Book 1 of 27 in the New Testament — Jesus as promised King.
Matthew, writing primarily for a Jewish audience, presents Jesus as the long-promised King and Messiah who fulfills Old Testament prophecy at every turn. The Gospel is organized around five major blocks of Jesus' teaching, including the Sermon on the Mount, interspersed with narratives of his ministry, miracles, and growing conflict with religious leaders. It traces Jesus from his genealogy back to Abraham through his death and resurrection, closing with the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations. Matthew's constant refrain — that events happened ‘to fulfill what was spoken’ — anchors Jesus firmly in Israel's story.
“Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.”King James Version
Jesus' birth fulfills the prophecy of Immanuel, “God with us.”
“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”King James Version
The Beatitudes open with blessing on the poor in spirit.
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”King James Version
Jesus calls his followers to seek God's kingdom first above all else.
“And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”King James Version
Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the living God.
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”King James Version
The Great Commission sends disciples to make disciples of all nations.