11. Notes_Gospel of Matthew_NABRE Chapter 11

Read Chapter 11: The Gospel According to Matthew

മത്തായി അദ്ധ്യായം- 11 P. O. C ബൈബിള്‍

Notes for Matthew Chapter 11

Introduction:

- Matthew chapter 11 provides insights into Jesus' ministry, the opposition he faced, and his teachings on discipleship and rest.

- Jesus concludes his instructions to the twelve disciples and continues his ministry in various towns.

Matthew: 2-6: The Messengers from John the Baptist. 

- John the Baptist, now in prison, sends disciples to ask if Jesus is the Messiah.

- This reflects John's uncertainty due to Jesus’ different mission from what he expected.

- Jesus responds with evidence of his messiahship: healing the blind, lame, lepers, deaf, raising the dead, and proclaiming good news to the poor.

- Jesus encourages John not to stumble over unmet expectations, pronouncing a blessing on those who don't take offense at him.

Matthew: 7-19: Jesus' Testimony to John

- Jesus rebukes John's doubt but acknowledges his greatness as a prophet and the fulfillment of the prophecy about preparing the way.

- Parable of the children in the marketplace: Illustrates the inconsistency of people's response to both John and Jesus.

- Despite John's austerity and Jesus' sociability, people found fault with both.

- Jesus compares the generation to children in the marketplace who can't be pleased.

- He criticizes the people's rejection of both John and himself, regardless of their different approaches.

- John and Jesus are portrayed as children of Wisdom, and Jesus' works embody divine Wisdom.

- Wisdom is justified by her works, emphasizing the validity of Jesus' ministry.

Matthew: 20-24: Reproaches to Unrepentant Towns

- Jesus reproaches towns for not repenting despite witnessing mighty deeds.

- Pronounces woes on Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, stating that pagan cities would have repented if they had witnessed such miracles.

- Tyre and Sidon, denounced in the Old Testament, are cited as having a more favorable response to Jesus than certain Jewish cities.

Capernaum's pride and punishment are likened to the taunt against the king of Babylon.

- Condemns these towns, indicating severe judgment for their unbelief.

Matthew: 25-27: The Praise of the Father

- Jesus praises the Father for revealing things to the childlike rather than the wise and learned.

- Expresses the unique relationship between the Father and the Son, emphasizing mutual knowledge.

Matthew: 28-30: The Gentle Mastery of Christ

- Jesus invites those burdened to come to him for rest.

- Offers a contrast between the heavy burden of the law and the light yoke of following him.

- Describes himself as meek and humble, promising rest for those who take his yoke.

Conclusion:

- Matthew 11 portrays Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecies, the object of doubt and rejection, and the source of rest for the weary. It emphasizes the significance of faith, understanding, and acceptance of Jesus' mission.