Matthew 1

Hendriksen

‹ Chapter 0 Matthew — All Chapters Chapter 2 ›

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 7 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER I) Outline of Chapter 1) Theme: The Work Which Thou Gavest Him to Do) 1:1 17 The Genealogy of Jesus Christ) 1:18 25 The Birth of Jesus Christ) ) 1:1 17 The Genealogy of Jesus Christ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23-42.3.38|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23-42.3.38|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:23 38) 1 5 2 8 0 0 1 1 Record of ancestry of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham. 2 Abraham became the father of��119�� Isaac, and Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of Judah and his brothers,3 and Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez became the father of Hezron, and Hezron became the father of Ram, 4 and Ram became the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon became the father of Salmon, 5 and Salmon became the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz became the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed became the father of Jesse, 6 and Jesse became the father of David the king.) David became the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, 7 and Solomon became the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam became the father of Abijah, and Abijah became the Father of Asa, 8 and Asa became the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat became the father of Joram, and Joram became the father of Uzziah, 9 and Uzziah became the father of Jotham, and Jotham became the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz became the father of Hezekiah, 10 and Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh became the father of Amon, and Amon became the father of Josiah, 11 and Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon.) 12 After the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel became the father of Zerubbabel, 13 and Zerubbabel became the father of Abiud, and Abiud became the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim became the father of Azor, 14 and Azor became the father of Zadok, and Zadok became the father of Achim, and Achim became the father of Eliud, 15 and Eliud became the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar became the father of Matthan, and Matthan became the father of Jacob, 16 and Jacob became the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.) 17 So all the generations from Abraham to David (were) fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to Christ fourteen generations.) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.26.52-4.26.56|AUTODETECT|” The Gospel according to Matthew opens with Christ s family tree. Today, by many readers such a list of names is probably considered sufficiently uninteresting to be skipped. We should bear in mind, however, that Matthew was writing primarily for Jews, as has been shown. This also accounts for the fact that he begins the line of descent with Abraham, and does not trace it back to Adam as Luke does. Now, for the Jews genealogy had never been lacking in significance. After the conquest of Canaan it was important in determining a family s place of residence; for, by divine law, the occupation of the land was according to tribes, families, and fathers houses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.26.52-4.26.56|AUTODETECT|” Num. 26:52 56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.33.54|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.33.54|AUTODETECT|” 33:54) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.12.4|AUTODETECT|” ). If one settled in a territory other than his own he might be called a deserter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.12.4|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 12:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ). Under certain circumstances transfer of property required accurate knowledge of pedigree 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.3.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.3.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.3.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.1-8.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.1-8.4.10|AUTODETECT|” 4:1 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.36|AUTODETECT|” ). Later, in Judah, royal succession was linked with Davidic lineage 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.36|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 11:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.4|AUTODETECT|” 15:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.62|AUTODETECT|” ). At the return from Babylon a person who claimed priestly prerogatives was required to prove priestly descent. Otherwise he was excluded from office 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.62|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 2:62) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.1-42.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ). At the beginning of the new dispensation, fulfilling one s duty in connection with the general registration or enrolment described in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.1-42.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 necessitated knowledge of the ancestral roll.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.10|AUTODETECT|” When we take all this into account we are not surprised that Scripture abounds with genealogical material. In the Old Testament it is found in such chapters as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.10|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 5, 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.30|AUTODETECT|” 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.0|AUTODETECT|” , 35, 46; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.0|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Num. 1, 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.34|AUTODETECT|” 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.7.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.7.13|AUTODETECT|” Josh. 7, 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.0|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.14|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 1, 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.3.5|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 3, 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.3.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.3.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.4.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.4.0|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; I Chron. 1 9, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.1.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.1.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.1.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.1.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.1.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.1.23-13.1.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.1.23-13.1.27|AUTODETECT|” 23 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ; II Chron. 23, 29; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 2, 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.3.7|AUTODETECT|” Neh. 3, 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.3.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.3.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.3.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.3.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.3.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.3.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1-40.1.17|AUTODETECT|” As to the New Testament, here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1-40.1.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:1 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23-42.3.38|AUTODETECT|” we find a descending genealogy, one that leads via Joseph to Jesus. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23-42.3.38|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:23 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.4|AUTODETECT|” an ascending family tree is presented. When this is read backward, it also ends with Jesus; though, as held by many, via Mary instead of Joseph. These sections in Matthew and Luke do not exhaust the New Testament references to genealogy. Did not Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) have to issue a warning against excessive interest in such matters, interest stemming from the error of minimizing the fact that with the coming of Christ and the fulfilment of his mission Old Testament regulations had been abolished and prophecies in large measure fulfilled?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1-40.1.17|AUTODETECT|” The genealogy presented in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1-40.1.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:1 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.48|AUTODETECT|” is not just an appendix but is closely connected with the substance of the entire chapter; in a broader sense, with the contents of the entire book.��120�� Thus, in the heading of the genealogy (verse 1) Jesus Christ is called the son of David (cf. verse 6). This expression recurs in verse 20 where it is applied to Joseph, Jesus father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.48|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But note the very careful way in which the relationship of Joseph to Jesus is described in verse 16. From this verse it is evident that the evangelist is purposely precluding the possibility that the reader might think of Joseph as being Christ s physical father. What he is implying, already here in this genealogy, is that although Mary was indeed Jesus mother, Joseph was his father not in the natural but only in the legal sense. And it is this very point that receives elaboration in the beautiful account that follows in verses 18 25. We are shown, therefore, that he who is the Son of man is also the Son of God. He is the true seed of David and of Abraham, the fulfilment of prophecy. He alone is Israel s and mankind s Hope.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 This central thought, moreover, is by no means confined to chapter 1. Rather, in his entire Gospel the author sets forth the greatness of Christ, as revealed in his exalted origin and in the marvelous manner in which he accomplished the task assigned to him by the Father. Therefore David s son is definitely also David s Lord (22:41 46)! With this thought in mind we now approach verse 1:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.5.1|AUTODETECT|”

Record of ancestry of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham. That here in verse 1 we are dealing with a caption is clear. Is it to be construed as the title of the entire Gospel? Evidently it was not so interpreted in very early times when a different title was given to the book, as is known. Is it, perhaps, the heading of the entire first chapter? Probably not, since 1:18, though very closely related to 1:1 17, seems to be another heading. The best procedure, it would appear to me, would be to regard 1:1 as the caption above the entire genealogy (1:2 17). It strongly reminds one of several headings or introductory phrases in the book of Genesis, but especially of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , which similarly introduces a genealogy.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.3|AUTODETECT|” Accordingly, what follows in verses 2 17 is in this heading called biblos geneseos of Jesus Christ, son of David, etc. The word biblos (cf. Bible) can refer to a book, as in Josephus, papyri, etc., or a sacred book; for example, the book of life 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.3|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It can, however, also refer to a writing that is less than what we would consider a book. In the present case it refers clearly to a record or list of names. The next word, geneseos, is the genitive of the word with which every English reader is familiar, namely, genesis; capitalized Genesis when it refers to the Bible s book of beginnings. The entire expression biblos geneseos means, therefore, record of beginning, or of origin or ancestry.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.1.1|AUTODETECT|” It is the record of ancestry of the One who is called Jesus Christ. Our English word Jesus is really Latin from the closely resembling Greek Iesous. This, in turn, is the hellenized form of the late Hebrew Jeshua, the contracted form of Jehoshua 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Josh. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ). The latter means Jehovah is salvation. In the shorter form Jeshua the stress is on the verb; hence, he will certainly save. This reminds us of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.27-40.11.30|AUTODETECT|” , You shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. Cf. also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.27-40.11.30|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 11:27 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” John 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . For the emphasis on the verb see also Ecclus. 46:1.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” To the personal name Jesus is added the official name Christ. This is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew Messiah. It indicates that the One to whom it refers was by the Holy Spirit anointed (hence, ordained, set apart, and qualified) to carry out the task of saving his people. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 61:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.1.9|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 1:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.15|AUTODETECT|” . He was anointed to be our chief prophet 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.15|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 18:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.55.4|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 55:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.3.22|AUTODETECT|” Acts 3:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.37|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.7.37|AUTODETECT|” 7:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.4|AUTODETECT|” ); only highpriest 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.4|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 110:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.12|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 10:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.10.14|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ); and eternal king 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.9.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.9.9|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 9:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.21.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 21:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18|AUTODETECT|” 28:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.33|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Of course, the names Jesus and Christ, as here used, belong together. They really constitute one glorious name given to our Savior.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Now in this genealogical preface Jesus Christ is called son of David, son of Abraham. That reminds one of prophecy. Interest in genealogy was fortified especially by Messianic prophecy, according to which the coming Deliverer would be the seed of the woman 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.18|AUTODETECT|” ), of Abraham 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.18|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 22:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.10|AUTODETECT|” ), of Judah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.10|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 49:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.12|AUTODETECT|” ), and of David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.12|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 7:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.56|AUTODETECT|” As to the propriety of calling Jesus the seed or son of Abraham, it appears to be clearly implied in such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.56|AUTODETECT|” John 8:56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.13|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.17-58.11.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.17-58.11.19|AUTODETECT|” 17 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.23|AUTODETECT|” that Abraham himself did not expect Isaac to be the Hope of mankind. Rather, the friend of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.23|AUTODETECT|” James 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.39-43.8.41|AUTODETECT|” ) knew that Isaac s birth would pave the way for the coming of the Messiah. According to the Gospels and epistles, too, the latter was to be the son of Abraham par excellence, a truth emphasized over against hostile accusations 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.39-43.8.41|AUTODETECT|” John 8:39 41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.58|AUTODETECT|” ); yes, One far greater than Abraham 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.58|AUTODETECT|” John 8:58) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.6|AUTODETECT|” ). He was to be the One through whom God would bless all those who by grace exercised Abraham s faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.6|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 15:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|” As to the prediction that the Expected One would be the seed or son of David, is it not clear even on the surface that the words, I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 7:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|” ), must refer to One greater than Solomon? Stating it differently, a reference to Solomon does not exhaust the meaning of the passage. It is not surprising, therefore, that, standing as it were on the threshold of the era of Messianic fulfilment, devout people were looking for the consolation of Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Here, in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , the author points out that Jesus Christ is indeed what his name implies: the divinely anointed Savior, the fulfilment of prophecy, the rightful heir to the throne of David, and going back even farther the true seed of Abraham.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Attempts have been made to deny, at least to a certain extent, the connection between Jesus and David. To be sure, it is granted that Joseph was of the house of David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.4|AUTODETECT|” 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.5|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.12|AUTODETECT|” ), but that Mary was actually a daughter of David is being questioned.��121�� Nevertheless, careful study of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.12|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 7:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.32|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.69|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.69|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.30|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.2.8|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.5|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.5|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 5:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 should leave no room for doubt.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1|AUTODETECT|” The very structure of the genealogy, here in Matthew connects Jesus with David. It consists of three groups of fourteen.��122�� In the first we are shown the origin of David s house; in the second, its rise and decline; in the last, its eclipse. Yet, even an eclipse need not be total, neither does it mean extinction. Or, to change the figure, a tree is hewn down, but its stump remains in the ground. In the present instance, out of this stump a twig shoots forth, and that twig becomes a great tree 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.12|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In David the family of Abraham attained royalty . At the deportation to Babylon this royal power was lost. In Christ it is restored, only in a far more glorious sense.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.6.24-4.6.26|AUTODETECT|” According to Matthew, therefore, Jesus is the climax of the three fourteens. That these fourteens express a symbolism can hardly be denied. After much reading on this subject I suggest the following interpretation, acknowledging my indebtedness to many scholars who previously have attempted to solve the problem. Seven is the sum of three and four, each of which, in its own way, suggests fulness. Three, when used symbolically, spells that which has beginning, middle, and end, and is therefore complete. In Scripture it is at times associated with God, viewed in the fulness of his glory, the source of blessing for men. Hence, we speak of the threefold Aaronitic benediction 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.6.24-4.6.26|AUTODETECT|” Num. 6:24 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.1-23.6.3|AUTODETECT|” ); the thrice holy of Isaiah s vision 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.1-23.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ); the triad of blessings pronounced upon God s people at the close of II Corinthians; and the favors emanating from God Triune, by which the seer of Patmos comforts the brotherhood 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.5|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.49.36|AUTODETECT|” Four, used symbolically, refers at times to the fulness of the earth and/or of the heavens, with their four winds 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.49.36|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 49:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.8.8|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 8:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.11.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.11.4|AUTODETECT|” 11:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.13.27|AUTODETECT|” Mark 13:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.1|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 7:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Now, if even three or four, taken singly, can express fulness, their sum, seven, when used figuratively, conveys this meaning no less emphatically. In fact, special meaning was attached to this number not only by the Jews, or in Semitic culture generally, but also among the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Germans. All of them recognized the seven-day periods of the four phases of the moon.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.34|AUTODETECT|” In Scripture seven frequently indicates the totality ordained by God. Fourteen, which is twice seven, also brings out this idea. So, it would seem, does three times fourteen= forty-two. This is equal to six sevens, and immediately introduces the seventh seven, reduplicated completeness, perfection. Since, in the genealogy as offered by Matthew, Jesus Christ is mentioned at the close of the entire list of three fourteens or six sevens, and since the evangelist does not stop there but continues the beautiful story of this Savior, we cannot be far wrong when we say that he pictures him as the One who not only completes or fulfils the old, but also definitely ushers in the new 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.34|AUTODETECT|” John 3:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.11.25|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 11:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.3.6|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.17|AUTODETECT|” 5:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.15|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.10.20|AUTODETECT|” 10:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.24|AUTODETECT|” 12:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.21.5|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 21:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In him the new and the old meet. He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the heart and center of all. Apart from him there is no salvation. He is Messiah, David s true Antitype. And in the course of redemptive history, as here symbolized in its three great stages, God s plan from eternity was being perfectly realized.��123��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.54-40.13.58|AUTODETECT|” In Matthew s days and also later, Christ s enemies were constantly making disparaging remarks about Jesus origin. In essence they were saying that because of his lowly birth he could not be what he claimed to be. Was he not the carpenter s son? Did they not know his father, mother, brothers, and sisters 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.54-40.13.58|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:54 58) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.27|AUTODETECT|” )? Sonic argued, We know where this man is from; but when the Christ comes, no one will know where he is from 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.27|AUTODETECT|” John 7:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.40|AUTODETECT|” ). Others said, Surely, the Christ does not come out of Galilee, does he? Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes out of the seed of David and from Bethlehem, the village where David lived? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.40|AUTODETECT|” John 7:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.41|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.41|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.41|AUTODETECT|” ). At times his adversaries may even have implied that in his origin he was illegitimate. They said, We were not born of fornication: one Father have we, even God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.41|AUTODETECT|” John 8:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.48|AUTODETECT|” ); as if to say, Not we but you were born of fornication. With respect to our parentage there is no legitimate doubt, but it is different with you. Sinister insinuation or innuendo at times changed into open, deliberate, vicious insult: Are we not correct in saying, You are a Samaritan and have a demon ? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.48|AUTODETECT|” John 8:48) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Such antagonistic remarks, in which not only Jesus Davidic origin but even his legitimate birth were denied, either by innuendo or openly, have continued among the Jews.��124��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Matthew, therefore, by means of this genealogy and its sequel (the narrative of the virgin birth, verses 18 25), aims to show that Jesus, according to his human nature, is indeed the legitimate seed of David, in fulfilment of prophecy. From Joseph, his legal father and thus from Joseph s ancestor, David he receives his right to David s throne. From Mary (verse 16) and via Mary, also from David he receives David s flesh and blood.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.34|AUTODETECT|” Yet, neither to Joseph nor to Mary belongs the glory. Joseph deserves no credit for his own birth as a descendant of David, and is thoroughly aware of the fact that he had nothing whatever to do with the conception of Jesus. Mary, similarly, knows that what happens in her womb is the work of the Holy Spirit. She is willing to be the handmaid of the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.35|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.38|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.38|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ). The glory belongs to God alone! It is by grace that man is saved, through faith; and this not of himself; it is the gift of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Having written the caption, Matthew now presents the following genealogy:��125��) The Three Fourteens) As introduced in Matthew in I Chronicles See also ) First Fourteen ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.11.26|AUTODETECT|”

