Matthew the Apostle Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Matthew the Apostle - Essay Example (M Black, 1967: T Zahn, 1909) Give extensive evidence that Matthew originally wrote his book in Hebrew. Even those individuals that deny the external evidence that Matthew was written in Aramaic or Hebrew accept the fact that at least some of the sayings in the Gospel give evidence for an Aramaic foundation. This would require extensive research and narration before any of them would be able to be interpreted. Although this gospel doesn't name its author it is thought from earlier times that Matthew was the writer. (J Calvin, 2003) explains that originally Matthew was known as Levi (Mark 2:14), but Jesus changed His name to Matthew. (R Gundry, 1994) explains that Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount is only recorded in Matthew. It is a masterful account of how people should live under God's authority on earth. Chapters 5 - 7 concentrate on the Sermon on the Mount especially looking at early discipleship. Matthew comments on the death and suffering of Jesus more than any of the other gospels. (M. Green, 2000) Describes how the Sermon on the Mount was delivered on a hillside it is thought to be somewhere near the Sea of Galilee where many of Jesus' disciples worked as fishermen. This sermon shows that people who think they are high and mighty do not have a place in heaven, but only those who are meek and humble acknowledging the word and commands of God. It demonstrates the humility of God's love for His people. In particular it demonstrates that God does not have favourites. Jesus wanted to make it clear that our ways are not the ways of the father and that we must love others even our enemies. Jesus did not give detailed rules instead He gave broad principles that people would have difficulty finding loopholes. Jesus was aware that some would walk away from the sermon having heard, but not taking action. Like the man who built his house on sand they would face a great fall. Yet despite their stubbornness to believe, Jesus chose to teach them the ways of the father and t he principles they must apply to their lives to be accepted into God's family. Sermon on the Mount Theme's Before giving the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus had talked about righteousness (Matt. 5:17-20). This prepared the crowds for the Sermon on the Mount. When Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount the crowds were ready to listen to what God had to say. The crowds were amazed by the power of authority that Jesus gave when he presented the Sermon on the Mount. (C. H. Talbert, 2004) describes how Jesus taught the importance of having a righteous life and the true spirit of commandment - keeping. He spoke of loving one another, even your enemies and not taking revenge on those who treat us wrongly. This is true for today's society. It is easy to give in to man's way of doing things, but if we are to enter through the gates of heaven then we must do as the father wants us to do. (M. Henry, 2005) explains how this is especially difficult for a new Christian who has only just accepted God into their lives and walked away from their old lives. At first there will be sin in their lives, but as they pro gress as a Christian they will begin to get rid of the old and embrace the new. (Ephesians 6:12) makes it clear that ours is not a battle of flesh and blood, but against principalities, powers, against the rulers of darkness and spiritual wickedness in high places. Therefore we must remain true to God's