When Was the Gospel of Matthew Written?

The Gospel of Matthew was likely written between AD 70 and AD 90. Scholars date it after the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in AD 70, reflecting its themes and audience. It draws on the Gospel of Mark and was written primarily for Jewish Christians to present Jesus as the promised Messiah fulfilling Old Testament prophecy.

Introduction

The Gospel of Matthew is one of the four canonical Gospels and a cornerstone of the New Testament. It offers a detailed account of Jesus’ life, teachings, death, and resurrection. But when exactly was the Gospel of Matthew written?

Understanding its date of composition helps us grasp the historical context and the author’s purpose in writing.

Who Wrote the Gospel of Matthew?

Before we dive into when the Gospel was written, it’s helpful to know who authored it. Traditionally, the Gospel is attributed to Matthew, a former tax collector and one of Jesus’ twelve apostles. Though the text itself is anonymous, early church tradition and historical writings support Matthew’s authorship, emphasizing his unique perspective as a firsthand witness.

When Was the Gospel of Matthew Written?

Scholars generally date the writing of the Gospel of Matthew between AD 70 and AD 90, though some suggest a slightly earlier or later range. Here’s why:

• Post-Temple Destruction Context (AD 70):

  The Gospel shows signs of being written after the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in AD 70, a pivotal event for Jewish and early Christian communities. References to the Temple’s destruction and the growing separation between Judaism and Christianity suggest a post-70 date. (See Raymond E. Brown’s An Introduction to the New Testament (Doubleday).

• Relationship with the Gospel of Mark:

  Most scholars agree Matthew used Mark’s Gospel as a source. Since Mark is dated around AD 65–70, Matthew’s Gospel likely followed after, placing it in the 70s or 80s. R.T. France, The Gospel of Matthew (Eerdmans, 2007)

• Audience and Purpose:

  Matthew’s Gospel was primarily written for a Jewish-Christian audience. Its emphasis on Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy reflects concerns and questions emerging after the Temple’s fall, which influenced the timing. Craig S. Keener, A Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew (Eerdmans, 1999)

Why Does the Date Matter?

Dating the Gospel helps readers understand its theological themes and historical backdrop. Knowing it was likely written after the Temple’s destruction highlights Matthew’s message of hope and fulfillment despite crisis. It also explains why Matthew carefully connects Jesus to Jewish prophecy, aiming to affirm faith in the Messiah during uncertain times.

Related Questions

How many chapters are in the Gospel of Matthew?

The Gospel of Matthew contains 28 chapters, covering a comprehensive narrative from Jesus’ genealogy to the Great Commission.

What is the main message of the Gospel of Matthew?

Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the promised Messiah and King, bringing the Kingdom of Heaven to earth and fulfilling God’s covenant with Israel.

Conclusion

While the exact year the Gospel of Matthew was written can’t be pinpointed with absolute certainty, scholarly consensus places it between AD 70 and AD 90. This timeframe helps us appreciate the Gospel’s rich theological insights and its role in shaping early Christian identity.