Matthew, a "despicable" Jewish tax collector, was invited to follow Jesus and he became an eyewitness and active participant in many events of Jesus' life. He wrote his gospel to a Jewish audience and discussed Jewish practices and customs with easy familiarity. He wrote his gospel to appeal to the thoughts and interests of the religious Jews. He documented the genealogy of Jesus all the way back to Abraham to show His roots to the founding father of Judaism. Matthew's ultimate goal was to declare the truth about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God. He described Jesus' teaching, many of His miracles, and His crucifixion, burial and resurrection from the dead. He also recorded the most detailed and graphic description of the events to occur before Jesus returns to earth to establish His earthly kingdom. Matthew's gospel is a foundational book written about the Cornerstone of our faith, the Stone the builders rejected, Jesus the Christ. As you use this Study Guide for LIFE you will be helped by three specific tools: 1) explanatory notes which offer insight into difficult or controversial passages; 2) searching questions which direct you back to the text for answers, and 3) probing questions that expand the context and challenge you to apply the truths in this book to your own life and culture. Our goal is that you will know what the text says, what it means and will be able to apply it appropriately. These tools will help you understand and incorporate the teachings and examples of Jesus Christ into your own situations. It is our hope that you will be able to use these discoveries to experience the closeness and intimacy with God the Father through the Lord Jesus Christ. The Study Guide is appropriate for the study efforts of individuals, small groups or teachers preparing to explain this book. Whether you are a curious seeker or a professional minister, the Study Guide for LIFE will direct your studies into the heart of Matthew's gospel, but also to the very heart of Jesus Christ Himself.