WELCOME TO THE GOSPEL OF ST MATTHEW A

WELCOME TO THE GOSPEL OF ST. MATTHEW! A Lenten study series of Our Lord Jesus Christ • Tonight we will try to cover Matthew 3 – Matthew 7 • But let us continue where we left off last week! – Matthew 2

A FEW COMMENTS FROM YOU VIA EMAIL! � Women are shown as the lesser sex…. . i. e. adultery, prostitution, getting stoned, etc. Yet, God picked Mary…. . and Mary alone. He didn’t pick a man to father Jesus. He shows how significant Mary is by choosing her. Not to mention her incredible strength & faith that is shown so vividly. � The Jews get a bad rap about not believing that Jesus has come. But, really…. how are they any worse than the people here that believe Jesus came yet they aren’t willing to worship? So, I know they didn’t read the signs & they missed it…. . but, aren’t we just like the Jews because we continually turn our backs on Jesus. We chose to believe what we want to accommodate OUR lives. The only difference is we proclaim our belief that Jesus was here & they don’t. The struggle is the same though, don’t you think? � My answer is “I totally agree!”

ANOTHER EMAIL RESPONSE � Thank you for the instruction on the Gospel of Matthew. It is always good to grow in the depth and knowledge of Scripture. Like I said last night, I was not aware that Matthew was writing from the perspective of convincing the Jewish people of the Messiah. But as I was thinking about it, the thoughts you left us with at the end carried great meaning for me too. That is. , how the four various groups you mentioned accepted or rejected it (the birth of our Lord. ) That made me pause to think on how it is also taken in so many different ways by our modern culture, even to the point where scripture is read, in the darkness, where it promotes sin. Of course those Christians who read into it to promote so called same sex marriage or population control by artificial means or abortion for the love of women feel they are doing God's will in the name of love. That is sad and points to how fortunate we are to have Christ's Church, the Catholic Church, that remains steadfast in regard to these teachings. When Jesus passed the keys to St. Peter he did so with purpose. I am thankful for the Church and hope and pray that the world will see more clearly the love of Christ through his bride, the Church, than it seems to at the present time.

INTRO TO MATTHEW 3 � Matthew rounds out the prologue to his gospel by painting a picture of Christ’s early reception by the world. � Contrary to what one might expect, it is the Gentile magi who were drawn to worship the newborn King, while the Jews were troubled by the news and King Herod tried to kill him. It might be that people were not expecting a king from such humble circumstances.

INTRO � Yet, St. Matthew is full of quotes and allusions to the old Testement that show the birth of this child is the fulfillment of God’s promise; � Micah propheesied a great king in Bethelehm. � Isaiah forteold Gentile Kings bearing gifts � When the holy family settled in nazareth, they fulfilled prophecies that a righteous “branch” would come from David’s lline.

5 BOOKS OF MATTHEW BY JEFF CAVINS

BOOK 1 – ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE KINGDOM � Matt. Chapters 3 -4 lead up to the first book of Matthew � Remember he is trying to persuade the Jewish people that the Messiah has come. Note: he doesn’t just drop the hammer, he meets them where they are at, and things that they would be very comfortable with. � Geneology – Abraham and King David � He uses Psalms to say how Christ is the fulfillment

MATTHEW CHAPTERS 3 -4 � Are the narrative that leads up to his first big nugget that he really wants to tell them in Chapters 5 -7. � In chapters 5 -7, Matthew wants to make an announcement of the Kingdom – kingdom is used more than 50 times in Matthew’s gospel � Matthew leads up to that in chapters 3 -4 where he speaks of John the Baptist, and Jesus’ early mission � Then the pearl in chapters 5 -7, is the sermon on the mount.

WHAT IS THE ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE KINGDOM � What is the kingdom of heaven? � John the Baptist came as a forerunner to Jesus, proclaiming the coming of the “kingdom of heaven”. � This � What is also the central theme of Jesus’ mission is that kingdom? ?

WHAT IS THAT KINGDOM? � The Kingdom of heaven, or the kingdom of God, or the kingdom of the Lord all have to do with kingship as much as a kingdom. � � In Matthew’s gospel, the word “kingdom” is used more than 50 times. “Kingdom of God” is used 4 times. “Kingdom of heaven” is used 32 times. This concept reflects the Old Testament concept of God’s reign over his people Israel. In 1 Chronicles 28: 5, King David tells of the Lord’s choice of his son Solomon, “to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the Lord over Israel” God promised to establish David’s throne or kingdom forever – but that throne and kingdom clearly belonged to God.

