" The phrase appears to assume that everyone refers to Jesus in this way, without reservation and without doubt. Although the many conflicts involving the Pharisees and Sadducees later in the book prove this not to be in fact the case, Matthew's certainty indicates the faith of Jesus' followers, and the faith required to enter the Kingdom of Christ.
The word "Messiah" is also linked to the Kingdom of God, which is a further recurring theme in the discourses displayed by Matthew. Christ frequently refers to this spiritual Kingdom as the ultimate destination of the faithful, and highly desirable as a reward for living a life of faith. This spiritual Kingdom is frequently juxtaposed with earthly riches throughout the book of Matthew. Jesus uses colorful language to demonstrate the necessity for the faithful to gather treasures in heaven rather than on earth. Earthly treasure, according to Matthew and Christ, serves only to distract from a faithful life, as Jesus proves in the case of the Rich Young Man.
Symbolic of the conflict between heavenly and earthly aspirations is Jesus and his disciples as opposed to the religious officials of the time in the form of Sadducees and Pharisees. The latter and their followers expect a Messiah to free them from political oppression and physical hardship. This view as opposed to the mission of Jesus is a recurring theme throughout Christ's ministry in the Gospel of Matthew. It is also the climax of this conflict that leads to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.
Various parallel instances of climax...
In his exegesis, Cullman associates what he deems an "exact" parallel between Matthew 16:17-19 and Luke 22:31-34. He finds that this is evidenced by Peter's solemn vow that he will go with Jesus to prison and onto death, the prediction of Peter's betrayal, and Jesus' command to Peter to encourage conversion. Opposing debate comes from Robert Gundry, who contests that parallel is neither direct nor intended. Gundry makes this point by saying
Matthew and Mark The synoptic Gospels of Matthew and Mark differ significantly in their perception of Jesus, but share great similarities in the way in which they state salvation should be sought. Within Matthew, Jesus is described as Godlike, but within Mark Jesus is seen as a special man, but not as a God. Mark and Matthew are similar in their perception of the attainment of salvation. Matthew describes salvation through
Theological Analysis What does this passage say about the relationship with God? Robert Imperato observes that "Matthew connects Jesus repeatedly to Jewish prophecy throughout the text" (17). The point he emphasizes, however, is that the Jews had a special relationship to God, through the Mosaic covenant contained in the Old Testament. Yet, Jesus makes it clear, according to Imperato, that He is giving "a new interpretation of the Law" (17). In fact, Jesus
This lets us know that Christianity is not something that should be forced on us. Those receiving what Paul preached received it by faith. Although times have changed the Book of Acts serves as a good foundation for Church government. Jesus was very clear in his instructions on what should happen after his resurrection. Many verses in books of the New Testament speak of this. He would not have been
" (6:16) God's promise had been enough for Moses when he doubted his ability to confront Pharoah: "Go and make disciples of all nations... And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matthew 28:19, 20) But it wasn't enough for Gideon who went on and on with this questioning and despite consistent reassurances, kept doubting himself. Gideon is not only weak, he also lacks real
Jesus The four gospel books in the New Testament are the principal foundation of the information regarding the life of Jesus. These books include Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The four books tell the story of the life of Jesus, but from different perspectives. Christian faith depends on the four gospel books that narrate the historical life of Jesus. As a result, if the provisions in these four books are
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