This study is part of our series of verse by verse studies of Matthew, the 40th book in the Bible. Taught by our pastor, Simeon Forder, at our Sunday morning service on the 16th February 2025.

About this book

The gospel of Matthew was aimed primarily at the Jew who was familiar with the Old Testament, quoting it more than any other of the gospels. And in its 28 chapters it presents Jesus as the Messiah, the King of the Jews, with Matthew wasting no time, starting with Jesus’ royal lineage back to king David of Israel in the opening chapter. But as well as looking back, it looks forward too, being the only gospel to mention the church by name. And so make no mistake, this is a very necessary book for us to read too.

About this passage

In the opening 6 verses, we’ll first see that John the Baptist sent two of his disciples to Jesus with questions, to make sure he had correctly understood who Jesus was. Then, following their departure, Jesus then spoke about John the Baptist, and the kingdom of heaven, before — in verses 20 to 24 — Jesus rebuked the cities where He had taught and performed many miracles. Then in the final 6 verses, we will read how Jesus praised the Father for those He had revealed the truth to,  and called all those who are burdened into the rest that only He can give.

Application questions

• When you have doubts, do you turn to God’s Word?
• What can you do to pray more for our Livewires and Youth Club groups? 
• Are you trying to do things your own way, or are you letting God lead you?