesus redirected His focus toward instructing His disciples in a new direction. He used parables to explain the essence of the Kingdom of Heaven, highlighting its development, inherent value, and the eventual separation of the good from the bad. Jesus revealed hidden information about the Kingdom in this lesson, highlighting how important it is to understand and respond to its profound message. 10 Peter's Confession (Matt 16:13-20) This is the zenith of the first part of the gospel, during which we have witnessed a wide variety of reactions to the challenging work of Jesus, and it is here that the gospel reaches its apex. The perspectives of others find their encapsulation in verse 14, where Jesus is positioned 9 Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures , ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 36. 10 Ibid., 48.

10 The pivotal journey toward Jerusalem, and consequently toward Christ’s crucifixion, was set in motion as He departed Galilee. It marked the beginning of a trajectory that would not bring Jesus back to Galilee until after His resurrection (Matthew 28:16). With every step, the looming shadow of the cross grew more pronounced, casting its somber weight upon the group as they journeyed southward. During this journey, Jesus persistently and purposefully continued to instruct His disciples, reshaping their understanding and readiness for the profound events that lay ahead. 14 Triumphal Entry (Matt 21:1-11) As Jesus and His disciples approached Jerusalem from the east, they arrived in the town of Bethphage on the eastern slopes of the Mount of Olives. Here, Jesus instructed two disciples to fetch a donkey and its colt for His use during His “Triumphal Entry”. Jesus instructed His disciples that if anyone questioned their actions, they should simply say, "The Lord needs them," asserting His Messianic authority to request what He needed. This act of riding the donkey and its colt fulfilled the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9, symbolizing the gentle arrival of the King, emphasizing peace rather than conquest, in contrast to the typical arrival of conquering kings on horses. 15 Jesus Enters the Temple (Matt 21:12-16) In a powerful demonstration of His Messianic authority, Jesus enters the temple and forcefully expels those who were buying and selling within its sacred walls. He goes on to overturn the tables of the money changers, disrupting the commercial activities that had taken hold. Amid this cleansing, the afflicted, including the blind and the lame, find their way to Him 14 Ibid., 929. 15 Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures , ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 67.

11 within the temple, and Jesus miraculously heals them. Everything Jesus is and does is purposeful, good and accomplishes His sovereign plan. This act of purification and healing signifies the Messiah's preparation of the people's worship for the imminent arrival of the great day of the Lord. However, rather than receiving unanimous praise, Jesus' actions provoke not only popular acclaim, but also official opposition. Unapologetic, He goes on to further incite controversy by endorsing the children's cries that hail Him as the Son of David, citing Psalm 8:2, which exalts the praise of God. In this way, Matthew portrays Jesus, unmistakably, as the Messiah, unyielding in His mission to purify and restore, while also stirring both fervent support and institutional resentment. 16 Son Of David? (Matt 22:41) The profound question arises: If the Messiah were solely an earthly descendant of David, why did David attribute divine qualities to Him? This mystery is encapsulated in Jesus' quotation from a messianic psalm, Psalm 110:1, where David refers to the Messiah as "my Lord." The term "Lord" here is translated from the Hebrew 'ădōnāy, a title exclusively used for God in the Old Testament. This designation signifies that the Messiah must transcend mere human lineage, for if David, a revered figure in Israel's history, acknowledges this Son as "Lord," it unequivocally implies a divine dimension to the Messiah's identity, far surpassing a mere human son of David. 17 Olivet Discourse (Matt 24:1-25:46) 16 Richard T. France, “Matthew,” in New Bible Commentary: 21st Century Edition , ed. D. A. Carson et al., 4th ed. (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994), 931. 17 Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures , ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 73.

13 Crucifixion and Resurrection as Fulfillment (Matthew 26:1 -28:20) Following the Olivet Discourse, Jesus alerted His disciples to the approaching Passover, underscoring His impending crucifixion. The events of Wednesday in Matthew 26:1–16 laid the groundwork for a conspiracy among religious leaders to assassinate Him, while Mary's touching gesture, anointing His body for burial (Matthew 26:12), demonstrated her deep devotion. Despite Jesus foretelling His death on multiple occasions, such as in Matthew 16:21, 17:22, and 20:18, the disciples seemed to lack belief, with Mary standing as an exception in her faithful act. This narrative further reveals the acceleration of the religious leaders' plans as Judas Iscariot's betrayal must have been viewed as a godsend. They probably did not intend to deal with Jesus until after the feast had past and the pilgrims depart for their homes. This highlights the divergence between human intentions and God's ultimate purpose, ultimately pointing to Jesus as the Messiah. 20 The Cross at the Center (Matt 26:1-16) The stage is now set for this unfolding drama's passionate climax. In His dramatic arrival into Jerusalem, Jesus sent an intense challenge, setting the stage for an eventual confrontation in which He rejected Israel's official leadership and pronounced God's judgment on "this generation." The events prophesied in Matthew 16:21 and 20:18-19 began to unfold quickly, with the cross at their center. Even as the cross loomed, it constituted a key turning point in the drama, emphasizing Jesus' pivotal role as the Messiah. 21 The Passover with the Disciples (Matt 26:17-35) 937. 20 Louis A. Barbieri Jr., “Matthew,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures , ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 81. 21 Richard T. France, “Matthew,” in New Bible Commentary: 21st Century Edition , ed. D. A. Carson et al., 4th ed. (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994), 938.

