January 7, 2024, we set out on a Journey Through Matthew and here I am typing out our 65th and finale (for now) post in our Journey Through Matthew series. As we close out our yearlong study of the Gospel of Matthew, I thought we should reflect on some of the truths that have been uncovered. Matthew was written to present Jesus as the Messiah and King and invited us to sit at the feet of Jesus and listen to His teachings, witness His miracles, and experience the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan. Here are some of the lessons we’ve learned along the way and some final questions that we can reflect on.
Jesus is the Fulfillment of God’s Promises
From the genealogy in Matthew 1 to the fulfillment of prophecies throughout the Gospel, we were reminded that Jesus is the promised Messiah. Every detail, from His birth in Bethlehem to His role as the Suffering Servant, reveals the intricate weaving of God’s sovereign plan.
Key Verse: “All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet…” (Matthew 1:22)
Reflection: God is faithful to His promises. How can we trust Him more in our daily lives?
The Kingdom of Heaven is Here
Matthew records more parables about the Kingdom of Heaven than any other Gospel. These stories teach us that God’s Kingdom is not of this world but is transformative, challenging, and full of grace. It’s a kingdom where the last are first, and the meek inherit the earth.
Key Verse: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
Reflection: Are we living as citizens of God’s Kingdom, prioritizing His ways over our own?
Jesus is the Perfect Teacher
The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7) is a cornerstone of Jesus’ teaching. It calls us to live counterculturally: to love our enemies, to forgive, to trust God fully, and to build our lives on the solid rock of His Word.
Key Verse: “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24)
Reflection: How have Jesus’ teachings reshaped your values and priorities this year?
Jesus Shows Compassion for All
Throughout Matthew, we see Jesus reaching out to the marginalized, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and forgiving sins. His compassion is boundless, reminding us of His heart for humanity.
Key Verse: “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36)
Reflection: How can we embody the compassion of Christ in our relationships and communities?
Faith Requires Action
Jesus often commended those who stepped out in faith, from the centurion who believed in His authority (Matthew 8:5-13) to Peter walking on water (Matthew 14:28-31). Faith isn’t passive; it requires trust and obedience.
Key Verse: “Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move.” (Matthew 17:20)
Reflection: Where is God calling you to step out in faith today?
The Call to Discipleship is Costly
Jesus made it clear that following Him isn’t easy. He called His disciples to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). Discipleship involves surrender, sacrifice, and a willingness to put Christ above all.
Key Verse: “Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.” (Matthew 16:25)
Reflection: What might Jesus be asking you to surrender for His sake?
The Cross is the Center of Our Hope
Matthew’s account of Jesus’ betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection (chapters 26–28) reminds us of the cost of our redemption and the power of the resurrection. Jesus’ victory over sin and death is our eternal hope.
Key Verse: “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.” (Matthew 28:6)
Reflection: How does the reality of the resurrection impact the way you live and share your faith?
The Great Commission is Our Mandate
Matthew concludes with Jesus’ charge to His followers to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to obey His commands. This mission isn’t just for a select few—it’s for all of us.
Key Verse: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19)
Reflection: How can we be active participants in the Great Commission?
Moving Forward
Our time in Matthew has been a rich and rewarding journey. As we move forward, may we continue to live out these lessons, seeking to know Jesus more deeply and to follow Him more faithfully. As we say farewell to 2024 and hello to 2025, I am thrilled to share that we will be continuing this bible series with the Book of Proverbs. This study will guide us in discovering practical insights for living a life of integrity, humility, and faithfulness. From navigating relationships to making godly decisions, Proverbs offers divine guidance for every aspect of our lives. Together, we’ll uncover how to walk the path of wisdom and honor God in everyday moments. The new series will start on Monday, January 6, I hope you will join along on this journey.