Understanding the Text | The Pastor's Brief

Matthew 9:10-13 "Jesus’ Purpose"

Here Jesus will make clear the purpose of His mission.

Matthew 9:9 “Disciples Are Called”

Matthew’s calling is not only the foil to an earlier disappointment episode but a mirror to the successful call of the fishermen from ch. 4.

Matthew 9:1-8 “Authority to Forgive”

Jesus is back in Capernaum where He demonstrates the highest authority of all: to forgive sin.

Matthew 8:28-34 “Authority over Demons”

While the text certainly illuminates the extent of Jesus’ authority, the main thrust is to introducroduce the reception of Jesus' authority.

Matthew 8:23-27 “Authority Over Creation”

Having defined the purpose of Jesus’ authority, Matthew now proceeds to define the extent and source of Jesus’ authority.

Matthew 8:18-22 “Defining Discipleship”

In this first discipleship narrative, Matthew defines discipleship in Jesus’ terms.

Matthew 8:14-17 “Authority to Atone”

While hinting at it all the while, Matthew now makes clear the purpose of Jesus’ authority on earth.

Matthew 8:5-13 “Authority to Restore”

Matthew clearly presents Jesus as the one who has the authority and ability to restore His people to the Father through faith in Him.

Matthew 8:1-4 “Authority to Cleanse”

This miraculous restoration not only proves that Jesus possesses authority, but it also begins to define the purpose of His authority.