Day 230 – Matthew: Death and resurrection of Jesus, the King

“Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Matthew 28:18 NIV

Read Matthew 26:1 to Matthew 28:20

From the first introduction to the New Testament, we are given the Gospels. Four Gospels, Four perspectives, One God. They present different portraits of Jesus, emphasising distinct aspects of His identity, character, love, and mission to specific audiences. Matthew sketches Jesus as the Jewish Messiah and King, while Mark presents Him as the active, suffering Servant. Luke highlights His humanity and offers salvation to all people, and John emphasises His divinity as the eternal Son of God. Though they share a common message, their unique perspectives, styles, and chosen details provide a fuller, more profound understanding of who Jesus Christ is. 

Matthew provides more detailed descriptions of the events leading up to Jesus’ arrest, the crucifixion, and the resurrection. When Jesus rose from the dead, He rose in power as the true King of this world. In His victory over death, he established His credentials as King and His power and authority over evil. The Resurrection shows that Jesus has power of life and death – not even death could hold Him or stop His plan of offering eternal life to everyone. This is a story worth telling to someone else, inviting them to share in the victory of our King Jesus.

Prayer: Father, thank You for Matthew sketching the Gospel of Jesus so we can clearly see His Kingship. Not only over the living, but by overcoming death and the resurrection exalting Him to the King over all with the authority over life and death. Thank You, Jesus, that we can share in Your victory and that You did it through love for us. Amen.