Abraham 1:1, 2 1:27 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.11.26|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 11:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.21.1-1.21.5|AUTODETECT|”
Isaac 1:2 1:28, 34 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.21.1-1.21.5|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 21:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.26|AUTODETECT|”
Jacob 1:2 1:34; 2:1 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.26|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 25:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.29.31-1.29.35|AUTODETECT|”
Judah and his brothers 1:2 2:1, 2 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.29.31-1.29.35|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 29:31 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.30.1-1.30.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.30.1-1.30.24|AUTODETECT|” 30:1 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.16-1.35.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.16-1.35.18|AUTODETECT|” 35:16 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.49.0|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.1.1-2.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.1.1-2.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 1:1 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=38.1.3|AUTODETECT|”

Perez and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Zerah 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.1.2|AUTODETECT|” ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=38.1.2|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.24-1.38.30|AUTODETECT|” :4 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.24-1.38.30|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 38:24 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.46.12|AUTODETECT|”

Hezron 1:3 2:5 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.46.12|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 46:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.26.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.26.21|AUTODETECT|” Num. 26:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.19|AUTODETECT|”
Ram (Greek: Aram) 1:3 2:9, 25 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.19|AUTODETECT|”
Aminadab 1:4 2:10 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.20|AUTODETECT|”
Nahshon 1:4 2:10 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.20|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.20|AUTODETECT|”
Salmon 1:4 2:11 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.20|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.13|AUTODETECT|”
Boaz 1:5 2:11 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.13|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=8.4.21|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=8.4.21|AUTODETECT|”

Obed 1:5 2:12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.21|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.22|AUTODETECT|”
Jesse 1:5 2:12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.22|AUTODETECT|”
David the King 1:1, 6 2:15 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.13.11-9.13.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.13.11-9.13.13|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 13:11 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Second Fourteen ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.1.6|AUTODETECT|” 1.) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Solomon 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=22.1.3|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.24|AUTODETECT|” :5 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.24|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 12:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=11.11.43|AUTODETECT|”

Rehoboam 1:7 3:10 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.43|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 11:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.14.31|AUTODETECT|”
Abijah 1:7 3:10 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.14.31|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 14:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.8|AUTODETECT|”
Asa (Greek: Asaph) 1:7 3:10 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.8|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 15:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.24|AUTODETECT|”
Jehoshaphat 1:8 3:10 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.24|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 15:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.22.50|AUTODETECT|”
Joram 1:8 3:11 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.22.50|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 22:50) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.14.21|AUTODETECT|”
Uzziah 1:8 3:12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.14.21|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 14:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.1|AUTODETECT|” 15:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.32|AUTODETECT|”
Jotham 1:9 3:12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.32|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 15:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.16.1|AUTODETECT|”
Ahaz 1:9 3:12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.16.1|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 16:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.1|AUTODETECT|”
Hezekiah 1:9 3:12 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.1|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 18:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.21|AUTODETECT|”
Manasseh 1:10 3:13 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.21|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 20:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.1|AUTODETECT|” 21:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.18|AUTODETECT|”
Amon (Greek: Amos) 1:10 3:14 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.18|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 21:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.21.19|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.21.24|AUTODETECT|”

Josiah 1:10 3:14 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.24|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 21:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.22.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.22.1|AUTODETECT|” 22:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.6|AUTODETECT|”
Jechoniah and his his brothers 1:11 3:16 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.6|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 24:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.24.8|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.12|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.30|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 22:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Third Fourteen ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.25.27-12.25.30|AUTODETECT|”

Jechoniah (for repetition of this name see on 1:12) 1:12 3:17 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.25.27-12.25.30|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 25:27 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.3.2|AUTODETECT|”
Shealtiel (Greek: Salathiel) 1:12 3:17 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.3.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=15.3.8|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Neh. 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Hag. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.12|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.14|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.2-37.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.2-37.2.4|AUTODETECT|” 2:2 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.20-37.2.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.20-37.2.23|AUTODETECT|” 20 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=15.3.2|AUTODETECT|”

Zerubbabel 1:12 3:19 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.3.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=15.3.8|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Neh. 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Hag. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.12|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.14|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.2-37.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.2-37.2.4|AUTODETECT|” 2:2 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.20-37.2.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.20-37.2.23|AUTODETECT|” 20 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.4.6-38.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.4.6-38.4.10|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 4:6 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 9 2 8 0 0

Abiud 1:13 ) 5. Eliakim 1:13 ) 6. Azor 1:13 ) 7. Zadok 1:14 ) 8. Achim 1:14 ) 9. Eliud 1:14 ) 10. Eliazar 1:15 ) 11. Matthan 1:15 ) 12. Jacob 1:15 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.1.18-40.1.25|AUTODETECT|”
Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born 1:16 ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.18-40.1.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:18 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.13-40.2.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.13-40.2.15|AUTODETECT|” 2:13 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.4|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.16|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.33|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.48|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.48|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 1 4 2 8 0 0

Jesus, who is called Christ. 1:16 ) ) ) 2. The first list of fourteen names begins as follows: Abraham became the father of Isaac, and Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of Judah and his brothers.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.23|AUTODETECT|” It has already been shown that it was natural for Matthew, who was writing primarily for Jews, to begin with Abraham. In Abraham s begetting of Isaac there are two elements: a supernatural and a natural. The first is emphasized by Paul in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.23|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.19|AUTODETECT|” ; the second here by Matthew. As to the first, Isaac was born through promise. As a reward for Abraham s faith in the promise, God intervened miraculously, enabling Abraham, though he had become as good as dead, to deposit seed; and making it possible for Sarah, heretofore barren, to conceive 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.19|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.11|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.12|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.2|AUTODETECT|” ). It is true, therefore, that the family tree, as recorded by Matthew, begins with a supernatural birth, that of Isaac, and ends with one, that of Christ. However, the two are by no means identical, for in Isaac s case there was no virgin birth, as there was in the case of Christ. With respect to the conception of Isaac there was the usual impregnation of the ovum by a human father, as is true along the entire line of this genealogy, wherever the same verb is used. The two elements in Isaac s conception a. supernatural intervention renewing Abraham s virility, and b. natural conception as a result of insemination must not be confused. Otherwise ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.2|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.23|AUTODETECT|” would clash with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.23|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.2|AUTODETECT|” It should be noted that Ishmael s name is not even mentioned here, though he was also a son of Abraham. And Abraham had other offspring 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.2|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 25:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Matthew holds to the Messianic line. In the few cases where collateral relatives are also mentioned (verses 2, 3, 11), there must have been a special reason, though it is not certain that in each instance we know what this reason was.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.16|AUTODETECT|” Isaac became the father of Jacob; and the latter, in process of time, became the father of Judah and his brothers. Judah s name is singled out from all the children of Jacob, for it is in him that the Messianic line is continued. Why did this happen? Was not Reuben the firstborn? Were there not three brothers older than Judah? It is clear that inclusion in, or exclusion from, the line of descent is not determined by age. Neither is it determined by human merit (see verses 8 10). By what then? Only by the sovereign, electing will and grace of God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.16|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.19.3-2.19.6|AUTODETECT|” ). Yet, even though it is in Judah that the Messianic line is carried forward, the words and his brothers are added. The mention of these brothers may have been occasioned by the fact that during the old dispensation Israel as a whole constituted God s people, separated from all the nations of the world, in order to be, and especially in Christ to become, a blessing to all 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.19.3-2.19.6|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 19:3 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.8.41-11.8.43|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.8.41-11.8.43|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 8:41 43) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; Isa. 53, 54, 60). The entire nation, accordingly, had Messianic significance.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.49.8-1.49.10|AUTODETECT|”

The line is extended as follows: Judah became the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez became the father of Hezron, and Hezron became the father of Ram. This is the Judah concerning whom it is written, You are the one your brothers will praise.& The scepter shall not depart from Judah & until Shiloh come 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.8-1.49.10|AUTODETECT|” Genesis 49:8 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.0|AUTODETECT|” ); the Judah who, in honoring his pledge to become surety for his youngest brother, delivered that moving address in which he offered to become a slave in Egypt as a substitute for Benjamin. But it is not of such references to Judah that Matthew is thinking but rather of the immoral act that made him the father of Perez and Zerah by his own daughter-in-law Tamar. Having mistaken her for a common harlot, for she was veiled when the act occurred, he had made her pregnant. Subsequently, when he was informed that Tamar through harlotry had conceived, he had ordered her burned to death. This command was rescinded when Tamar had furnished proof that her father-in-law himself was the chief culprit 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.0|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Through such a channel of iniquity Judah & Perez & by Tamar the Savior, according to his human nature, was willing to pass on his way from the glories of heaven to the incarnation and to crucifixion in his people s stead. If this be recognized, even the study of genealogy can become a blessing to mind and heart.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.29|AUTODETECT|” We do not know why Zerah, the brother of Perez, is also mentioned. Was it because the brothers were twins, and because, contrary to human expectation, Zerah was born last, so that the right of the firstborn was accorded to Perez by an unexpected disposition of divine providence 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.29|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 38:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.38.30|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.23|AUTODETECT|” )? The answer to this too ready solution is that Jacob and Esau were also twins, and with respect to them too God had ordained that the humanly unexpected would happen The elder shall serve the younger 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.23|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 25:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); yet, in the genealogy Esau s name is never even mentioned!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.3-40.1.5|AUTODETECT|” The line continues: (Perez) Hezron, Ram. Except for their mention in genealogical tables we know nothing about this Hezron and Ram. Does this mean that the names are fictitious? Such a conclusion would be entirely unwarranted. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit Matthew has carefully studied the registers. Directly or indirectly the information he gathered can be traced to sources such as listed on pp. 111 113. Note, moreover, that the list: Perez, Hezron, Ram, Amminadab, Nahshon, Salmon, Boaz, Obed, Jesse, David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.3-40.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:3 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.18-8.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ) is also found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.4.18-8.4.22|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 4:18 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , in exactly that same order. The evangelist, accordingly, had excellent sources on which to base his genealogy; namely, Genesis, Exodus, Numbers, Ruth, the books of Kings and Chronicles, etc., and perhaps separate genealogical tables��126�� both written and oral. His account is entirely reliable.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Hezron and Ram! To us these are merely names. We do not even know whether they were men of untarnished or of spotted reputation. To God, however, they were important for the historical accomplishment of his plan to bring the Messiah into the world for man s redemption. So, too, in the church there are many who never make the headlines. Yet, though unknown here below, they are well-known above 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.9|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.16|AUTODETECT|” ). One day it will become evident that the last will be first, and the first last 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=2.6.23|AUTODETECT|”

