What is the first chapter in the New Testament? This question may seem simple, but it holds significant importance for understanding the foundational teachings and principles of Christianity. The first chapter of the New Testament is the Gospel of Matthew, which is the first book in the Christian Bible. It provides a comprehensive account of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, offering a profound insight into the core beliefs of the faith.
The Gospel of Matthew was written by the apostle Matthew, who was a tax collector before becoming a follower of Jesus. It is believed to have been written around the year 80 AD, making it one of the earliest written gospels. The purpose of Matthew’s Gospel was to present Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and to appeal to the Jewish audience of the time. The book is divided into three main sections: the birth and early life of Jesus, his public ministry, and his death and resurrection.
In the first chapter of Matthew, the author begins by tracing the genealogy of Jesus, tracing his lineage back to Abraham, the father of the Jewish people. This genealogy is significant as it establishes Jesus’ Jewish heritage and his connection to the promises made to Abraham in the Old Testament. The chapter also includes the story of the virgin birth of Jesus, a pivotal event in Christian theology, where the Holy Spirit overshadowed the virgin Mary, and she conceived Jesus through the power of God.
Following the genealogy, Matthew introduces the birth of John the Baptist, a precursor to Jesus who was sent to prepare the way for the Messiah. The chapter then proceeds to describe the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, as foretold by the prophet Micah. The narrative includes the visit of the wise men, or magi, who came from the East to worship the newborn king. This event highlights the universal nature of Jesus’ message and his significance to all people.
The first chapter of Matthew also includes the account of King Herod’s massacre of the innocents, where he ordered the killing of all male children in Bethlehem and its vicinity. This tragic event serves as a backdrop to the narrative, emphasizing the innocence and vulnerability of Jesus and the opposition he faced from the very beginning of his earthly life.
In conclusion, the first chapter of the New Testament, the Gospel of Matthew, sets the stage for the rest of the New Testament by introducing the central figure of Jesus Christ and highlighting his Jewish heritage, his divine nature, and the significance of his birth. It serves as a foundational text for understanding the Christian faith and the profound impact Jesus had on the world.
