The Gospel According to Saint Matthew

Matthew collected taxes for the Roman government.

Who Was Matthew?

Matthew was a publican, or tax collector, for the Roman government (see Matthew 9:9). He left his profession to follow the Savior and became one of the original Twelve Apostles. He was also known as Levi (see Mark 2:14). For more information about Matthew, see “Matthew” in the Bible Dictionary (p. 729).

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Why Did Matthew Write This Book?

If the prophecies of the Old Testament and the events in the life of Jesus Christ were compared to links in two separate chains, Matthew’s testimony could be considered a link that joins the two together. Matthew quoted the Old Testament more than any other New Testament writer. The first verses of Matthew show the coming of Jesus as a continuation of the Old Testament story. As you read, you will find that Matthew continually emphasized that Jesus fulfilled the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament as the following chart shows.

In addition to showing how Jesus fulfilled Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, Matthew taught how Jesus Christ gave a law that was greater than the law of Moses practiced by the Jews in the Old Testament (see Matthew 5–7; especially note Matthew 5:21–22, 27–28, 31–32, 38–42). Matthew also told more stories than Mark, Luke, or John about how the leaders of the Jews rejected Jesus in spite of the many testimonies that He was their Messiah. This emphasis on Jesus being the fulfillment of Old Testament law and prophecy seems to indicate that Matthew had a Jewish audience in mind when he wrote and that he wanted them to know that Jesus was their Messiah.

Only in Matthew

Although many of the teachings and stories of Jesus appear in more than one of the Gospels, the following are found only in Matthew:

• Some of the details surrounding Jesus’ birth, such as the story of Joseph’s dream and decision to marry Mary (see Matthew 1:18–20), the visit of the wise men (see Matthew 2:1–13), and going to Egypt to avoid Herod and the killing of the children (see Matthew 2:14–18)

• The complete Sermon on the Mount (see Matthew 5–7)

• Ten parables not in the other Gospels

• The resurrection and appearance of Saints after the Resurrection of the Savior (see Matthew 27:52–53)

• Some often quoted and important sayings of Jesus, such as, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28)

Matthew 1
Jesus Christ Is Born

Matthew began his testimony with an important family history to show that Jesus was a descendent of Abraham and a descendant of king David. To be a descendant of Abraham was important because God had promised Abraham that his descendants would bless and bring salvation to the whole world (see Genesis 12:2–3; Abraham 2:9–11). To be a descendant of King David was important because the Jews knew that the Messiah would be a literal descendant of David (see Isaiah 11:1–9).

Elder James E. Talmage, who was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught that if Judah had been continually ruled by kings since the time of David, Mary’s husband Joseph “would have been her crowned king; and his lawful successor to the throne would have been Jesus” (Jesus the Christ, 3rd. ed. [1916], 87).

The story of Christ’s birth is also found in Luke 2. Matthew 1 tells the story of Joseph and the birth of Christ, while Luke 1–2 tells Mary’s story. As you read Matthew 1:18–25, look for qualities in Joseph that would make him a good guardian and father to Jesus.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 1

Matthew 1:1–17—Luke 3:23–38

Matthew 1:18–24—Luke 2:1–7

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Matthew 1.

Preparing a Father for Jesus

1. What did Joseph want to do when he found out Mary was expecting a baby? (see Matthew 1:18–19).

2. What did Joseph decide to do after the visit of the angel in his dream? (see Matthew 1:20–25).

3. Although Joseph was not the literal father of Jesus, he must have been the kind of man Heavenly Father trusted to be a father to Jesus in mortality. Notice how Joseph responded to situations in Matthew 1:18–25 and write about at least two qualities he demonstrated that you think you could develop as you prepare to be a parent.

Matthew 2
Wise Men Seek and Find Jesus

At the time of Jesus’ birth the Jews were under Roman rule and the Romans had appointed Herod to be their king. Herod was a Gentile, an Idumean, who converted to the Jewish faith. He tried to gain favor with the Jews by rebuilding their temple at enormous cost. His reign was also famous for his jealousy of all who might threaten his power and for his cruel acts—one of which is recorded in Matthew 2 (see “Herod” in the Bible Dictionary, pp. 700–1, for more information about this king and his family).