As the list continues we once again enter somewhat more familiar territory: Ram became the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab became the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon became the father of Salmon. As the parallels in Exodus and Numbers indicate, we have now reached the time of the Exodus from Egypt and of the desert journey. Amminadab was the father of Elisheba, who married Aaron 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.6.23|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 6:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.7|AUTODETECT|” ). During the desert journey Amminadab s son Nahshon 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.1.7|AUTODETECT|” Num. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.2.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.2.10|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 2:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.2.3|AUTODETECT|” ) was the leader of Judah s tribe, which was encamped toward the sunrise 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.2.3|AUTODETECT|” Num. 2:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.7.12-4.7.17|AUTODETECT|” ). When the tabernacle had been completed and set up, it was he who, as the representative of his tribe, offered the first oblation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.7.12-4.7.17|AUTODETECT|” Num. 7:12 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.10.14|AUTODETECT|” ). In marching, the standard of his tribe took the lead 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.10.14|AUTODETECT|” Num. 10:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.2.0|AUTODETECT|” ). Nahshon s son Salmon married Rahab, who figures prominently in the story of the two men sent by Joshua to survey the land of Canaan. For this item of genealogical information we turn now to verse 5, 6a. Salmon became the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz became the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed became the father of Jesse, and Jesse became the father of David the king. With the new names that are mentioned here every student of the Bible is familiar. Who, brought up in Christian circles, has not been thrilled by the stories about Rahab and the spies 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.2.0|AUTODETECT|” Josh. 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.31|AUTODETECT|” and 6; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.11.31|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 11:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.2.25|AUTODETECT|” James 2:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.16.0|AUTODETECT|” ); Boaz, Ruth, and their child Obed (book of Ruth); Jesse and his sons 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.16.0|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.1.1-11.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ); and, last but not least, David the king 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.1.1-11.2.11|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 1:1 2:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )?) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Nevertheless, Matthew s aim is not primarily to bring these thrilling stories back to mind but to give an enumeration of ancestors, so that, in harmony with prophecy, Jesus Christ may be recognized as David s son and David s Lord. Everything else cannot have more than ancillary significance, though it does have that.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.2.0|AUTODETECT|” This also means that the list must not be used for the purpose of establishing chronological conclusions; for example, to compute the length of the period that elapsed between Rahab and David. If verse 5 is nevertheless used to serve that end, on the assumption that no Messianic link has been omitted, it would follow that Rahab, who lived at the time of Israel s entrance into Canaan 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.2.0|AUTODETECT|” Josh. 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.6.1|AUTODETECT|” and 6), was the great-great-grandmother of David; for the sequence presented here is Rahab (wife of Salmon), Boaz, Obed, Jesse, David. This result would be very difficult to harmonize with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.6.1|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.7.3|AUTODETECT|” , where, even when the necessary subtractions are made, a considerably longer period is implied for the span Rahab to David. Matthew evidently did not deem it necessary to mention a representative of each passing generation. Neither did other Bible writers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.7.3|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 7:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.6.7-13.6.9|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=13.6.7-13.6.9|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 6:7 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In Matthew this is clear also from a study of the second fourteen (verses 6b 11) and the third (verses 12 16), as will be indicated. The evangelist is interested in Christology, not in chronology. He is satisfied to show that the three catalogues of Messianic antecedents, logically arranged according to the great turning points in the Davidic dynasty, attain their fulfilment in Christ. In order to achieve this goal neither he nor the inspired author of the book of Ruth deemed it necessary to mention every link in the chain of ancestry.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The origin of the house of David has now been recorded. The next fourteen names, Solomon to Jechoniah, are reminiscent of the glory and the decline of the dynasty. They show us that not even Solomon in all his glory was able to bestow salvation. It is Christ who saves, he alone.) 6b. David became the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah. Among commentators it is customary to point to the all-inclusiveness of the genealogy.

It is said, for example, that, contrary to Jewish usage, this list with its three fourteens contains the names of women as well as men. Also, it includes foreigners Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth��127�� and names of those who, either in a broad or in a more restricted sense, were Jews. Special emphasis is also generally placed on the fact that not only the good are included; for example, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob; but also the evil: Joram, Ahaz, Amon; etc. Wicked almost beyond belief were some of these ancestors!) As I see it, these opinions are true to fact, and warrant the following conclusions:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.11.17|AUTODETECT|”

Jewish boasting about Abrahamic descent amounts to unjustifiable glorying in the flesh. It is foolish and wicked. Israel had no reason to be proud of itself. Salvation is not from below, from man; it is from above, from God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.11.17|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 11:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.1-50.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.1-50.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:1 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1|AUTODETECT|”
Jesus is indeed the long awaited One, sent by God for man s redemption; for it is he who fulfils the prophecy concerning Messiah s lowly origin 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.2|AUTODETECT|” 53:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.46|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.46|AUTODETECT|” John 1:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.52|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.52|AUTODETECT|” 7:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|”
This Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” 4:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), not only of the Jews. There is indeed a wideness in God s mercy. Those who were destined to be saved through faith were to be drawn from every nation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.11.0|AUTODETECT|” Verse 6 adds emphasis to all this. As to point 1 (above), the readers are here reminded of the fact that being able to point to the illustrious King David, whether as ancestor or as former king of their nation, offers no ground for boasting; for he was the man who, by another man s wife, i.e., by a wife he had stolen by having that other man put to death, had become father of the next king. The first offspring of the adulterous union had died. Later, Solomon was born of this same union. Read about the scandalous manner in which David had plotted and had brought about Uriah s death, so that he might marry that man s wife, Bathsheba, with whom he had already committed adultery 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.11.0|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The very reminder of this episode in the life of David also reinforces point 2. With respect to his father (in the legal sense only) also, of course, with respect to his mother (see verse 16, 18 25 and Luke s genealogy, 3:23 38) Jesus descended from such a great sinner as David. Finally, it also stresses point 3. Even for David there was mercy; hence, there is mercy for all who flee for refuge to David s Antitype.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.8|AUTODETECT|” Accordingly, when we study the entire genealogy (verses 1 17) we are impressed with the fact that even the good men stood in need of God s grace; for they, too, were sinners. To be sure, many commendable things are reported with reference to Abraham 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.8|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 13:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.13.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.13.9|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.13-1.14.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.13-1.14.16|AUTODETECT|” 14:13 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.15.6|AUTODETECT|” 15:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.22-1.18.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.18.22-1.18.23|AUTODETECT|” 18:22 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.1-1.22.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.22.1-1.22.19|AUTODETECT|” 22:1 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.12.10-1.12.20|AUTODETECT|” ), but so are certain shameful actions 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.12.10-1.12.20|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 12:10 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.16.1-1.16.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.16.1-1.16.6|AUTODETECT|” 16:1 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.20.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.20.0|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.63|AUTODETECT|” ). The same holds with respect to Isaac: good 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.63|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 24:63) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.67|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.67|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.26.18-1.26.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.26.18-1.26.25|AUTODETECT|” 26:18 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.27-1.25.34|AUTODETECT|” ); bad (25:28; 26:1 11). With Jacob the case is no different: good (28:18 22; 32:1, 2, 22 32; 35:1 7; 49:18); bad 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.27-1.25.34|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 25:27 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.27.18-1.27.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.27.18-1.27.24|AUTODETECT|” 27:18 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.37.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.37.3|AUTODETECT|” 37:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.0|AUTODETECT|” ). Judah, too, is an example both to imitate (43:8, 9; 44:18 34) and to shun 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.0|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.13.14|AUTODETECT|” ). David is a man after God s own heart 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.13.14|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 13:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.0|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.18.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.18.5|AUTODETECT|” 18:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.24.1-9.24.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.24.1-9.24.7|AUTODETECT|” 24:1 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.32-9.25.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.32-9.25.35|AUTODETECT|” 25:32 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.39-9.25.42|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.39-9.25.42|AUTODETECT|” 39 42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.26.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.26.0|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.18-10.7.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.18-10.7.29|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 7:18 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.9.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.9.0|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.13|AUTODETECT|” 12:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.18.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.18.5|AUTODETECT|” 18:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.18.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.18.33|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.5|AUTODETECT|” 23:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.11.0|AUTODETECT|” and many other Psalms); nevertheless, a great sinner 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.11.0|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.24.21|AUTODETECT|” , already discussed, see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.24.21|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 24:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.24.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.24.22|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.5.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.5.13|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 5:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.8.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.8.2|AUTODETECT|” 8:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.31|AUTODETECT|” 12:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.21.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.21.8|AUTODETECT|” 21:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.21.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.21.9|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.24.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.24.0|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.3|AUTODETECT|” ). To mention only one more, Hezekiah did what was right in the eyes of Jehovah, according to all that David his father had done 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.3|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 18:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.14-12.19.19|AUTODETECT|” , and see that entire chapter; also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.14-12.19.19|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 19:14 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.2|AUTODETECT|” 20:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.3|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.29.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.29.2|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 29:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.12-12.20.15|AUTODETECT|” , and that whole chapter; also chapters 30 and 31); but he, too, was not without flaw 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.20.12-12.20.15|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 20:12 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.25|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 32:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.18|AUTODETECT|” None was able to save himself. All, even the best in the list, stood in need of redemption by the blood of the promised Reedemer. They also confirmed this by means of their humble and strikingly touching confessions 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.18|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 49:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.5|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 23:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.14-12.19.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.14-12.19.19|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 19:14 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.0|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.51.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.17-27.9.19|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.17-27.9.19|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 9:17 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.24|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.25|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Continued: 7 11. Solomon became the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam became the father of Abijah and Abijab became the father of Asa, and Asa became the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat became the father of Joram, and Joram became the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah became the father of Jotham, and Jotham became the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz became the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah became the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh became the father of Amon, and Amon became the father of Josiah, and Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.3.3|AUTODETECT|” We read that Solomon loved the Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.3.3|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.1-11.11.14|AUTODETECT|” a), but a little later it is reported of him that he loved many foreign women, who led him astray from the pure worship of Jehovah to idolatry 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.1-11.11.14|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 11:1 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.24|AUTODETECT|” ). The man whose beginning had been so promising, later did what was evil in the sight of the Lord. Spiritually he did not measure up to his father, whose heart again and again was filled with genuine, poignant sorrow for his sin. As to Solomon, one has to search diligently for evidences of true repentance. Nevertheless, we are not without hope that before his death a return to the Lord actually took place. We are strengthened in this opinion by passages such as the following: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.24|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 12:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.12.25|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.3.5-11.3.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.3.5-11.3.15|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 3:5 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.8.22-11.8.53|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.8.22-11.8.53|AUTODETECT|” 8:22 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.13.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=16.13.26|AUTODETECT|” Neh. 13:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.2.1-21.2.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.2.1-21.2.11|AUTODETECT|” Eccl. 2:1 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.13|AUTODETECT|” 12:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.14|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.28|AUTODETECT|” John 10:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.30|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.16.2|AUTODETECT|” . All in all, however, tradition remembered Solomon for the great prosperity which marked his reign, and for his wisdom, rather than for his piety. When later kings were measured according to a spiritual standard, that yardstick of judgment was always the life of David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.16.2|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 16:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.3|AUTODETECT|” 18:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.17.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.17.3|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 17:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.28.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.28.1|AUTODETECT|” 28:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.29.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.29.2|AUTODETECT|” 29:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.), never that of Solomon.��128�� We see, therefore, that very soon after the rise to power of David s dynasty it also began to show signs of decline.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 This decline, moreover, was not only spiritual but also political and material. After Solomon s death the kingdom was divided. Hence, all the other names mentioned here by Matthew designate kings who ruled over only two of the former twelve tribes. Many good things are reported with reference to Asa, Jehoshaphat, Uzziah, Jotham, Hezekiah, and Josiah. The opposite is true with respect to the others, though it is only fair to state that Manasseh repented in his last days. Finally, with Jechoniah (or Jehoiachin) whatever was left of Judah s glory departed (see on verse 11).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.8.25|AUTODETECT|” It is immediately evident that between Joram and Uzziah��129�� three names are omitted. They are those of Ahaziah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.8.25|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 8:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.22.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.22.1|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 22:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.11.21|AUTODETECT|” ), Joash 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.11.21|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 11:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.12.1|AUTODETECT|” 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.24.1|AUTODETECT|” in the Hebrew text; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.24.1|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 24:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.14.1|AUTODETECT|” ), and Amaziah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.14.1|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 14:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.25.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.25.1|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 25:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The reason for such omissions has already been stated (see on verses 5, 6a). Matthew is not giving us a chronological report but a testimony that Jesus is indeed the Christ.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 It has been shown that Matthew had abundant source material to draw from. Moreover, as is clearly evident from his entire book, he was thoroughly acquainted with the Old Testament Scriptures. Therefore, for him the names in the list were more than mere items. They were persons with whom, through Scripture and tradition, he had become well acquainted. And even today anyone who wishes to understand this genealogy in the light of its purpose, should linger over it a while, instead of regarding it of no account. He will soon discover that the more one studies it, the more also he will become convinced that it points, indeed, to the necessity of the coming Redeemer.

