Focus on Matthew is part of the Focus Bible Study Series which contains studies of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The Focus Bible Study Series is the perfect guide for in-depth scripture study. Each book in the series includes informative commentary, thought-provoking study questions and experiential group activities that encourage a deeper understanding of scripture. The journal format has lots of space for writing and encourages personal reflection and spiritual growth. The Focus Bible Study Series is ideal for individual or group study and reflection, adult classes, small-faith communities, retreats and midweek Bible study groups. Each book features: Thought-provoking study questions with space for written responses - A wealth of ideas to promote prayer and journal meditations that build faith and understanding of the scriptures - Numerous suggestions for activities that promote experiential learning and meaningful discussion to encourage spiritual growth. "The Focus series welcomes the reader into a journey of discovery in which personal experience interacts with the biblical text. An abundance of great material makes this an excellent program for groups of any denomination wishing to find the meaning of the scripture in their lives.” - Sr. Macrina Scott, O.S.F., under of the Denver Catholic Biblical School and author of Picking the “Right” Bible Study Program and Bible Stories Revisited “The Focus books were very helpful in getting our Bible study group started, offering a sound basis for reflection and discussion. I highly recommend these guides to any Bible study group.” -Stephen Wilson, Canon Evangelist, St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral, Denver, CO Dirk deVries is a former youth pastor, Christian education director, curriculum developer, writer, and editor. A photographer, he leads workshops involving spirituality and photography, and his photos are featured on book covers, curricular resources, and calendars. He is also author of the blog The 60-Second Sabbath and attends St. John's Episcopal Cathedral in Denver. He lives in Denver, Colorado. FOCUS ON MATTHEW a study guide for groups & individuals By Carol Cheney Donahoe Church Publishing Incorporated Copyright © 2001 Morehouse Education Resources All rights reserved. ISBN: 978-1-889108-69-8 Contents Introduction to the Series, v, Introduction to The Gospel of Matthew, ix, Matthew 1–4 The Coming of the Messiah, 1, Matthew 5–7 The Teaching of the Messiah, 17, Matthew 8:1–11:1 Messianic Ministry and Mission, 35, Matthew 11:2–12:50 Opposition and Response, 49, Matthew 13:1–52 Seeing and Hearing the Messiah, 63, Matthew 13:53–16:20 The Messiah Revealed, 74, Matthew 16:21–18:35 Following the Messiah, 88, Matthew 19–20 Journey to Jerusalem, 100, Matthew 21–23 The Messiah's Authority, 113, Matthew 24–25 The Vision of Things to Come, 127, Matthew 26:1–27:26 The Last Supper, Arrest and Trial, 140, Matthew 27:27–28:20 Crucifixion, Resurrection and Commission, 152, Bibliography, 164, CHAPTER 1 Matthew 1–4 The Coming of the Messiah Our first study in Matthew covers several major events: Jesus' birth, his baptism, his temptation and the beginning of his ministry. Though we may wish for more biographical details, Matthew's intent is to present the Messiah; he thus devotes most of the book to Jesus' ministry and message. Read the first four chapters of Matthew, watching for hints of important themes: • Jesus as Messiah • the fulfillment of God's purpose in history • Jesus as the Messiah to both Jews and non-Jews • Jesus in conflict with religious leaders • Jesus and the message of the kingdom Find The Facts Who is the main character? How is he introduced? Where is he born? How does he get to Nazareth? What is the first recorded event of his adult life? What happens to Jesus in the wilderness? When and where does he begin to preach? Who are the first disciples? What are the major aspects of Jesus' ministry? Consider: 1. Make a simple outline of the important segments of the first four chapters of Matthew. Give titles to the various sections. 2. What is important about the birth of Jesus according to Matthew? What seems most significant about the visit of the wise men from the East? 3. What role does John the Baptist play? Describe his personality. Why do you think he became so popular with the people? 4. What events prepare Jesus for his ministry? In what way does each event add to Jesus' understanding of his calling? Matthew 1:1-25 Before launching into the main body of his work, the story of Jesus' public ministry and teaching, Matthew sets the scene by describing the background and birth of Jesus. Matthew establishes Jesus' credentials by identifying Jesus both theologically and genealogically in the first verse. He introduces Jesus as the Christ (Heb. Messiah ) and traces his family tree back through David, the king from whose line the Messiah was expected, to Abraham, the traditional father of the natio