In this talk, you’ll explore Matthew’s distinct take on Jesus and his disciples. The first book of the New Testament, Matthew’s writing sets the tone for the remainder of the Gospels. As you tune your thoughts to Matthew’s contributions to Christology - or, the study of the person of Jesus - you will pay particular attention to the way in which Matthew introduces Jesus as fulfilling the Old Testament.

The following questions will guide your discussion: Why is it significant that Matthew refers to Jesus as the “King of the Jews”? What layers of meaning does that title take on for Jesus? Who was Matthew’s original audience? And, moreover, why should that matter to you, in the 21st century? How does being aware of Jesus’ genealogy help you understand his role on Earth? This talk also offers you a fresh perspective on the famous Sermon on the Mount - one of the more cryptic passages of the New Testament, along with the book of Revelation.

Under the tutelage of Fr. Felix Just, S.J. (PhD, Yale University), you’ll develop strategies for probing its form and meaning. You will gain both fresh scholarly insights into Jesus’ teaching and deep spiritual epiphanies as you reframe your picture of Matthew’s Gospel. This talk will stretch your mind and touch your heart.

This lecture is part of a larger audio series, Fr. Felix Just’s acclaimed Introduction to the New Testament.