The way was being paved for his coming.) There was, first of all, the historical preparation: God s guidance in the events that were taking place; so that, for example, Solomon s kingdom was divided, two tribes remaining with Rehoboam, ten defecting to Jeroboam. How deplorable, this disruption! Gone was the political unity, the strongly centralized government, which David had labored so strenuously to bring into being. Gone, too, the religious consolidation one temple for all the tribes which Solomon had added. The throne had lost its luster. The glory had departed!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.12|AUTODETECT|” That is one way of looking at it. While fully maintaining the true element in this appraisal we must not forget the divine point of view as stated in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.12|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 11:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.11.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.15|AUTODETECT|” 12:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.4|AUTODETECT|” b, and especially in 11:36. We read: I & will rend & ; it was a thing brought about of Jehovah & this thing is of me & that David my servant may have a lamp [posterity, cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.4|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 15:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ] always before me in Jerusalem. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 It was God himself who tore asunder & in order that he might save. The nation was broken down that grace might break through. We have here another instance of that series of separations by means of which Jehovah chooses unto himself a certain minority in order that he may use it for the realization of his Messianic program. Solomon s spirit of compromise with respect to many foreign gods was beginning to exert its sinister influence upon the people. Therefore, a separation had again become necessary, just as in the case of Abraham and for the same reason. This separation was to be followed, in course of time, by the Assyrian and the Babylonian captivities.

Then Judah will serve one God, and will make propaganda for its monotheistic worship among the Gentiles. For many of the latter the road to salvation will lead from polytheism by way of monotheism to Christianity.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.22|AUTODETECT|” There was also the symbolical preparation. Did not the very furniture of Solomon s temple, the building that stood in Jerusalem through nearly his entire first period, point to the fact that apart from the shedding of blood there is no remission 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.9.22|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 9:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.40.6-19.40.8|AUTODETECT|” )? But also, was it not clear to the devout and thinking Jew that animal blood, in and by itself, could never be the true ransom for the souls of men 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.40.6-19.40.8|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 40:6 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.20|AUTODETECT|” Then there was the prophetical preparation: the ministry of all the true prophets who labored during this period and pointed forward to the promised Deliverer. Godly kings worked hand in hand with earnest, fiery prophets. Hezekiah and Isaiah were friends 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.32.20|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 32:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.35.25|AUTODETECT|” ); so were Josiah and Jeremiah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.35.25|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 35:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” ). Among the many Messianic prophecies uttered during this lengthy period were the following: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.8.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.8.8|AUTODETECT|” 8:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.1|AUTODETECT|” 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1-23.11.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1-23.11.10|AUTODETECT|” 11:1 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.42.1-23.42.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.42.1-23.42.7|AUTODETECT|” 42:1 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.1-23.49.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.1-23.49.9|AUTODETECT|” 49:1 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.4-23.50.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.50.4-23.50.9|AUTODETECT|” 50:4 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.52.13-23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.52.13-23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” 52:13 53:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1-23.61.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1-23.61.3|AUTODETECT|” 61:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.62.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.62.11|AUTODETECT|” 62:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.23.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.23.5|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 23:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.31.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.31.15|AUTODETECT|” 31:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.11.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=28.11.1|AUTODETECT|” Hos. 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Finally, the psychological preparation must not be forgotten. One truth was becoming more and more abundantly clear: no one can achieve righteousness before God. Israel fails, as appears from the lives of the kings and the people. Even the law though in itself perfect, cannot save. Man fails. God alone can save. He will do so by means of the coming Mediator.) Thus considered, it is clear that the Messianic character of Matthew s genealogy is evident not only from the mathematical formula 3x14, as has already been explained, but also from the entire historical context which is represented by the names the evangelist mentions.) As to related lessons, note the following:) Name of king(s) Character of the man and/or of his reign One of the lessons to be learned from his life as expressed in ) the language of the Bible other literature ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.14|AUTODETECT|” Rehoboam My father chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.12.14|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 12:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.28.15|AUTODETECT|” ). Like a roaring lion & is a wicked ruler over a poor people 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.28.15|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 28:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.20.28|AUTODETECT|” 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Kings seek their subjects good, tyrants their own (Herrick). ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Abijah and Amon Three years he [Abijah] reigned & and he walked in all the sins of his father ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.2|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.2|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 15:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.15.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.19-12.21.23|AUTODETECT|” Amon & reigned two years & and he forsook Jehovah & and his servants conspired against him and killed him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.19-12.21.23|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 21:19 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.18|AUTODETECT|” ). Surely, thou dost set them in slippery places & How are they become a desolation in a moment! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.18|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 73:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.73.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown (Shakespeare). ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.14.11|AUTODETECT|” Asa, Jehoshaphat, and Hezekiah, three reformers and intercessors Asa cried to Jehovah, his God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.14.11|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 14:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.5|AUTODETECT|” ). Jehoshaphat prayed: & Our eyes are on thee 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.5|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 20:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.15|AUTODETECT|” And Hezekiah prayed & O Jehovah, our God, save thou us 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.15|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 19:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.50.15|AUTODETECT|” ). Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.50.15|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 50:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And Satan trembles when he sees the weakest saint upon his knees (Cowper). ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.21.6|AUTODETECT|” Joram But he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as the house of Ahab had done; for Ahab s daughter had become his wife 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.21.6|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 21:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.12.4|AUTODETECT|” ). A worthy woman is her husband s crown; but she who acts disgracefully is like rottenness in his bones 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.12.4|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 12:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). There is no worse evil than a bad woman (Euripides). ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.26.16|AUTODETECT|” Uzziah But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up.& He went into the temple of Jehovah to burn incense 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.26.16|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 26:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.22|AUTODETECT|” ). Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.15.22|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 15:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.16.18|AUTODETECT|” ). See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.16.18|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 16:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Oh! Why should the spirit of mortal be proud? (Knox). ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.27.3|AUTODETECT|” Jotham He built the upper gate of Jehovah s house, and on the wall of Ophel he built extensively. He also built cities & and fortresses and towers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.27.3|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 27:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.27.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.27.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.48.12|AUTODETECT|” ). Walk about Zion & count her towers. Consider well her defense walls; walk through her citadels & 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.48.12|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 48:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.48.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.48.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Ah, to build, to build! That is the noblest of all the arts (Longfellow). ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.28.22|AUTODETECT|” Ahaz In the time of his distress he this same king Ahaz transgressed yet more grievously against Jehovah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.28.22|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 28:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.7|AUTODETECT|” ). Do not be deceived; God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that also will he reap 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.7|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The mills of God grind slowly, yet surely (attributed in various forms to various authors). ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.11|AUTODETECT|” Manasseh And the Lord said, Because Manasseh & has committed these abominations & I am bringing upon Jerusalem and Judah such evil that both ears of those who hear it will tingle 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.11|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 21:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.21.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.33.12|AUTODETECT|” And when he was in distress he humbled himself greatly before the God of his fathers 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.33.12|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 33:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.1|AUTODETECT|” ). Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.12.1|AUTODETECT|” Eccl. 12:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). For all sad words of tongue or pen, The saddest are, It might have been (Whittier). ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.22.2|AUTODETECT|” Josiah He did what was right in the eyes of Jehovah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.22.2|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 22:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.30|AUTODETECT|” ). Those who honor me I will honor 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.30|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 2:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Lives of great men all remind us, We can make our lives sublime & (Longfellow). ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.9|AUTODETECT|” Jechoniah He did what was evil in the sight of Jehovah & and the king of Babylon took him & and carried him away to Babylon 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.9|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 24:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.15|AUTODETECT|” 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.30|AUTODETECT|” ). & but those who despise me shall be lightly esteemed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.30|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 2:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The thorns which I have reaped are of the tree) 1 4 2 8 0 0 I planted they have torn me and I bleed!) I should have known what fruit would spring from such a seed (Byron). ) ) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Just as above, in verse 8, the names of three kings were omitted, so in verse 11, between Josiah and Jechoniah (or Jehoiachin), Jehoiachim is left out (see on verses 5, 6a). We read that Josiah begot Jechoniah and his brothers. The word begot is here linked with the grandfather instead of the father. For proof see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.15|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.3|AUTODETECT|” , where Josiah, his son Jehoiakim, and the latter s son Jehoiachin are mentioned in that order. It is not wrong, in harmony with the preceding verses to translate the passage, Josiah begot or became the father of Jechoniah, for in Scripture the term father has a very wide use. It does not always refer to the immediate male ancestor, but may indicate one farther removed. Thus in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.3|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 18:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.9|AUTODETECT|” David is called the father of Hezekiah; and for the New Testament see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.3.9|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 3:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.73|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.73|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:73) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.24|AUTODETECT|” 16:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.39|AUTODETECT|” John 8:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.53|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.53|AUTODETECT|” 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.56|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.56|AUTODETECT|” 56) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.14|AUTODETECT|” ; etc. The same holds with respect to the word brothers . It will be recalled that Abraham called Lot his brother 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.14|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 14:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.14.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.11.27|AUTODETECT|” ), though the latter was actually his nephew 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.11.27|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 11:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ). It is entirely possible that also here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.2|AUTODETECT|” the reference is to relatives in a wider sense; i.e., to Josiah s sons; hence, to Jehoiakim s literal brothers: Jehoahaz 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.2|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 36:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.10|AUTODETECT|” ) and Zedekiah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.10|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 36:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.11|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.11|AUTODETECT|” 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.17|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.17|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 24:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), who were, accordingly, Jehoiachin s uncles. These may have been briefly referred to here because they, too, reigned for a while in Jerusalem; the former three months; the latter eleven years. If Jehoiachin himself had more than one brother in the immediate, literal sense, we cannot derive this information from Scripture.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.30|AUTODETECT|” With the deportation to Babylon, God s promise to the house of David went into eclipse. Dark and dismal was the lot of Jehoiachin. Not only did he not have any seed who sat upon David s throne 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.30|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 22:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.8-12.24.12|AUTODETECT|” ), but he himself, a mere lad of eighteen, was taken into foreign imprisonment that lasted no less than thirty-seven grim years! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.8-12.24.12|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 24:8 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.25.27|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.25.27|AUTODETECT|” 25:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.25.4-12.25.7|AUTODETECT|” As to the nobles, priests, craftsmen, etc., who accompanied him, their forced departure, too, must have been sorrowful. Zedekiah, a third son of Josiah, was Judah s last king. Disregarding the warnings of the prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel, and placing his trust in Egypt, he rebelled against the king of Babylon. As a result, the Chaldean army came and destroyed Jerusalem, including Solomon s beautiful temple. Zedekiah s tragic end is vividly described in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.25.4-12.25.7|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 25:4 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.25.11|AUTODETECT|” . The people, except the poorest, were carried away to Babylon 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.25.11|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 25:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.14|AUTODETECT|” ). The chief reason for the Babylonian Exile is given in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.14|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 36:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ff.; in a word: impenitence in open and obstinate disregard of every prophetic warning.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.11|AUTODETECT|” The total period of Babylonian oppression, beginning with the deportation that occurred about 605 b.c., including also the removals that took place in 597 and in 586 b.c., and ending in 536 b.c. hence, seventy years in all 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.11|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 25:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.25.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.10|AUTODETECT|” 29:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.2|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 9:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) may be characterized (in part) as follows:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.0|AUTODETECT|” First, there were years of false hopefulness. The early exiles were confident that conditions would change and that they would soon return to their land. Was not Jehovah s temple in Jerusalem still standing? Jeremiah sent a letter to these deluded people, and told them not to trust their false prophets, but to build houses and plant gardens; i.e., to plan for a long stay in Babylonia 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.0|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.17.11-26.17.24|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.17.11-26.17.24|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 17:11 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.137.0|AUTODETECT|” Secondly, there were years of hopelessness. In the year 586 Jerusalem fell, the temple was destroyed, the bulk of the nation deported. Many years passed without any sign of return and restoration, as if Jehovah had forsaken his people. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.137.0|AUTODETECT|” Psalms 137) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 gives vivid expression to the people s mood.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.24.8-12.24.12|AUTODETECT|” From David to Jehoiachin, what a decline! How Judah must have yearned for deliverance! At last the season of revived hopefulness arrived. Gloom did not last forever. Though the night was dark and dismal, there were glimmerings of light even during the Exile. Or, to change the figure, though David s sun was eclipsed, the eclipse was not total.