The wise men were guided by a star. The Arrival, by Michael Albrechtsen © Michael Albrechtsen

In Matthew 2 you will also read about “wise men from the east” who went to Herod in Jerusalem, looking for a newly born “King of the Jews.” Many stories and legends are told about these men from the east. Look for what Matthew said about them that would explain why he made special mention of them in his testimony of the Savior’s birth and early years. You can learn more about these witnesses of the Savior’s birth by looking up “Magi” and “wise men of the East” in the Bible Dictionary (pp. 727–28, 789).

Be sure to notice important additions from the Joseph Smith Translation (JST) in this chapter.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 2

Matthew 2:22–23—Luke 2:39

Understanding the Scriptures

Matthew 2 Scribes (v. 4)—Teachers of Jewish rules and laws Privily (v. 7)—Privately, secretly Enquired (vv. 7, 16)—Asked Frankincense, myrrh (v. 11)—Fragrant (strong smelling) plant saps that were burned as incense and used as perfume Slew (v. 16)—Killed Lamentation, mourning (v. 18)—Crying and sadness Thither (v. 22)—There Turned aside (v. 22)—Went back Matthew 2:2—“We Have Seen His Star” Although a prophecy in the book of Numbers refers to the Messiah as the “Star out of Jacob” (Numbers 24:17), there is no specific prophecy in the Old Testament (as we now have it) about a star as a sign of the birth of the Messiah. The Book of Mormon prophet Samuel, however, prophesied of a “new star” that would arise as a sign of the Savior’s birth (see Helaman 14:5). The travels of the young child Jesus and His parents. [click for scalable version]

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Matthew 2.

Just the Facts

There are many stories and legends told about the “wise men from the east.” Using information found in Matthew 2:1–13, answer the following questions about these well-known men:

1. How many were there?

2. How did they know where to look for Jesus?

3. Why did they go there?

4. Exactly where did they find Jesus?

5. What did they do when they visited Jesus?

6. What did they do after they visited Jesus?

Notice a Repeated Idea

According to Matthew 2, why was Jesus born in Bethlehem, taken to Egypt, then raised in Nazareth? You may want to write the reference Doctrine and Covenants 1:38 next to one or all three of the verses that tell why those things needed to happen.

What Do I Know about Jesus?

1. Make a chart in your notebook like the one below and fill it in based on what you read in Matthew 2:1–10.

WHO?	WHAT THEY KNEW ABOUT JESUS	WHAT THEY DID WITH WHAT THEY KNEW
The Wise Men
Herod
Chief Priests and Scribes

2. Write a response to the following question: What do I know about Jesus, and what am I doing with what I know?

Matthew 3
Jesus Is Baptized by John the Baptist

The Joseph Smith Translation adds a brief summary of the time between Jesus’ childhood and when He was an adult (see JST, Matthew 3:24–26). Matthew 3 begins when Jesus was about thirty years old. In this chapter we are introduced to a man called John the Baptist, who bore witness of Jesus Christ. The story of John’s birth, which occurred six months before the birth of Jesus, is told in Luke 1:5–25. The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that when Herod had the children aged two and younger in the land killed (see Matthew 2:16–18), John’s mother hid him in the wilderness, and John’s father was killed because he would not tell where John was hidden (see Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, sel. Joseph Fielding Smith [1976], p. 261; see also Matthew 23:35).

John the Baptist held the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood (see D&C 13) and had a very important mission that was foretold by prophets hundreds of years before his birth (see Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1; 1 Nephi 10:7–10). In Matthew 3 we read about how he used the keys of the Aaronic Priesthood in some very important ways.

As you read Matthew 3, consider what you learn about the importance of baptism from what John taught, what Jesus did, and what Heavenly Father said.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 3

Matthew 3:1–12—Mark 1:2–8; Luke 3:1–20

Matthew 3:13–17—Mark 1:9–11; Luke 3:21–22; see also John’s testimony in John 1:29–34

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A and then either B or C as you study Matthew 3.

Using the Aaronic Priesthood

1. Doctrine and Covenants 13 tells what John the Baptist said when he restored the Aaronic Priesthood to the earth in 1829. He spoke of three keys of the Aaronic Priesthood: (1) the keys of the ministering of angels, (2) the keys of the gospel of repentance, and (3) the keys of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins. For each of these three keys, find a verse (or group of verses) in Matthew 3 that describes John using that particular key. (You may want to read Moroni 7:29–32 for help in understanding the key of the ministering of angels. This passage seems to especially apply to what John did.) For each verse you choose, give a brief explanation of how John’s actions demonstrate that priesthood key.

