Let’s face it: some folks come to church on Sunday morning with the expectation that, sooner or later, if they pay close attention, the preacher is going to step on their toes. It’s unavoidable; it’s inevitable; it just can’t be helped. In fact, it’s something some folks look forward to, in a masochistic sort of way. I heard a friend of mine say from the pulpit one Sunday, "Well, folks, I’ve been here about 5 years now. And if I haven’t stepped on your toes yet, be patient – I’ll get around to you sooner or later."

The Gospel of Matthew is a lot like that. I have little doubt that the writer of Matthew was a perfectionist, a real stickler for rules and regulations. Actions have consequences for Matthew, and if you play you’d better be prepared to pay. That’s why you go to church – to be rem…