Join Pastor Jeff Cranston and Tiffany Coker in this episode of Kitchen Table Theology. Learn about the Gospel of Matthew, the longest book in the New Testament with 28 chapters, and explore its backstory, including the authorship, theme, and prophecies leading to Jesus.  

[00:01 - 06:40] Discovering the Fascinating Backstory of the Gospel of Matthew 

• Partnership with Columbia International University for accredited programs
• The podcast has over 55,000 downloads and 100 ratings
• Learn about the Gospel of Matthew and how it paints Jesus as the climax of Israel's narrative in the Old Testament

[06:41 - 13:16] Uncovering the Authorship and Origins of the Gospel According to Matthew

• Matthew's gospel fulfilled prophecies leading to Jesus
• Matthew responded to Christ's call despite being despised as a tax collector
• Ancient church unanimously attributed the gospel to Matthew
• Matthew was an eyewitness to Jesus' life, ministry, miracles, death, and resurrection

[13:17 - 20:24] Exploring the Gospel of Matthew

• Matthew's gospel views the destruction of Jerusalem as a future event
• The longest book in the New Testament with 28 chapters
• Contains key teachings such as the Sermon on the Mount and parables of the Kingdom
• Jesus is the new Moses in the five major blocks of teaching

[20:25 - 28:30] A Missionary Tool for Convincing Jewish Unbelief

• Matthew's gospel was written for Jewish people to answer their questions about Jesus as the Messiah
• Emphasizes Jesus as the Son of David and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies
• Includes people outside of Judaism in a mission and preaching type of gospel
• Argues for Jesus' identity as the Messiah through Old Testament scriptures, and introduces the word "church”
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Quotes:    

“The Messianic theme that runs throughout this gospel provides the glue or the unity of the gospel and Christ's kingship.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston

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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!