This commentary on Matthew offers a unique interpretive approach that focuses on the socio-historical context of the Gospel and the nature of Matthews exhortation to his first-century Christian audience. / By merging a careful study of Matthews Gospel in relation to the social context of the ancient Mediterranean world with a detailed look at what we know of first-century Jewish-Christian relations, Craig Keener uncovers significant insights into the Gospel not found in any other Matthew commentary. / In addition, Keeners commentary is a useful discipleship manual for the church. His approach recaptures the full shock effect of Jesus teachings in their original context and allows Matthew to make his point with greater narrative artistry. Keener also brings home the total impact of Matthews message, including its clear portrait of Jesus and its call for discipleship, both to the Gospels ancient readers and to believers today. / Thoroughly researched, the book includes a 150-page bibliography of secondary sources, and more than 150 pages of indexes.