This appears from verse 12., which introduces the third series of fourteen, as follows: After the deportation to Babylon Jechoniah became the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel became the father of Zerubbabel. There is good reason to believe that Jechoniah must be counted twice; first, as the last in the second series of fourteen; then, as the first in the final series. At first glance the decision to count him twice may seem like a totally unwarranted method of getting rid of a Gospel discrepancy, the latter consisting in this, that otherwise the third list, which like the other two is supposed to contain fourteen names (verse 17), would have only thirteen.��130�� However, a little study of what Scripture tells us about Jechoniah soon reveals that two sharply contrasting pictures of this king s experiences are drawn. All is dark in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.8-12.24.12|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 24:8 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.30|AUTODETECT|” , as has been indicated. The curse of childlessness is pronounced upon Jechoniah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.30|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 22:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.17|AUTODETECT|” ). But in his imprisonment matters take a turn for the better: Jechoniah, the exile, has children, in one of whom the Messianic line is continued 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.17|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.30|AUTODETECT|” ). By rereading ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.30|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 22:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.25.27-12.25.30|AUTODETECT|” we now begin to understand that the childlessness predicted with reference to the young king meant no more than this, that none of his offspring would occupy David s earthly throne. Now this favorable change between Jechoniah before his deportation and afterward is in and by itself probably sufficient to justify the fact that he is counted twice. If more is needed, consider also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.25.27-12.25.30|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 25:27 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.52.31-24.52.34|AUTODETECT|” . Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.52.31-24.52.34|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 52:31 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Jechoniah is freed from prison, is treated kindly at the court of Evil-merodach, king of Babylon, at whose table he dines regularly, and is given a continual allowance. He even receives a seat above the seats of the kings that were with him in Babylon. A sharper contrast is hardly imaginable. Matthew knew all this, of course. Throughout his Gospel he is constantly proving that he is well acquainted with his sources. Is it not natural to suppose, therefore, that it was because of these two sharply contrasting pictures that Matthew counts Jechoniah twice?) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Does not the history of the United States of America provide us with a similar instance of counting one man twice? Do we not call Mr. Nixon the thirty-seventh president ? Nevertheless, beginning with Washington, we soon discover that there were only thirty-six men who were elected to this high position. The solution is: we count Cleveland twice because of his two terms (1885 1889; 1893 1897). Defeated for re-election after his first term, he was subsequently re-elected to office. His circumstances changed. Though, to be sure, the two cases are not identical for example, Jechoniah never returned to his throne in Judah yet in both instances the sequence is: high position-defeat-high position.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.17-13.3.19|AUTODETECT|” Jechoniah s son in the Messianic line was Shealtiel. The latter s son 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.17-13.3.19|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 3:17 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ) was Zerubbabel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Both Matthew and Luke (the latter in 3:27) include Shealtiel and Zerubbabel in their genealogical tables. In these two men the ancestral lines of Joseph, as reported by Matthew, and of Mary, as probably transmitted by Luke, converge, and then diverge again.��131��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.1.0|AUTODETECT|” Shortly before 536 b.c. Babylon fell, and the Persian empire replaced the Babylonian. The new ruler allowed the Hebrew exiles to return to their own land 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.1.0|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.64|AUTODETECT|” ). When Cyrus issued his decree, only a remnant returned 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.2.64|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 2:64) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.3.1-15.3.6|AUTODETECT|” ). The highpriest Joshua (or Jeshua) was head of the priesthood. Zerubbabel, the very person mentioned in the two New Testament genealogies, was appointed to be the leader of the civil administration; in other words, the governor, and as such the contact man between the Jews and their Persian rulers. Under the direction of these two wonderful administrators the returned built the altar of burnt-offering and laid the foundation of the temple 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.3.1-15.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 3:1 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.4.0|AUTODETECT|” ). Jealous Samaritans and their allies interrupted the work 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.4.0|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ). But in the second year of Darius i.e., about the year 520 the prophet Haggai urged the rebuilding of the temple itself. Zechariah joined him, and greatly encouraged the builders by means of his strikingly beautiful Messianic predictions (3:6 10; 6:9 13; 9:9; 11:12, 13; 12:10). In one of these (6:9 13) we see not only the prophetical but also the typological preparation for the coming of Christ; for Joshua the highpriest is clearly a type of the One who deserves to be crowned with many crowns. But the historical preparation also is not lacking; for, guiding the hand of the Persian rulers, with their wise policies toward conquered nations, permitting them to return to their own countries, was God s firm decree, according to which Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem of Judea 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). This accounts for the necessity of the return. Zerubbabel, the descendant of Jechoniah, must make his home in the land from which his ancestors had been driven away, in order that in the line of his seed and on holy soil both Joseph and Mary may be born.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 13 16a. The table of ancestry continues as follows: Zerubbabel became the father of Abiud, and Abiud became the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim became the father of Azor, and Azor became the father of Zadok, and Zadok became the father of Achim, and Achim became the father of Eliud, and Eliud became the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar became the father of Matthan, and Matthan became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of Joseph.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.5.1|AUTODETECT|” The period of Babylonian Exile was followed by the Medo-Persian Rule (536 333 b.c.), as has already been indicated. The latter, in turn, was succeeded by the Greco-Macedonian and Egyptian sovereignty (333 200) and its aftermath: Syrian and (after a bitter struggle) Maccabean hegemony (200 63). Then came the Romans. Since most of the period covered in verses 13 16 belongs to inter-testamentary history, it is not surprising that the men whose names are cited are not mentioned elsewhere in Scripture. They lived amid difficult circumstances, under foreign rulers, and among hostile neighbors. At times persecution raged fiercely, especially during the Maccabean struggle.

