The Gospel According to MATTHEW
Matthew, whose name means "gift of Jehovah," left his occupation of gathering taxes (Matt. 9:9-13) in order to follow Jesus. In Luke 5:27-32, Matthew gave a banquet for Jesus before becoming one of the Twelve Apostles (Matt. 10:3). He was an eyewitness of Jesus' entire ministry.

The four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) form a unique kind of written document. They present four complementary views of the life of Jesus. Aside from these four Gospels, there are only a few writings in the contemporary historians, Josephus and Tacitus, which the life and activities

of Jesus. Several scholars suggest that they were written down, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, because the number of surviving eyewitnesses to Jesus' life were dwindling.

From early times, Matthew's book has been placed at the beginning of the New Testament. The approximate date for its writing is A.D. 58-68. There is some evidence that it was originally written in Hebrew or that Matthew made one copy in Hebrew and one in Greek.

The large number of Old Testament quotations used in the book seem to indicate that Matthew directed his writing primarily toward a Jewish audience. He lays great stress on the OId Testament passages which show that Jesus was the Messiah (Christ), the long-awaited King of Israel. For the most part, the narrative is chronological, though certain portions of the material are grouped according to subject matter (e.g., the Sermon on the Mount, chaps. 5 -7, and the parables in chap. 13). In Matthew's presentation of the life of Jesus, the central theme is that He is the King of the long-awaited kingdom of God.

Of the fifteen parables and twenty miracles recorded in the Book of Matthew, ten of the parables and three of the miracles are not mentioned in the other Gospels. In addition, the account of the saints who came back to life at Christ's resurrection (Matt. 27:51, 52) the sealing of Jesus' tomb, and the posting of the Roman guard outside it (Matt. 27:62 - 66) are exclusively recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. [Source for Introduction of chapter: Hebrew Greek Key Study Bible KJV edited by Spiros Zodhiates, Th.D. AMG Publishers, Chattanooga, TN 37422]
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1.1 Note genealogy of Jesus starts with Abraham not Jacob/Isreal etc. ie before any Jew or Jewish nation. Abraham was separated from the non believers. He proved his faith by his works of willingness to sacrifice “his only son whom he loved”. He did not say I love you God; but unwilling to do His bidding no matter how hard. Just as God loved him unconditionally Abraham showed he loved God the same; UNCONDITIONALLY. Call me out of my family, country or church and I’ll follow Your command. Christians are grafted into this same genealogy and, as did all in the linage from Abraham to Jesus ( a period of 1000’s yrs) have to do the same actions, meet the same criteria. It is not all of a sudden going to change course because of “grace”! Because they are now Gentiles. Ruth of Boaz was a gentile; but as she said to Naomi “your God will be my God”, His ways my ways.
1:21 The linage of Jesus denotes the group of people to whom He belonged. A group that was separated from the other nations of the world. Jesus is to save “his people from their sins”. He confirmed this by his sayings that he had come for the Jews. Thus those wanting to be saved must join this linage Zec 8:23 Thus saith the LORD of hosts; In those days it shall come to pass, men shall take hold out of all languages of the nations, even shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you: for we have heard that God is with you.
2:8 Herod claims he wants to know where Jesus is born so he can worship him also. Satan wants to know where Christians are so, likewise he can lead them to everlasting death through his deceits. 2:13 Flee into Egypt we shall see again in Rev 12:6. 2:17, 23 note “fulfilled” does not mean change only happened as to predicted. It was never predicted that Jesus would cancel the laws and commandments, thus a different understanding will be needed when come o these texts later on. See also 3:15 Is righteousness now ended because of “fulfill”, has showing judgement to the Gentiles or they trusting in Him ceased (Math 12:17)? Psalm 22:18 and Math 27:35
3:3 A straight path does not deviate. 3:8,9 bring forth fruits worthy.of repentance. God wants us to do what He asks not want we think or reason. “Think not to say we have Abraham/grace as our father”. Do not rely promises made to Abraham, Paul or others.(ie my grace is sufficient) It was to them according to their works etc. 3:16 Spirit of God (Holy spirit) descends not come from within our bellies, or other internal body manifestation or emotion. Neither does filled with holy spirit mean from belly etc for another discussion.
