Matthew 1:18

Letters to the Faithful - Matthew 1:18

Berean Standard Bible

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged in marriage to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.

King James Bible

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.

Greek Text:

Τοῦ δὲ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ ἡ γένεσις οὕτως ἦν· μνηστευθείσης τῆς μητρὸς αὐτοῦ Μαρίας τῷ Ἰωσήφ, πρὶν ἢ συνελθεῖν αὐτοὺς εὑρέθη ἐν γαστρὶ ἔχουσα ἐκ πνεύματος ἁγίου.

Transliteration:

Tou de Iēsou Christou hē genesis houtōs ēn; mnēsteutheisēs tēs mētros autou Marias tō Iōsēph, prin ē synelthein autous heurethē en gastri echousa ek pneumatos hagiou.

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This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about:

The phrase introduces the narrative of Jesus' birth, emphasizing its divine and miraculous nature. The term "Jesus Christ" combines His human name, Jesus, with His title, Christ, meaning "Anointed One" or "Messiah," fulfilling Old Testament prophecies such as Isaiah 7:14 and Micah 5:2. This introduction sets the stage for the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus.

His mother Mary was pledged in marriage to Joseph:

Mary's betrothal to Joseph was a formal engagement, legally binding in Jewish culture, akin to marriage but without cohabitation. This period was significant in Jewish customs, often lasting about a year, during which the couple was considered husband and wife, though they did not live together. Joseph, a descendant of David, connects Jesus to the royal lineage, fulfilling prophecies like 2 Samuel 7:12-16.

but before they came together:

This phrase indicates that Mary and Joseph had not yet consummated their marriage, highlighting the miraculous nature of Jesus' conception. The emphasis on their abstinence underscores the divine intervention in Jesus' birth, maintaining Mary's virginity as prophesied in Isaiah 7:14.

she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit:

Mary's pregnancy by the Holy Spirit signifies the miraculous and divine origin of Jesus, affirming His identity as the Son of God. This conception fulfills the prophecy of a virgin birth and establishes Jesus' dual nature as fully God and fully man. The Holy Spirit's role in the conception underscores the Trinitarian involvement in the incarnation, a foundational doctrine in Christian theology.

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Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost (Matthew 1:18). This verse, a luminous portal into the Gospel of Matthew, unveils the divine mystery of the Incarnation, proclaiming the miraculous conception of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, by the power of the Holy Spirit. Set within the genealogy and narrative of Christ’s advent, it bridges the Old Testament promises with their fulfillment in the New, revealing the sovereign work of God in bringing forth His Son through a virgin. In its measured prose, the verse declares the sanctity of Mary’s calling, the righteousness of Joseph’s dilemma, and the divine initiative that undergirds the salvation of humanity, weaving together themes of divine grace, human fidelity, and the eternal purpose of God.

The context of Matthew 1:18 follows the genealogy of Jesus, which traces His lineage through Abraham and David, establishing His legal right to the Messianic throne (Matthew 1:1–17). This verse shifts from ancestry to narrative, introducing the circumstances of Jesus’ birth with the phrase, “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise.” The expression “on this wise” signals a deliberate transition, inviting the reader into the extraordinary events surrounding the Messiah’s entry into the world. The mention of Mary’s espousal to Joseph situates the story within the cultural and legal framework of first-century Jewish betrothal, a binding commitment akin to marriage yet distinct in that the couple had not yet “come together” in marital union. This detail underscores the purity of Mary’s state and sets the stage for the divine revelation that follows.

The statement “she was found with child of the Holy Ghost” is the theological heart of the verse, proclaiming the miraculous nature of Jesus’ conception. The passive construction, “she was found,” suggests that Mary’s pregnancy became evident, likely causing astonishment and distress, particularly for Joseph, who, as the subsequent verses reveal, faced a moral and legal quandary (Matthew 1:19). The phrase “of the Holy Ghost” is pivotal, affirming that Mary’s child was not the product of human agency but of divine intervention, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, where a virgin would conceive and bear a son called Immanuel. The Holy Spirit’s role underscores the divine initiative in the Incarnation, as the eternal Son of God took on human flesh through the Spirit’s creative power, a mystery that transcends human understanding and exalts the sovereignty of God.