MORE ON THE KINGDOM? � � � Thus the kingdom of God became identified with Israel’s everlasting rule over the nations: a rule that disappeared when Judah (the southern kingdom after David and Solomon’s kingdom divided under Solomon’s son, and the same kingdom which preserved the reign of the Davidic line) was exiled in 587 BC. The people returned to Judea 70 years later but the promise of a king on the throne was not destroyed even though it was not visibly apparent. Some 500 years later after Christ’s birth, the Jews hope and pray for the fulfillment of God’s promise to Davidic king to sit upon that throne and reign in justice and righteousness over his everlasting, glorious kingdom.

KINGDOM OF HEAVEN FOR 2 REASONS? � 1. it undercuts the political and military expectations surrounding the Messiah; many Jews hoped only for an earthly kingdom (John 6: 15) � 2. While Christ’s kingdom begins on the earth, it will reach its full perfection in heaven. – Luke 4: 43 � Catechism 541 - "To carry out the will of the Father Christ inaugurated the kingdom of heaven on earth. " Now the Father's will is "to raise up men to share in his own divine life". He does this by gathering men around his Son Jesus Christ. This gathering is the Church, "on earth the seed and beginning of that

THE BEGINNING OF JESUS’ MINISTRY 3: 1 -4: 11 � We begin this section by looking at Jesus’ forerunner and the ministry of St. John the Baptist? – 3: 1 -12 � Some questions we need to consider as we begin this search is � Where is the location? � What is the message? � Who is the messenger?

FIRST, WHERE IS THE LOCATION? � � The location Is it in the Wilderness? � � � For Israel the wilderness meant 40 years of Death!! One could say it was a time of probation too (Israel and Jesus were tested 40 days/years), but it became a place to live out the curse of death after 12 spies incident. This is where the scapegoat was sent with all the sins of the people. The haunt of demons. To go out to the wilderness a kind of “enacted confession” Is it at the Jordan River? � � � Symbol of what happens after confession and repentance -- you enter the promised land. Joshua crossed the Jordan River miraculously into the promised land -Elijah passes the torch to Elisha at the Jordan; here Jesus picks up torch from John Namaan healed of leprosy in the Jordan

WHAT IS THE MESSAGE? � � � The King is about to come -- He is at the door -- and with His coming Kingdom is coming judgment! God, through His Son Jesus, comes to assume His rightful and complete rule over a rebellious world. It is because that they are rebellious that repentance is necessary. Those who repent will be blessed, those who do not will be destroyed. This is at the heart of Matthew’s teaching. Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ ministry of preparing the hearts of the people for Jesus, and preparing them through the herald of John the Baptist to be ready for his coming. Repent = See 3: 6!! They were acknowledging their sins, Catechism § 1431 – repentance is a radical reorientation of our whole life, a return, a conversion to God with all our heart, an end of sin, a turning away from evil, with repugnance (hatred) for evil actions committed. - a desire to change!

WHO IS THE MESSENGER? � � The one promised in Isaiah 40 – promise of salvation –vs. 3 a voice cries out in the desert prepare the way of the Lord make straight his paths. Mat. 3: 3 = Is. 40: 3 Mat. 3: 4 - recalls the ascetic garb of Elijah (2 Kings 1: 8) � � � 2 Kings 1: 7 -8 – the king asked, what was the man like who came up to you and said these things? Wearing a hairy garment, with a leather girdle about his loins. It is Elijah – this is the forerunner of the Messiah Jesus later will identify John as “Elijah”. Elijah came close to the end of the Northern kingdom and he came in a dark time for Israel. He was a prophet who spoke of the end times. Every Jew would have known Malachi 4: 1 -5, which speaks of the messenger who they thought was Elijah was expected to return before the coming of the Messiah

WHAT ELSE DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE MESSENGER FROM MATTHEW? � Vs. 4 – his food was locusts and Wild Honey � This recalls the desert period after the Exodus and liberation of Jews from Egypt - but probably not in the sense of eager anticipation of reaching the promised land, but rather, it could be looked at as a penitential discipline. � Vs. 4 – his clothing was made of camel’s hair, and he had a leather belt. � Taken together, the location and dress of John the Baptist (reminiscent of Elijah) function as symbols to the people of their spiritual state and the action (repentance) they must take.

