Text: Matthew 1–2
Theme: Matthew introduces Jesus as the promised Messiah, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham, and the fulfillment of God's promises.
Based on Throckmorton’s Gospel Parallels
Matthew, Mark, and Luke are known as the Synoptic Gospels. The word “synoptic” comes from Greek meaning “to see together.”
As we study Jesus’ life chronologically, we will compare these accounts. Differences are not contradictions; they give us different views on the same Lord.
Mark was likely written first, commonly dated around the AD 60s. It is the shortest Gospel and has a fast-moving style.
Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Mark moves quickly toward the cross, showing that Jesus’ mission was not only to demonstrate power but to suffer and save.
Matthew was likely written after Mark and appears to use Mark’s Gospel as one of his sources, along with additional material and his own knowledge of Jesus’ life.
“The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.”
Matthew immediately establishes Jesus as the promised descendant of Abraham and David.
Luke also appears to use Mark as one of his sources, along with other eyewitness information.
Luke 1:1–4 – “…to write an orderly account… that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.”
Luke shows that the Son of God came not only to reveal God but also to identify with humanity and bring salvation to the entire world.
As we study Jesus’ life chronologically, we will compare the Gospel accounts together.
Matthew 1:1–17; Luke 3:23–34
“The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ…” Most of us have learned to skip genealogies. Matthew begins with one because he doesn’t want us to miss something important.
The genealogy answers the question: Who is Jesus?
The names in the genealogy represent patriarchs, kings, faithful servants, broken people whom God still used, and Gentiles.
Genesis 12:1–3
Matthew begins by showing: Jesus is the fulfillment of that promise.
Matthew 1:3; Genesis 38
Genesis 38 is not a “hero story.” Judah’s sons were wicked, and God judged them. Yet God continued His purpose through Tamar.
Important point: God’s plan survives human failure.
The Messiah’s lineage includes imperfect people. Grace is woven into the family line of Jesus.
Matthew 1:5; Book of Ruth
Another reminder: God’s plan includes people outsiders might overlook.
God delights to bring outsiders into His saving story.
Matthew 1:6; 2 Samuel 7:12–16
God promised David that a descendant would sit on the throne forever.
Matthew is showing: Jesus is the rightful heir to David’s throne.
Matthew 1:16; Genesis 37–50; Matthew 2
“Did we enter a time warp?” In Genesis, Joseph goes down to Egypt to preserve God’s people. In Matthew, another Joseph appears, and again Egypt becomes part of God’s saving plan.
That parallel becomes important in Matthew 2: God uses Joseph to protect the child who will save His people.
Luke 3:23 – Jesus was “as was supposed” the son of Joseph; Luke ends with Adam “the son of God.”
What is Revelation and life after death really about? Not gold, riches, or comfort—it is about being in the presence of God like we were in the beginning.
Luke connects us back to the garden: life with the Creator instead of life outside the Creator.
Matthew 1:18–25
Matthew gives us Joseph’s perspective on Jesus’ birth.
Joseph is a major figure in Matthew’s opening.
God speaks; Joseph acts. There are no recorded words from Joseph—only obedience.
That is a powerful lesson in quiet, faithful discipleship.
Matthew 1:22–23
“All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet…” This is one of Matthew’s major themes.
Jesus did not appear unexpectedly. God had been preparing the world for Him.
Immanuel – God in the flesh now dwells with us (John 1:14). We are once again (aside from the high priest once a year) in the presence of God. Man’s corrupted religions do not have this concept.
Matthew 2:1–12
What is Matthew’s purpose for including the Magi?
Connects back to Abraham: “In you all families of the earth shall be blessed.”
Gentiles come seeking the Jewish Messiah. This foreshadows the Great Commission.
Matthew 2:13–23; Hosea 11:1
This is one of the richest sections of the lesson. Joseph receives another message from God.
“Out of Egypt I called my son.” (Hosea 11:1)
Matthew sees Jesus as the true fulfillment of Israel’s story. Where Israel failed, Jesus succeeds.