3. Notes_Gospel of Matthew_NABRE Chapter 3

 Read Chapter 3: The Gospel According to Matthew

മത്തായി അദ്ധ്യായം- 3 P. O. C ബൈബിള്‍

Matthew Chapter 3

The Proclamation of the Kingdom

Matthew Chapter 3 introduces us to the beginning of Jesus' public ministry through the preaching of John the Baptist.

John the Baptist's Message:

John preached in the desert of Judea.

Message: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!"

   - Repentance means turning away from wrongdoing and turning toward God.

   - The "kingdom of heaven" signifies God's rule and presence among His people.

John's Unique Style:

Clothing and Food: John wore simple clothing and ate locusts and wild honey, emphasizing his detachment from worldly comforts.

Response to John's Preaching:

People's Response: Many from Jerusalem, Judea, and the Jordan region went to John, confessing their sins and being baptized by him in the Jordan River.

Warning to Religious Leaders:

Pharisees and Sadducees: John confronted religious leaders, warning them to produce good fruit as evidence of true repentance.

   - He emphasized that being descendants of Abraham doesn't guarantee salvation; genuine repentance is essential.

Baptism of Jesus:

Jesus' Arrival: Jesus came to be baptized by John, signifying His identification with humanity.

   - John hesitated, recognizing Jesus' superiority, but Jesus insisted to fulfill all righteousness.

Divine Confirmation:

Heavens Opened: After Jesus' baptism, the heavens opened, and the Spirit of God descended like a dove upon Him.

God's Voice: A voice from heaven declared, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased."

   - This event marked the beginning of Jesus' public ministry

Key Lessons:

1. Importance of Repentance: John's call to repentance reminds us to turn away from wrongdoing and draw closer to God.

2. Humility: Jesus' humility in being baptized teaches us about submitting to God's plan, even when it might seem unexpected.

3. God's Affirmation: God's voice affirming Jesus as His beloved Son emphasizes the importance of recognizing and following Jesus.

Memory Verses:

- Matthew 3:2 - "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!"

- Matthew 3:13 - "Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness."

Conclusion:

Matthew Chapter 3 sets the stage for Jesus' ministry, highlighting the significance of repentance, humility, and God's affirmation. It's a crucial chapter in understanding the beginning of the earthly journey of our Savior.

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/matthew/3