In addition to the simple or literal meaning of a Scriptural text, Matthew follows the rabbinic tradition continued in the tradition of the Catholic Church of plumbing the depths of revelation and seeing events and prophecies in Scripture with a much higher and often elusive spiritual significance. Matthew demonstrates that the expansion of the Covenant and the Gospel to the nations is embedded deep in the heart of God and in the revelation of the Old Covenant. In chapters 24 - 25, Jesus predicts and describes the End. The Institution of the Eucharist at the Jewish Passover receives careful attention in chapter 26, which then flows into the Passion as Jesus is betrayed, condemned, crucified, buried, and raised from the dead in chapters 26 - 28. Because he is King of the Jews.
Keys represent exclusive dominion .
Believers are to listen to the Church and are excommunicated if they refuse to do so. Matthew s Gospel served as a bridge from the national kingdom of Israel to the Church, the Kingdom of Heaven. The majesty and simple elegance of Matthew s style makes this Gospel stand as one of the greatest writings of all time, and the content makes it arguably the most important document ever bequeathed to mankind. Matthew is quoted more frequently by the Church Fathers than any other Gospel. The breath of the Holy Spirit can be deeply sensed in this inspired text as this account of Jesus life and words rise high to the heavens and permeate deep into the soul.