Matthew begins with a genealogy of Jesus. Most of us skip over these names but they are important in tying Jesus back to the Old Testament, particularly Abraham. I wonder why there is significance in fourteen generations. This emphasis on the OT continues with several references to fulfilled prophecy from Hosea, Exodus, Isaiah, Jeremiah, etc. It has quickly become apparent that you should read the entire OT before contemplating the literary context of Matthew!
John the Baptist first appears in Matthew as a stern figure opposing the brood of vipers; the Pharisees and Sadducees. Jesus’ first words are in response to John: “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness” (3:15). I wonder if the author thought about the significance of Jesus’ first words. Is he making a theological point with them? After Jesus’ baptism the chapter closes with God the Father’s approval of all that has thus taken place.
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