The Gospel of Matthew, the first book of the New Testament, is one of the four canonical gospels. Written for a primarily Jewish audience, it presents Jesus as the promised Messiah, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. This gospel emphasizes the teaching of Jesus and his redemptive mission. Here is how the Catholic Church interprets and understands this gospel:
I- Author and Context
Traditionally attributed to the apostle Matthew, this text was written in the first century AD. Matthew, also known as Levi, was a tax collector before following Jesus. The gospel is intended for Jewish Christians, seeking to show that Jesus is the Messiah awaited by Israel, fulfilling the Scriptures.
II- The Genealogy and Birth of Jesus
The Gospel of Matthew begins with the genealogy of Jesus, tracing back to Abraham and emphasizing his Davidic heritage (Matthew 1:1-17). This genealogy establishes Jesus as the legitimate descendant of David, important to the Jews who expected a Messiah from the line of David. Matthew then recounts the birth of Jesus, emphasizing the fulfillment of the prophecies (Matthew 1:18-25). The accounts of the visit of the wise men and the flight into Egypt (Matthew 2:1-23) show Jesus' recognition as king and divine protection over his mission.
III- The Sermon on the Mount
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is one of Jesus' most important teachings, presenting the Beatitudes, teachings on justice, prayer, fasting, and human relationships. For Catholics, this sermon is an essential guide to the Christian life, showing the path to perfection and holiness. Jesus elevates the demands of the Law, calling for a justice that exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees.
IV- The Miracles and Teachings of Jesus
Matthew recounts many of Jesus' miracles, attesting to his divine power and compassion (Matthew 8-9). He also presents parables, such as that of the Sower, the Kingdom of Heaven, and the talents (Matthew 13, 25). These miracles and parables teach about the Kingdom of God and invite the faithful to faith and vigilance.
V- The Mission of the Apostles
In Matthew 10, Jesus sends his twelve apostles on a mission, giving them authority to heal the sick and preach the Kingdom. This passage highlights the role of the Church in continuing Jesus' mission, emphasizing the importance of evangelism and service.
VI- Conflicts with Religious Authorities
Matthew describes the numerous conflicts between Jesus and the religious authorities of his time (Matthew 12, 23). Jesus criticizes the Pharisees and scribes for their hypocrisy and lack of justice and mercy. For Catholics, these passages remind us of the need for sincerity in faith and the importance of mercy and justice.
VII- The Prophecies of the Passion and the Last Supper
Jesus repeatedly prophesies his passion, death, and resurrection (Matthew 16:21-23, 20:17-19). At the Last Supper, he instituted the Eucharist, offering his body and blood as spiritual nourishment (Matthew 26:26-30). For Catholics, the Eucharist is the heart of liturgical life and a central mystery of the faith.
VIII- The Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus
Matthew chapters 26-28 describe the betrayal, arrest, trial, crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus. These events are the climax of the gospel, showing the fulfillment of God's plan of salvation. The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of the Christian faith, attesting to his victory over death and the gift of eternal life.
IX- The Great Commandment and the Universal Mission
Before ascending into heaven, Jesus gives his disciples the Great Commandment to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to observe everything he commanded (Matthew 28:18-20). This universal mission reminds Catholics of their call to evangelize and to bear witness to God's love throughout the world.
X- Conclusion: A Gospel of Fidelity and Mission
The Gospel of Saint Matthew is a powerful testimony to the life, teachings, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It shows how Jesus fulfills the Old Testament promises and ushers in the Kingdom of God. For Catholics, this gospel is an essential guide to living as faithful disciples of Jesus, called to holiness, justice, and mission.
May we, by meditating on the Gospel according to Saint Matthew, deepen our faith in Jesus Christ, live according to his teachings, and participate with zeal in the mission of the Church, announcing the Good News of the Kingdom of God to all nations .