2. Describe ways Aaronic Priesthood holders today are allowed to use these same three Aaronic Priesthood keys.

The Baptism of Jesus

Answer the following questions:

1. For what purpose did John baptize the Jews? (see Matthew 3:11).

2. For what purposes was Jesus baptized? (see Matthew 3:13–15; 2 Nephi 31:5–9).

3. Why do you think Jesus went to John to be baptized?

4. Why is immersion an important symbol of baptism, and what clues in Matthew 3:13–17 help us understand that Jesus was baptized by immersion?

5. How did Heavenly Father show He approved of the baptism? (see Matthew 3:16–17).

Be a Missionary

Write how you would use Matthew 3:13–17 to explain to someone who is not a member of the Church that Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost are three separate beings.

Matthew 4
Temptations and the Beginning of Jesus’ Ministry

It is important for us to know that not only was Jesus without sin, but also that He “was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:15). He understands temptation because He experienced it and resisted. As you read Matthew 4:1–11, notice the perfect example He set for us in how to overcome temptation. We should also recognize that this testing came as He was preparing to publicly preach His gospel. Satan also seeks to tempt those who will preach the Savior’s gospel today. We must learn to overcome these temptations in order to successfully accomplish our callings to teach and minister in the name of Jesus Christ.

The rest of Matthew 4 tells us what Jesus did and said as He began to preach and minister among His people. Read all of the Joseph Smith Translation references for this chapter. There are some very important changes in the first eleven verses.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 4

Matthew 4:1–11—Mark 1:12–13; Luke 4:1–13

Matthew 4:12–17—Mark 1:14–15

Matthew 4:18–22—Mark 1:16–20; Luke 5:1–11

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Matthew 4.

Resisting Temptation

1. Make a chart like the following and fill it in with information you find in Matthew 4:1–10, and with your own ideas and experience.

	First Temptation (vv. 2–4)	Second Temptation (vv. 5–7)	Third Temptation (vv. 8–10)
What was the temptation?
How did Jesus respond?
How does Satan tempt us today in similar ways?

2. Notice what is similar about the ways Jesus dismissed each of those three temptations. Based on what Jesus did, finish the following statement of advice on resisting temptations: One of the most important tools to resist temptation that I have available to me is . . .

Follow Me

“Come, follow me”

1. List the four men in Matthew 4:18–22 whom Jesus asked to follow Him.

2. What did those men give up to follow Jesus, and why do you think they did it?

3. Choose one of the two following situations: A person who is considering joining the Church or a person who is considering accepting a call to serve a mission. For the situation you chose, list what a person in that situation might have to give up, then write what you would say to that person about why it would be worth the sacrifice.

Matthew 5
The Sermon on the Mount, Part 1

What would you say if you were asked to give an overview of Christ’s teachings to someone who knew very little about Him? Much of what you might say could come from what is known as the Sermon on the Mount, which is found in Matthew 5–7. We realize how important this sermon is when we note that Jesus gave almost the same sermon to the Nephites when He visited them after His resurrection (see 3 Nephi 12–14). The teachings of the Sermon on the Mount help us understand what it means to be a Christian and that living these teachings is essential to receiving salvation in the kingdom of God (see Matthew 7:21, 24–27; 3 Nephi 15:1). Elder Bruce R. McConkie, who was an Apostle, wrote, “This sermon is a . . . summary . . . of what men must do to gain salvation; and the eternal concepts in it are so stated that hearers (and readers) will get out of it as much as their personal spiritual capacity permits” (The Mortal Messiah: From Bethlehem to Calvary, 4 vols. [1979–81], 2:116).

Matthew 5 begins with a series of teachings known as the Beatitudes. The word beatitude comes from a word that means “to be happy, fortunate, or blessed.” The word blessed is found nine times in verses 1–12. Each time Jesus used this word He explained a way to obtain this true happiness He offers to all who come unto Him. Carefully consider how you can apply these teachings of Jesus into your life.