4:1- The “Spirit” (capital “S”) led Jesus to be tempted. This Spirit being God who had confidence Jesus would pass the test. Unlike Abraham Gen 22:12 “for now I know that thou fearest God”. Can God have the same confidence in you that after he has given you knowledge of His ways you will not be deceived by satan to break them? Whether hungry or wealthy? Pro 30:8 Remove far from me vanity and lies: give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me: 4:5 Quoting scripture, putting doubt, offering you comfort has always been part (but nor exclusive) of deceivers method. Note the “If you be ..”. Jesus used the whole bible / scripture to counter satan’s scripture. Also satan mis-quotes scripture. Note difference between 4:6 it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. and Pslm 91:11-12 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. Psa 91:12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. For example, God may allow us at some time to dash our foot to allow us free will, see on whom we later call, for a testimony or lesson to us or others, etc. And this is why it is important Christians study from the correct bible version ie KJV.
4:9 Satan has power over the merchandise of the world, the physical realm because he cannot give life in the spiritual ie after this earth. And he will give anything for your worship by hook, crook or deceit!
Some Christian’s quote a verse or verses in support of their believe ie Jesus said or did not say. For example Jesus did not say to keep the Sabbath. They ignore that He said in Math 19:17 Mat 19:17 And he said … if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. Luk 10:27 Luk 10:26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? Luk 10:27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; Luk 10:28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. 1Jo 5:2 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 1Jo 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.
5:8 Blessed are the …Greek word “makarioi” translated Blessed = fully satisfied in Christ 5:8 “pure hearted”. Pure means free of any impurities, blemishes, untruth etc nothing can be partially pure, holy or Godly, anything false, bad or of pagans is unpure.
5:17-20 very important regarding previous teachings of prophets and the law. If not to destroy means still to continue, thus “fulfil” cannot mean they are not to continue. “fulfil” means to establish to satisfy as the Greek word translates. Fulfil the prophesy of Jesus’ coming, manner of birth, in which will enter Jerusalem on an ass (i.e Zec 9:9; Math 21:5) (also 26:50,56) Heaven and earth does not pass away until end of time and Revelations new heaven and Earth after Jesus’ 2nd coming etc thus laws remain to end just that you may not understand what Jesus came to change. Whoever breaks one of the least (so ensure you do not)… Except your righteous exceeds that of Pharisees and Scribes…. To be called the least in the Kingdom does not necessarily mean they have made it into the kingdom. I can be in my hse and call or talk about someone who is not in my house. I can do same for someone in my hse. Ie least can be outside and great inside. Yet I, inside, am talking about both groups. “whosoever breaks one of these least commandments…”. See 11:11 John the Baptist and “least”.
5:22 See Lev 19:17 Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.
5:29/30 Let go of anything hindering you getting to heaven, friends, church custom even body part. A separate study is needed for the use of word “hell” in this context as relates to Jos 15:8 And the border went up by the valley of the son of Hinnom unto the south side of the Jebusite; the same is Jerusalem: and the border went up to the top of the mountain that lieth before the valley of Hinnom westward, which is at the end of the valley of the giants northward:
Later this valley was site of human sacrifice to Molech (2 kings 23:10)
5:32 Mat 5:32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery Separate study is needed for use of “fornication”. Jesus is referring to actions within a marriage not outside. We all agree adultery is sexual. Thus if fornication is also sexual the sentence does not make sense ie except for a sexual act you cause her to commit a sexual act! Jesus is saying there is only one reason to put her away. I would have thought it to be having another God, the breaking of the 1st commandment. Something God constantly warned against as with Solomon she may cause you to succumb to the snare. Note also 2 Chron 21:11 Moreover he made high places in the mountains of Judah, and caused the inhabitants of Jerusalem to commit fornication, and compelled Judah thereto. Rev 2:20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. Eze 16:26 Thou hast also committed fornication with the Egyptians thy neighbours, great of flesh; and hast increased thy whoredoms, to provoke me to anger. Like it or not, clearly fornication is to do with false god worship.
6:5-7 Pray in your closet in secret, not with vain babbling / repetition a custom of the heathen.