Theologically, Matthew 1:18 stands as a cornerstone of Christian doctrine, affirming the virgin birth as the means by which God entered history as man while remaining fully divine. This miracle distinguishes Jesus from all other figures, establishing His unique identity as the God-man, free from the taint of sin inherited through human descent. The involvement of the Holy Spirit signifies the new creation inaugurated by Christ’s coming, paralleling the Spirit’s work in the creation of the world (Genesis 1:2) and foreshadowing the regeneration of believers through the same Spirit (John 3:5–6). The verse also highlights Mary’s role as the chosen vessel of God’s grace, her obedience and submission to the divine will (Luke 1:38) making her a model of faith, even as her pregnancy placed her in a position of vulnerability and potential shame.

The mention of Joseph’s betrothal to Mary introduces the human tension inherent in the divine plan. In Jewish law, a betrothed woman found pregnant by another could be accused of adultery, a offense punishable by death (Deuteronomy 22:23–24). Joseph’s discovery of Mary’s condition, before the angelic revelation of verse 20, would have posed a profound challenge to his righteousness and love. Yet, this tension serves to magnify the grace of God, who intervenes to guide Joseph and affirm the divine origin of the child. The verse thus sets the stage for the unfolding drama of divine reassurance and human obedience, as both Mary and Joseph become participants in the redemptive work of God.

In the broader scriptural narrative, Matthew 1:18 fulfills the Old Testament’s anticipation of a divine deliverer. The virgin birth aligns with Isaiah’s prophecy, while the involvement of the Holy Spirit echoes the Spirit’s anointing of the Messiah in Isaiah 61:1. The verse also connects to the New Testament’s portrayal of Christ as the fulfillment of the law and the prophets, whose birth ushers in the kingdom of God. The emphasis on the Holy Spirit’s role prefigures the Spirit’s outpouring at Pentecost, where the same divine power enables the Church to bear witness to Christ (Acts 1:8). Moreover, the Incarnation announced in this verse points to the cross and resurrection, where the sinless Son, conceived without sin, accomplishes redemption for a fallen world.

In conclusion, Matthew 1:18 stands as a radiant proclamation of the Incarnation, revealing the divine mystery of Jesus’ conception by the Holy Spirit through the virgin Mary. Its declaration of God’s sovereign work in human history affirms the Messiah’s unique identity and mission, while its portrayal of Mary and Joseph’s circumstances underscores the human cost and divine grace woven into the story of salvation. Through this verse, we are invited to behold the God who enters the world in humility and power, fulfilling ancient promises and inaugurating the new covenant. In its quiet yet profound narrative, Matthew 1:18 beckons all to marvel at the mystery of the Word made flesh, who brings light and life to those who trust in Him.

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Beloved brethren and sisters, I greet you in the matchless name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who was, and is, and is to come. I write to you this day that your hearts may be strengthened in faith, that your minds may be renewed in the knowledge of the truth, and that your lives may abound in the fruit of righteousness to the glory of God.

For it is written: “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.” — Matthew 1:18.

O brethren, here in this simple and sublime verse is set forth the mystery of our redemption. Behold the wondrous grace of God, that the Eternal Word should take on flesh, that He who is from everlasting should be born of a virgin, that the fullness of deity should dwell bodily in One who came forth in humility and meekness.

Consider the marvel of it: “Before they came together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.” Here the natural order is transcended; here the arm of flesh gives way to the power of the Most High. The incarnation of the Son of God is not the work of man, nor the result of human will, but the sovereign act of God, wrought by His Spirit.

Let us therefore stand in awe of this holy mystery. Let us bow in reverence before the One who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. For in this manner has the Lord brought salvation to us—not by works of righteousness that we have done, but according to His mercy. He who knew no sin was made sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Beloved, see also the faithfulness of God to His promises. Long had the prophets foretold that a virgin would conceive and bear a Son, and that His name would be called Immanuel, God with us. In the fullness of time, the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory of the Only Begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. The promise was fulfilled; the covenant was confirmed; the hope of ages was realized in the coming of Christ.

