Download the complete summary on Year A and an introduction to Matthew  

What do we know about the Gospel writer Matthew?
Many assume the book was written by Matthew, the tax collector called by Jesus to be a disciple or his own students. Some dispute this, believing the book was written anonymously by someone from the second generation after Jesus and attributed to the disciple. This Gospel was written with a Jewish-Christian audience in mind. The writer knew the Old Testament and assumes the audience knows it as well. This Gospel is about the same length as the combined Luke and Acts, a length of a scroll. This Gospel (like the Gospel of Luke) probably used the Gospel of Mark and another source for it foundation. Consequently, there are close parallel verses in the Gospels of Mark, Matthew, and Luke.

What is unique about the Gospel of Matthew?
This Gospel emphasizes the teaching of Jesus. Jesus is portrayed clearly as a rabbi who teaches and challenges his followers. Much time is spent showing the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies. (Note the many references and quotes from the Old Testament.) The Gospel is organized into five discourses. (Many believe these five sections relate to the Torah, the first books of the Old Testament.) Jesus is also concerned with matters related to the church, including conflicts in the church. (It is the only Gospel to mention the word ‘church’.) There is an emphasis on righteousness. What does it mean to be right with God?

What can the Gospel of Matthew teach about being a disciple of Jesus Christ?
Disciples in Matthew are depicted as ones who often understand the teachings of Jesus, but do not always have faith. Disciples of all ages are invited to understand the teachings of Jesus, trust him, make a commitment to follow Jesus, live a righteous life, and go make disciples of others.