6:9 Pray is not by groaning, repetition or words requiring an interpreter etc, etc, etc,
6:19 against prosperity preachers. 6:21 From whatever you cannot tare yourself away there is your heart. Even if it is a custom or false theology practiced by your church. 6:24 cannot serve 2 religious or other systems even if called by same name “Christian” Eph 4:5 “1 baptism, faith and Lord” ie one way only. 6:33 is the target.
7:6 Mat 15:26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs. Gods ways laws etc is not to be cast away, altered or done away with so heathen/gentiles/ dogs can be saved through “grace”. Psa 19:7 The law of the LORD is, perfect converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. This perfect “pearl” would not be given to the gentiles/swine. As today, try and teach some the truth via all the commandments, they trample on in as foolishness etc and turn and verbally etc attack its advocators. 7:11 can the evil deceiver give good things as he promised Jesus in the wilderness. Thus are all the “good” happening to you as a “Christian” from God or from the deceiver to keep you where you are and not move fwd to the total truth about God?
7:12 “for this is the law and the prophets” Some Christians think loving your neighbour is a new commandment / covenant given in John 13:34 but it is not (see 5:22). 7:13 Don’t follow the majority, the many, they are going to destruction. Straight, narrow is the true way which few who are looking (ie Christians as you) find it! False prophets, corrupt trees also bring forth fruit. Thus because person or preacher has following or fruit etc is not the judging criteria. They could be making merchandise of you 2Pe 2:3 . 7:21 sets out the criteria “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. (see 12:50). I.e keep all the commandments. 7:22 take heed.v24-27 you’ve read the criteria, will you be like the wise building on the rock of Jesus who kept the commandments (the will of His and our father) or the foolish deceived?
8:4 “tell no man”. (& 12:16) Jesus always or mostly told those healed not to publicise it. Yet today’s self proclaimed “healers” constantly advertise their “healing” and for reward. 8:16 They waited till sunset (evening) after Sabbath to bring for healing in belief, as taught by Pharisees, it would constitute work. But Jesus didn’t say it was wrong has now been changed. 8:29 even the evil ones know the time of Jesus’ punishment. His hour or day of the Lord / Judgement.
8:34 People not want real Jesus.
9:3 Is blasphemy to say can do what is reserved for God ie forgive sins as is said by Catholic system. Anyone following commandment of this system is by association committing blasphemy (12:30), the unpardonable sin in this world and that to come. 9:8 to bring glory to God not self or lavish living. 9:12 many Christians sick with deceit of satan and his agents (who appear to be angels of light 2Cor 11:14) and do not know it or care for it to be highlighted to them. As Jesus came to lost sheep of Israel, He has sent some Christians t to lead other lost Christians to his truth (verse 38).
9:38 see 20:1
10:1 Apostles already had powers to heal etc. Why did Jesus not give them powers to speak in tongues also at the same time? Because they did not need to speak to other languages at that time. Their mandate was as per verse 5-6, local Hebrew speakers. He had already taught them how to pray to God in 6:9. Thus in Acts 2:1 the only difference was the historic feast of Pentecost (earlier known as Feast of Harvest or First fruits, or Feast of Weeks Lev 23:9-14, 23:33-36, 39-43; Deut 16:9-12, 13-15. Eze 3:4-5). In Acts 2:7-11 we see the diversity of the languages represented to whom the gospel had to be communicated for them to spread on their return to their land.as the Eunuch in Acts 8:27-28
10:8 “Freely give” not charge for prays, books etc ie making merchandise of you. 10:15 heed true word and commandments of God. v17 for preaching true word against custom, those in church(es) may scourge you with their tongue to their congregation v22 “endure to end”!
10:24 Yet most Christians say and follow by their action that tradition, [as set by the Roman Catholic church (Constantine etc) is above God’s spoken commandments. See 13:41 “all things…” includes people.
10:25 Jesus called son of the devil as are His advocators who teach Christians should follow all 10 commandments Exodus 20 “in spirit and truth”. V28 fear what will keep you out of heaven. V34 compared to Dan 8:25
11:11 Greatness of J.B. “least” compare to 5:19. I doubt those breaking commandments without repentance will be in heaven greater than J.B. 11:20 Jesus may have done for you; but if you do not repent and draw closer to Him as was the purpose of the “healing” He did for you, He may “upbraid” His works. V21 If message preached to others have they more chance of coming to God?
