Discipleship_in_Matthew

Discipleship and the Gospel according to Matthew: compare and critically comment on the perspective of Rollin Grams and Andrew Overman Overman thus portrays the disciples as being taught by Jesus the model following in his footsteps and teaching the community with authority, understanding and power to build it up and protect it from Judaic influences. Grams continues his argument by pointing out that there can be no hierarchy (p118) if there is to be a community of disciples, as well as showing the community as a family and the disciples as children (p118). Grams identifies nine different terms from the gospel meaning ‘being little’ or ‘littleness to describe the qualities of disciples. Peter is thought of as a leader in the gospel (p120), but Grams disregards this and treats him more of as a rock to build the Church. Even though Jesus is modelled as the teacher by both, Overman views relationship with God and others as important while Grams views Jesus as Son, servant and a compassionate model. Finally whether discipleship is viewed as ‘little ones’ or ‘authoritative’, they identify with the same aim, that of serving others, mission and ministry. Learning, understanding, instructing and service are key words in both articles. They are aspects needed in the role of successful discipleship. One could draw the two authors together by defining a leader as one who is followed, in contrast to a ruler who must be obeyed. Bibliography Overman, Andrew J., 1990. Matthew’s Gospel and formative Judaism: the social World of the Matthean community. Minneapolis: Fortress Press. (pp.124-136) Grams, Rolin G., 2004. Not ‘leaders’ but ‘little ones’ in the Father’s kingdom: the character of discipleship in Matthew’s gospel. Transformation 21 (2), pp.114-125.