What’s the bottom line on the disciples in Matthew?
The word disciples (plural) occurs far more times than disciple (singular). This means that Matthew is interested in the Twelve as an authoritative group of eyewitnesses. Revealing this chain of authority or chain of command is one main purpose in Matthew’s Gospel, though not the only one. The first commission is exceedingly important in Matthew’s Gospel, laying the foundation for the Great Commission. Eventually, the Eleven (minus Judas) will go out to all nations, proclaiming the gospel. This flow of the narrative is confirmed, not only in the other three Gospels, but also in the Book of Acts. (Mark is a special case; see Q & A Fourteen, below, and the next article or Part Ten.