14 In Matthew 26:17–35, we witness the final hours of Jesus and His disciples during the Passover meal, a celebration marking the Israelites' deliverance from Egypt. In this intimate setting, Jesus transformed the Passover into what Christians now commemorate as the Lord's Supper. Through the breaking of bread and sharing of wine, He symbolically portrayed His forthcoming sacrifice—the broken body and shed blood that would grant forgiveness for all humanity's sins. This act established God's new covenant, in fulfillment of Jeremiah 31:31–34, and we continue this ritual to honor Christ's atoning death and to await His glorious return, affirming His role as the Messiah. 22 The Garden of Gethsemane (Matt 26:36-56) Throughout their week in a crowded Jerusalem during Passover, Jesus and His disciples may have sought solace in the olive garden of Gethsemane. Following the "Passover Supper," Jesus retreats to this garden to engage in prayer. Wrestling with profound sorrow and distress in anticipation of the impending suffering, He earnestly implores for an alternative path if it aligns with God's divine plan. Jesus' desire for human connection during this difficult hour, while His disciples slept, demonstrates His human nature. However, the chapter emphasizes His unwavering devotion to the Father's will at all costs. The conclusion is that Jesus is the Messiah by combining human weakness and divine obedience. 23 Sanhedrin Trial: Confrontation and Contempt (Matt 26:57-75) As the Jewish leaders bring Jesus before the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish court, Jesus 22 Craig L. Blomberg, “Matthew,” in Holman Concise Bible Commentary , ed. David S. Dockery (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1998), 423–424. 23 Richard T. France, “Matthew,” in New Bible Commentary: 21st Century Edition , ed. D. A. Carson et al., 4th ed. (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994), 940.

16 prophecies, and His cry, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" precisely mirrors Psalm 22:1. Jesus knew that precisely because He was the Messiah, He had to endure the cross. This collective rejection by His own people emphasizes the profound message of Jesus as the Messiah, willingly enduring the cross for humanity's redemption. 26 Resurrection (Matt 28:1-20) At the story's climax, Jesus appears as the resurrected King holding absolute sovereignty. With this unprecedented authority, Jesus commissions His disciples to multiply disciples to spread His kingdom throughout the world. Baptizing and teaching are two key practices that illuminate the heart of discipleship. Their mission necessitates a firm commitment to the new covenant and symbolized by baptism, as well as a life defined by the redemptive work of Jesus. Matthew ends with Jesus telling His disciple that He will always be with them to the end of the age. They are encouraged in their efforts by the constant presence of the one who promised to appear "where two or three come together in my name" (Matthew 18:20). These words echo the profound truth of Emmanuel, "God with us" (Matthew 1:23), affirming Jesus' divine status. 27 Conclusion In conclusion, the Gospel of Matthew stands as a testament to Jesus' unmistakable portrayal as the long-awaited Messiah of Israel. Through the meticulous craftsmanship of the author, deeply rooted in Jewish tradition, we witness the unfolding of God's divine plan as Jesus fulfills the profound expectations of the Jewish people. Matthew's narrative is a mosaic of fulfillment, weaving together the threads of Old Testament prophecies, teachings, and actions of Jesus to emphasize His role as the promised deliverer of Israel. In the pages of this gospel, we 26 Ibid., 943. 27 Richard T. France, “Matthew,” in New Bible Commentary: 21st Century Edition , ed. D. A. Carson et al., 4th ed. (Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, 1994), 944.

17 find a bridge between the ancient promises and their ultimate realization in the person of the Messiah, solidifying Jesus' identity as the central figure in the rich tapestry of Jewish faith. The Gospel of Matthew serves as a compelling and enduring testimony to the profound connection between Judaism and the Messiah, affirming that Jesus is the embodiment of God's promises, bringing hope, salvation, and fulfillment to all generations.