This kind of story is not intended to be historical, but relatable, grounded in a natural symbol or human relationship, pointing towards a moral message.
The tyrannical kingdoms of Pharaoh, Nebuchadnezzar, Solomon, and Herod are all turned upside down by this realm, ruled by Christ the King.
What is the Kingdom of Heaven?
The Feeding of the 5000 calls back to the manna in the desert, but it also points ahead to this mystery.
What is the Eucharist?
It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for one of these persons to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.
Who is a wealthy person, or a rich person?
Elijah.
Who was John the Baptist?
In this section of Matthew, Jesus preached about how to be blessed, how to treat your worldly attachments, and when and how to judge others.
What is the Sermon on the Mount, or Matthew 5 through 7?
This man, the forerunner of Christ, is in some sense the last prophet of the Old Testament era, though he appears only in the New Testament documents.
Who was John the Baptist?
When Jesus is baptized in the Jordan, a voice in the heavens reveals Christ in what way?
What is God's "beloved son, in whom he is well pleased", or a beloved son?
This faithful if flawed man was chosen as the "rock" upon which the Church would be built, and Jesus gave him a name to match.
Who was Peter, or Simon Peter?
Eve.
Who was Mary?
Forgiveness, mercy, justice, judgment---all will be given to you as you give to others, so you had better follow this shining commandment.
What is the Golden Rule?
After his baptism in the Jordan, and crossing into Judah, Jesus wandered in the desert for 40 days, reliving the events of this book of the Bible.
What is the book of Numbers?
In order to reveal his divinity, Jesus healed someone with this condition.
What is paralysis, or being paralyzed, or being crippled?
Salvation is obtained by this free gift, though this gift must help us grow.
What is faith?
Moses.
Who was Jesus?
This phrase represents a section of scripture we call the Old Testament, and not a word of it or its covenant will pass away.
What is the "law and the prophets"?
Where the Book of Ecclesiastes asked why the righteous sometimes wither and the wicked sometimes prosper, Jesus answers by saying that it is all a sign of this.
What is loving one's enemies, or the perfection of God?
Jesus most clearly revealed he was the fulfillment of the law and the prophets because he was flanked by these figures during the Transfiguration.
Who were Moses and Elijah?
As priest, prophet, and king, Jesus demonstrated this act of divine power, which means casting out evil spirits.
What is exorcism?
Jesus entombed for three days.
The city Jesus mostly operated in, according to Matthew.
What is Capernaum?
In Isaiah 22, the chief steward of the king is given keys of authority, just like this New Testament figure.
Who was Peter, or Simon Peter?
By challenging existing interpretations of the Old Testament, and perhaps even by forgiving sins, Jesus claimed this authority for himself.
What is God's authority?
Throughout Matthew, it is clear that receiving forgiveness from God depends on this, and it even finds mention in the Lord's Prayer.
What is forgiving others?
Number of testing, joyful reward, pregnancy.
What is 40?