[2] According to Mt 1:18, Jesus had no human paternity but was supernaturally conceived by “the power of the Holy Spirit.” It’s not surprising then that He knew where He came from and the source of power within Him when confronted by demons and satanic forces. How can we be courageous when dealing with evil forces having known our originality (John 1:12) and that the same Spirit promises to dwell in us? (read 1 Cor. 6:19; 3:16; Rom 8:9; Jn 14:26)
[3] In Matthew 1:16, the Author does not say that Joseph was “the father of Jesus” but only that he was “the husband of Mary” and that Jesus was born of her. Why is that?
[4] The Biblical truth of the supernatural conception of Jesus was disbelieved by many Jews (then) and by some (even this day). The Devil hate this verse. He has twisted the parentage of Jesus into lies. For instance, John 8:19 and 8:41 comes to mind where some were suspicions of the “virgin birth” of Christ. How can you use Matthew 1:18 to set the record straight?
For Further Study – [5] The genealogy of Jesus Christ is full of sinners. Names like Tamar, Rahab, Bethsheba are included here. Similarly, bad kings -- those who disobeyed Yahweh, are mentioned here: Roboam; Abijah (abijam, 1 kings 15:3-4); Jehoakim; Jehoshaphat and Jehoram. This fact tells us that God’s grace is unmerited, it is inclusive, it is given and extended to sinners! How can you use the record of the genealogy to witness to someone who feels like he/she has sank into sin and can not be accepted by God?
For Self-Examination – [6] “For He will save His people from their sins” (Mt 1:23). God does not save us “in” our sins; but “from” our sins. Think of this verse: “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?” (Romans 6:1–2, NKJV). How can you help someone who abuses the grace of God? In other words, he/she has refused to ‘turn away” from evil ways/ behaviors. What further Scriptures would you use to stress the importance of genuine repentance and the grave danger of neglecting necessary reforms in ones life?
For Life Today – [7] Engagement was a legally binding commitment in ancient Judaism. Jewish couples often wed when the young man was about 18 and the young woman was in her very early teens. Prior to marriage they would not live together. Furthermore, they were expected to refrain from sexual relations until after their wedding ceremony. Sexual intercourse outside marriage is sin. How can you use Joseph impeccable character to prepare young people in this generation?
[8] Because of the pregnancy, Mary’s reputation, honour, and her life (future) were at stake. Thus, Joseph wanted to rescind the betrothal “secretly.” In moments of “fiery trials” – when nobody can understand you no matter how you explain yourself, where do you go for help? How do you deal with character assassinations, innuendos, insinuations, etc.
For Going Deeper – [9] Consider again the major truth of Salvation expressed in this chapter. How does Mt. 1:21 and Mt 18:11; Lk 19:10; Jn 1:29; 3:16-17; 12:47; Act 3:26; 4:12; 1 Tim 1:15; Rev. 7:14 expand your understanding of this truth?
For Personal Implications – [10] Joseph knew that if Mary had been unfaithful to him it would be impossible to go through with the marriage. Yet his nature as “a just man” (Mt 1:19) also did not want to make this an unnecessary hardship or stigma upon Mary. Therefore, Joseph made the understandable decision to seek a divorce quietly. What a lesson! How many of us today would prefer to seek revenge in such situation? What does the Bible tech about revenge and retaliation?
[11] “These verses (Mt 1:1-17) begin the New Testament. Let us always read them with serious and solemn feelings. The book before us contains not the word of men, but of God. Every verse in it was written by inspiration of the Holy Ghost.
Let us thank God daily for giving us the Scriptures. The poorest Englishman who understands his Bible, knows more about religion than the wisest philosophers of Greece and Rome.
Let us remember our deep responsibility. We shall all be judged at the last day according to our light. To whomsoever much is given, of them much will be required.
Let us read our Bibles reverently and diligently, with an honest determination to believe and practice all we find in them. It is no light matter how we use this book. Eternal life or death depends on the spirit in which it is used.
Above all let us humbly pray for the teaching of the Holy Spirit. He alone can apply truth to our hearts, and make us profit by what we read.” – [J. C. Ryle, Expository Thoughts on Matthew, (New York: Robert Carter and Brothers, 1860), 1–2].