In much of the rest of Matthew 5 Jesus taught how His laws and commandments required a greater standard of righteousness than the law of Moses. The law of Moses did not have the power to bring people into the presence of God to enjoy eternal life, but Jesus promised that this higher law would help them enter the kingdom of heaven and make them “perfect” like their Father in Heaven (see Matthew 5:20, 48).

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do any two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Matthew 5.

The Beatitudes: A Handbook for Happiness

In Matthew 5:3–12 Jesus spoke of attitudes or behaviors that lead to true happiness. List each attitude or behavior He mentioned in those verses and tell what you think it means. For each attitude or behavior listed, give an example of how you think it will lead you to greater happiness. As you give your examples, consider the blessings Jesus promised to a person who has each attitude or behavior. The footnotes may help as you determine the meaning of important ideas.

Scripture Mastery—Matthew 5:14–16

1. According to 3 Nephi 18:24, how do we let our light shine to others?

2. Write about two specific ways you think you or someone your age could be a “light” without having others feel like you think you are better than they are.

3. According to Matthew 5:16, why would you want others to see your good works?

The Higher Law of Christ

Notice in Matthew 5:20 that Jesus said the righteousness of His followers must be greater than the scribes and the Pharisees. This is because scribes and Pharisees were noted for their strict obedience to those parts of the law that people could see. They were not so concerned about living the spirit of the law that is not seen. Beginning with verse 21, Jesus spoke about various laws and traditions under the law of Moses. For each, He explained the greater righteousness required of the members of His kingdom.

In your notebook, make a chart like the one below to compare the “old” law of Moses to the “new” law of Christ. In the “New Law or Standard” column, list the ways Jesus said we should apply that particular commandment.

Matthew 6
The Sermon on the Mount, Part 2

Matthew 6 is a continuation of Jesus’ sermon on the mount. In this chapter He especially emphasized the blessings that come from putting the Lord first in our lives and worshiping Him because we love Him—not because we want others to think we are righteous. The counsel in verses 25–34 was especially for the newly-called Apostles, and although this specific counsel may not be for all of us, each Church member can apply the principles taught in those verses.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity C and one other activity (A or B) as you study Matthew 6.

Find the Pattern

What was similar in the counsel Jesus gave about giving alms (Matthew 6:1–4), praying (vv. 5–15), and fasting (vv. 16–18)? What do you learn from this repeated idea about what Jesus considers true righteousness?

The Lord’s Prayer

Matthew 6:5–15 contain some of Jesus’ most basic teachings on prayer. Verses 9–13 have commonly been called the Lord’s Prayer. Consider each verse of the prayer and write in your notebook what you think we are to learn from that specific part of Jesus’ example of prayer. For greater understanding, you may want to look up “amen” and “prayer” in the Bible Dictionary (pp. 607, 752–53).

Scripture Mastery—Matthew 6:24

1. Considering what Jesus said in Matthew 6:24, how is the person in each of the following three examples trying to serve two masters? What might eventually happen in each situation?

1. Michael (age 18) chose to have a job that requires him to work every Sunday so he can save money for his mission.

2. Donna (age 16) says she is doing missionary work by having a steady boyfriend who is not a member of the Church.

3. Brother Smith (age 35) pays tithing and extra fast offerings on the money he makes selling products in which he is not entirely honest with his customers.

2. How could Jesus’ counsel in Matthew 6:19–23, 33 help solve the problem spoken of in verse 24?

3. What did Jesus promise to those who chose Him as their Master? (see Matthew 6:20, 22, 33).

Matthew 7
The Sermon on the Mount, Part 3

“By their fruits ye shall know them.”

A hungry person might think about food, talk about food, or even look at pictures of food, but it will do the person no good unless he or she eats the food. In this final chapter of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gave some additional teachings and then emphasized that the blessings of His teachings come not just in believing, studying, or talking about them, but in living them.

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do three of the following activities (A–E) as you study Matthew 7.

Judging

1. After reading Matthew 7:1–5, summarize in your notebook Jesus’ teachings by completing in your own words the following sentences:

1. As you judge others so will God . . .

2. Before you criticize others you should . . .

2. We can clearly see in Matthew 7:1 what we should not do. Read the Joseph Smith Translation for this verse and write what we should do. Explain how you think we can do this (see Matthew 7:15–20 and Moroni 7:12–19 for additional help).