JOHN THE BAPTIST'S ANNOUNCEMENT � Who was John the Baptist and what was foretold of him in Luke 1: 5 -36? � Luke 1 – John the Baptist was sent by God as the forerunner of Jesus, to prepare the way of the Lord. He is a Levite – Luke 1: 5 � He was born to the priest Zechariah and his wife, Elizabeth, in their old age. He is a relative of Jesus – Luke 1: 36 � An angel of the Lord foretold that John would “be great before the Lord. ”

MORE ON JOHN THE BAPTIST � He would be filled with the Holy Spirit from conception and would turn many Israelites to God. � The angel also foretold that John would go before the Lord “in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared. – Luke 1: 17

WITH A LITTLE BACKGROUND WE PRESS FORWARD INTO CHAPTER 3 � What � His John preaches (3: 1– 4) message and purpose (3: 1– 3) � His message - As proclaimed (3: 1– 2): “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. ” � His purpose – was to prepare the way for Christ’s coming � As predicted (3: 3) : Isaiah the prophet foretold John’s ministry and message some 700 years earlier (Isa. 40: 3). – the voice crying out in the desert � His mantle (3: 4): He wears a garment of camel’s hair and a leather belt, and he eats locusts and wild honey

TO WHOM HE IS PREACHING � To whom John preaches (3: 5– 10) � To the people of Israel, (note it is not just Jerusalem) (3: 5– 6): Many accept his message, repent of their sins, and are baptized. � To the religious leaders of Israel (3: 7– 10) � John’s description of these wicked men (3: 7) : He refers to them as a brood of vipers – Vipers are snakes! � The leaders’ demand of John (3: 8– 10): He warns them to truly repent and do good works or be destroyed

FOR WHOM IS HE PREACHING? � For whom John preaches (3: 11– 12): � He is preparing the way for the coming of the Messiah

PHARISEES AND SCRIBES � The Pharisees and Scribes were religious leaders in Jesus’ day: � The Pharisee’s held themselves strictly separate from everything “unclean” and held people to strict standards of observing the law in order to be holy. � The Sadducees were descendants of Zadoch, high priest under King David, who had become corrupt and were pawns of the Romans. � What do you think John the Baptist meant by his warning in Mat. 3: 8 -12?

WHAT DOES JOHN MEAN BY THIS WARNING? � John is rebuking the Pharisees and Sadducees, who thought it was enough to obey the letter of the law even as they ignored its spirit. � He is telling them to repent and to act as they taught others, rather than presuming upon their positions. � He is persuading them to do well to heed and repent, for God’s purifying judgment was at hand – as evidenced by the coming of Jesus.

PRODUCE GOOD FRUIT AS EVIDENCE OF YOUR REPENTANCE? - VS. 8 � � � What does that mean? Catechism paragraph 678 tells us who will be judged on the last day? 678 - Following in the steps of the prophets and John the Baptist, Jesus announced the judgment of the Last Day in his preaching. Then will the conduct of each one and the secrets of hearts be brought to light. Then will the culpable unbelief that counted the offer of God's grace as nothing be condemned. Our attitude to our neighbor will disclose acceptance or refusal of grace and divine love. On the Last Day Jesus will say: "Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me. “ � What does this mean?

CCC 678 – SUMMARIZED � True repentance bears fruit in righteousness and doesn’t presume one is God’s child simply because one is born a Jew. � On the Last Day – the day of Judgment – both attitudes and actions will be revealed and judged, and those who refused the grace and love of God will be condemned.

WHAT DO THE PROPHETS FORETELL OF JOHN THE BAPTIST � If we look at these verses: � 2 Kings 1: 8 – what he will be wearing? � Malachi 4: 5 -6 – return of Elijah to prepare people? � Sirach 48: 4, 9 -10 – Elijah did not die? � What Old Testament prophet does Matthew’s description of John the Baptist bring to mind, and what do Malachi and Sirach say about that prophet? � (side note) – If you bible does not have verse 4: 5 -6 in Malachi, the same verse appears in some translations as Malachi 3: 23 -24

IF WE DO OUR HOMEWORK, WE WILL SEE… � � …that John’s clothes match the description of the great prophet Elijah, who did not die but was taken up into heaven by a whirlwind of fire. 2 Kings 1: 8 and Sirach 48: 4, 9 -10 The prophets foretold that God would send Elijah back before the day of the Lord to bring reconciliation between father and son and restore the tribes of Jacob. - Malachi 4: 5 -6 The angel’s message to Zachariah regarding John the Baptist echoes his prophecy. Elijah is the appointed restorer of all things: John the Baptist is “Elijah”, he returned to restore and to pave the way of the Lord.

THE JORDAN RIVER � The Jordan River runs along the eastern side of Palestine. Its headwaters begin north of the Sea of Galilee, and it flows southward into the Dead Sea. � Pictures? ? ?

