What’s the first book of the New Testament? This is a question that often comes up for those who are new to Christianity or are curious about the Bible. The New Testament is a collection of religious texts that Christians consider to be divinely inspired, and it begins with a book that holds significant historical and theological importance.
The first book of the New Testament is the Gospel of Matthew. Written by the apostle Matthew, this book is one of the four Gospels that recount the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of Matthew is particularly significant because it is believed to have been written by one of the twelve apostles who personally knew Jesus, giving it a unique authority and authenticity.
The Gospel of Matthew was likely written around the year 80 AD, making it one of the earliest New Testament writings. It is addressed to a Jewish audience, as evidenced by its focus on Jesus’ fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and its emphasis on Jesus’ role as the Messiah. The book is divided into three main parts: the birth and early ministry of Jesus, his teachings and miracles, and his death, resurrection, and ascension.
One of the key themes of the Gospel of Matthew is Jesus’ fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Matthew presents Jesus as the fulfillment of numerous prophecies, such as his birth in Bethlehem, his ministry in Galilee, and his death on the cross. This emphasis on Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy is a crucial aspect of Matthew’s theological argument, as he seeks to establish Jesus’ divine authority and his role as the promised Messiah.
Another significant theme in the Gospel of Matthew is Jesus’ teaching. Matthew includes a substantial amount of Jesus’ teachings, which are known as the Sermon on the Mount. This collection of teachings is considered one of the most important parts of the New Testament and has had a profound impact on Christian ethics and theology. The Sermon on the Mount addresses various aspects of life, including humility, forgiveness, and the nature of the kingdom of God.
The Gospel of Matthew concludes with the resurrection and ascension of Jesus, which are pivotal events in Christian belief. These events are presented as evidence of Jesus’ divinity and his victory over death, offering hope and salvation to believers.
In summary, the first book of the New Testament is the Gospel of Matthew, a foundational text that provides a detailed account of Jesus’ life and teachings. Its emphasis on Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and its profound teachings have made it a cornerstone of Christian theology and practice. Understanding the significance of the Gospel of Matthew is essential for anyone seeking to delve into the teachings and history of Christianity.