12:1,8 See booklet “Have I got it Right God”. basicly eating via picking and outing in mouth not work as less effort than getting from cupboard or other storing place. V12 see Deut 23:25 “it is lawful” what I am doing. I’m not breaking the law nor saying it has changed.
12:33 Notice the word “and” ie two conditions; tree “and” fruit. Good tree could bear bad fruit as some ministers children (1 Sam 2:12). Some initiated or raised in the wrong system could eventually go onto to discover the true God Jonah 1:14-16; Esther 9:27, the N.T.
12:39 Miracles not sign God in the church Pharohs magicians worked miracles. [Rev 13:14 And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles Rev 16:14 For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles Rev 19:20 And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived].
12:43 Even when you discover Jesus or His truth and are made anew through baptism or new light taking you from milk to hard food, be on your guard as after a while the deceiver will come after you stronger than before. To turn you away from god’s commandments.
12:50 doing will of Father in heaven is criteria of being with Jesus. (7:21)
13:3-9 What ground type are you on which the true message of god is falling?
13:11-15 The multitude were keen, heard but were not given to understand. The few true disciples were given the understanding and later sent to preach the understanding. Who had were given. Those first you become a Christian as part of the multitude, then those worthy go onto become true believers by the additional enlightenment they are given. Enlightenment maybe too hard for new comers to take. Those who have; but do not progress may have it taken away because of their own actions of closing their eyes, ears and hearts. To be healed you have to totally submit to God as Noah and Abraham. Not only in word but action. Be prepared to give up whatever day or action He stipulates.
13:19- If there is something that would stop you totally committing to God the deceiver will perceive it and use it to deceive you. Busy work schedule, events or habit of certain days, pride etc. No root = no knowledge of post apostle history ie Constantine’s changes, Sunday laws and persecution. Who were killed, why, by whom, conspiracies of monarchs and Pope, the Reformation, Spanish inquisition etc. Those of the New Testament had the records of the Old. Now those of the post New do not research their records; but rely solely on the ambiguity of the messages in the bible and when these things are brought to their attention they get “offended”..
13:24 One good “seed” was sown in each place / person. There is only one truth. Yet many “tares” were “sown” around it. (Tares are other unwanted plants sometimes similar in appearance to the wheat so hard to distinguish wheat from tare). Text does not say sprung up; but were deliberately sown during night. Ie deceiver sneaked in with many deceits. 1) maybe to deter “man” with the truth coming back and weeding, 2) to hide the produce of the seed from being seen or weigh it down 3) prevent sunlight reaching it and aiding its growth etc etc.
13:27 Harvestors did not notice the tares until after the “blade”. Did we not sow the truth into these Christians.. then how were they deceived? The sun shines on the just and unjust. Similarly a great earthly catastrophe may harm just with unjust. On the day of judgement the books will be opened and both just and unjust shall be judged together see v38+ (Rev 20:12-15) .
13:34 All spoken in parables. Spoken by prophets of old yet kept secret from the foundation of the world. Ie they heard and read scripture but understood not all this time.
13:38 Jesus sends His true messengers (children of the kingdom) into the world; but for every person they meet and message given the deceiver comes after that person with many deceits (tares).
13:41 All things that offend and those doing iniquity will be destroyed.
13:49 There is no going to heaven, hell, or purgatory when die. You go into grave to sleep. Just and unjust together and ALL risen up at same time to face judgement at end of world. See v48, 41
13:57 Jesus not appreciated because was one of them. He tried to save them but they did not believe.
15:1-3 Some pastors teach keeping traditions of “elders” (church) is thing to do where as Jesus said it is these traditions that go against the commandments of God. These same traditions were in operation for ages just like today’s false day of worship, tradition of Catholic church which they “savorest” and would not give up (Math 16:23)..
15:4-6 God gave specific commandments and not keeping led to death, yet “Elders” twisted the commandments by saying the change (according to them) is a “gift” of grace to set one “free” of the laws / commandments. This traditional teaching has made commandments of God of none effect. 7-9 “hypocrites” say want to serve God, have a relationship with Him etc yet refuse to obey ALL His commandments. They go to church and sing the songs, shout the praises; but in their heart there is not total surrender / commitment. All these worship will be “in vain” as it is a straight road to get into heaven and false plants will be rooted up. Those who follow mans traditions including leaders, shall fall into the ditch. The followers will not be able to blame the leaders.
