52 Weeks in the Word - Week 42

 !  Welcome to Week 42!  This week we will finish the book of Matthew and begin the book of Mark.  Did last week's reading seem to go by much quicker for you?  Compared to our reading in the Old Testament recently, The book of Matthew has gone by quickly, packed with an abundance of events!  Did you see all the references from the Old Testament already?  Reading the Old Testament can give us a greater appreciation for the New Testament, and what the people endured while they waited for the promised Messiah. 

Looking ahead to Week 42:

The reading for Week 42 includes: Matthew 16 - Mark 7.

From last week's reading of Matthew, you may have noticed that the Gospel of Matthew bridges the Old Testament with the New Testament.  The main audience of Matthew was Jewish believers, familiar with history of Israel, their laws, customs, and promises.  Matthew was an eye witness to the events he recorded.  It is helpful if the reader of Matthew has first century knowledge of the regions of Galilee and Judea to better understand the Biblical context of the events, teachings, and miracles of Jesus.  So, having a map at the very minimum will help.



Also, it is important to understand that the Gospel of Matthew was NOT written in chronological order.  He actually wrote it in a way to present a simple guiding truth: Jesus was the King of the Jews.  

  • The Presentation of the King - Matthew 1:1 - 4:11
  • The Proclamation of the King - Matthew 4:12 - 16:20
  • The Passion of the King - Matthew 16:21 - 28:20
The book of Mark was written by John Mark from Rome, using Peter as his main source.  He ministered with his cousin Barnabas, Paul, and later Peter.  Most likely, Mark would have been a teenager during the ministry of Jesus Christ.  It is believed that Jewish-Christians were probably in Rome by A.D 45.  Mark shows signs that it was primarily written to a Gentile church with signs such as: explanations of Aramaic expressions and Pharisees' traditions.  It is even possible that the book of Mark was used as a source by both Matthew and Luke, dating the book's origin to about A.D. 60.  

Being the shortest gospel book, Mark moves quickly, an action-packed retelling of the ministry of Jesus.  So, stay alert!  The geography of Israel is also important while reading this book. There are two main areas where Jesus conducted his ministry: The region of Galilee and the City of Jerusalem.  

Discipleship is the main theme in this gospel.  
The word "immediately" appears in the book 30 times.  

We look forward to hearing your comments on this week's reading!  Many blessings to you all this week.

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