The Life and Ministry of Jesus
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. Matthew 1:18–19
The royal theme is announced by a heavenly messenger that the King is coming. Matthew tells the story from Joseph’s point of view (unlike Luke, who tells it from the point of view of Mary). Joseph, a carpenter from Nazareth, is ‘betrothed’ (formally engaged) to Mary. Matthew’s version of the story is that Mary falls pregnant through a special act of the Holy Spirit; Joseph, who wants to avoid the public scandal to which this situation might lead, decides to make private arrangements for the engagement to be annulled.
Both the reality and the supernatural nature of Jesus’ conception are highlighted in Matthew’s account. Jesus took our human nature and entered into our world through the door of the virginal conception. Mary was Jesus’ natural mother, but Jesus had no human father. The ministry of the Holy Spirit, which will be an important motif in Matthew’s Gospel, is highlighted first in relation to the incarnation of Jesus. 1
Personal Encouragement
Joseph wanted to protect Mary, but God wanted to do the impossible. Be careful not to make practical decisions, that may be full of good intentions and very compassionate, before you first have heard God’s heart on the matter.
And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. John 17:3
Before you respond with the ordinary, wait upon God to do the extraordinary.
A Prayer
Lord, teach me to be quick to hear and slow to speak.
1. Campbell, I. D. (2008). Opening up Matthew. Leominster: Day One Publications.