Therefore, brethren, let your faith rest not in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. The gospel we proclaim is rooted in the supernatural work of God from beginning to end. The child born to Mary is none other than the Son of the Most High, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. In Him is life, and that life is the light of men.

Let this truth also shape our worship. When we gather to sing the praises of Christ, let us remember that we worship One who was born of the Spirit, lived in perfect obedience, died in our place, and rose again in triumph. Let our songs be filled with wonder and with joy. Let us extol the greatness of our God, who has visited and redeemed His people.

And let this truth strengthen your hearts in times of trial. The same Spirit who overshadowed Mary, bringing forth life where there was no natural means, is the Spirit who now dwells in you. The same God who fulfilled His Word through the incarnation of Christ will surely fulfill every promise He has made to you. Trust in Him; lean not on your own understanding. With God, nothing shall be impossible.

Brethren, as you reflect upon this sacred mystery, let it also lead you to greater holiness. For He who was born of the Spirit calls you to walk by the Spirit. The child born of Mary grew in wisdom and stature, in favor with God and man, and in due time laid down His life to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good works. Therefore, pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness.

And proclaim this good news to the world. In a day when many hearts are fainting, when many are searching for hope, declare the message of the incarnation with boldness and with compassion. Tell of the Savior who came not to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. Tell of the love of God made manifest in Jesus Christ.

Now unto Him who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, crucified for our transgressions, raised for our justification, ascended to the right hand of the Father, and coming again in glory—unto Him be blessing and honor, glory and power, both now and forevermore.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

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O Lord God Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, the One who inhabits eternity, whose name is holy, we come before You this day in reverence and in awe, in thanksgiving and in wonder. You are the God of covenant and of promise, the God whose Word shall not fail, the God who brings to pass what was spoken from of old.

For it is written: “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When His mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.” O Lord, how marvelous is this mystery; how great is this work of grace! You who spoke by the prophets have fulfilled Your word. You who promised a Redeemer have sent forth Your Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption as sons.

O Father of mercies, we bless You for the gift of Your beloved Son. We thank You that in the fullness of time You sent Him forth, not by the will of man nor by the strength of the flesh, but by the power of the Holy Spirit. We praise You that the Virgin conceived and bore a Son, and that His name is called Jesus, for He shall save His people from their sins.

O Lord, cause our hearts to be filled with wonder and gratitude. May we never grow weary of this glorious gospel. Let the miracle of the incarnation stir within us renewed love and devotion. May we proclaim with joy: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory.” Let the story of His coming be ever upon our lips and deep within our hearts.

Grant us, O Lord, the humility and the faith of Mary, who said: “Behold the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to Your word.” May we also surrender ourselves to Your will, trusting in Your promises and yielding to Your Spirit. Let the same Spirit who overshadowed her work mightily within us, conforming us to the image of Christ, that we may bear fruit for Your glory.

And as You chose Joseph, a just man, to be guardian of the Christ-child, grant us also faithfulness in the tasks to which You have called us. Teach us to walk in obedience even when we do not fully understand Your ways. Strengthen us to embrace the cost of discipleship and to trust in Your sovereign hand.

O God of grace, let the message of the incarnation fill us with hope. In a world darkened by sin and shadowed by death, let us shine as lights, declaring that Emmanuel—God with us—has come. Let this good news bring comfort to the brokenhearted, joy to the weary, and salvation to the lost.

We pray, O Lord, for the Church throughout the world. May we be faithful stewards of this message. May we guard the deposit entrusted to us and proclaim with boldness that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Strengthen pastors and leaders to preach this gospel in season and out of season. Grant to every believer a heart eager to share the good news of great joy.

And, O Lord, may this truth shape our lives in holiness and love. For the One who was born of the Virgin is the Holy One of God. As we follow Him, may we walk in purity of heart and life. May the hope of His first coming prepare us for His coming again in glory. Teach us to live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present age, waiting for our blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.

Now, O Lord, unto You who sent forth Your Son in great love, who by the Spirit brought about His wondrous birth, and who through Him has redeemed a people for Your name—unto You be glory, majesty, dominion, and power, both now and forevermore.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray. Amen.