Whether all of the ancestors here listed remained true to the faith we do not know. Even a beautiful name as, for example, Eliud= God is my praise, or Eliazar= God is my helper, does not always necessarily indicate that the one who received it grew up to be a man of sterling trust in the one true God; though frequently it probably embodied the pious wish of devout parents with respect to their newborn child. We do know, however, that Zerubbabel, mentioned in verses 12 and 13, receives high praise in Scripture 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Ezra 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.5.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=15.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.12-37.1.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.1.12-37.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Hag. 1:12 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.20-37.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.20-37.2.23|AUTODETECT|” 2:20 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.4.1-38.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.4.1-38.4.10|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 4:1 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ). The words On that day, says the Lord of hosts, I will take you, O Zerubbabel my servant, son of Shealtiel, says Jehovah, and make you like a signet ring, for I have chosen you, says Jehovah of hosts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Hag. 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) place this God-fearing governor of Judea under God s special protection, so that when tumults rage all around, his safety is assured. Do they not also indicate that this chosen servant of God is a type of the Messiah, beloved by the Father?) 1 1 2 8 0 0 And as to the last one on the list, Joseph, Matthew is going to show that the husband of Mary was indeed a man of sterling quality, one whose trust was in the Lord, whom he was ever ready to obey.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|” After what has been said earlier (see pp. 116, 119), it no longer suprises us that, for the period beginning with the one whom Luke regards as the father of Shealtiel and ending with Jesus, this evangelist presents twenty-three names; Matthew, on the other hand, for the same (or approximately the same) period offers only fourteen. He is again intentionally skipping the names of some ancestors. Also, the question, Where did Matthew obtain his information? has already been answered (see pp. 111 115). It might be added that further evidence for the preservation of genealogical lists (probably both written and oral) is furnished by the fact that Luke knew that Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, was of the course of Abijah, and had a wife who was of the daughters of Aaron 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.1|AUTODETECT|” ). He also knew that Joseph was of the house and family of David (2:4); and that the prophetess Anna was of the tribe of Asher (2:36). Similarly, Paul knew that he himself was of the tribe of Benjamin 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.5|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Evidently, therefore, the awareness of a distinction between the tribes continues into the New Testament period, and people know to which tribe and household they severally belong. Priests, and others too, must have kept records, and these had been handed down from generation to generation.��132�� Josephus was able to give his own genealogy. He tells us that he had found it in the public records (The Life I.6). See also his work Against Apion I.30.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 16b. After the words, Jacob became the father of Joseph, Matthew adds: the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.0|AUTODETECT|” In language simple and clear the truth with reference to the virgin birth of the Savior is introduced. It is implied rather than as yet fully expressed. We are not now told that Joseph became the father of or begot Jesus. The marked contrast between the lengthy series of begot & begot & begot & and the abrupt omission of this word here in 1:16b, brings out, as strongly as anything could do, the fact that in connection with the birth of Mary s firstborn son there was no male act of begetting that could be ascribed to Joseph, or, for that matter, to any other human being anywhere. We are reminded of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.0|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , where, after a series of and he died statements, beginning in verse 5 and repeated every third verse thereafter, six occurrences in all, we suddenly read with reference to Enoch, and he was not, for God took him (verse 24).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.55|AUTODETECT|” Joseph is called the husband of Mary. The manner in which he became the husband is related in verses 18 25. For the present it is sufficient to know that Joseph, a Nazareth carpenter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.55|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” ), was, indeed, Mary s husband, but had nothing whatever to do with the conception of Jesus. In the physical sense it was of Mary, and not to Joseph that Jesus was born. Joseph was the child s father in the legal sense alone. That legal sense, too, was important. Through Joseph, a son of David, the right to David s throne was transferred to Mary s child, Jesus, thus named because it was he who would save his people from their sins (1:21). To carry out this task he was set apart and qualified by God, being God s Anointed, the Christ 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 61:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18-42.4.21|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18-42.4.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:18 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; and see comments on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 17. The record of ancestry is summarized in the words: So all the generations from Abraham to David (were) fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to Christ fourteen generations. Since the significance of this triad of fourteen generations each has already been explained, and the legitimacy of the figure fourteen, instead of thirteen, even with reference to the third group, has been substantiated, very little need be added. Only this: as always, so also here, the word all must be interpreted in the light of its context; hence, the meaning is: all the generations covered in this record of ancestry.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Here, for the first time in Matthew, the word generation occurs. It is a stage in the succession of natural descent, a set of ancestors. Sum-total of contemporaries is probably the meaning in 11:16; 12:39, 41, 42, 45; 16:4; 17:17; 23:36. From this meaning the transition to a (Jewish) nation or people (24:34) is easy. So is that to time period covered by a generation; see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Ephesians 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) 1:18 25 The Birth of Jesus Christ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.1-42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.1-42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:1 7) 1 5 2 8 0 0 18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ happened as follows: When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they had begun to live together she found herself to be pregnant by the Holy Spirit. 19 Now Joseph, her husband, being intent upon doing what was right and not wishing to expose her to public disgrace, had in view to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he was mulling this over, what happened? An angel of the Lord appeared to him during a dream and said, Joseph, son of David, do not hesitate to take Mary, your wife, into your home, for what was conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. 22 All this took place in order that what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet might be fulfilled,) 23 Behold, the virgin shall conceive and give birth to a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel, which, translated, is God with us. ) 24 Rising from sleep Joseph did as the angel of the Lord had directed him, and took his wife into his home, 25 but had no sexual relations with her until she had given birth to a son; and he named him Jesus.) ) 18. What was already implied in the genealogy is here clearly taught: Now the birth of Jesus Christ happened as follows: When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they had begun to live together she found herself to be pregnant by the Holy Spirit.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.22.23|AUTODETECT|” Mary had been betrothed solemnly promised in marriage to Joseph. The marriage feast and living together was a matter for later date. Matthew makes his point of departure a moment of time shortly after the betrothal. Betrothal among the Jews must not be confused with present-day engagement. It was far more serious and binding. The bridegroom and bride pledged their troth to each other in the presence of witnesses. In a restricted sense this was essentially the marriage. So also here, as is clear from the fact that from that moment on Joseph is called Mary s husband (verse 19); Mary is called Joseph s wife (verse 20). According to the Old Testament regulation unfaithfulness in a betrothed woman was punishable with death 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.22.23|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 22:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.22.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.22.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.26-42.1.35|AUTODETECT|” ). Yet, though the two were now legally espoused, it was considered proper that an interval of time elapse before husband and wife begin to live together in the same home. Now it was before Joseph and Mary had begun thus to live together, with all this implies both as to domestic and sexual relations, that Mary discovered her pregnancy. She was still a virgin, and not yet married in the full sense of the term. She knew immediately that the cause of her condition was the powerful life-imparting operation of the Holy Spirit. She knew it because the angel Gabriel had told her that this would happen 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.26-42.1.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:26 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). She knew that Joseph had not made her pregnant.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Naturally Joseph became aware of Mary s condition. His reaction is described as follows: 19. Now Joseph, her husband, being intent upon doing what was right and not wishing to expose her to public disgrace, had in view to divorce her quietly. Incognizant of the reason for Mary s condition and drawing the natural conclusion, namely, that Mary had been unfaithful to him, Joseph could not see his way clear to take Mary home with him and live with her in the usual marriage relationship. Had she not broken her solemn pledge? Joseph must have agonized about the proper thing to do under these circumstances. He loved Mary and wanted to have her with him as his wife, but, above all, he was a righteous person 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Job 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.24.1|AUTODETECT|” ), a man of principle, one who with his whole heart wanted to live in accordance with the will of God, the God who took so very seriously the breaking of the marriage vow. However, Joseph was also kindhearted. According to the custom of the day, two avenues were open to him: a. institute a lawsuit against Mary, and b. hand her a bill of divorcement, thus dismissing her quietly, that is, without involving her in any juridical procedure 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.24.1|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 24:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.24.3|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.24.3|AUTODETECT|” 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.32|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.32|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The former alternative, though in practice it would no longer have meant death by stoning, for this law had been modified by so many man-made restrictions that this possibility could be safely dismissed, would nevertheless have exposed Mary to public disgrace and scorn, the very thing which Joseph wanted by all means to avoid. Consequently, he decided upon the latter alternative, namely, to send her away quietly, though even this was not at all agreeable with his strong inner yearning for her, as is clear from verse 20. But as he was mulling this over, what happened?��133�� An angel of the Lord appeared to him during a dream and said, Joseph, son of David, do not hesitate to take Mary, your wife, into your home, for what was conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.19|AUTODETECT|” Though Joseph has decided on the action he must take, he finds it almost impossible to make the transition from resolve to deed. While he is turning these things over in his mind, he falls asleep and begins to dream. With dramatic suddenness, during this dream an angel his name is not given (nor in 2:13, 19); contrast ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.35|AUTODETECT|” appears, and imparts to him the information that had already been given to Mary 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), namely, that it is by the power of the Holy Spirit, and not in the natural way, that Mary has conceived. To strengthen and comfort him the angel addresses him as son of David. In the fulfilment of the Messianic promise Joseph, viewed as legal heir of David and as the one who transmits this honor to Jesus, is not bypassed, neither here nor in the preceding genealogy, which in a sense was really Joseph s family-tree. The angel tells Joseph that he must not hesitate or be afraid to take Mary, his wife, into his home. Do not these words, Do not hesitate imply that there was something Joseph in his heart of hearts really wanted but did not quite dare to do? Well then, let him shrink no longer from fulfiling his, and Mary s, desire, for the one and only obstacle has been removed: Mary had not been unfaithful after all! Joseph can safely take his wife into his home; in fact, he is even directed to do so.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The contents of this angelic revelation must have been:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.27|AUTODETECT|” a. very startling, for, apart from special revelation, the idea of a virgin birth is found nowhere in old Jewish literature.��134�� As to Isa. 7:44, see pp. 133 140. The Jews were firm believers in marriage and the family, with all this implies 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.1|AUTODETECT|” 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.60|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.60|AUTODETECT|” 24:60) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.21|AUTODETECT|” 25:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.30.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.30.1|AUTODETECT|” 30:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.127.3-19.127.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.127.3-19.127.5|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 127:3 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.5.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.5.18|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). For the notion that the virgin birth idea was borrowed from pagan sources see p. 142. Such a derivation is not supported by any solid evidence. To Joseph, then, this very idea of a virgin conceiving was altogether new. He would never have accepted it had not an angel sent by God conveyed this information to him.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 b. very comforting. He must have been filled with joy, for the sake both of Mary and of himself. He understood that he could now be Mary s protector, providing for her physical needs and defending her honor over against all malicious slander. The child, too, would now have a father. ) Most of all, involved in this truth of the virgin birth is the guarantee of salvation for God s people, for, apart from this kind of birth it is difficult to understand how Christ could be their Savior. See pp. 143, 144.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” The message of the angel continues as follows: 21. She will give birth to a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. All have an interest in the birth of this child: a. the Holy Spirit, by the exercise of whose power the child is conceived; b. Mary, who, being the willing instrument of the Spirit in conceiving and giving birth to the infant, becomes blessed among women 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.42|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.42|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.31|AUTODETECT|” ); and c. Joseph, who, along with Mary 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.31|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ), is told to give the child a name; not just any name, however, but the name Jesus. That name has already been explained (see on 1:1), but even if it had not, no more adequate explanation is possible than the one offered by the angel, namely, he will save. Whom will he save? Not everybody but his people 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” ), his sheep ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” John 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.20.7|AUTODETECT|” It is ever God, God alone, who in and through his Son, saves his people. While some trust in chariots and some in horses 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.20.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 20:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), in physical strength, knowledge, reputation, prestige, position, magnificent and impressive machinery, influential friends, and intrepid generals, none of these, whether operating singly or in conjunction with all the others, is able to deliver man from his chief enemy, the foe that is little by little destroying his very heart, namely, sin; or, as here, sins, those of thought, word, and deed; of omission, commission, and inner disposition: all those various ways in which man misses the mark, God s glory. It takes no less than the atoning death of Jesus and the sanctifying power of his Spirit to cleanse hearts and lives.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.18|AUTODETECT|” The marked and prevailing emphasis which, already in the Old Testament, is placed upon the fact that God is sovereign and that he alone can save is evident from such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.49.18|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 49:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.15-12.19.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.19.15-12.19.19|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 19:15 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.14.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.14.11|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 14:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.5-14.20.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.20.5-14.20.12|AUTODETECT|” 20:5 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.3.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.3.8|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 3:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.25.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.25.5|AUTODETECT|” 25:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.39|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.37.39|AUTODETECT|” 37:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.62.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.62.1|AUTODETECT|” 62:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.81.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.81.1|AUTODETECT|” 81:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.12.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.12.2|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 12:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.3.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.3.23|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=25.3.26|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=25.3.26|AUTODETECT|” Lam. 3:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.35|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.4.35|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 4:35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.7.7|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 7:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=35.3.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=35.3.18|AUTODETECT|” Hab. 3:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.4.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.4.6|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 4:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.28|AUTODETECT|” ; and a host of other passages equally clear and precious. In the New Testament the emphasis is just as strong, as appears from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.19.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 19:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.18|AUTODETECT|” 28:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.32|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.13|AUTODETECT|” 18:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.27|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.27|AUTODETECT|” 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.6|AUTODETECT|” John 14:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.12|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.12|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.1.18|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 1:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.3.7|AUTODETECT|” 3:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.9|AUTODETECT|” 5:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.1|AUTODETECT|” 19:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.6|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.6|AUTODETECT|” 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.19.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; etc.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.1.15|AUTODETECT|” To be saved means a. to be emancipated from the greatest evil: the guilt, pollution, power, and punishment of sin; and b. to be placed in possession of the greatest good. Although in the present passage the negative alone is expressed, namely, to save from sin, the positive is immediately implied. One cannot be saved from something without also being saved for something: true happiness, the peace of God that transcends all understanding, freedom, joy unspeakable and full of glory, answered prayers, effective witness bearing, assurance of salvation, etc. On the concept salvation see also N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=54.1.15|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The promise of the angel to Joseph, then, is this, that this child must be called Jesus meaning, in brief, Savior because in the fullest and most glorious sense he will save his people from their sins.) 1 6 2 8 0 0 The message of the angel is ended. Matthew himself now resumes his account, showing that the virgin birth of this glorious child who was to be the Savior is a fulfilment of prophecy. He says: 22, 23. All this took place in order that what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet might be fulfilled,) Behold, the virgin shall conceive and give birth to a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel, which, translated, is God with us.) This is the first of a long list of prophecies to which Matthew refers in order to show that Jesus is really the long expected Messiah. For the entire list see pp. 80, 81. As has been indicated previously, the evangelist s purpose in bringing these predictions back to the minds of the readers, Jews for the most part, is that they may embrace Jesus with a living faith and may proclaim to Jew and Gentile the good news of salvation through this Mediator.) The introductory formula, All this took place in order & (verse 22) makes clear that, as Matthew by inspiration sees it, whatever anticipatory fulfilments these predictions may have had during the old dispensation, they attain their consummation in Jesus Christ, in him alone.

This does not imply that all these prophecies even had initial as well as crowning or ultimate fulfilments. Each case will have to be decided on its own merits.) The introductory formula also makes clear that the prophecy about to be quoted had its origin in God himself, not in the mind of the prophet. In fact, in the present case the prophet s name is not even mentioned! The words were spoken by the Lord through the prophet. The latter functioned as God s mouthpiece.) The Isaiah Background) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|”
Turning now to the quotation itself (verse 23), it is obviously taken from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|”
Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
.��135�� A brief review of the historical background is in order:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.6|AUTODETECT|”
A little over seven centuries before the birth of Christ the throne of Ahaz, king of Judah, was being threatened by a coalition of the king of Israel (Pekah) and the king of Syria (Rezin). The threat of these two conspirators was to destroy David s dynasty and to establish a king of their own choice, even the son of Tabeel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.6|AUTODETECT|”
Isa. 7:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=10.7.12|AUTODETECT|”
). What was to become of the glorious promise if this plot were to succeed? Of the Messianic prediction found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=10.7.12|AUTODETECT|”
II Sam. 7:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|”
13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.12.4|AUTODETECT|”
? Would the coming Redeemer ever be born as the son and legal heir of David? Everything was at stake 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=66.12.4|AUTODETECT|”
Rev. 12:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0
).) 1 1 2 8 0 0
At this critical juncture Isaiah is sent to Ahaz to admonish him to place his trust in Jehovah, and to ask for a sign of God s protecting care. He is to ask for this sign, this miracle, to take place either in the depth below or in the height above. But wicked Ahaz, who placed his trust in Assyria rather than in Jehovah, feigned a pious excuse and in mock humility refused the sign. The prophet, revealing his indignation (7:13), then gave utterance to the oracle of the Lord in the words, Therefore the Lord himself will give you��136�� a sign: behold the��137�� almah shall conceive, etc. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|”
Among those who believe in Christ s virgin birth there are two main groups of interpreters with respect to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|”
Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0: a. those who favor the double reference theory, and b. those who favor the single reference theory. According to the former, the prophecy has direct reference only to contemporaneous events and circumstances; i.e., to what happened during the days of Ahaz and Isaiah. Indirectly and ultimately, however, it is fulfilled in Christ s virgin birth. According to the latter the single reference view the passage has only one meaning: it refers directly and immediately to Christ s virgin birth ; more precisely, to his conception in Mary s womb apart from any sexual union, and to the birth that followed this conception.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Double Reference Theory Stated��138��) According to this theory, in the Isaiah context there is no reference to any miraculous or virgin birth. In speaking of an almah the prophet was referring to a young woman of marriageable age who, having married, would conceive and give birth to a son and would name him Emmanuel, that is, God with us. By thus naming the child she would be confessing her trust in God. She would be saying that even in the midst of troublous times she was firmly convinced that the Lord would not forsake his people but would provide for them and protect them against their enemies. It is clear that according to this view the name Emmanuel describes not the child but the mother. It characterizes her as a woman of faith in God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” However, so the theory continues, Matthew was fully justified in applying these words of Isaiah to a more far-reaching event, namely, the miraculous birth of the One who himself is Emmanuel. Or, to phrase it differently, although ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 does not directly refer to the conception and birth of the Messiah, yet in its deepest sense the passage did not come into its own until it was fulfilled in him.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Arguments in Support of The Double Reference Theory) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|”

Had it been Isaiah s intention to undersocre the virginity of the child s mother, he would have used the word bethulah instead of almah. An almah is a young woman of marriageable age. We can conceive of this young woman of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 as being first still unmarried, which is the more usual sense of the term; then, as getting married and in the natural way conceiving and giving birth to a child. Nowhere does Isaiah call the mother a bethulah or virgin.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|”
It is true that Matthew, in translating ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isaiah 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.15|AUTODETECT|” , uses the word virgin. It must be borne in mind, however, that the evangelist frequently departs from the literal translation when he quotes or refers to Old Testament prophecies. Compare, for example, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.1|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.9.2|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” . Accordingly, Matthew s use of the word virgin does not prove that Isaiah had in mind a virgin. Of course, Matthew had a perfect right to apply this passage to Christ s virgin birth. In Christ ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 attains its ultimate fulfilment.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.29.31-1.29.35|AUTODETECT|”

