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It is helpful at times to see the big picture when you are reading the details of a book, so here is a brief description of the overall outline of Matthew. The following is an excerpt from a very helpful book for Bible study.
There you have the five main sections in the middle: Jesus’ authority in 5–9, opposition to him in 10–12, polarization(two extreme groups: followers and enemies) concerning him in 13–16, teaching about discipleship in 16–18, and a promise of judgment on those who reject him in 19–25. Add the introductory chapters 1–4 about his birth and beginning of his ministry, and the concluding chapters 26–28 about his arrest, trial, suffering, crucifixion, and resurrection, and you have the story of Jesus as presented by Matthew.
This outline helps us to understand the overarching theme of the book:
This message is clear in Matthew. Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ. And if you want one verse for practical application, do not take a verse on mercy or humility. Consider why Jesus said he came: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28). (ibid, p. 54)
I pray these truths will help us to better understand the wonderful truths taught through this great book.