What Difference Does It Make?

1. What difference should it make in your prayers to know what Jesus taught in Matthew 7:7–11?

2. What additional information about asking God for blessings is found in 3 Nephi 18:20; Doctrine and Covenants 50:28–29; and 88:64–65?

Draw a Picture

Draw a picture that represents the ideas found in Matthew 7:13–14. Label the parts of your picture.

An Important Conclusion

The wise man builds upon the rock.

1. The discussions of trees, entering the kingdom, and building houses in Matthew 7:16–27 all have one major idea or theme. What is it?

2. How does the story in Matthew 7:24–27 help you better understand what is meant in Helaman 5:12?

3. In the story of the wise and foolish house builders the storm “beat upon” both houses, but only one remained standing afterward. Write about how living the gospel has helped you in a “storm” of life.

What Does This Mean for Me?

Write about at least two areas you want to improve in your life as you strive to follow Jesus Christ because of what you studied in the Sermon on the Mount.

Matthew 8–9
Jesus Performs Many Miracles

After Jesus taught His great Sermon on the Mount, He went among the people, teaching them and also performing many miracles. In Matthew 8–9 is recorded several miracles Jesus performed while He was in the area near the Sea of Galilee.

What might be the importance of these miracles? Elder Bruce R. McConkie, who was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught that while most often “our Lord in his ministry is preaching the gospel of the kingdom; . . . announcing to all men what they must do to gain peace in this life and eternal life in the world to come,” the Savior also performed miracles, as “visible evidences in the eyes of all, believers and nonbelievers alike, that he has more than mortal power. They are proof, as it were, that his words are true” (Mortal Messiah, 2:42; see also Matthew 11:3–5). Elder McConkie also taught that “miracles of themselves do not convert men to the truth. . . . But miracles may so impress the sincere investigator as to cause him to take the steps that lead to faith” (Doctrinal New Testament Commentary, 2:81).

As you read the accounts in Matthew 8–9 of miracles Jesus performed, consider what they teach you about Jesus and ways each miracle could strengthen your faith and encourage you to more fully trust in Him.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 8–9

Matthew 8:1–4—Mark 1:40–45; Luke 5:12–16

Matthew 8:5–13—Luke 7:1–10

Matthew 8:14–15—Mark 1:29–31; Luke 4:38–39

Matthew 8:18–22—Luke 9:57–62

Matthew 8:23–27—Mark 4:35–41; Luke 8:22–25

Matthew 8:28–34—Mark 5:1–20; Luke 8:26–39

Matthew 9:1–17—Mark 2:1–22; Luke 5:17–39

Matthew 9:18–26—Mark 5:21–43; Luke 8:40–56

Matthew 9:35–38—Luke 10:2–3

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do three of the following activities (A–D) as you study Matthew 8–9.

Great Examples of Faith

1. Matthew 8:5–13 tells the story of a leader in the Roman army—a Gentile, not an Israelite—who sought help from the Savior. What did the Savior say in verse 10 about the centurion’s faith compared to the faith of the Israelites of that day?

2. From what you read in Matthew 8:5–9, explain at least two ways the centurion showed remarkable faith.

3. What did the woman in Matthew 9:20–22 and the men in Matthew 9:27–29 do to show their faith?

4. Choose an area of your life or a teaching of the gospel in which you would like to have more faith. How could the example of the centurion, the woman, or the two men help you increase your faith in that area?

“Perhaps the Greatest Miracle”

Elder John A. Widtsoe, who was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, said, “I have come to understand that perhaps the greatest miracle in the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ is the transformation that comes to a man or a woman who in faith accepts the truth of the gospel and who then lives it in his or her life. . . . As new and greater truths come, as the understanding of them develops within us if we accept and live them, we are transformed from ordinary men into new powers and possibilities” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1952, 34).

Among all the stories found in Matthew 9, which do you think is perhaps the best example of the kind of miracle Elder Widtsoe spoke about? Why?

When to See the Doctor

1. According to Matthew 9:10–12, who needs a doctor?

2. How could these verses help you grow spiritually?

3. How could they help you as you try to help another person join the Church or come back into activity?

Laborers Wanted

1. According to Matthew 9:36–38, how did Jesus feel? Why did He feel that way?

2. Write an imaginary advertisement for a newspaper, asking for people to apply for this “labour” Jesus spoke of in Matthew 9:36–38. Include in the advertisement the qualifications you think Jesus would want of those who serve with Him.