It is natural to assume that the name Emmanuel, as used by Isaiah, is descriptive of the mother s thinking or disposition, her trust in God, rather than of the son s character or role in life. Cannot the same be said with respect to the origin of several other names; such as Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.29.31-1.29.35|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 29:31 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.30.24|AUTODETECT|” ), Joseph 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.30.24|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 30:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.18|AUTODETECT|” ), Benoni and Benjamin 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.18|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 35:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” ), to mention only a few? In all of them the name describes the giver rather than the recipient. It is clear, therefore, that also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 it is not at all necessary to regard the name Emmanuel as being descriptive of the recipient, as if Emmanuel were a synonym of the Messiah, and as if his mother were the virgin Mary. That cannot have been the primary meaning of these terms. It is a later interpretation or application, namely, that of Matthew, and as such fully justified.) 1 2 2 8 0 0
Verse 16 shows that Isaiah s prophecy refers not to the distant future but to the days of king Ahaz. It is in his own time and very shortly that the kingdoms or regions whose rulers he abhors will be deserted. Now since verse 16 (and 15 also) stands in the closest possible connection with verse 14, how then can verse 14 refer to the virgin birth of Christ, an event that occurred more than seven centuries later?) Single Reference Theory) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” This theory does not deny that the words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 had meaning for the days of Ahaz. In fact, it insists on this. However, it believes that even in the Isaiah context the son s mother is definitely a virgin, namely, Mary, and that her child is the Messiah.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 This vision of the prophet sweeps far beyond present events & and he beholds in this Son that should be born, this child that should be given who can be none other than the Messianic King the security for the fulfilment of the promises of David, and the hope for the future of the world. ��139��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” If a married woman were referred to in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , it does seem as though some other word than almah would naturally be used.& Why should an ordinary birth be regarded as a sign ? & But it is not merely the use of this one word [sign] which would lead us to expect something miraculous in that which the prophet proceeds to announce. Equally suggestive is the elaborate way in which the sign is introduced. The whole passage is couched in such terms as to induce in the reader a sense of profound mystery as he comprehends the young woman and her child. ��140��) 1 3 2 8 0 0 In support of its own position, this second or single reference theory presents the following) Answers to the Arguments of the Double Reference Theory) Answer to 1) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.16|AUTODETECT|” As to almah versus bethulah: fact is that while the latter means virgin in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.16|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 24:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.21.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.21.3|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 21:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.21.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.21.12|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 21:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ; in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Joel 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.43|AUTODETECT|” it probably refers to a non-virgin, a widow who during the early years of married life had lost her husband, whom she now laments.��141�� On the other hand, an almah, in every passage in which this word is indisputably used, means maiden 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.43|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 24:43) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.68.25|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 68:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.30.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.30.19|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 30:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.1.3|AUTODETECT|” ; Song of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.1.3|AUTODETECT|” Sol. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.6.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=22.6.8|AUTODETECT|” 6:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” ). It refers to a girl, like Rebecca, before she had even seen Isaac, and like Miriam, Moses sister. The logical inference would seem to be that also here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 the meaning is basically the same. Luther s challenge still stands: If a Jew or Christian can prove to me that in any passage of Scripture almah means a married woman, I will give him 100 florins, although God alone knows where I might find them. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.11-23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Now the fact that a maiden becomes pregnant and gives birth to a child is introduced here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.11-23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:11 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” as something wonderful, unheard of. The readers have been encouraged to expect an announcement of something altogether marvelous. Certainly hardly anyone, in interpreting ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , believes that it was by means of an act of immorality that the maiden here indicated conceived.��142�� The conclusion is inescapable that she was a virgin when she conceived: no male had brought this condition upon her.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The opinion of two renowned Old Testament scholars may be added for further confirmation of this position:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” The word almah & is never used of a married woman, either in the Bible or elsewhere. The new evidence from Ras Shamra is strikingly interesting on this point. With respect to bethulah this author writes, The word in question is ambiguous. Does it mean a virgin, a betrothed virgin, or a married woman? I am convinced that it may mean any one of the three. He continues: Isaiah [in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ] used the one word in the Hebrew language [ almah] which is never employed of a married woman. Further, In English the word almah is perhaps the most closely approximated by maid or damsel. The word virgin, however, stresses the supernatural character of the birth, and hence is to be preferred. In no case should the word in this passage be translated by the vague and weak term young woman. ��143��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Now I wish to state at once that the rendering young woman 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.46.0|AUTODETECT|” ) is to be rejected. The author of this statement then shows that the word almah, wherever it occurs in the Old Testament indicates those of the female sex who had not yet entered into the relationships commonly associated with marriage. He points out that passages such as the title in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.46.0|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.15.20|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.15.20|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 15:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.1.8|AUTODETECT|” do not prove anything to the contrary, because the word used in these passages is not sufficiently clear. He further shows that the argument according to which bethulah must mean virgin fails to figure with the facts. In this connection he refers to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=29.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Joel 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” (already discussed; see above, p. 137). He continues, For these reasons it is definitely precarious to use the word young woman in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , as a rendering of almah. ��144��) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Conclusion: The argument according to which had it been Isaiah s intention to underscore virginity he would have used bethulah instead of almah is not convincing. The rendering virgin suits the context best.) Answer to 2) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” As to Matthew s reference to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” , if, as has been shown in the previous answer, Isaiah did indeed refer to a virgin, there is no discrepancy whatever between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” . On the other hand, if Isaiah was thinking of a young married woman who, with the help of her husband, conceived and gave birth to a child, it is difficult to see how Matthew could regard Christ s birth of the virgin Mary to be a fulfilment of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” . The almah mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 cannot have been at the same time virgin and non-virgin. Moreover, it is clearly as an almah that she conceives and gives birth to a child.��145�� The interpreter has no right, as is sometimes done, first to introduce her as a young unmarried woman, and then surreptitiously, as it were, to let her get married before she conceives and bears a son.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.15|AUTODETECT|” It is freely admitted that, under the guidance of the Spirit, Matthew and the other New Testament writers at times made a different use of a passage than that to which it had been put originally, but such a fresh application to a new situation is never a contradiction. As to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.1|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) see on that passage.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Answer to 3) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.20|AUTODETECT|” As to the close relation between a name and a. its giver, rather than b. its recipient or bearer, though the former is often the case, there are also many instances in which the latter holds: Eve 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.29|AUTODETECT|” ), Noah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.5.29|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 5:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.5|AUTODETECT|” ), Abram and Abraham 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.5|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 17:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.15|AUTODETECT|” ), Sarai and Sarah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.15|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 17:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.25|AUTODETECT|” ), Esau 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.25.25|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 25:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.27.36|AUTODETECT|” ), Jacob and Israel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.27.36|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 27:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.32.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.32.28|AUTODETECT|” 32:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ), Naomi and Mara 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.3|AUTODETECT|” ), Nabal 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.3|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 25:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.25.23|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” ), Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.18|AUTODETECT|” ), Peter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.18|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.36|AUTODETECT|” ), and Barnabas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.36|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” ). The question, then, is legitimate, To which of these two classes of names��146�� does Emmanuel belong? Evidently to the latter, as the connection between ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.8.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.8.8|AUTODETECT|” 8:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; and 9:6 indicates. This Emmanuel of 7:14 and 8:8 is the child that is born, the son that is given, upon whose shoulder the government rests, and who is called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (9:6). See also 11:1 ff.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” There is also a close connection between these Isaiah passages and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.3|AUTODETECT|” with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.3|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 5:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), where the same person is described as the One whose origin is from of old, from everlasting, and where his birth in Bethlehem is predicted. Clearly, the name Emmanuel describes the One who bears it, namely, the Messiah!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.15|AUTODETECT|” In all the Scriptures names are often given as significant of character, and this is especially prominent in connection with the revelation of God to men, and the revelation of the coming of Messiah as it is gradually unfolded is surely no exception; from the seed of the woman 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.15|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.20|AUTODETECT|” ) to the Lord Jesus 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.22.20|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 22:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) the Messiah is constantly revealed by the names which are ascribed to him. With this general trend of revelation in mind, and the connection of 7:14 with 9:6 and 8:8 considered, with the emphatic method of utterance noted as well, it appears that Emmanuel, God with us, has reference to the character of the child, and consequently is yet another name giving testimony to the Deity of the Messiah. ��147��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Now if it be true that the name Emmanuel mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 refers to the Messiah, as has been established, then is it not also true that the virgin who by the power of the Holy Spirit conceived and bore the child is, indeed, Mary?) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Answer to 4) As to the relation between verses 14 and 16, Isaiah can be understood as saying: Behold, the virgin conceives and gives birth to a son.& Before this child, who before my prophetic eye has already arrived, shall know to refuse the evil and choose the good i.e., within a very short time the land whose two kings you abhor shall be deserted. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” This interpretation, we think, is by no means impossible & the objections to it largely fall away when one reads the exalted language of the prophet as the language of prophetic vision ought really to be read. ��148�� Describing the future as if it were already present is characteristic of Isaiah. Can anyone read ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.0|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 without being struck by the fact that the prophet, by divine inspiration, writes as if the details of Christ s humiliation and consequent exaltation are transpiring before his very eyes, yes as if they have already taken place?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.16|AUTODETECT|” But even if to some this Answer to 4 should not seem convincing, it must be borne in mind that Matthew is not quoting ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.16|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” but ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” . Whatever be the correct explanation of verse 16, the conclusion seems inescapable that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.8.8|AUTODETECT|” clearly refers to the Messiah: the passages with which it is definitely linked ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.8.8|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 8:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|” 9:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1-23.11.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1-23.11.5|AUTODETECT|” 11:1 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ff. so as to form an unbreakable chain, are too emphatically Messianic to argue otherwise.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.16|AUTODETECT|” The prophecy of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.16|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.29|AUTODETECT|” was fulfilled. Tiglath Pileser came, within a very short time after the prediction was uttered. He carried away a portion of the inhabitants of Pekah s realm and did not at all object when Pekah himself was murdered by Hoshea 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.29|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 15:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.30|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.15.30|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.16.9|AUTODETECT|” ). He also advanced against Rezin s kingdom, took its capital Damascus, deported its people, and slew Rezin 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.16.9|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 16:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.12|AUTODETECT|” Was not this literal fulfilment of prophecy a clear and evident token whereby Ahaz and the whole house of David could assure themselves that the Lord was standing guard over the realization of his own plan regarding the Messianic promise? Was not the failure of the two foes, Pekah and Rezin, to destroy the Davidic dynasty, a clear sign that the Davidic ancestry of the Messiah was being protected, so that the Messianic prediction found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.12|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 7:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.7.13|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.2|AUTODETECT|” and elsewhere could be fulfilled; i.e., so that the coming Redeemer could indeed be born as the son and legal heir of David? Thus viewed it becomes clear that the prophecy of verse 14 fits into this context very beautifully. There is no need whatever to introduce into this passage any supposed reference to Abi, the wife of Ahaz, and her son Hezekiah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.18.2|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 18:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); or to the wife of Isaiah, and one of her children; or to any of their contemporaries.��149�� The virgin is Mary. Emanuel is Christ.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Matthew s Quotation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Matthew, then, has every right to appeal to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|” , and to state that Mary s pregnancy by the power of the Holy Spirit, and without assistance from Joseph, was in fulfilment of this prediction. That the name of this son would be Emmanuel had also been included in the ancient prophecy and had been reaffirmed in substance in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 9:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 : For to us a child is born, to us a son is given & and his name shall be called & the Mighty God. There is very little difference in meaning between to [or: for] us & the Mighty God and with us God, which is the literal meaning of Emmanuel.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Joseph receives the assurance, therefore, that this child conceived in Mary s womb is God. Veiled in flesh the godhead see. He is God manifested in the flesh 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ). In him all the fulness of the godhead dwells bodily 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Col. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|” In Emmanuel God has come to dwell with us. And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us as in a tent, and we beheld his glory, a glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.14|AUTODETECT|” John 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). No one will ever be able to fathom the riches of this grace whereby God, by means of Emmanuel, has come to dwell with sinners. In order to say at least something in the way of further explanation it is probably best to obtain this information from Matthew s own Gospel. It means that, in Christ, God came to dwell) 1 10 2 8 0 0 with the sick, to heal them (4:23)) with the demon-possessed, to liberate them (4:24)) with the poor in spirit, etc., to bless them (5:1 12)) with the care-ridden, to rid them of care (6:25 34)) with the censorious, to warn them (7:1 5)) with lepers, to cleanse them (8:1 4)) with the diseased, to cure them (8:14 17)) with the hungry, to feed them (14:13 21; 15:32 39)) with the handicapped, to restore them (12:13; 15:31) and over-arching everything else,) with the lost, to seek and save them (18:11),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.5|AUTODETECT|” The noble persuasion that, in order to help the downtrodden, one should be willing to live and work by their side and share their lot has moved many a sympathetic person to make heroic sacrifices. Was it not this that prompted Francis of Assisi to embrace the very lepers from whom he had at first turned away in revulsion? William Booth to preach the gospel to London s slum dwellers and to assist them in every way? More than one missionary to literally become a slave himself in order to win slaves for Christ? And Paul to become all things to all men that he might by any and all means save some? These men deserve our most profound admiration. Yet, none of their acts of self-denial can compare with that of Emmanuel who, though he was infinitely rich, became poor, assumed our human nature, entered into our sin-polluted atmosphere without ever being tainted by sin himself, took upon himself our guilt, bore our griefs and carried our sorrows, was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities, went to heaven to prepare a place for us, sent his Spirit into our hearts, governs the entire universe in our behalf, not only makes intercession for us but lives forever to make intercession for us 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.7.5|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 7:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.3|AUTODETECT|” ), and will come again to take us not just to heaven but, far more tenderly, to himself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.3|AUTODETECT|” John 14:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Truly, this is the One who became poor, that we through his poverty might become rich. This is Emmanuel, God WITH us!) 1 2 2 8 0 0 Origin of the Idea of the Virgin Birth) The truth with reference to Christ s virgin birth having now been expounded, the question arises, Where did that idea originate? The unlikelihood that, apart from special revelation, it arose among the Jews has already been pointed out. It may be asked, Was it derived from pagan mythology perhaps? We are being told that in the days of the prophets and the apostles the air was full of virgin birth stories, so that the inclusion of one such legend in Holy Writ should not be considered surprising. However, as has been proved by many a writer, from Tertullian and Origen down to the present day, between the foul tales of the heathen and the pure narratives written by Matthew and Luke there is no essential similarity. The former are characterized by gross indecency, squalid inelegancy, and gaudy embroidery; the latter by faultless dignity, charming delicacy, and exquisite simplicity; by reserve and not by the reverse.