JORDAN RIVER

JORDAN RIVER

MASS ON THE BANKS OF THE JORDAN

PILGRIM PUTTING THEIR FEET IN THE WATER

THINK ABOUT IT… � John baptized people in the Jordan River. Is there anything special about this river that might lend meaning to this fact? � Look at these places for hints: � Joshua 3 – ark of the covenant enters the Promised Land through the Jordan � 2 Kings 5: 1, 10 -14 - Naaman is healed in the Jordan � Catechism 1222 - Finally, Baptism is prefigured in the crossing of the Jordan River by which the People of God received the gift of the land promised to Abraham's descendants, an image of eternal life. The promise of this blessed inheritance is fulfilled in the New Covenant

WHAT WOULD WE FIND? � The Jordan River is rich in association. Israel crossed through it on dry land, much as they did the Red Sea, when God brought them triumphantly into the Promised Land from their wanderings in the desert. � Later Naaman, a Syrian commander, was cleansed from his leprosy there

WHAT ELSE IS UNIQUE TO THE JORDAN? � Because of that initial crossing in particular, the Jordan was associated with God’s deliverance. It is a place of new beginnings. � When we read John baptizing people there before Christ’s coming, it hints of an even greater beginning than either that first deliverance or Namaan’s cleansing: � Soon people will be cleansed and delivered from their sins. � Soon Christ will be begin his ministry there as he is baptized himself by John

COMPARE AND CONTRAST � Look at the baptisms of Jesus and John the Baptist in verses 11 -12! � Catechism 1265 - Baptism not only purifies from all sins, but also makes the neophyte "a new creature, " an adopted son of God, who has become a "partaker of the divine nature, " member of Christ and co-heir with him, and a temple of the Holy Spirit � What is the difference in their style of baptizing?

JESUS AND JOHN’S BAPTISMS… � John baptized with water for repentance, while Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire. � John’s baptism washes away sin, while Jesus’ baptism washes away sin and transforms. � What John’s baptism represents, Jesus’ baptism achieves: � There is actual purification � The person is filled with the new life of the Holy Spirit � The person is an adopted member of the family of God.

THE BAPTISM OF JESUS – 3: 13 -17 � A. The agreement by the Baptist (3: 13– 15) � 1. John’s objection (3: 13– 14): John at first refuses Christ’s request to be baptized, feeling he is unworthy to do so. � 2. John’s obedience (3: 15): After the second request he baptizes the Savior. � B. The anointing by the Spirit (3: 16): The Holy Spirit descends like a dove upon Jesus. � C. The approval by the Father (3: 17): A voice from heaven says, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased. ”

POINTS TO CONSIDER? ? � � � If Jesus is sinless, why do you think that he went to be baptized by John, who baptized “with water for repentance? ” Catechism 535 - Jesus' public life begins with his baptism by John in the Jordan. John preaches "a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins". A crowd of sinners - tax collectors and soldiers, Pharisees and Sadducees, and prostitutes- come to be baptized by him. "Then Jesus appears. " The Baptist hesitates, but Jesus insists and receives baptism. Then the Holy Spirit, in the form of a dove, comes upon Jesus and a voice from heaven proclaims, "This is my beloved Son. " This is the manifestation ("Epiphany") of Jesus as Messiah of Israel and Son of God. Jesus identifies with sinners – Romans 5: 14

WHY ELSE? � Catechism 536 - The baptism of Jesus is on his part the acceptance and inauguration of his mission as God's suffering Servant. He allows himself to be numbered among sinners; he is already "the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world". Already he is anticipating the "baptism" of his bloody death. Already he is coming to "fulfill all righteousness", that is, he is submitting himself entirely to his Father's will: out of love he consents to this baptism of death for the remission of our sins.

BY BEING BAPTIZED, JESUS… � Identified himself with those whose sins he would later bear on the Cross, and he demonstrated his obedience to the Father � Clearly, Jesus has no sin of his own to wash away. Yet the fact that he submitted to baptism remains a powerful symbol of what he came to do – to die and rise to new life. His death in the waters and rebirth, is what we are baptized into.

BY BEING BAPTIZED… � Jesus came to sanctify the waters. � He clearly has no need of baptism, and he would make the waters for the millions of Christians who would follow his example as they are being made members of His Church. � Bottom line is -He isn’t cleansed by the waters, he empowers them � Our Lord didn’t need cleansing for sin.

