Book of Matthew 1-7

 + Nature of the Section:
.The first seven chapters of Matthew introduce Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, and the one bringing the kingdom of heaven. These chapters include His genealogy, birth, early life, the beginning of His ministry, the calling of disciples, and the famous Sermon on the Mount (chapters 5–7).

 + Main Themes:

. Fulfillment of prophecy: Jesus is presented as the descendant of Abraham and David, the one foretold by the prophets.

. Kingdom of heaven: Central theme of Jesus’ preaching—God’s reign breaking into human life.

. True righteousness: In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches what real obedience looks like, going beyond external law-keeping to heart-level transformation.

. Blessings and discipleship: The Beatitudes (5:1–12) describe the character and blessing of God’s people.

. Authority of Jesus: Jesus teaches with unique authority, interpreting the Law and calling people to radical obedience.

 + Interpretations:

. Historical view: A record of Jesus’ origins and the beginning of His public ministry in Galilee.

. Theological view: Jesus is the new Moses, giving God’s law in its fullest sense on a mountain (the Sermon on the Mount parallels Sinai).

. Spiritual lesson: Following Jesus means a transformed life of humility, purity, forgiveness, and love.

 + Structure:

Ch. 1: Genealogy of Jesus, birth narrative.

Ch. 2: Visit of the Magi, flight to Egypt, return to Nazareth.

Ch. 3: John the Baptist’s ministry, baptism of Jesus.

Ch. 4: Temptation of Jesus, beginning of His ministry, calling the first disciples.

Chs. 5–7: The Sermon on the Mount — teachings on the Beatitudes, the law, prayer (including the Lord’s Prayer), fasting, love for enemies, judging others, and the foundation of a life built on Christ’s words.

 + Key Verse:
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)