15:27 To get God’s blessings, eat of the same spiritual food feeding the lost of God’s people.
15:31 To glorify the God of Israel not self.
16:1 Most Christians want a personal sign to change their traditions. They can discern ways of the world yet claim blindness to simple biblical instructions Keep ALL God’s commandments. They agree 9 are binding or even ten; but rationalise that the 4th has changed in some way. The “law” spoken of by Paul in Romans and Galatians was obviously that circumcision as constantly mentioned in the same books. 16:12 be aware of teachings of church leaders.
16:18 Hence why devil desired Peter (the church leader) to sift him like wheat so can take whole linage away from God. It is on this saying that the Pope of Catholic church claims to be representative of God on earth. Ask how did pagan leader of emperor Constantine’s time (post 300 A.D.) get to be linage from Peter? Jesus His teachings and lived example is the corner stone not the prophets. 1 Cor 3:11; Eph 2:20, 4:15; Rev 1:20
In brief (taken from Greek word translations): The “Church” = body of believers on earth. Things conclusively decided by God in the kingdom of heaven are emulated by the Church on earth. Binding and loosening limited to things “”whatever” not persons ie forgiveness of sins. Believers can never make conclusive decisions about things; but can only confirm those decisions already made by God. ie “having been bounded” and “having been loosed”.
16:23 Jesus recognised it was satan not Peter trying to hinder Him. satan uses church leaders to hinder Christians following God in spirit and truth. Teaching them to savor Sunday, prosperity sermons, the feel good atmosphere or friends in the church. Their adherence show they honour tradition not God. Following Jesus could be a cross not earthly jewel. It separates the true followers from the fake.
16:26-7 No gamble is worth loosing your soul. Jesus Himself said believers are rewarded according to their “works” as does James. Thus when Paul talks of “works of the law” in Romans and Galatians (Gal 2:16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ), we need to understand it was the law of circumcision and nothing else of the numerous other laws.
17:11,13 Elijah / John B. has restored all things to as should have been from old. V20-21 Unbelief and pray and fasting effects result. 17:26 should have been free but Jesus compromised without using His or Peter’s money.
18:4 Greatest must be humble as child, converted to get to heaven (see 5:19, 23:11)
18:11 Jesus come to save those lost. The lost of His people who He separated from the ungodly heathen. Ie before they knew the way to God via the laws and commandments which were to bring and keep them close to God in whose image they were made and the character of whom (God) is reflected in the commandments (all based on love as God is love). They departed from some of them or misunderstood how to adhere to them by introducing traditions of men. Jesus came to restore their understanding. V14 God cares.
18:17 Jesus comes to save on 1 to 1 basis. Failing that your errors are magnified; but if you obviously refuse to repent, change your sinful ways and be converted; you become an ungodly heathen / publican. Thus only 2 groups Godly or heathen. 18:18 see 16:19.
18:20 Jesus not where two or 3 gather or even greater church numbers; but those gathering in His name. Remember not everyone calling Lord Lord etc are in His name. To be in His name must do exactly as He did and taught. “All things” not add nor take away (Math 28:20). One way, one believe not various interpretations or denominations (Eph 4:5).
18:24-5 Thousand talents, 100 pence. V35 really forgive, from heart.
19:6 Note; Also v8 because of hardness of heart not meant to be so or God’s will. Only one reason to put woman away, fornication (not a sexual act). See Deut 24:1-4. Bills of divorcement was so woman can show she did not commit fornication. If she had, punishment would have been death. God concerned with guilty party (Num 5, Deut 22) For any further explanation contact me as too much to type.
19:17 None Good but God not even Jesus in His human form claimed to be good. However, most important is His advise to enter into life keep the commandments. No hint they have or to be altered in any way because He has now come and “fulfilled” the law etc! Nor to be soon changed on His death or resurrection!
