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 6th April 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 13 verses, we will see one of the most famous events in Jesus’ earthly life, which is recorded by Matthew, Mark, and Luke — and that is His transfiguration. Following that, in verses 14-21, we’ll read of a young boy whom Jesus healed, but what will be particularly of note for us, is what Jesus then said to His disciples about faith. In verses 22-23 we will see that, as Jesus did in chapter 16, He will foretell His death and resurrection. Then, in the final 4 verses we’ll see a detail unique to Matthew’s gospel account, which is Jesus talking to Peter about paying the temple tax – with God providing money through a fish, none the less.

Application questions

• Do you ever go somewhere free of distraction to pray?
• Are you praying consistently and persistently?
• Are you asking in faith?