This term we shall be taking some time to consider what it means to journey with Jesus – the early disciples were privileged to spend time with Jesus in the flesh, walking the streets and countryside of first century Palestine. As they journeyed with him, they were inspired by his teaching, in awe of his power and authority and often reminded of their own frailties. They sometimes struggles to understand what he stood for and who he was, but their experiences equipped them to live as his followers and play a key role in the formation of the Christian community. One of the core values of our life as a fellowship is that ‘Jesus is at the centre’. We ‘build up and reach out with the love of Jesus Christ.’ And our desire is that each one of us is seeking to live a life that honours him and reflects his love for us and others. Our series will help us to do that.

Over the next few weeks we will travel with Jesus and the early disciples as we follow part of Matthew’s account of Jesus’ ministry. We will grapple with his teaching, consider his ministry and face up to our own flawed humanity. We will consider the opposition he faced and his perseverance in challenging falsehood. As we apply his teaching and ministry to our contemporary lives and society, we will have to ask ourselves questions about our own response to Jesus’ message and our willingness to follow him in obedience.

As we ask the question ‘What does it mean to journey with Jesus?’, I hope we will move forward on our own Christian journeys, confident in the call of Jesus to follow him – not from a distance, but up close and personal – allowing our lives and witness to be sharpened by fresh insights into his character and his call to discipleship.

Brief Introduction to Matthew’s gospel

Matthew’s gospel is the most quoted of all the gospels in early Christian writings and has been described as the most complete gospel – it’s certainly the longest with 28 chapters. Matthew presents accounts of Jesus miracles and healings in a clear and succinct form and his book contains Jesus’ teaching split into 5 large chunks. This has caused many writers to draw parallels with the five books of the law at the beginning of our Old Testament. The gospel was originally written with a largely Jewish audience in mind and the continuity between the Jewish Torah and the ministry of Jesus is certainly of prime importance for the author. He repeatedly emphasises the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecy in the life of Jesus and highlights the role of Jesus as the Messiah, the Christ and the King.

We will join the narrative after the birth, baptism and temptation of Jesus. Jesus has begun to call people to follow him, has proved himself a powerful preacher and teacher and has shown a clear demonstration of his power in healing the sick and oppressed. Matthew then lays out the wide ranging teaching of Jesus in the sermon on the mount.

A helpful commentary:

The Message of Matthew – Bible Speaks Today Series: Michael Green