Matthew Chapter 1-7 Test Flashcards

Major Themes and Audience

• Matthew's Gospel emphasizes the fulfillment of Jewish history.
• The primary audience for Matthew's Gospel consists of Jewish Christians.

Demonstration of Themes

• Matthew shows fulfillment by maturing the law, fulfilling prophecies, and presenting Jesus as a successor to Moses.

Moses and Universal Salvation

• Moses illustrates universal salvation by reaching out to both Jewish and Gentile audiences, featuring non-Jewish figures in significant roles, and inspiring behavioral changes.

Genealogy and Important Figures

• David holds a central role in Jesus' genealogy, symbolized by the number 14 associated with his name.
• Sarah is notably absent from Jesus' genealogy.

Covenants Fulfilled by Jesus

• Jesus fulfills the Old Testament covenants made with Abraham, David, and Moses.

The Kingdom of Heaven

• The kingdom is perceived as existing on earth with Jesus and in heaven with God, embodying a holistic view.

Birth and Early Life Events

• Jesus was born in Bethlehem and later taken to Egypt by Joseph for protection against King Herod.
• Herod ordered the massacre of all male infants under two years old to eliminate the threat posed by Jesus.

Key Events and Symbols

• The Magi found Jesus in a house and presented him with gifts, including myrrh, which foreshadowed his crucifixion.
• Jesus was baptized to demonstrate solidarity with humanity, leading to the revelation of the Trinity.

After Baptism

• Following Jesus' baptism, God referred to him as His beloved Son, signaling divine acknowledgment.

Temptation in the Desert

• Jesus faced temptations symbolizing materialism, power, and testing faith.

Disciples and Teachings

• The first disciples called by Jesus were Simon Peter and Andrew.
• The Sermon on the Mount called for a spiritual revolution emphasizing moral and ethical transformation.

Law and Beatitudes

• Jesus intended to fulfill rather than abolish the law.
• Beatitudes signify maturity, happiness, and holiness.

Fulfillment of Teachings

• Jesus’ teachings often began with “You have heard it said,” followed by deeper insights that called for an elevated understanding of the law.

Prayer and Its Significance

• The Our Father prayer reveals Jesus as the source of daily sustenance and highlights the establishment of God's kingdom on earth, also indicative of the Trinity.

Symbols and Analogy

• The fruit analogy represents human actions and their consequences.
• "Sheep's clothing" and "ravenous wolves" symbolize false prophets, warning against deception.

Social Justice

• The concept of the "upside down kingdom" encourages engagement in social justice, highlighting the values of humility and service.