Gospel of Matthew

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Papyrus BnF Suppl. gr. 1120 ii 3 (Gregory-Aland papyrus P4) - Gospel of Matthew's title, euangelion kata Maththaion

The Gospel of Matthew is the first book of the New Testament and one of the three Synoptic Gospels. It tells the story of the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth. Traditionally attributed to Matthew the Apostle, a tax collector and one of the twelve Apostles of Jesus, its authorship and date of composition are subjects of scholarly debate. The consensus among researchers is that it was composed between AD 80 and 90, drawing on a variety of sources, including the Gospel of Mark and the Q source.

Composition and Authorship

The Gospel of Matthew was written in Koine Greek. Its authorship has been traditionally attributed to Matthew the Apostle, but this claim is disputed among scholars. Many argue that the author was an anonymous Jewish-Christian with close connections to Jewish traditions and scriptures. The gospel is thought to have been composed in Antioch, one of the early centers of Christianity.

Structure and Content

The Gospel of Matthew is structured around five discourses of Jesus, including the Sermon on the Mount, which contains the Beatitudes and the Lord's Prayer. These teachings are central to Christian ethics. The narrative sections include accounts of miracles, parables, and the Passion of Christ. The gospel concludes with the Resurrection of Jesus and the Great Commission, where Jesus instructs his disciples to spread his teachings to all the nations of the world.

Themes and Theology

Matthew's Gospel emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, presenting him as the new Moses and the Messiah. It highlights themes of justice, the kingdom of heaven, and the role of the Church. The gospel is particularly concerned with the relationship between the Law of Moses and the teachings of Jesus, advocating a higher righteousness.

Reception and Influence

The Gospel of Matthew has had a profound impact on Christian theology, liturgy, and art. It has been a source of inspiration for countless works of art, literature, and music. Its teachings, especially the Sermon on the Mount, have influenced Christian ethics and the development of doctrines such as the Trinity and the nature of the Church.

Textual History and Manuscripts

The earliest manuscripts of the Gospel of Matthew date back to the 3rd century, with significant manuscripts including the Codex Sinaiticus and the Codex Vaticanus. The text has been preserved in a wide variety of manuscript traditions, reflecting its importance and widespread use in early Christianity.

Interpretation and Scholarship

Scholarly interpretation of the Gospel of Matthew has evolved over the centuries, with contemporary scholarship often focusing on its historical context, literary structure, and theological themes. The use of source criticism, literary criticism, and historical analysis has deepened the understanding of its origins and message.