AT CHRIST’S BAPTISM � He conquers the powers of darkness in his descent into the waters � Water in the Old Testament is place of content � � � Jesus is the new Jonah and Noah, the originator of a new humanity, the new Ark, in whom salvation is found (1 Pet 3; 2 Pet 3) � � Noah – all creation is destroyed Jonah saved by the whale Jesus brings new life just as Jonah brings new life to Nineveh Jesus recalls Exodus events, Red Sea and especially the Jordan River At Jesus’ baptism, this is our Lord’s anointing. He is anointed as Christ and Savior here at his baptism, and he is filled with the Holy Spirit As the Father testifies from heaven of his beloved son - he recalls: � � � Psalm 2 – you are my son, today I have begotten you Isaiah 42: 1 – Here is my servant with whom I am well pleased. He will receive the spirit, and will bring justice to the nations. Genesis 22 – God will provide the sacrifice

ANOTHER QUESTION TO THINK ABOUT? � What � the is signified by: opened heavens? � the descent of the dove? � and the voice from heaven?

IMAGES… � These images clearly identify Jesus as the Messiah, the “Anointed One” � The voice – identifies Jesus as God’s Son � The dove – identifies him as the anointed one. The spirit descending over the water brings to mind the Creation of the world. Here begins a new creation. � The open heavens – indicate the presence of God in the announcement. � The entire Trinity is present – God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit – at this announcement that is made of the Messiah.

WHAT DO WE MEAN BY “RIGHTEOUSNESS? ” IN VS. 15 � Matthew uses the word righteousness seven times. What does this mean? � Righteousness means the uprightness and faithfulness of God and his people. � Duet. 6: 25 – our justice is accomplished by observing his commandments � Is. 48: 18 – faithfulness is following the commands and obedience to God’s will; living in union � Righteousness is the process of a sinner becoming justified or made right with God.

ARE WE RIGHTEOUS IN THE EYES OF GOD? Because we are born with the effects of original sin, we are made righteous through God’s grace in the waters of baptism, and we live a life of grace in union with God. � The primary purpose for righteousness is to made right and pleasing in the eyes of God by the works of God, and its secondary purpose is for the sake of eternal life through the mercy that God has accomplished through Jesus’ saving mission. � God is righteous because he perfectly fulfills his covenant with Israel as a divine Father. Jesus builds on this, and demonstrates this in the saving mission of Christ. �

CHAPTER 3 APPLICATION � John’s message was “repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. ” The kingdom of heaven is here on earth now in the Church. � We all need to repent, to prepare for Jesus’ coming in our hearts. Have you borne “fruit that befits repentance? ” � What can you learn from the preaching of John the Baptist?

CHAPTER 4: 1 -11 – THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS � Jesus is just proclaimed the “Son of God” at his baptism, and now he faces a triple temptation by Satan. � Isn’t it amazing the closer we get to the Lord, how much more Satan wants to tear us down? � True “Sonship” has a main characteristic and that is obedience. � Satan, knowing that, uses obedience against our Lord as he tempts him, and tries to get our Lord to rebel against the Father.

JESUS IS TESTED BY SATAN � Each refusal of Jesus is expressed in language taken from the book of Deuteronomy Duet 8: 3 – man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from God � Duet 6: 16 – you shall not put the Lord your God to the test � Duet. 6: 13 – The Lord, your God, shall you worship and him alone shall you serve. � � The testings of Jesus resemble those of Israel as they wandered in the desert and later in Canaan. � These are the responses that Israel should have made but never did. That is why Matthew sees Jesus as the New Israel as he tries to convince the Jewish people.

OUTLINE OF MATTHEW 4: 1 -11 � � Jesus and the Devil (4: 1– 11): Jesus is led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan. A. The attacks (4: 1– 10) � 1. First round (4: 1– 4) � � � 2. Second round (4: 5– 7) � � � a. The temptation in Jerusalem on top of the temple (4: 5– 6): “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down” Jump off [the pinnacle of the Temple]!” b. The triumph (4: 7) : “You shall not put the Lord your God to the test!” – Duet. 6: 16 3. Third round (4: 8– 10) � � � a. The temptation in the desert (4: 1– 3): “Change these stones into loaves of bread!” b. The triumph (4: 4) : “One does not live by bread along but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. ” - Duet. 8: 3 a. The temptation – the mount of temptation (4: 8– 9): “I will give [all these glories of the world] if you will prostrate yourself and worship me. ” b. The triumph (4: 10) : “Get away, Satan. For it is written, ‘The Lord, your God, shall you worship and him alone shall you serve. ” - Duet. 6: 13 B. The angels (4: 11): Following the temptations, angels come and minister to Jesus.

