The Focus of Matthew's Gospel

Jim ButlerMatthew 1:1

Matthew 1:1 is far more than a title line — it is the theological and covenantal framework for the entire Gospel, announcing in three compressed titles that the long-awaited Messiah has arrived. The sermon works through each designation — Jesus Christ, Son of David, Son of Abraham — as three spotlights illuminating his messianic office, his Davidic kingship, and his role as the fulfillment of the Abrahamic covenant promise to bless all nations. Introductory matters concerning the author, audience, dating, structure, and purpose of Matthew's Gospel are treated before the exposition of verse one. The sermon closes by calling both believers and unbelievers to behold Jesus as Messiah, King, and surety of the covenant, and to ground their confidence in God's demonstrated faithfulness.