Matthew Study – Set 1 (Chapters 1–4)
Birth, Baptism, and Temptation of Jesus
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 1: Matthew opens with a genealogy linking Jesus to Abraham and David, showing His rightful claim as Messiah and King. The virgin birth of Jesus is announced to Joseph, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy of Emmanuel, “God with us.”
- Chapter 2: Wise men from the east follow a star to worship Jesus. Herod, threatened by news of a rival king, orders the massacre of Bethlehem’s infants. Joseph, guided by angels, takes his family to Egypt until Herod’s death.
- Chapter 3: John the Baptist prepares the way, calling for repentance and baptising in the Jordan. Jesus is baptised, and the heavens open—God declares Him His beloved Son, and the Spirit descends like a dove.
- Chapter 4: Jesus is led into the wilderness and tempted by Satan, but He resists with the Word of God. He begins His ministry in Galilee, calling His first disciples and proclaiming, “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven has come near.”
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Fulfilment of Prophecy | Jesus’ birth and life events align with God’s promises, confirming Him as Messiah. |
| God With Us | Emmanuel means God is present, not distant—He entered our story personally. |
| Repentance | John’s message shows the doorway to the Kingdom is turning from sin to God. |
| Identity and Authority | Jesus’ baptism reveals His divine identity, and His victory over temptation proves His authority. |
| Calling Disciples | Following Jesus requires leaving old ways behind and joining His mission. |
3. Encouragement
Look at the beginning—God Himself stepped into humanity.
Emmanuel! That means you are never alone.
And when Jesus came out of the water, the Father said, ‘This is My beloved Son.’
Sister, that is what He says over you too.
Do not let the enemy tempt you into proving who you already are.
Jesus did not argue with Satan—He spoke the Word. That is your victory too.
And when He said, ‘Follow Me,’ ordinary fishermen dropped everything. Why?
Because when the King calls, life begins. He is not just calling them—He is calling you.
4. Reflection Questions
- How does Jesus’ genealogy remind me of God’s faithfulness through generations?
- What does “Emmanuel—God with us” mean for my daily walk with Him?
- Where do I need to embrace true repentance to make room for God’s Kingdom?
- How can I resist temptation the way Jesus did—anchored in the Word of God?
- What might Jesus be asking me to leave behind in order to follow Him more fully?
Matthew Study – Set 2 (Chapters 5–8)
Sermon on the Mount and Jesus’ Authority in Action
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 5: Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with the Beatitudes, blessing the poor in spirit, the meek, and those who hunger for righteousness. He calls His followers salt and light, and teaches on anger, lust, divorce, oaths, retaliation, and loving enemies.
- Chapter 6: Jesus teaches on giving, prayer, fasting, storing treasures in heaven, and seeking first the Kingdom. The Lord’s Prayer is introduced.
- Chapter 7: Jesus warns against judgmental attitudes, encourages persistence in prayer, and teaches the Golden Rule. He warns of false prophets and says true disciples are known by their fruit. He closes with the parable of the wise and foolish builders.
- Chapter 8: Jesus demonstrates His authority by healing a leper, a centurion’s servant, Peter’s mother-in-law, and many others. He calms a storm, showing authority over nature, and delivers two demon-possessed men.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Kingdom Character | The Beatitudes show the heart posture of Kingdom people. |
| Greater Righteousness | Jesus deepens the Law, focusing on the heart, not just external actions. |
| Dependence on God | True life is found in prayer, trust, and seeking first His Kingdom. |
| True Discipleship | Hearing Jesus’ words must be matched by obedience. |
| Authority of Jesus | His power over sickness, storms, and demons confirms Him as Messiah and King. |
3. Encouragement
Sister, the Sermon on the Mount is not an unreachable standard—it is the new nature Christ put in you.
The poor in spirit, the merciful, the pure in heart—that is who you are now in Him.
Jesus said, ‘Seek first the Kingdom’—that means stop worrying about tomorrow and live today in union with Him.
And when storms rise, remember what happened in that boat.
The disciples panicked, but Jesus spoke peace.
That same Jesus lives in you.
You are not at the mercy of the storm—the storm is at the mercy of the One who lives in you.”
4. Reflection Questions
- Which Beatitude speaks most to my current season, and why?
- How do I need to adjust my heart so that I live with greater righteousness, not just outward behaviour?
- In what areas am I still anxious, and how can I trust God’s Kingdom provision?
- How can I ensure I am building my life on the rock of Jesus’ words, not on sand?
- Where do I need to recognise and rely on Jesus’ authority—in sickness, fear, or spiritual opposition?