THE TEMPTATION OF JESUS � In verses 1 -11, Jesus is tempted by the devil. What seems to be the motivation and purpose for the devil’s questioning? � Notice, at the end of Matthew 3, God said, “This is my beloved Son. ” � Now Satan says, “if you are the Son of God. . ” � The devil is testing Jesus, tempting him to prove who he is. � He is testing his relationship with the Father. � He is tempting him to avoid suffering and death (to fail his mission) � He is tempting him to seek earthly kingdom, power, and glory – (something he already has)

ANOTHER QUESTION? � What weapons does the devil employ against Jesus? � The devil employs a single weapon against Jesus. He uses the “Word of God”, Sacred Scriptures!

HOW DOES JESUS FIGHT BACK? � Jesus doesn’t simply fight back, he prepares for action by prayer and fasting. He is in the desert and he is intentionally hungry and thirsty. � Satan’s lures of refreshment lose their appeal. By fasting and by standing up against the devil, Jesus put his own physical desires on the back burner instead of allowing them to have importance to him than the Word of God. � When he does fight back, he uses the “sword of the spirit, the Word of God” – Eph. 6: 17 � � As a result the devil leaves him and angels minister to him.

WHO LED JESUS INTO THE DESERT AND WHY? VS. 1? � It was the Holy Spirit that led Jesus into the wilderness so that he could be tempted by the devil. � Is it just me, or does it seem odd to you? � Why is it important for Jesus to be tempted in Matthew’s eyes? � What does the church have to say about this?

WHY DID JESUS GET TESTED BY THE HS? � God became man so that we could have a high priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses, because he has been tempted in the same ways that we are being tempted. � In the desert he is tempted like us and he fights against evil and the devil with powers available to all of us. � HE DOES NOT USE DIVINE POWERS OR MIRACLES!

LET’S THINK THIS ONE THROUGH… � Catechism 538 – 540 - The “Fall” came about through the disobedience of one man, Adam. To undo the damage he committed, it was necessary for another man, Jesus Christ, to be perfectly obedient. � � Heb. 5: 8 – Jesus had to learn obedience and be made perfect. In the desert Jesus is called on to prove that he will obey, even in extreme circumstances. � When Adam failed and fell, Jesus resisted and prevailed, his humanity was “made perfect”, and because of this he became “the source of eternal salvation for us. ”

MORE TO CHEW ON OR THINK ABOUT � If even the devil can quote Scriptures, how can we know when it is correctly used and when it is not? � How can we avoid being misled? � Answers 119 are found in the catechism 85 -86 and 109 -

HOW CAN WE AVOID BEING MISLED? � To avoid being misled by those who misuse Scripture, follow Jesus’ example and be prepared! How? � Do this through prayer and by reading and studying the Scriptures! We need to know God’s word, and we need to know it in context. � Read it � Meditate on it � Allow it to take root in your heart and mind � Follow sound practices of interpretation

WHAT IS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF 40 IN SS? After Jesus was baptized, he went into the desert forty days, (Matt. 4: 2) where he was tempted by Satan. � This notion of forty is found throughout the Scriptures. � Noah endured forty days of rain that flooded the earth. � The Israelite people went into the desert and wandered forty years. � Moses fasted on the mountain forty days before receiving the Ten Commandments. � This forty days for Jesus was his time of testing and temptation. � That is why Lent is also…forty days! �

COMPARISON OF JESUS AND ISRAEL � The temptations of Jesus recall Israel in wilderness – food, putting God to the test, and worshipping false Gods. Going out of God’s will for personal gain seems to be the common thread. Look at these verses for Satanic reappearances: � � � Matt 16: 23 Matt. 27: 40 Satan shows up not only to test Israel in the wilderness; he tests Jesus in the wilderness � � In Matt. 16: 21 -23 – Satan comes back and tries to tempt Jesus again, and Jesus says, “Get behind me Satan” Matthew. 27: 39 -44 – If you are the son of God, come down from the cross

OVERVIEW AND POINTS OF MATT. 4: 1 -11 � Matthew’s temptation narrative recounts Jesus’ spiritual preparation for ministry. This event contrasts the disobedience of ancient Israel with the obedience of Jesus, who represents the New Israel. � We have 4 points to consider

4 WAYS � 1. Israel and Jesus are both called God’s son – Mat. 3: 17 and Ex. 4: 22 � 2. the temptations of both Israel and Jesus are preceded by a baptism – Mat. 3: 13 -17 and 1 Cor. 10: 1 -5 � 3. Israel was tested for 40 years, Jesus is tempted for 40 days � 4. Israel failed its wilderness testing, while Jesus triumphs over evil and Satan through obedience and self-abasement. � A coincidence? Let’s apply this morally…

