Study Guide for Matthew

The writer is convinced that the Scriptures are their own best commentary. Therefore, the purpose of this study guide is to help us understand Matthew's Gospel in its purpose and context. The study guide includes a literal and expanded translation, word studies, limited vocabulary and grammatical analysis, historical background, geographical referencesw, explanations of customs and idioms. Matthew's basic appeal was to a Jewish audience which was in the process of evaluating the personal ministry of Jesus. Therefore, Matthew attempted to convince the Jews that Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ, and that the Scriptures have been fulfilled in Him. A strong secondary purpose was to show that Jesus was training the disciples in kingdom principles, which they were to perpetuate until He returns the Second Time to establish the physical kingdom, based on the spiritual principles. - Preface.