Matthew Study – Set 3 (Chapters 9–12)
Miracles, Mission, and Growing Opposition
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 9: Jesus heals a paralytic, calling him forgiven; He calls Matthew the tax collector to follow Him. He raises Jairus’ daughter, heals a bleeding woman, restores sight to the blind, and casts out a mute demon.
- Chapter 10: Jesus sends out the twelve apostles with authority to heal and preach the Kingdom. He instructs them to travel lightly, warns of persecution, and calls them to fearless boldness and loyalty.
- Chapter 11: John the Baptist, from prison, sends messengers to confirm Jesus’ identity. Jesus honours John, rebukes unrepentant towns, and invites the weary: “Come to Me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
- Chapter 12: Conflict intensifies. Jesus declares Himself Lord of the Sabbath, heals on the Sabbath, and confronts Pharisees’ accusations. He warns against blasphemy of the Spirit, speaks of trees and fruit, and identifies true family as those who do God’s will.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Authority and Compassion | Jesus heals, forgives, and calls the unworthy, showing the heart of God. |
| Mission and Cost | Following Jesus means proclaiming the Kingdom with courage, even in persecution. |
| Rest in Christ | True rest is found in coming to Jesus, not in striving. |
| Conflict with Religion | Jesus exposes empty traditions that resist God’s work. |
| True Family | Belonging to God’s family is about obedience, not ancestry or title. |
3. Encouragement
See Matthew sitting at his tax booth—looked down on, despised—and Jesus says, ‘Follow Me.’
That is the Gospel. He calls the ones no one else would choose.
And when He sends out the twelve, He warns them: people may hate you, but do not fear. Heaven backs you up.
Sister, your value is not in what people say—it is in what He spoke over you.
And hear His invitation: Come to Me, and I will give you rest.
That means you do not have to carry the weight of life. Lay it down. Walk free.
The Kingdom is not about striving—it is about living as His beloved.
4. Reflection Questions
- How does Jesus’ call of Matthew encourage me about my own calling?
- Where is Jesus asking me to step out in boldness like the twelve, despite fear or opposition?
- What burdens do I need to bring to Jesus to experience His rest?
- How can I recognise areas where religious tradition or self-effort has overshadowed true Kingdom life?
- What does it mean for me personally to be part of Jesus’ “true family”?
Matthew Study – Set 4 (Chapters 13–16)
Parables of the Kingdom and Peter’s Confession
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 13: Jesus teaches a series of parables—the sower, weeds, mustard seed, leaven, hidden treasure, pearl, and net—revealing the mysteries of the Kingdom. Some accept and some reject His word.
- Chapter 14: John the Baptist is executed by Herod. Jesus feeds the 5,000 with five loaves and two fish, walks on water, and heals many.
- Chapter 15: Jesus challenges Pharisees about purity, teaching that it is what comes out of the heart that defiles. He heals the Canaanite woman’s daughter and feeds 4,000 with seven loaves and a few fish.
- Chapter 16: Pharisees demand a sign; Jesus warns about their teaching. Peter declares, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus promises to build His church. He then foretells His death, but Peter resists and is rebuked.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Kingdom Growth | The Kingdom often starts small but grows with unstoppable power. |
| Faith in Action | Miracles like feeding the multitudes show Jesus’ compassion and provision. |
| True Purity | Holiness flows from the heart, not external rituals. |
| Revelation of Christ | Peter’s confession shows discipleship rests on knowing Jesus’ true identity. |
| Sacrifice of the Cross | Jesus points toward His suffering, teaching that following Him requires self-denial. |
3. Encouragement
Jesus said the Kingdom is like a mustard seed—so small, yet it grows into something mighty.
Do not despise small beginnings in your life.
God planted something in you that will bear fruit!
And when Jesus asked, ‘Who do you say I am?’ Peter said, ‘You are the Christ.’
Sister, that is the question for you today. Who is Jesus to you?
If you see Him clearly, you will never live the same again.
And yes, He said, ‘Take up your cross.’
That does not mean misery—it means dying to self so His life can shine through you. That is freedom.
4. Reflection Questions
- Which Kingdom parable speaks most deeply to my own spiritual growth?
- How have I seen Jesus provide abundantly when my resources felt small?
- In what areas do I need to guard against empty traditions and focus on heart purity?
- Who is Jesus to me personally—and how does my life reflect that confession?
- What does taking up my cross and following Him look like in my daily choices?
Matthew Study – Set 5 (Chapters 17–20)
Transfiguration, Teachings on Greatness, and the Journey to Jerusalem
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 17: Jesus is transfigured on a mountain before Peter, James, and John—His face shining like the sun, with Moses and Elijah appearing. A voice from heaven affirms Him as God’s Son. He heals a demon-possessed boy and foretells His death and resurrection again.
