A Walk Through The Gospels

This Sunday February 7th we will begin our "Walk Through The Gospels" beginning with the book of Matthew. We will meet from 8a.m. to 9a.m. at LifePointe. The hour together will be a time for us to go back to the original source of God's Word and guidance. We will meet the first Sunday of every month. We are going to start with the gospels and work from there. During the month between each meeting, it will be a time for each of us to read, pray, research and journal over each book we are currently reading. There will be no specific study guide but I'd love for each of us to be journaling during this time so that we can all remember what we are learning and being shown.
This Sunday we will begin our journey through the book of Matthew. Below is some statistics and insight into Matthew.

• Purpose: To prove that Jesus is the Messiah, the eternal King
• Author: Matthew (Levi)
• Original Audience: Matthew wrote especially to the Jews.
• Setting: Matthew was a Jewish tax collector who became one of Jesus' disciples. This Gospel forms the connecting link between the Old and New Testaments because of it's emphasis on the fulfillment of prophecy.
• Key Verse: "Don't misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose." (5:17)
• Key People: Jesus, Mary, Joseph, John the Baptist, the disciples, the religious leaders, Caiaphas, Pilate, Mary Magdalene
• Key Places: Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Capernaum, Galilee, Judea
• Special Features: Matthew is filled with messianic language ("Son of David" is used throughout) and Old Testament references (53 quotes and 76 other references). This Gospel was not written as a chronological account; it's purpose was to present the clear evidence that Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior.

In Matthew's finale (chapters 26-28), he focuses on Jesus' final days on earth-the Last Supper, his prayer in Gethsemane, the betrayal by Judas, the flight of the disciples, Peter's denial, the trials before Caiaphas and Pilate, Jesus' final words on the cross, and his burial in a borrowed tomb. But the story does not end there, for the Messiah rose from the dead-conquering death and then telling his followers to continue his work by making disciples in all nations.
As you read this Gospel, listen to Matthew's clear message; Jesus is the Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, Celebrate his victory over evil and death, and make Jesus the Lord of your life.