JESUS LEADS BY OBEDIENCE � Earthly life for us is a wilderness trial for God’s people en route to the land of heaven. � Through this probationary period, God wills the faithful to overcome temptations from the world, the flesh, and the devil. � Triumph is possible through penance and obedience to God’s word. Rather than earthly bread and power, the faithful must desire the food of God’s will and the humility of Christ � The success of the battle = heavenly comfort in the company of angels – Mat. 4: 11

MATTHEW 4: 12 -25 – JESUS BEGINS HIS PUBLIC MINISTRY � Where does the ministry begin? � Vs. 12 – in Galilee – look at the map � What is significant about Galilee? � It is the uppermost region of the three parts of Palestine, north of Judea and Samaria. In ancient Israel, Galilee was home to several of the nation’s 12 tribes. After military devastations by the Assyrians in the 8 th century BC (2 Kings 15: 29), Galilee was ruled separately from Judea and Samaria for most of its history. � While some Jews lived there, many were descendants of the northern tribes who lived alongside the Gentiles.

GALILEE IN THE NEW TESTAMENT � Matt. 10: 5 -6 refers to this area of “Galileans as Israelites”. This is distinct from the southern region as “Jews” or “Judeans”. � Jesus chose Galilee as the place to: � Restore the lost sheep of the house of Israel. – Mat. 15: 24 � Re-gather his scattered disciples – Matt. 26: 3132 � To send the apostles on a world wide mission – Matt. 28: 7, 10, 16 -20

GALILEE � Is 1500 square miles in area � Very fertile lands, (many fruits and nuts are raised here, croplands) � A number of rugged mountains � Place where Jesus grew up in a small village and most of the apostles are Galileans – Mat. 4: 18 and Acts 1: 11 � Most of Jesus’ preaching and miracles happen in this area – Matt. 4: 23

WHY UP NORTH? � Scripture of Isaiah is fulfilled: (v. 14) - Isaiah 8: 23, in the land of Zebulun. � � � that was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled The tribal areas of Zebulun and Naphtali were the first regions to be carried off into exile by the Assyrians. - Matt. 4: 17 During Jesus’ day, there were some Jews (from Judah around Jerusalem) living in Galilee, but mostly populations was made up of Gentiles and descendants of the Israelites (northern tribes) who had returned from exile. Why do you think that Jesus might have chosen to start his ministry here?

THE ANSWER � It is fitting that Christ began his ministry of restoration in the very area that went first into exile. � While these people might no longer by physically exiled, they remain spiritually exiled and estranged from God due to their sin (for breaking the covenant). Jesus has come to restore them from the far greater spiritual exile

OUTLINE OF MATT: 4: 12 -25 � Jesus and the Desperate (4: 12– 17, 23– 25): He officially begins his ministry to needy people everywhere! � � � A. To the spiritually darkened (4: 12– 17): He preaches to the people, urging them to turn from sin. B. To the physically disabled (4: 23– 25): He heals the sick wherever he goes. Jesus and the Disciples (4: 18– 22): He now extends a call to four future apostles. � A. Peter and Andrew (4: 18– 20) � � � 1. The fishermen (4: 18): Jesus meets these brothers by the Galilean Sea. 2. The fishers of men (4: 19– 20): Jesus promises to make them successful soul winners. B. James and John (4: 21– 22) � � 1. Repairing their nets (4: 21): Jesus calls them to leave their work and come with him. 2. Renouncing their nets (4: 22): Like Peter and Andrew, these brothers follow Jesus.

OBSERVATION � In verses 15 -17, Matthew connects the start of Jesus’ ministry with the prophecy from Isaiah. � Let’s read Is. 9: 1 -7 � As we read pay attention to this question, � What does Matthew want his readers to understand?

