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| MATTHEW |
| Explanatory Footnotes |
| 1:18 More Than Engaged Jewish custom in Joseph and Mary's day recognized a state called "betrothal" that fell somewhere between our modern commitments of engagement and marriage. A betrothal was more binding than an engagement: it could only be broken with an act of divorce. And if a betrothed woman became pregnant, she was regarded as an adulteress. 2:11 The Wise Men Of the four Gospels, Matthew alone tells of the visit of the Magi, or wise men. This incident shows that people from other parts of the world, not just from Israel, were anticipating the Messiah. The Magi's visit underscores that Jesus came for all people, not just the Jews. The last words of this Gospel spell out that mission very clearly. 4:7 Jewish Words for Jewish Readers Matthew wrote for a primarily Jewish audience. Starting with his opening chapter, he affirms that Jesus is the Messiah, backing up that claim by constant refrence to the Old Testament. Often Matthew leaves Jewish phrases and customs unexplained, assuming that his readers are familiar with them. And, where other Gospel writers say, "kingdom of God," he uses the phrase "kingdom of heaven," out of respect for Jews, who never wrote out the word God. 5:17 Jesus and Moses' Law In this statement (5:17-20), Jesus clarifies his relationship to the Law of Moses. The next chapter gets more specific, contrasting Jesus' teaching with many common interpretations of that Law. "You have heard that it was said . . . ," he begins, and then concludes, "But I tell you . . . " Jesus revealed the true intent of the Old Testament law, rather than its legalistic interpretations. 8:1 Following Up Words with Actions Typically, Matthew blends together Jesus' words and |