- Chapter 18: Jesus teaches about humility, saying the greatest in the Kingdom is like a child. He warns against causing others to stumble, tells the parable of the lost sheep, and teaches about forgiveness, including the parable of the unforgiving servant.
- Chapter 19: Jesus teaches about marriage, blessing children, and challenges the rich young ruler to give up his wealth to follow Him. He assures that those who leave everything for Him will inherit eternal life.
- Chapter 20: Jesus tells the parable of the labourers in the vineyard, teaching God’s generosity. He foretells His death a third time. James and John’s mother requests honour for her sons, but Jesus teaches servant leadership. He heals two blind men who call Him “Son of David.”
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Glory of Christ | The Transfiguration reveals Jesus’ divine glory and authority. |
| Humility and Forgiveness | Greatness in God’s Kingdom comes through humility, mercy, and reconciliation. |
| Kingdom Priorities | Following Jesus requires surrender of worldly attachments. |
| God’s Grace | The vineyard parable shows God’s generosity is not based on human effort but His kindness. |
| Servant Leadership | True greatness is found in serving, not in being served. |
3. Encouragement
Do you see Him on the mountain—shining with glory?
That is the King you follow!
And He says the greatest in the Kingdom is not the strongest, but the one who becomes like a child—trusting, humble, teachable.
The world chases status, but Jesus said, ‘The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.’
Sister, you were never made for self-promotion—you were made to reveal Him.
Lay down the weight of ambition and let His love make you a servant of all.
That is freedom, that is greatness, and that is the life that changes the world.”
4. Reflection Questions
- What does the Transfiguration reveal to me about who Jesus truly is?
- How can I grow in childlike humility and trust in my walk with Him?
- Where do I need to let go of worldly attachments to follow Jesus more fully?
- How does the parable of the vineyard challenge my ideas of fairness and grace?
- In what ways is God inviting me to embrace servant leadership today?
Matthew Study – Set 6 (Chapters 21–24)
The Triumphal Entry, Confrontation in the Temple, and End-Times Teaching
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 21: Jesus enters Jerusalem riding a donkey, fulfilling prophecy—the people cry “Hosanna!” He clears the temple of money changers and teaches in parables, exposing the rejection of Israel’s leaders.
- Chapter 22: Religious leaders test Jesus with questions on taxes, resurrection, and the greatest commandment. Jesus summarises the law: love God and love your neighbour. He also silences them with a question about the Messiah’s identity.
- Chapter 23: Jesus rebukes the Pharisees and scribes with seven “woes,” condemning hypocrisy and empty religion. He laments over Jerusalem’s hardness of heart.
- Chapter 24: On the Mount of Olives, Jesus foretells the destruction of the temple and speaks of signs of the end of the age—wars, persecution, false prophets, and His eventual return. He urges watchfulness and readiness.
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Jesus the King | The triumphal entry reveals Jesus as the humble yet true King. |
| Purity of Worship | God’s house is for prayer, not exploitation or profit. |
| Greatest Commandment | Love of God and neighbour is the foundation of the Kingdom. |
| Warning Against Hypocrisy | Outward religion without heart transformation leads to judgment. |
| Hope and Readiness | Believers must stay alert, living in expectation of Christ’s return. |
3. Encouragement
Picture the King riding into Jerusalem—not on a war horse, but on a donkey.
That is our Jesus: humble, gentle, yet carrying the Kingdom of heaven.
And what did He say was the greatest commandment?
Love God with all your heart, and love your neighbour as yourself.
That is not just a rule—it is the new life you were born into.
Sister, do not get caught up in outward religion or fear of the future.
Live awake, live ready.
The King is coming, and you already belong to Him.
Let your love shine brighter than the world’s darkness.”
4. Reflection Questions
- How does Jesus’ humble entry into Jerusalem challenge my picture of true kingship?
- In what ways can I keep my worship pure, making space for God’s presence above all else?
- How am I living out the greatest commandment in practical ways each day?
- Where might I be tempted toward outward religion rather than inward transformation?
- What does it look like for me to live watchful and ready for Jesus’ return?
Matthew Study – Set 7 (Chapters 25–28)
Parables of Readiness, Crucifixion, and Resurrection
1. Summary of the Chapters
- Chapter 25: Jesus tells parables about readiness—the ten virgins, the talents, and the final judgment separating sheep from goats. The call is to faithful, watchful living in light of His return.
