Matthew’s Gospel In Outline Form

There are multiple ways to outline Matthew’s Gospel.  One way is to follow the form of a suzerain covenant,  Here is another approach from an application of that approach, keeping in mind that the temptation narrative itself follows the form of a suzerain covenant.  I. Matthew 1 - 3  : Introduction The author/authors introduce us to Yeshua via a gematria laden eschatological genealogy, a very brief birth narrative, a note about Yeshua’s ascent into manhood, & His baptism by John the Baptist that ends in a theophany. II. Matthew 4  : Prophet, Priest, King   Each of the 3 temptations highlights one of Yeshua’s 3 offices —- Prophet, Priest, & King, in that order. This provides the narrative framework (ie outline) for the remainder of the Gospel. Yeshua calls His disciples, essentially putting together a school of highly prophetic people who would serve as functional levites ministering to the poor, the sick & infirm, the marginalized, even Rom...

The Numbers Argument (Part 2)

 GOD is a triune personal spirit who, as to essence, is infinite, eternal, & unchangeable, & whose attributes are: being (GOD is autotheos; God is a se), wisdom, power, justice, holiness, goodness, & truth.

This is how the Numbers Argument & the Westminster Shorter Catechism’s answer to the question “What is God?” intersect: 

As to essence:

  • Numbers exist independently of the human mind. 
  • Every integer is unique (aseity) 
  • Each number exists both independently & perichoretically
    • No two integers (numbers) express the exact same numerical value at the same time in the same way. 
    • Every number is infinitely compossible by an infinite set of previous integer (by addition) & via substraction of all subsequent numbers one from the other before it (ie 5 - 2 ‎ = 3 & 1 + 2 also = 3)
    • The intervening set of integers between 1, 2, 3 are required in order for those 3 numbers to exist.  
    • This intervening set of integers between 1, 2, & 3 make these 3 integers inescapably perichoretic.  Each & every number “contains” the integers preceding it, so the properties of any two neighboring integers overlap. 
  • Numbers & math constitute an infiniteimmutable system. 
  • Numerical units, equations, formulae, etc. can be arranged in orderly fashion & expressed in words.   They can communicate via deployment as ciphers for whole ideas, like musical notes.   They also require a mind in which to inhere. Consequently, they exemplify the personalnature of God.  

As to Attributes

  • We use numbers to count, manage, & make wise (or stupid) decisions. 
  • We look at numbers as authoritative & binding to the conscience.   2 + 2 always = 4.    This is an authoritative truth that reminds us of God’s power & authority
  • As to justice, we use numbers as a means to balance weights & measures & calculate value in cases of injury, assault, theft, wrongful death, resource allocation, & much more. 
  • As to holiness, numbers are pure & absolute.
  • As to goodness, we use them to measure reward as well as reparation, which serves us in the process of reconciliation. 
  • As to truth , the value of a number follows the law of intentity. 

Thank you, may God bless us all each & everyone, & “Go & sin no more.”

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