This new Gospel, the one according to St. Matthew, narrates the life of Jesus since his birth and very first teachings. It starts off completely different to the Gospel of St. John since this one actually talks about the beginning and birth of Jesus.The other Gospel begins with Jesus already grown and being baptized by John. However, it doesn't mention at all anything about his childhood, since it went directly from his birth to his miracles. Anyways, it states that Jesus was born in Nazareth being the son of Mary, (whose husband was Joseph) and God. "And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him". (Matthew 3: 16) It clearly says how Jesus was worshipped since the very beginning, and was loved and honored by everyone. Oh wait! Not clearly everyone; the kings wanted to destroy Jesus, and later on he also encounters with Satan.
Satan, the most evil creature yet to exist, tries to challenge Jesus and somehow convince him on "changing sides" and begin to worship him instead of God. However, using his intelligence and comebacks, Jesus puts Satan in his place. He tells him that one should only worship and serve God and live by the words that he says. No material or other being is as powerful as the Lord, and therefore you can see how Satan's offer is completely ridiculous. Who would exchange faith for materials? "And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me." (Matthew 4: 9) Satan's offer was not accepted for Jesus demonstrated how strong he could be and would not let anyone trick him.
Jesus began to make miracles and cure all those in need so he could show everyone that he was someone really special and unique. The miracles he makes are very similar to the ones in St. John, for he heals the sick, the possessed by evil, and the ones with incapacity. He soon became known all over, and his power became known by every being. “And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.” (Matthew 4: 24) It is amazing how Jesus achieved all that he wanted, and accomplished everything he proposed himself. He did good to everyone and always thought of the others before himself. However, I would like to add that to me, it seemed as if Jesus' fame was due mostly because of God and his powers, which obviously influenced him. Anyways, one should never forget that God gave Jesus these powers for a reason and thus, they are both incredible. "The incredibles they shall be called." (Michelle Katz)
I would also like to mention how Jesus reenforces the commandments that Moses had once created. He adds a few according to that times perception and situation. “But I say unto you, that ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.” (Matthew 5: 39) Is this understood?
I personally liked this Gospel much more than John since it delivered the message in an understandable way and I was able to read it more fluently. I also loved the fact that it doesn't mention anything against Judaism and it doesn't segregate anyone. I learned a lot in this Gospel and I believe its teachings made much more sense than the ones of the other one. So far, so great.
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