Matthew 1 > The Genealogy and Birth of Jesus - by Jeff Byerley

Outline

1:1 Title.
1:2-6 From Abraham to David. - Israel on the way up.
1:7-11 From David to the Babylonian Exile. - Israel on the way down.
1:12-17 From the Babylonian Exile to Christ. - Israel awaiting the Messiah.
1:18-25 The Birth of Jesus.

Reflections:
1. Why did Matthew use the title set out in verse 1?
This book was clearly aimed at Jewish readers. The title shows that Jesus was a descendant of King David and Abraham. This was essential to show to Jews that Jesus was the heir of David's throne and of the covenant promises.

2. Why did Matthew begin his Gospel with this genealogy?
Whilst it may seem strange to us to start a book about a person in this way, it was quite normal to Jews. The form of it may have been as an aid to memory. The setting out in generation groups of 14 also seemed to have significance with the total being 42. The number 7 represented completion or perfection and 14 was twice 7. Moreover, the consonants in David's Hebrew name was D W D. The Hebrew numerals represented by these letters add up to 14. (4+6+4=14). However, to achieve this various names have been left out.

3. What is surprising about Matthew's list?
Usually a Jewish genealogy included only the names of the fathers, but this list included four women. Moreover, each of these in some way or other, seemed to be subject to scandal. Rahab was a prostitute and Tamar and Bathsheba committed adultery. Moreover most of the women were apparently foreigners; Rahab was a Canaanite, Ruth a Moabite and Bathsheba a Hittite. Nevertheless, we see God's mercy and grace applying to each one to become part of the people of God. So too the list of kings includes both good and bad kings. This reminds us that it is only by God's grace that we have been included in his family.

4. What is different about Matthew's account of Jesus' birth?
As compared to Luke's account, Matthew records the event from Joseph's point of view. We noted how faithful Joseph was to follow the Lord's instructions after the message from the angel in a dream. Indeed, messages through dreams seem to be very relevant as Joseph later flees with his young family to Egypt (Matt.2:13).