Matthew 10
Instructions for the Twelve Apostles

At the end of Matthew 9, Jesus declared that He needed help in accomplishing the great work He came to do.

Consequently, He called twelve men as Apostles—a title that means “one sent forth.” Unlike other disciples who were sent forth on missions or served in other Church callings, Jesus called these men as special representatives and witnesses of Him, and He gave them special keys and power to act and speak in His name. (For more information, see the Bible Dictionary, “Apostle,” p. 612.) He also gave them a special charge, or instructions, that we read about in Matthew 10. Although this message was originally given to the Twelve Apostles, anyone who is called to serve as a representative of the Lord to teach His gospel may learn from the principles contained in this chapter.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 10

Matthew 10:1–4—Mark 3:13–19; Luke 6:12–16

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Matthew 10.

The Twelve Apostles

List the names of the Twelve Apostles mentioned in Matthew 10:2–4. Then look up each name in the Bible Dictionary and write at least one thing we know about that Apostle from what is written there.

Challenges and Promises for Missionaries

1. Review Matthew 10:17–18, 22–25 and list at least three difficult conditions Jesus said His Apostles would face as they went out to preach the gospel.

2. Ask someone who has been on a mission if he or she experienced some of the conditions you listed while serving a mission. Put an “X” next to the ones the person experienced. Have the person tell you about one of the experiences and how he or she felt about it. Write in your notebook a little of what you learned.

3. What did Jesus promise in Matthew 10:19–20, 26–33 that could help make it easier to endure the challenges you listed above?

How Can This Be?

In Matthew 10:34–39, Jesus made three different statements that seem to go against what we normally think is true. He said He had not come to send peace, but a sword (see v. 34), that He splits families against each other (see vv. 35–37), and that the only way we can find our lives is to lose them (see v. 39).

1. We know that the gospel of Jesus Christ brings peace to those who live it (see John 14:27). Read also Matthew 10:16–18; 24:6–10; Acts 12:1–2; and Doctrine and Covenants 76:28–29 and tell about times when Jesus’ statement in Matthew 10:34 is also true.

2. We know that one purpose of the gospel is to seal families together forever. In what situation is Jesus’ statement in Matthew 10:35–37 true?

3. How can one find his or her life by losing it?

Matthew 11
“Come unto Me”

John the Baptist received the important mission to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. He accomplished this mission by (1) preaching the true spirit and meaning of the law of Moses; (2) teaching people to repent, to be baptized, and to prepare to receive further truth and blessings from the coming Messiah; and (3) testifying that Jesus Christ was that promised Messiah. Apparently, some of John’s followers who were very loyal to him were still not sure if Jesus really was the Messiah, or Christ. True prophets always point us toward Christ and encourage us to come unto Him. Look for what John did to help his followers find Jesus and follow Him instead.

John the Baptist—more than a prophet

Matthew 11 also contains one of the great invitations the Savior Himself made to come unto Him.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 11

Matthew 11:2–19—Luke 7:18–35

Matthew 11:20–24—Luke 10:12–15

Matthew 11:25–27—Luke 10:21–22

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activities A and B as you study Matthew 11.

Report Back

Matthew 11:1–19 tells about two disciples of John the Baptist who came to see what Jesus did and taught. Jesus told them to go back to John and tell what they saw and heard. Based on what you read in these nineteen verses, write three things you would have told John when you returned if you had been with those two men. Include the miracles you would have seen and the truths you would have heard Jesus teach.

“Come unto Me”

1. After telling about the punishments that would come upon the wicked who rejected Him (see Matthew 11:20–24), what did Jesus promise in Matthew 11:28–30 to those who learn of and obey Him?

2. What kinds of labor and heavy burdens do you think Jesus was speaking of in Matthew 11:28?

3. Some people think that what Jesus asks of us is a burden. From the following list, choose three of what some might consider heavy burdens and explain why you think they are light burdens to those who follow Christ.

