“An impressive commentary on Matthew’s Gospel”
“Matthew for You” by Tim Chester presents the reader with a thorough and yet highly accessible walkthrough of Matthew’s Gospel.
Some highlights for me were the historical background to King Ahaz in Isaiah 7 as the background to the fulfilment of the sign of Immanuel in the birth narrative of Christ (p18). The profound insights into the meaning and context of Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount - in particular, the cultural significance of salt (p45), and a helpful modern day application of building up treasure on earth (p64).
There is also a very helpful explanation of the purpose of parables in Matthew 13, as Chester comments; “it is not intellectual understanding that counts, but your attitude to Jesus.” (p113). I also really appreciated Chester’s comment on Peter’s revelation of who Jesus is in Matthew 16; “Faith is always a gift from God, given through the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit” (p133). Lastly, I thought that Tim Chester did a really excellent job of handling the difficult question of where the narrative in Matthew 24 shifts from the prophecy concerning the destruction of Jerusalem in AD70 and Christ’s final return.
So who is this book for? It is for anyone who is looking to gain a deeper understanding of Matthew’s Gospel, from church ministers, to theology students and laypersons.
In closing, “Matthew for You” is a seamless, fluid commentary and explanation of Matthew’s Gospel, striking an impressive balance between the detail and the big picture.
*Disclaimer: TGBC very kindly provided me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