- Chapter 26: Religious leaders plot against Jesus. At Bethany, a woman anoints Him with costly perfume. Judas agrees to betray Him. Jesus celebrates the Passover with His disciples, instituting the Lord’s Supper. In Gethsemane He prays in anguish, then is arrested. Peter denies Him three times.
- Chapter 27: Jesus is tried before Pilate, mocked, beaten, and crucified. Darkness falls, and the temple curtain is torn as He dies. He is buried in Joseph of Arimathea’s tomb, and a guard is set at the grave.
- Chapter 28: On the third day, the women find the tomb empty—Jesus is risen! He appears to His disciples and gives the Great Commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations… I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
2. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Readiness and Faithfulness | The parables call us to live wisely, using what God has entrusted and staying prepared for His return. |
| Sacrificial Love | Jesus’ suffering and death reveal the depth of God’s love for humanity. |
| Victory of the Cross | The torn temple curtain shows access to God is now open through Christ. |
| Resurrection Power | Jesus’ triumph over death secures our hope and eternal life. |
| Global Mission | The Great Commission sends every believer to carry the gospel to the nations. |
3. Encouragement
Think of those parables—wise virgins with oil, faithful servants with talents. That is you, sister.
You were not born again to sit back and wait—you were born to shine, to multiply what He has placed in you.
And then look at the cross.
Jesus did not die just so you could go to heaven—
He died to remove sin, to bring you back into union with the Father.
And the empty tomb? That is your victory. Death has no hold on you.
Now hear His words: Go and make disciples.
That is not a burden—it is your privilege. He is with you, always.
4. Reflection Questions
- What does it mean for me to live watchful and ready like the wise virgins?
- How am I stewarding the “talents” God has entrusted to me?
- How does the cross reshape the way I see love, sacrifice, and forgiveness?
- What does the resurrection mean for my daily confidence and hope?
- How can I personally live out the Great Commission in my relationships, community, and beyond?
Overall Summary of Matthew
1. Big-Picture Summary
The Gospel of Matthew presents Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy, and the true King who brings God’s Kingdom to earth. Written especially for a Jewish audience, Matthew constantly connects Jesus’ life and ministry with the Law, the Prophets, and the promises of God.
It begins with Jesus’ genealogy and birth, confirming His Davidic line, and ends with His resurrection and the Great Commission, confirming His eternal reign. Throughout, Matthew shows Jesus as Emmanuel—God with us—whose authority is revealed in His teaching, His miracles, His sacrificial death, and His victorious resurrection.
2. Major Movements
- Birth and Early Years (Chs. 1–2): Genealogy, virgin birth, Magi, and flight to Egypt.
- Preparation for Ministry (Chs. 3–4): John the Baptist, baptism, and temptation.
- Teaching and Miracles of the Kingdom (Chs. 5–15): Sermon on the Mount, parables, and healings.
- Revelation and Conflict (Chs. 16–20): Peter’s confession, transfiguration, rising opposition.
- Passion and Resurrection (Chs. 21–28): Triumphal entry, crucifixion, resurrection, and commissioning of disciples.
3. Key Themes and Lessons
| Theme | Lesson |
|---|---|
| Fulfilment of Prophecy | Jesus is the promised Messiah; God’s Word is trustworthy and complete. |
| Kingdom of Heaven | God’s reign is breaking into the world through Jesus’ life, teaching, and power. |
| Discipleship | Following Jesus means obedience, humility, forgiveness, and taking up the cross. |
| Authority of Christ | His words and works reveal divine authority over creation, sin, and death. |
| Mission to the Nations | God’s plan is not limited to Israel but extends to all people through the Great Commission. |
4. Encouragement
Matthew is the unveiling of the King.
From the first page to the last, it screams: Jesus is the Christ! He is Emmanuel—God with us.
And this King is not distant—He sat on a hillside teaching ordinary people what Kingdom life looks like.
He touched lepers, calmed storms, raised the dead.
And when He died, the veil tore—meaning nothing separates you from the Father anymore.
He rose, and now all authority in heaven and earth is His. Do you see it?
That same Jesus lives in you.
And His final words still echo: Go, make disciples.
Sister, you are part of the Kingdom story, carrying the life of the King wherever you go.
5. Reflection Questions
- How does Matthew’s portrait of Jesus as the fulfilment of prophecy strengthen my trust in God’s Word?
- What does it look like for me to live each day as part of the Kingdom of Heaven here and now?
- Which of Jesus’ teachings in Matthew most challenges the way I live?
- How am I letting Jesus’ authority shape the choices I make and the way I see the world?
- In what practical ways can I live out the Great Commission in my family, community, and beyond?