Or, perhaps the author thought that it would lend credibility to it actually being written by Matthew. Clearly, it worked
Conspiracy theory. If you're paranoid enough you can see a conpsiracy everywhere.
Now you have to explain why an author who exults such a high level of morality as taught by Jesus would also conspire to deceive his audience.
The central figure of his writing is a pristine example of honesty and integrity. In fact Jesus in Matthew exemplifies and also teaches the highest human morality on earth. Yet you imagine that to persuade us of this Matthew injects a deceptive tactic.
Maybe, maybe, maybe ...
Maybe when Jesus said, "the last shall be first and the first shall be last" it made a lasting impression on one who was naturally proud and competitive. It sunk in and was subtly manifested in his own writing.
As a Christian working in teamwork occasionally with other Christians, it is completely understandable to me. Paul also reminded the Philippian to consider not just your own qualification but those of others.
You can think what you wish. I think this little detail reveals the humility of the
author. That would make Matthew the most likely author.
My imagination is also able to surmise various alternative conspiratorial explanations. But I think the simple interpretation is the most likely.
Edited by jaywill, : No reason given.
Edited by jaywill, : No reason given.