The Jewish character of this Gospel is evident in many ways. There are many indications that Matthew expected that his readers would be familiar with Jewish culture.
- Matthew doesn’t translate Aramaic terms such as raca in Matthew 5:22. Mark translates Aramic term, Corban in Mark 7: 11
- Matthew refers to Jewish customs without explanation (i.e. Matthew 15:2. But, Mark explains the same custom at Mark 7:3-4; see also Matthew 23:5).
- Matthew starts his genealogy with Abraham (Matthew 1:1).
- Matthew frequently refers to Jesus as the “Son of David.”
- Matthew uses the more Jewish phrase “Kingdom of Heaven” instead of “Kingdom of God.”
Reference: http://www.enduringword.com/commentaries/4001.htm