Mitch, the Gospel of Matthew was written by Levi, whose occupation was that of a tax gatherer, or, better known by the Jews as a "publican". Later his name was changed to Matthew which means, "gift of God". He was one of Jesus's original twelve disciples so what is written in the gospel of "Matthew" came from first hand experience. It is not hard to see that he doesn't want any reader to credit himself as if he were anyone special. His whole emphasis, as with all the gospel writers focuses only on Christ.
....And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me. And he left all, rose up , and followed him. And Levi made him a great feat in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans luke 5:27
John was also one of the original twelve disciples and is credited for penning the gospel of "John", but that doesn't necessarily mean they always have to bring up the same issues. Whereas Matthew discloses right at the onset the physical lineage of Jesus in order to prove he is the rightful heir of king David, John dwells upon the deity of Christ ....In the beginning was... Jn 1:1 to prove he is God Almighty himself in the flesh.
Chris |
