North Charlottesville church of Christ

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Matthew 1:18-25

Martin Adams
03/31/25 - Sun Bible Study

Series: The Book of Matthew

Meeting Purpose

Analyze Matthew chapter 1:18-25 as part of an ongoing study of the Gospel of Matthew

Key Takeaways

• Matthew's primary aim is to prove Jesus is the Messiah and Son of God to a Jewish audience

• The chapter emphasizes Jesus' divine origin and fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy

• Joseph's righteousness and obedience to God's message are highlighted

• The concept of "Emmanuel" (God with us) frames both Matthew's gospel and the entire New Testament

Topics

Jewish Marriage Customs

• Espousal/betrothal was a binding contract, more serious than modern engagement

• Required a bill of divorcement to break, even before final marriage ceremony

• Explains Joseph's dilemma when finding Mary pregnant

Jesus' Divine Origin

• Matthew explicitly states Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit

• Emphasizes Jesus as Son of God from the very beginning

• Removes any doubt about Mary's character or impropriety

Joseph's Righteousness

• Described as a "righteous man" unwilling to disgrace Mary publicly

• Planned to divorce Mary quietly to protect her reputation

• Obeyed the angel's message in his dream, taking Mary as his wife

Fulfillment of Prophecy

• Matthew quotes Isaiah 7:14 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son"

• First of ~10 prophecy fulfillments Matthew will highlight

• Emphasizes Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah to Jewish readers

Emmanuel Concept

• Meaning "God with us"

• Frames Matthew's gospel (1:23 and 28:20)

• Also frames entire New Testament (Matthew 1:23 and Revelation 22:20)

• Emphasizes God's presence among His people through Jesus

Next Steps

• Continue study with Matthew chapter 2 next week

• Examine how Joseph protects young Jesus

• Look for additional prophecy fulfillments Matthew highlights