Approaching the Bible Series [Part 2]: The Gospel of Matthew (Chapters 1-14)

Read Aloud

In Part 1 of this series, we laid the foundation—approaching the Bible with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to let God’s Word transform us. Now we turn to the Gospel of Matthew, the first book of the New Testament. If you’ve started reading, you may already notice how Matthew connects Jesus’ story to the promises of the Old Testament and calls us into a new way of living.

Jesus: The Fulfillment of God’s Promise

Right from the opening chapters, Matthew highlights how Jesus fulfills prophecy:

📖 “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ‘The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ (which means ‘God with us’).” – Matthew 1:22–23

This sets the tone. Matthew reminds us that Jesus isn’t just a teacher or healer—He is the promised Messiah, God dwelling among us.

Takeaway: God’s plan is intentional. What He promised, He fulfilled in Christ. This gives us confidence that His promises to us today are trustworthy.

The Sermon on the Mount: A Blueprint for Living

One of Matthew’s most powerful sections is Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (chapters 5–7).

📖 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9

📖 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33

Jesus turns worldly thinking upside down. Strength is shown through meekness, greatness through serving, security through trust in God.

Takeaway: These teachings aren’t suggestions; they’re a radical call to live differently—by kingdom values instead of worldly ones.

Faith in Action

Matthew repeatedly shows the importance of faith.

📖 “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” – Matthew 14:27📖 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. – Matthew 14:28–29

Peter steps out onto the water, but when he doubts, he begins to sink. Jesus saves him, yet gently rebukes his wavering faith.

Takeaway: Faith is not just believing—it’s trusting enough to step out when God calls. Even when we stumble, Jesus is there to lift us back up.

The Kingdom of Heaven

Matthew emphasizes Jesus’ teaching about the Kingdom of Heaven, often through parables.

📖 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” – Matthew 13:44

Takeaway: The Kingdom of Heaven is worth everything. Following Jesus requires sacrifice, but the reward is greater than anything the world can offer.

Our Perspective

When we read Matthew, it’s more than history—it’s personal. Each story and teaching asks us: How will I live in response?

• Do I live as if God is truly with me every moment?

• Am I putting the Sermon on the Mount into practice, or just admiring it?

• Do I trust God enough to step out of the boat when He calls me?

• Do I value His Kingdom above everything else in my life?

  
  

Moving Forward Together

Take time this week to:

• Read Matthew chapters 5–7 slowly and prayerfully.

• Journal one verse that stands out to you each day.

• Ask God how He’s calling you to put His Word into action.

  
  

🙏 Reflection Question: What has been your biggest “aha moment” so far while reading Matthew? Share your thoughts—we want to learn together.

Stay tuned for Part 3, where we’ll dive deeper into specific parables and miracles, and how they guide us in today’s world.