ISAIAH 9: 1 -7 � � The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; Upon those who lived in a land of gloom a light has shone. You have brought them abundant joy and great rejoicing; They rejoice before you as people rejoice at harvest, as they exult when dividing the spoils. For the yoke that burdened them, the pole on their shoulder, The rod of their taskmaster, you have smashed, as on the day of Midian. For every boot that tramped in battle, every cloak rolled in blood, will be burned as fuel for fire. For a child is born to us, a son is given to us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace. His dominion is vast and forever peaceful, Upon David’s throne, and over his kingdom, which he confirms and sustains. By judgment and justice, both now and forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this! Judgment on the Northern Kingdom. The Lord has sent a word against Jacob, and it falls upon Israel;

WHAT DOES MATTHEW IMPLY IN VERSES 4: 1517 He implies that light has dawned on the people who lived in darkness of exile, the deep exile from God, that is sin. � The quote brings to mind the context of the whole: Light dawns in the coming of the “child”, the “son”, who will reign forever on the throne of David. � This light is Jesus, walking first in the land of Zebulun and Naphtali and spreading the light of the kingdom of heaven. � Jesus spends a lot of time in Capernaum, the place where Zebulun and Naphtali intersect. – 4: 13 � Capernaum is located on the northern shore of Sea of Galile �

IDENTICAL MESSAGE OF JOHN THE BAPTIST � Is Jesus’ message the same as John the Baptists? (Matt. 4: 17 and Matt. 3: 2) � With the same message, Jesus shows continuity in his teaching. � Jesus starts where John the Baptist leaves off, starting “from that time” of John’s imprisonment. � This � Jesus shows all part of a common plan withdrew into Galilee when he heard of John’s arrest – Matt. 4: 12 – not to hide, but rather it was time for him to take the baton and begin his ministry.

WHY WERE JESUS AND JOHN’S MESSAGE IMPORTANT FOR ISRAEL TO HEAR? � Jesus’ plea for repentance was important because returning to God and living in his kingdom would take more than simply returning to the Promised Land defeating the Romans. � The people had to return in their hearts as well, repent and lives that gave evidence of that repentance. � Jesus’ message is similar to the message of John the Baptist: the immanence, indeed, the advent of the Kingdom of Heaven. – the king is about to come

VS. 19 – HOW DID JESUS CALL HIS FIRST DISCIPLES? Jesus’ calling was personal and made in the context of their everyday work. � Walking by the sea and seeing them fishing and mending their nets, Jesus called out to the men to follow him, and he would make them fishers of men. � What they did ordinarily, Jesus would elevate them and use in an extraordinary manner. � Simon, Andrew, James and John responded by leaving their nets immediately (vs. 20, 22)and following him. � � Peter, James, and John had a special relationship with Jesus – (Mat. 17: 1, 26: 37)

DIFFERENT WAY TO LOOK AT IT… � In God’s new covenant, grace builds, perfects, and elevates our human nature. � The natural skills of fishermen are thus raised to a new and spiritual level of grace, enabling these men to gather souls for the kingdom as missionaries in the church

OTHER QUESTIONS? � How did Jesus minister to the people in Galilee? (4: 23 -25) � Jesus taught, preached the gospel of the kingdom, and healed the diseases and infirmities of the people in Galilee. � How was Jesus received? � Great crowds followed him wherever he went. Not just from the northern territories, but from Judea (down south) and beyond the Jordan. � In other words, from the entire region, people followed Jesus and brought to him many who were sick.

WHAT IS A SYNAGOGUE? VS. 23 � A synagogue is the Jewish community center where they study the Old Testament, worship, and prayer. � � � No sacrifices took place here Jewish males went to the Jerusalem temple three times a year for sacrifice – Duet. 16: 16 Although the main function is religious, it also served as a meeting place for community activities – funerals, meetings, business affairs. A staff of officials managed the synagogue, they directed ceremonies, and supervised the educational programs. Interesting thing to note – synagogues are not mentioned in the Old Testament – their origin is uncertain. � � Centers after exile? Teaching centers in Numbers 35: 1 -8?

DECAPOLIS – VS. 25? � What is this? � These are ten cities that were very heavy influenced by Gentiles in Palestine. � Most of them were located east of the Jordan River � They were influenced by the Greek architecture and train of thought.

THE SUMMARY � Summary of Galilean Ministry (Matthew 4: 23 -25) � The Good news of the Kingdom is “preached” � The disciples are never sent to “teach” until the great commission (Matt 28). � Not the way Rabbi’s related to their disciples in Jesus’ day � Not the way Moses operated (Exodus 18) Nominate some people to choose the best and wisest � When Jesus chooses he does not do this, he uses weak fishermen to fulfill this � You don’t have to be great, you just need to be faithful � A heart and will of iron – not smarts � � Jesus gains great fame - things are looking good?

CHAPTER 4 APPLICATION � How well do you know God’s word? � The author of Psalm 119: 11 says, “I have laid up the word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. ” � How can you do this? � How well can you resist temptation as Jesus did? � If you need courage, remember the words of Hebrews 2: 18, “For because he himself has suffered and been tempted, he is able to keep those who are tempted. ”