Episode That Scripture Might Be Fulfilled | Week 1
Four times in the first two chapters of Matthew the evangelist uses the citation formula, “This happened to fulfill what had been spoken (by the Lord) through the prophet” (Matthew 1:22; 2:14, 17, 23). What is the purpose of these citations? What does Matthew mean by “fulfilled”? What we will discover is that Matthew is not in search of mere messianic “proof texts,” but rather that he engages his Scriptures with the fundamental hermeneutical conviction that Jesus Messiah brings an end to Israel’s exile and thus unlocks the promised blessing for the nations.
Chapter 1
Christians often define “the gospel” as the message of God’s plan for salvation. But in Jesus’ day, the Israelites were waiting to hear the “good news” that God would put an end to their exile. In this chapter, you’ll reflect on the announcement of God becoming the delivering King in the gospel of Mark.
Chapter 2
The New Testament starts off with the four gospels. And while they have a lot in common, there are also some major differences. In this chapter, you’ll consider the historical relationship between the gospels Matthew, Mark, and Luke.
Chapter 3
At first glance, the long list of names at the beginning of Matthew seems a little tedious. But if we look closely, we see a fascinating story emerge! In this chapter, you’ll explore the genealogy’s deeper message of going to the nations.
Chapter 4
The Bible teaches that God is always with us. But that can be hard to believe when life gets difficult! In this chapter, you’ll connect Isaiah’s prophecy about Immanuel—God with us—to the story told in the gospel of Matthew. God’s message of liberation was for the Israelites—and it’s for us today!
Chapter 5
Wise men from the East followed a star that led them to the Savior. In this chapter, you’ll learn how the Magi were a fulfillment of biblical prophecy.