3. Compare the overall shape of Matthew’s story with what Paul describes as the “gospel” in I Corinthians 15:3-8 and what Luke describes as “preaching the gospel” in Acts 10:36-43, noting both similarities and differences. Does this comparison provide us with any insight into the genre (i.e. type of literature) of Matthew?

4. Note the similarities in wording among the following groups of passages: Matt 3:7-10//Luke 3:7-9; Matt 7:28-29//Mark 1:22//Luke 4:32; Matt 14:34-36//Mark 6:53-56. Does the presence of such extensive verbal agreement raise questions for you? How might such agreement have come to be?

5. Compare the following passages in Matthew with the parallels in Mark: Matt 3:13-17; Matt 14:22-33. In each case, note especially the differences. What might these differences tell us about Matthew’s particular concerns or emphases?

6. Note the way Matthew begins his narrative (1:1-17). What might this tell us about Matthew’s particular concerns, emphases and characteristics?

7. Compare the following verses in Matthew: 7:28-29; 11:1; 13:53; 19:1; 26:1. Note the similarities both in wording and in context. What implications might this have for the literary structure of the Gospel?