Every hero has a backstory. The first two chapters of the Gospel of Matthew tell the story of Jesus’ backstory. Matthew paints a portrait of Jesus that makes it clear that he is in the direct line to be the long-awaited Messiah that will set the Jewish people free and finally establish God’s Kingdom to bless all nations. Spoiler alert! This Christmas story has no shepherds, no sheep, no angelic choir, no baby in a manger. It is full of Magi from the east, a maniacal king, infanticide, terror, and gifts fit for a king. But, don’t worry, there are some angelic visitations. Join me as I walk through this powerful story using A Cartoonist’s Guide to Matthew.

Outline

0:00 Introduction

03:12 What is the Messiah?

04:00 Why Genealogies Matter

10:42 What’s In A Name?

15:47 Who Were the Wise Men?

20:50 Who Was Herod the Great?

24:05 Why Bethlehem?

25:22 Why Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh?

26:27 Slaughter of Children at Christmas?!?

28:45 Out of Egypt

30:18 Conclusion