What is the first book of the New Testament? This question is often asked by those who are new to the Christian faith or by those who are simply curious about the structure of the Bible. The New Testament, which is the second part of the Christian Bible, contains the teachings, life, and works of Jesus Christ, as well as the writings of his apostles and early followers. The first book of the New Testament is the Gospel of Matthew, which was written by the apostle Matthew, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples.
The Gospel of Matthew is significant for several reasons. It is often referred to as the “Kingdom Gospel” because it emphasizes Jesus’ teachings about the Kingdom of God. Matthew was written primarily for a Jewish audience, and it draws heavily on Jewish scriptures and traditions to explain Jesus’ teachings and his role as the Messiah. The book opens with a genealogy tracing Jesus’ lineage back to Abraham, emphasizing his Jewish heritage and his fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
In addition to highlighting Jesus’ Jewish background, the Gospel of Matthew also focuses on his teachings and parables. Matthew includes the Sermon on the Mount, a collection of Jesus’ most profound teachings, which outlines the moral and ethical standards that followers of Jesus should adhere to. The Sermon on the Mount is considered one of the most important theological documents in the New Testament and has had a profound impact on Christian ethics and theology.
The book also details the life of Jesus, from his birth to his resurrection. It covers his miracles, his interactions with the religious leaders of his time, and his crucifixion and resurrection. The narrative is structured to show Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and as the promised Messiah.
The Gospel of Matthew is the first book of the New Testament for several reasons. Firstly, it was likely written before the other Gospels, making it the earliest account of Jesus’ life and teachings. Secondly, it was the first Gospel to be accepted by the early Christian church, and it played a significant role in shaping the faith of early Christians. Lastly, the book’s emphasis on Jesus’ Jewish heritage and his fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies makes it a foundational text for understanding the Christian faith.
In conclusion, the first book of the New Testament is the Gospel of Matthew. This book provides a comprehensive account of Jesus’ life, teachings, and role as the Messiah, and it is considered one of the most important theological documents in the Christian faith. Its focus on Jesus’ Jewish heritage and his fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies makes it a crucial text for understanding the origins and development of Christianity.
