INTRODUCTION MATTHEW | 1525
of the entire world ( e . g ., 8:5 – 13 ; 12:21 ). Matthew emphasizes that the kingdom of heaven has arrived with Jesus — but at the same time , the kingdom has not yet come in its fullness ( compare 4:17 ; 26:29 ). That will happen with Jesus ’ return ( 24:3 – 31 ).
Matthew uses the designation Son of David to point to Jesus ’ human lineage from King David in the Old Testament , showing Jesus ’ legitimate right to the throne ( 1:1 – 17 ). In addition , Matthew emphasizes Jesus ’ identity as the divine Son of God ( 3:14 – 17 ), who has authority to control nature , heal disease and forgive sin . The theme of authority runs just below the surface of the entire Gospel — in the miracle stories , in Jesus ’ teachings and parables , and in his confrontations with the religious leaders . In everything he does , Jesus is acting in the name and power of God himself .
By the end of Matthew ’ s Gospel , some of Jesus ’ disciples are worshiping him — and it is here that it becomes apparent that the people realize what we have also found to be true : Jesus is God himself ( 28:17 ). Today , we proclaim Jesus as our Jewish Messiah , who is also our King and God ! He is all we ever hoped for and far more . And this savior , Jesus , inspires us to both praise him and take action — he motivates us to make disciples of all nations , a work that is far from done ( 28:18 – 20 ).