Hearing the Voice of the King | Matthew 1–20

Matthew’s Gospel opens with a royal announcement: Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah. His genealogy ties Him to David and Abraham, showing that God’s promises have reached their fulfillment. Matthew writes to a Jewish audience, bridging the story of Israel with the coming of Christ.

This Gospel is unique in how it highlights Old Testament prophecy. Over sixty quotations or references reveal Jesus as the One who brings God’s Kingdom to earth. Matthew also structures his narrative around five major teaching sections, reflecting the five books of Moses. He’s showing that Jesus is the true and greater Teacher, the King who brings God’s reign to His people.

Hearing the Words of Jesus

When we read Matthew 1–20, we’re not just following a story—we’re hearing the voice of the King. Jesus speaks words that define His kingdom, confront the heart, and call us to follow Him. There are three powerful sections to pay special attention to in this week’s reading.

1. The Sermon on the Mount (Chapters 5–7)

This is the cornerstone of Jesus’ teaching. He reveals what life in the Kingdom looks like: blessing for the humble, righteousness that reaches the heart, and dependence on the Father in prayer. These chapters give us a portrait of kingdom living that is radically different from the world’s values.

2. Parables of the Kingdom (Chapter 13)

Through parables, Jesus explains how the Kingdom works. It begins small like a mustard seed, spreads quietly like leaven in dough, and ultimately separates the righteous from the wicked. These parables invite us to look beneath the surface of life and see God’s kingdom advancing in ways that are often hidden but unstoppable.

3. The Call to Discipleship (Chapters 16 and 19–20)

Jesus asks, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter’s confession marks a turning point, as Jesus begins to reveal His coming suffering, death, and resurrection. He then calls His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. Later, He teaches that true greatness in His kingdom comes through humility and service.

Reading Matthew Through a Supernatural Lens

Matthew doesn’t just present Jesus as a wise teacher. From angelic visitations at His birth to His authority over demonic forces, Matthew reveals Jesus as the divine King whose kingdom breaks into earth.

One of the clearest moments is the Transfiguration in chapter 17, where Jesus’ glory is unveiled before Peter, James, and John. Moses and Elijah appear, and the Father’s voice declares, “This is my beloved Son; listen to Him.” These supernatural moments remind us that the kingdom Jesus brings is not merely earthly. It is heaven invading history through the person of the King.

Applying Matthew to Your Life

Matthew invites us to listen to Jesus. His words are not distant teachings from the past—they are living truths that shape our lives today. As you read chapters 1–20, slow down and really hear Him. Let the Sermon on the Mount challenge your heart, let the parables reveal the Kingdom’s power, and let His call to discipleship lead you to deeper obedience.

If you’d like to go deeper into the supernatural themes and teachings of Matthew, check out the Bible in a Year videos for more study resources.