Matthew 1

Read together Isaiah 53. Reflect on the time and setting for this chapter.

Matthew 1:1-17

  1. What is the point of this verse section?
  2. What is different about this genealogy?
  3. Read Ruth together
  4. Read together 2 Samuel 11-12:24
  5. Read together Genesis 38.
  6. Why would Matthew use these as highlights of Jesus genealogy?

Matthew 1:17

  1. What is significant about this verse to you?
  2. How many generations are there really between Abraham and David, David to Babylon.
  3. Read the following passages:
    • God’s promise to Abraham: #Ge 12:3; 22:18
    • God’s promise to David: #2Sa 7:12; Ps 89:3; 132:11-12
    • Isaiah prophecy from David 9:6-7
  4. How are these passages relevant? What do they mean to you?
  5. What doctrine is shown here?

Matthew 1:18-25

  1. Discuss Joseph’s relationship to Mary. (What would that relationship look like today?)
  2. Why was Joseph willing to divorce Mary? What was he considering?
    • Is this the same perspective that you would have?
    • What would you think if your betrothed came to you saying she was pregnant with the Lord’s child?
  3. What did it take to change Joseph’s mind?
  4. Read Isaiah 7:14 — Translate Emmanuel.
  5. What was Joseph’s response to the Angel’s instructions?
  6. Name three spiritual truths that might describe this passage.