MATTHEW, BOOK OF

The book of Matthew is especially directed to Jews (hence, the heavy appeal to the O.T.). It is designed to demonstrate that Jesus of Nazareth was the fulfillment of the Messianic prophecies of the O.T. The apostle cites nearly forty O.T. predictions that were fulfilled by Jesus. He emphasizes that Christ was the "son of David," which was consistent with the Hebrew expectation (2 Sam. 7:12-13). Matthew gives great emphasis to Jesus' rebuke of the corrupt Jewish leaders, who would be instrumental in putting him to death (cf. chapter 23). He foretells the replacement of old Israel with a new, spiritual nation (21:43).