19:18 Some say Jesus did not mention the 1st 4 only the last 6 applicable to man. Jesus’ answer was complete and clear. Had the man not asked a further question the instruction was complete. By leaving out the 1st 4 do you really think He was saying they no longer existed or can be broken. We can now have and recognise another god apart from Him our creator and provider, etc etc ? v23 Why prosperity sermons when Jesus says hinders your way into heaven? V28 Apostles shall judge God’s people. They would have learnt the standards of judgement? V29 Put no one or anything (physical or characteristic) before getting to heaven, no pride, no resistance to educate self on Christian history etc and change.
20:1 another way to look at this parable is God calls / converts us at different times in our lives to Christianity. From youth or in last hours. We are all to be witnesses for Him for the same reward. We cannot delay till the last hour so as to enter the field and work less hours as we do not know when our time of death will come. See 9:38; 22:14, Some may say 1st men were “hired” for agreed price. Others came voluntarily on a promise “what is right you will receive” v7. Romans 2:14 Jew or Gentile do what is right by the law or by conscience and get the same reward of heaven.. 20:16 Many called few chosen 20:16; 22:14, see 21:28-30 be a doer not a sayer as only deceive self.
20:26-28 To be great etc give life to God’s ministry not prosperity. Your life as ransom for many lost souls. V34 blind like many Christians had heard (using ears as sense) of Jesus but not see Him (maybe following by their heart).. They did not request their sight; but “eyes be opened”. Spiritually they saw the real Jesus and followed Him. Christians need to see the real commandments of Jesus being the same as His Father and follow Him not the false customs of man.
21:5 Prophesy in Zec 9:9. 21:28-30 be one who does not says as only deceive self (Jam 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.). V33-39 parallel of God’s prophets and Jesus the householder’s son.
22:1 Another perspective, against prosperity and similar feel good, comfort message sermons: Christians read God’s commandments but prefer to go where they feel comfortable or get profit (not necessarily monetary). Keeping commandments is inconvenient and thus make excuse to go to their “farm or merchandise”. 22:11 Some professed Christians attend God’s worship service in the same cloths they wear in the world. “come as they are” means in sinful state not in cloths unless cannot do better. They would wear better for party, special occasion or seeing the queen but not God. Also we are to put on the garment of a true Christian inside and out (heart and actions)..22:30 note and compare with Ecc 1:11 There is no remembrance of former things; neither shall there be any remembrance of things that are to come with those that shall come after.
22:37-40 Many Christians use this as excuse not to keep all God’s Exodus 20 commandments. The advise of Jesus was actually taken from the O. T. laws (v37 from Deut 6:5; v39 from Lev 19:18) In Mark 12:28 the same questioner asked “which is the first commandment”. Jesus similarly answers then adds “There is none other commandment greater than these”. This does not mean Jesus was saying there are no other commandments. Simply putting them in an order to fit the questioners intent. Sins against neighbour are really sins against God. Num 5:6 “Speak unto the children of Israel, When a man or woman shall commit any sin that men commit, to do a trespass against the LORD, and that person be guilty;”. These 2 of love to God and man is the 10 condensed; but in one sense all are equally important as they are a set and if break one you break all. You can keep nine and still not make it into heaven. See Luke 10:28. 22:44 see psalm 110:1
23:9 Some pastors in Christianity for self not God. At moment can’t think of scripture stating they turn it into business to lavish themselves.. Exalt no man; we are all equal. Calling them Father nor Reverend etc. only God in heaven is father and to be reverend. This included bowing etc to the pastor or lavishing the with gifts as do some congregations.
23:23, 25 Paying attention to the littlest of things as love, not cheating someone (or tithe) out of a penny; yet not keeping the weightier things of ALL the commandments as God established rather than man changed. (Ex 20:8)
24:5 The deceit comes from within Christianity from those exalting themselves in Jesus’ name. This is a revelation scripture on which I won’t speculatively comment from that futuristic angle. V13 those enduring to the end (of their life) will be saved fro the 2nd death at judgement day.
24:17 the remembrance of this scripture is what saved many in Jerusalem from the blood bath inflicted by the Romans in A.D. 70 when the temple was destroyed. V20 Proof 7th day Sabbath not cancelled by Jesus as he asked them to pray when have to flee Jerusalem 37 years after His death it will not be on a Sabbath causing them to violate it.