• Paying tithing

• Attending Church for three hours each week

• Attending seminary

• Fasting

• Serving a mission

• Staying morally clean

Matthew 12
Pharisees Oppose Jesus

Before you read Matthew 12, it is helpful to understand that by Jesus’ time Jewish rabbis had added to the law of Moses a complicated set of rules called the traditions of the elders (see Mark 7:5–9). These laws did not come from the Lord, and many appeared ridiculous—such as the rule that healing on the Sabbath was “work” and therefore forbidden. The Pharisees, the most powerful religious group in Jesus’ day, were very strict in their obedience to these traditions and considered them more important than the words of the prophets. As you read Matthew 12, look for what happened when Jesus’ teachings opposed those traditions.

Jesus looked to God; the Pharisees looked to their traditions. GOD GOD Traditions of the Elders Jesus Pharisees

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 12

Matthew 12:1–8—Mark 2:23–28; Luke 6:1–5

Matthew 12:9–14—Mark 3:1–6; Luke 6:6–11

Matthew 12:24–32—Mark 3:22–29

Matthew 12:38–42—Luke 11:29–32

Matthew 12:43–45—Luke 11:24–26

Matthew 12:46–50—Mark 3:31–35; Luke 8:19–21

Understanding the Scriptures

Matthew 12 Condemned the guiltless (v. 7)—Said that Jesus had broken the law when He had not Departed thence (v. 9)—Left that place Withered (v. 10)—Unable to use, deformed, or shrunk Restored whole (v. 13)—Healed Charged (v. 16)—Commanded The son of David (v. 23)—The Messiah Spoil (v. 29)—Steal Blasphemy (v. 31)—To speak evil or make fun of sacred things Corrupt (v. 33)—Not eatable, rotten Generation of vipers (v. 34)—Wicked people (a viper is a poisonous serpent) Every idle word (v. 36)—Even the little or light-minded things a person says Account (v. 36)—Report Justified (v. 37)—Judged to be good Condemned (v. 37)—Judged to be evil Garnished (v. 44)—Put in proper order Matthew 12:3–6—Explanations of What Is Right or Wrong on the Sabbath The Pharisees accused Jesus’ disciples of working on the Sabbath when they picked some grain and ate it while they were walking with Jesus. Jesus used the following two examples to show that His disciples kept the law of Moses even if they did offend the traditions that the Pharisees thought were more important (see the introduction to Matthew 12 above): David and his men ate the temple bread but were not guilty because they were on the Lord’s business (see 1 Samuel 21:1–6). The temple priests must do many things in the temple on the Sabbath that would be unlawful anywhere else. Matthew 12:18–20—A Prophecy of Isaiah The meaning of this prophecy is that the Messiah would not respond in judgment against those who were against Him until He had finished His work. The symbols in verse 20 are of things that anyone could easily do (break an already bruised plant and put out a fire that is nearly out), but the Messiah would not even do what He easily could do (punish His enemies) until His work was finished. Matthew 12:31–32—What Is “Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost”? The Prophet Joseph Smith explained, “All sins shall be forgiven, except the sin against the Holy Ghost; for Jesus will save all except the sons of perdition. What must a man do to commit the unpardonable sin? He must receive the Holy Ghost, have the heavens opened unto him, and know God, and then sin against Him. After a man has sinned against the Holy Ghost, there is no repentance for him. He has got to say that the sun does not shine while he sees it; he has got to deny Jesus Christ when the heavens have been opened unto him, and to deny the plan of salvation with his eyes open to the truth of it; and from that time he begins to be an enemy. This is the case with many apostates of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, 358).

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–C) as you study Matthew 12.

The Sabbath Day

Matthew 12, verses 1–9 and 10–14, tells about two different times when the Pharisees accused Jesus and His disciples of not keeping the Sabbath day holy. Write about one idea from each account that can help you keep the Sabbath day holy. As part of what you write, explain what you will do differently, or better, because of these ideas.

It Depends on How You Look at It

1. After Jesus performed the miracle recorded in Matthew 12:22, how did the Pharisees respond that was different than the response of the rest of the people? (see vv. 23–24).

2. Why do you think two groups of people who saw the same event could have such a difference in opinion? (see v. 14).

3. How did Jesus respond to what the Pharisees said about Him in verse 24? (see vv. 25–29).

Follow the Example of Jesus

Since Matthew 12 mostly records how Jesus dealt with those who opposed Him, choose one thing Jesus did or said in this chapter that you think you could use in dealing with people who oppose the Church, and explain how you would use it.

