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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 04 November 2009
Dualism
The gospel of Matthew accepts the notion of temporal dualism. This doctrine of the two ages is also found in Matthew's major sources, Mark and Q, and is a feature of many early Christian writings. The evangelist's specific notions with respect to this important theme will be fully highlighted in chapters 4 to 7. Matthew also firmly embraces the more developed form of cosmic dualism which is found in the Qumran scrolls and the book of Revelation. In agreement with these texts, he describes the super-natural world in terms of a cosmic struggle between God and his agents on the one hand and Satan and his company of evil angels on the other. Matthew is dependent upon Mark and Q for much of this material, but he edits those sources in an interesting manner and puts his own particular stamp upon them. Let us begin with his depiction of the forces on the side of God in this cosmic conflict.
Like all or most of his contemporaries, Matthew accepts the reality of the holy angels who serve God and mediate between the heavenly and earthly realms. Such angels appear in the birth narratives (1:20–1; 2:13, 19–20; cf. 2:12, 22) and the resurrection episode (28:1–8) and in all cases are the messengers of divine revelation. Matthew also knows of the concept of personal guardian angels. In Matthew 18:10, he writes that ‘the little ones’ have their own particular angels in heaven who behold the face of God.
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