Commentary on The Gospel According to Matthew

1.1–17 : Genealogy of the Messiah

(compare Lk. 3.23–38 ).

1 :

Literally Christ (or Messiah, v. 17 ) means “anointed one” and was frequently used of the royal figure whose rule would bring about the final age of righteousness and justice. The genealogy presents Jesus as this ruler, descended from King David (vv. 1, 6 ) through the royal line (vv. 6–11 ).

2–11 :

These names are drawn from Ruth 4.18–22; 1 Chr. 2.1–3.19 .

17 :

Fourteen generations: perhaps reflecting the numerical value of David in Heb.; d (4) + v (6) + d (4) = 14. Messiah: see v. 1 n.

1.18–25 : The birth of Jesus

(compare Lk. 1.26–38; 2.1–7 ). The theme of the miraculous birth pervades the passage (vv. 18, 20, 23, 25 ).

20 :

Both the angel (“messenger”) and the dream are customary devices for reporting revelations (see 2.12–13, 22 ).

21, 23 :

The chief significance of the account for Matthew lies in the pointedly explained names, Jesus and Emmanuel.

22–23 :

See Isa. 7.14 n. Matthew frequently introduces OT quotations with a phrase like to fulfil what the Lord declared through the prophet (e.g. 2.15; 8.17; 27.9–10 ).