Matthew 13
Parables

In Matthew 13 Jesus taught the people through short stories called parables. Teaching in parables allowed Jesus to reveal great truths to those who were spiritually in tune and, at the same time, conceal or hide those truths from those who were not ready for them. Even the spiritually ready must ponder and pray to fully understand the Savior’s parables. This is actually a blessing because when we receive answers through the Spirit we usually remember them better and longer (see also Bible Dictionary, “parables,” pp. 740–41).

As you seek to understand the meaning of parables, consider the following three-step process:

1. Outline the parable. List the objects or persons involved, what actions occurred, and the result of those actions.

2. Look for clues to the interpretation. Clues might include “like unto” statements Jesus made, cross-references in your scriptures, the situation or question that prompted the parable, and what you know about the people the parable was shared with.

3. Make a comparison. It is helpful to write down what you learn as you think about the interpretation of the parable. Ask questions about the relationship of people and objects in the parable and then see if you can write an answer to your questions.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 13

Matthew 13:1–23—Mark 4:1–20; Luke 8:4–15

Matthew 13:31–32—Mark 4:30–32

Matthew 13:54–58—Mark 6:1–6

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A or B as you study Matthew 13.

The Parable of the Sower

1. The parable found in Matthew 13:3–8 has often been called the parable of the sower, but why might it also be called the parable of the soils?

2. From the information given in Matthew 13:3–8, 18–23, draw four pictures in your journal of what happened to the seeds in each type of soil. Beside each picture explain what you drew and what it symbolizes.

3. None of the soils in the parable had to stay in the condition it was in. For each type of soil, describe what would need to be done to make or keep it a place to grow healthy, fruitful plants. Also describe what this soil improvement project could symbolize in your life as you grow spiritually.

Interpret Another Parable

Choose one of the following parables or groups of parables:

• Parable of the tares (Matthew 13:24–30)

• Parables of the mustard seed and the leaven (Matthew 13:31–33)

• Parables of the treasure and the pearl of great price (Matthew 13:44–46)

• Parable of the gospel net (Matthew 13:47–50)

Read the parable or parables carefully, use the suggestions for interpreting parables in the introduction to this chapter, and then write what you think the Lord was teaching about His kingdom.

Matthew 14
“Be Not Afraid”

Many times in the scriptures the Lord tells us not to fear, but rather to have faith in Him and His purposes (for example, see Isaiah 41:13; Mark 5:36; D&C 6:34–36). When we act in fear we often make mistakes, but when we act in faith we have the strength to accomplish much more than we could on our own. Look for how fear or faith is demonstrated in the stories in Matthew 14 and how fear or faith affected the people involved.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 14

Matthew 14:1–12—Mark 6:14–29

Matthew 14:13–33—Mark 6:30–52; Luke 9:10–17; John 6:1–21

Matthew 14:34–36—Mark 6:53–56

Understanding the Scriptures

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A as you study Matthew 14.

Walking on Water

Answer the following questions about Matthew 14:22–33:

1. What was Jesus doing while the disciples were in the ship?

2. How did the disciples first react to Jesus walking on the water toward them?

3. What does Peter’s response say about him?

4. What does Matthew say about why Peter sank?

5. What did Peter do when he began to sink?

6. How can Peter’s experience be symbolic of your attempts to come unto Christ?

Matthew 15
What Is Clean and Unclean?

The traditions of the elders, discussed earlier, was a system of complicated additions to the law of Moses that Jewish leaders developed over the years. Although the leaders’ intentions were good, these additions eventually became more important to the Jews than the law itself—certainly more important than the spirit of the law. One of these additions to the law involved ceremonial washings before eating a meal. It was not simply washing for health reasons, but there were specific ways to wash determined by Jewish leaders. When the disciples of Jesus were accused of breaking this tradition of the elders, Jesus used it as a teaching opportunity. As you read, look for what Jesus said were the true principles the Jews had missed by concentrating on their traditions. Look for other miracles Jesus performed as you read Matthew 15.

Other Accounts of What You Read in Matthew 15

Matthew 15:1–31—Mark 7:1–37

Matthew 15:32–39—Mark 8:1–10

Understanding the Scriptures