24:24 Evidence of Jesus at 2nd coming not by miracles. Note the miracles impressive enough to deceive all “very elect” were it possible. Nor by information of His whereabouts from others v27 coming would be bright from heaven not earthly, for all to see. (Rev 1:7, via clouds and every eye sees). V26 “go not forth” DO NOT go to see or you, being human, will be deceived. Curiosity killed he cat!
24:36-44 Hour of end only known by God despite the numerous speculation theories of man. So just live present life and day to day as if could be your last. Like in days of Noah end may not come when expected. Everyone may be going around doing their normal business etc (v39 “and knew not until..” v44 “in hour you think not…”). If was time of disaster people would be rushing to church, so may come when only the faithful thinking about church and getting it right. Turning to God in good times not only in bad.
24:45 Not only saved by faith; but also what “doing” gained through wisdom of the bible gained via knowledge.
25:8 As in 24:44 Jesus comes again when not expected. Maybe in time of prosperity and peace (24:38). Coming quick & sudden (24:27; 25:6). There would be no time to buy more oil or get teachings from Noah or present day messengers who before hand told you to come out of Babylon. He who is unjust remains unjust. You know Jesus is coming (tarried). Wake up from the deceits of satan. Study Christian history especially 1 century how Sunday worship came about after death of apostles via emperor Constantine no the apostles or their church.. I know you not (25:12; 7:23). You know not the day. You did not invest your time trading (exchanging) your view or interpretation of the bible with others able to give you profitable knowledge. Simply kept the one talent. The milk knowledge you believed you knew was right. Christians are all at least given one talent of basic bible understanding; but maybe for a proper understanding we have to spiritually trade to make selves worthy. Double our knowledge. We know God is a jealous God. find out what He likes and keep to the same. He loves those who keep to His commandments and dislike those keeping custom of heathen, paganism or man.
25:32 One judgement day for all guilty and saved. No going to heaven or hell immediately die. 25:35 These good deeds are not sole standard of being saved as some may think. Note the 1st four commandments of Exodus 20 are not represented whereas Jesus spake of them elsewhere. We are to do ALL things Jesus commanded not some.
26:2,18 O.T. Passover being kept and Jesus to be the Passover lamb as well as the priest later shown. Satan has deceived Christians by having them celebrate a pagan feast under the name Easter and around the Passover tie of year. V3 notice position of high priest. He has a “palace”. V15 thirty pieces silver significant according to O.T. regulations..
26:22 Disciples humble enough to question themselves. V25 satan via Judas copied sincere disciples by also asking “is it I?”
26:28 shed for “many” NOT all. For remission (forgiveness) of sins. Cannot be forgiven for what don’t confess! Cannot confess what do not believe is a sin. Thus research what is sin, the transgression of the law. V31 see quote from Zec 13:7. v59 sought “false witness against Jesus”. Trying to get evidence to believe what they wanted as do many Christians today who prefer to conform to man’s custom., v60 “at last came ..”. Claiming ability to rebuild a monument. In 3 days which took years to build would not enter most peoples mind to submit as evidence. When claimed it would be taken as a joke.
26:65 Note blaspheme is to make self equal to God for which penalty is death and no forgiveness in this or next life (Mark 3:28,29).
27:9 See Zec 11:9. v20 Priests for jealousy urged others. V42 As Christians we may not be able to save ourselves; but should save others by bringing them to the true Christ not the false one portrait by satan. Then leave it to Christ to save us.. v45 six hour is mid day and 9th our 3pm. 9th was hour of pray (see Acts 3:1, psalm 55:17, Dan 6:10).
27:51 Veil separating inner and outer part of temple through which only High Priest went now torn.
27:52 saints “slept” (and rose with Christ in His resurrection) i.e had not gone to heaven on death from earth as taught by false religions. V54 note.
28:1 “end of Sabbath” as early as possible before the Mary’s came. Even though they were eager to get to grave they did not violate the Sabbath. V9 They recognised and were able to touch Him.
28:13-14 Note bribery and threat.
28:19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Jhn 15:5 5I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing
Footnotes: Matthew 28:19 Or into; see Acts 8:16; 19:5; Romans 6:3; 1 Cor. 1:13; 10:2 and Gal. 3:27. Christians are baptised into the system of God’s people the Jews of whom Christ is the head and corner stone.