Gospel of Matthew Series: Introduction

WELCOME TO MY GOSPEL OF MATTHEW SERIES.

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Gospel of Matthew Series: Introduction

Every time we attend Mass, we hear the Gospel read according to either Matthew, Mark, Luke or John.  These writers were divinely inspired to write by the Holy Spirit. These writers received their final formulation as a result of 35-50 years of Church reflection on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. Their writings have similarities and differences, some leave out some events, whilst other focus on other events in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. 

This is not surprising, as we all see and perceive the same event differently.  Why not test it for yourself with a family event? Get a piece of paper and draw 2 columns. Recall a family event together.  Note the similarities and note the differences in each column.  I am sure you will be surprised to see what each family member recalls and perceives.

The first three Gospels (Matthew, Mark and Luke) are often referred to as 'synoptic' gospels. If you place them side by side, you can see with (syn) your eyes (optics) that there are clear similarities and obvious differences in them.. The similarities indicated their common traditions.  The differences show that the meaning of some of Jesus encounters, healing and teachings were treasured differently.  In many places it seems that Matthew and Luke are directly dependent on Mark. Matthew and Luke also include things that are absent from Mark.  Finally, each gospel has some stories with no parallel in the other two gospels.  However, inspired by the Holy Spirit each of them individually, and all of them together, are of inestimable value to us as we learn to understand more deeply and pray the gospels.

During 2011, each week a post will occur about the Gospel of Matthew as I review and explore each of the 28 chapters and how it may be applied in our daily lives. My goal is to understand and pray the Gospel of Matthew.  I hope you will join me on this journey as we travel through the liturgical season of Year A.

ACTIVITY: During the week, you may wish to:

·     choose your favourite gospel story and explore the similarities and differences according the synoptic writers. 

·      learn a verse or two which spoke to your heart from your favourite gospel story.

·     Compose your own prayer based on that gospel or verse that you have reflected upon.

·     Personalise this chosen gospel story and decide how it applies to your life this week.

Join me next week for an overview of the Gospel of Matthew and unravelling its structure and style.