UNDERSTAND THE STORY
The big picture.
- AUTHORSHIP
- Traditionally Matthew; the text is anonymous.
- DATE & SETTING
- Often dated AD 70–90; earlier dates are also proposed.
- CENTRAL THEME
- Jesus, Israel’s Messiah and the world’s King.
Matthew connects the story of Jesus with Israel’s Scriptures. Jesus announces God’s kingdom, teaches a deeper righteousness, welcomes the overlooked, and confronts religious hypocrisy. His parables invite a response that reaches beyond outward appearances. Though rejected and crucified, he rises and sends his followers to make disciples of all nations. The promised King is also Emmanuel: God with us.
WORDS TO CARRY WITH YOU
Read. Return. Remember.
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”
Matthew 6:33 · KJV
Read each verse in its surrounding passage. A key verse is an invitation into the story.
WHERE STUDY BECOMES PRACTICE
Live it.
Choose one step for today. Small, faithful actions matter.
- 01
Read the Beatitudes and choose one posture to practice today.
- 02
Make a private act of generosity without seeking recognition.
- 03
Encourage someone taking their first steps in following Jesus.
PAUSE & REFLECT
A little room for your response.
Let this be a beginning.
Mark your study, return to the Scripture, and carry one faithful step into your day.
Progress stays on this browser. You can return to any study.
An original SELAH37 study introduction. Historical dates and attributions are approximate and debated. Scripture: King James Version. Sources & translation notes.