When a god, inflamed by lust, rapes a girl or commits adultery with a married woman, the result, if conception takes place, is certainly no virgin birth. If the female was a virgin before, she is no longer a virgin when it occurs. To refer once more see earlier reference on p. 111 to that legend of the so-called virgin birth of Alexander the Great: We are told that a serpent was once seen sharing the couch of Olympias, the wife of Philip of Macedonia. (It must be understood that Zeus, the chief offender in such cases of cohabitation, and other gods also, were able to assume the shapes of reptiles, birds, or even of the foam of the sea.) When Philip discovered what had happened his sexual ardor was dulled. Hence, the product of the strange union, namely, Alexander, was a son not of Philip but of Zeus. At this point the legend splits. According to one version, Olympias, when she sent her son forth upon his great expedition, revealed to him the secret of his begetting, and bade him to be inspired by purposes worthy of his birth.

According to another version, she was ashamed of the dirty story and in repudiating it said, Alexander must cease slandering me to Hera [the lawful wife of Zeus]. ��150�� Can anyone in his right mind believe that the clean and beautiful story of Christ s virgin birth was derived from or even suggested by anything as filthy as this silly tale? Moreover, to top it all, even if the story were true, Olympias was not at all a virgin before she conceived Alexander and could not have become one afterward. The analogy breaks down completely.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.18-40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” What, then, is the real origin of the narrative? There is only one answer: Matthew and Luke tell the story because it actually happened. From Mary, either directly or indirectly but in the latter case from a source very close to Mary, the evangelists received the correct information. The Holy Spirit saw to it that it was infallibly conveyed to them, infallibly recorded by them in two completely harmonious accounts 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.18-40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:18 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.25-42.1.38|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.25-42.1.38|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:25 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.47|AUTODETECT|” ), and that also in the rest of the New Testament there is nothing that conflicts with it. Mark introduces Jesus Christ as the Son of God (1:1); John, as the Word who became flesh (assumed the human nature), the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth (1:14); and Paul, as the second man from heaven 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.15.47|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 15:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.3|AUTODETECT|” ). Cf. also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.3|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .��151��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” It was quite natural for Matthew to discover the link between the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 passage and the information he bad received from the family to which Jesus belonged. During the second century b.c., when the earliest extant Greek translation of the prophetical books of the Old Testament was produced, an important portion of which came to be known as the Septuagint, the Hebrew word ha almah was rendered ! ��, i.e., the virgin. That, in passing, is the only pre-Christian rendering of this Hebrew word known to us. Was Matthew influenced by this LXX translation? If so, this cannot be held against him. But it must be borne in mind that in ever so many places it is especially this evangelist who shows that he is by no means slavishly dependent upon the LXX. He is able to read the Hebrew original, and he knows that in the given context ha almah means the virgin. ) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Doctrinal Significance) It is sometimes said that the doctrine of the virgin birth is unessential, since if God had wanted to do so he could have caused his Son to have been conceived and born in some other way. Answer: what God could or could not have done is a speculative question into which it is not necessary to enter. Fact is, however, that Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary. As has been shown, this article of the Apostles Creed is firmly rooted in Scripture. Moreover, it blends inextricably with the rest of revealed truth. The supernatural Christ and the supernatural salvation carry with them by an inevitable consequence the supernatural birth. ��152�� Moreover, if Christ had been the son of Joseph and Mary by ordinary generation, would he not have been a human person and as such a sharer in Adam s guilt; hence, a sinner, unable to save himself, hence also unable to rescue others from sin?

In order to save us, the Redeemer must in one person be both God and man, sinless man. The doctrine of the virgin birth satisfies both of these requirements. It reveals to us Jesus Christ, one divine person with two natures: a. divine, b. sinless human.) To account for all the marvelous works performed by Jesus without assuming a supernatural origin would be difficult indeed! And then there was that entire sinless life. The story is told that an unbeliever once asked a Christian this question: If I should tell you that a child had been born in this city without a father, would you believe it? The Christian answered, Yes, if he should live as Jesus lived. ) 24, 25.

The story is concluded as follows: Rising from sleep Joseph did as the angel of the Lord had directed him, and took his wife into his home, but had no sexual relations with her until she had given birth to a son; and he named him Jesus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=1.1.28|AUTODETECT|” The meaning of the words took his wife into his home becomes clear when this expression is compared with verse 18: before they had begun to live together. See on that verse and also on verse 20. Though Joseph and Mary were now together in the same home, they had no sexual relations with each other until Mary had given birth to Jesus. Why this was so is not related. Could this decision have been motivated by the couple s high regard for that which had been conceived? Or did they abstain to be able to refute every allegation that Joseph himself was the father of the child?

Whatever it was that prompted the couple to refrain from having sexual intercourse, there is every reason to suppose that after the child s birth the abstention did not continue. This conclusion cannot be based merely upon the negative plus until. That wording does not always introduce an event (in this case: she gave birth to a son) whereby the earlier situation (the couple had no sexual relations) is reversed (they now begin to have sexual relations).��153�� Nevertheless, it is also true that frequently, in such cases, a complete reversal in the situation is suggested. Each case must be judged on its own merits. In the present instance the case against Mary s perpetual virginity is strengthened by these considerations: a. According to both the Old and the New Testament sexual intercourse for married couples is divinely approved 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.28|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.9.1|AUTODETECT|” 9:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.60|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.24.60|AUTODETECT|” 24:60) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.5.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.5.18|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 5:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.127.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.127.3|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 127:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.5|AUTODETECT|” ). Of course, even here, as in all things, self-control should be exercised. Incontinence is definitely condemned 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 7:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.22|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 5:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.5.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46|AUTODETECT|” ). But no special sanctity attaches to total abstention or celibacy. b. We are definitely told that Jesus had brothers and sisters, evidently together with him members of one family 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.47|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.47|AUTODETECT|” 47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.3|AUTODETECT|” 6:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.12|AUTODETECT|” John 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.3|AUTODETECT|” 7:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ). c. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 informs us that Jesus was Mary s firstborn. Though in and by itself this third argument may not be sufficient to prove that Jesus had uterine brothers, in connection with arguments a. and b. the evidence becomes conclusive. The burden of proof rests entirely on those who deny that after Christ s birth Joseph and Mary entered into all the relationships commonly associated with marriage.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.31|AUTODETECT|” Joseph, having risen from sleep, did exactly as the angel had directed him. Not only did he take his wife home with him but when the child was born he named him Jesus. Of course, in doing this, Joseph and Mary acted in perfect harmony 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.31|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.38|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.1.38|AUTODETECT|” 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Summary of Chapter 1) This chapter consists of two sections: verses 1 17 and verses 18 25. The first contains a record of ancestry of Jesus Christ. It shows us that Joseph, Jesus father in a legal sense only, was a descendant of David and Abraham. Through Joseph, son of David (verse 20) the right to the throne of David was transmitted to Jesus, the far more glorious son of David (verse 1).) The genealogy consists of three times fourteen generations. In the first series of fourteen we are shown the origin of David s house and royal glory; in the second, its rise and decline; in the third, its eclipse. But this eclipse is neither total nor lasting.

At the close of the third fourteen the sun is shining far more brilliantly than ever, namely, in the person of Jesus Christ, who is both David s son and David s Lord. The Savior is pictured here as the One who not only fulfils the old but also ushers in the new. He both completes the sixth seven, and introduces the seventh. He is both the realization of hope and the incentive to action.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” Over against all slander Matthew shows, by means of this family tree, that Jesus is indeed the legitimate seed of David. The genealogy contains the names of various kinds of individuals: women as well as men, pagans by birth as well as Jews, those who did what was good in the eyes of the Lord, and those who did not. Jesus Christ has significance not only for Jews but for the entire human race and for all its classes, categories, or subdivisions. He is truly the Savior of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” John 4:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ), the One who saves all who, by sovereign grace, place their trust in him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 In strict harmony with this genealogy, which carefully avoids making Joseph Jesus father in the physical sense, the second section contains the narrative of Christ s virgin birth. We learn that when Joseph and Mary were betrothed, and Mary had not yet been taken to Joseph s home, she found herself to be with child by the Holy Spirit. Joseph discovers that she is pregnant but does not know the cause. Being righteous he is convinced that the marriage, to the extent that it existed, must now be dissolved. But being also kind-hearted, he immediately dismisses the idea of legal action against Mary. He decides, therefore, to give her a letter of divorce, thus sending her away privately and not exposing her to public disgrace.

Revolving this matter in his mind he falls asleep. While he is dreaming an angel appears to him with the thrilling news that it is by the power of the Holy Spirit that Mary has conceived; that he, Joseph, must not hesitate to take Mary to his home; and that the child to be born must be named Jesus, that is, the One who will save his people from their sins.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|”
Guided by the Spirit, Matthew views this virgin birth of Jesus as a fulfilment of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|”
Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0: Behold the virgin shall conceive and give birth to a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel. In Jesus Christ, God does indeed dwell with his people, imparting to them the joy of salvation, with all this implies; see p. 141.) 1 12 2 8 0 0 Rising from sleep Joseph does as the angel of the Lord had directed him. He takes Mary to his home, but has no sexual relations with her until she has given birth to a son, whom he names Jesus.) The rejection of Christ s supernatural origin leaves this supernatural life and deeds unexplained. It also leaves unexplained the very possibility of man s salvation. That salvation is secured only when the initiative is taken by God, not by man!) ) ) ) ) 119) The verb refers here to the father s acquisition of offspring by depositing seed. Physical descent is indicated, whether from father to son, as in the case of father Abraham and son Isaac, or father via son to grandson or later physical descendant. It must be considered deplorable that elegant modern English has no easy equivalent for the verb used in the original (��).

The rendering begat (A.V.; A.R.V.) is definitely archaic. The rendering was the father of (Beck, Williams, Phillips, R.S.V., N.E.B., etc.) shifts the emphasis from the relation of a past event, as in the original, to the description of a past state. The German offers: Abraham zeugete Isaak ; Dutch: Abraham verwekte or gewon Izak. Perhaps the least objectionable renderings into English, though not a single one of them is completely satisfactory, are the following:) To Abraham was born Isaac (N.A.S.)) Abraham begot Isaac (see, however, the footnote on this in Williams translation).) Abraham became the father of Isaac, favored by L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 154. Between these three it is difficult to make a choice.) 120 See also M. D.

Johnson, The Purpose of the Biblical Genealogies, Cambridge, 1969.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|” 121 Those who question it base their opinion upon what I believe to be an erroneous explanation of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.36|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.36|AUTODETECT|” 36) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Cf. Lenski s sharp criticism (Interpretation of Luke, p. 49) of Zahn s position. With the main thrust of this criticism I am in agreement.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 122 It is true that, when added, the Hebrew consonants of the name David have a numerical value of fourteen (4+6+4). Whether this fact was in the mind of the author we simply do not know.) 123 On the meaning of �� and its derivatives see especially the following: I.S.B.E., pp. 2157 2163; Th.D.N.T., Vol. II, pp. 627 635); and S.BK., Vol. I, p. 43; IV, pp. 994, 995. Note also what has been said previously regarding Matthew s fondness for the number seven; p. 86 above.) 124 See T. Walker, Jewish Views of Jesus, New York, 1931, especially pp. 14 23.

Cf. also Laible, Jesus Christus im Talmud; Herford, Christianity in Talmud and Midrash; Krauss, Das Leben Jesu nach J�dischen Quellen. In a collection of previously unrecorded oral law, called Tosefta (pertaining to the tannaitic literature of the Jews) there occurs a story in which Jesus is called son of Panthera. Pagan philosophers, too, allowed themselves to be influenced by these slanderous representations. See especially Origen, Against Celsus I.xxviii. Today, H. J.

Schonfield (The Passover Plot, pp. 42, 48, 49, 241, 242) follows the example of those who connect the story of Christ s virgin birth with various pagan legends; for example, the one about the god Jupiter Ammon, who in the form of a serpent consorted with Olympias, resulting in the birth of Alexander the Great; as if these two births (Christ s and Alexander s) have in common anything that is essential!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=13.1.3|AUTODETECT|”
125 In the majority of instances Matthew s spelling of the names is identical with, or bears very close resemblance to, that found in LXX, I Chron. 1 3. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=13.1.3|AUTODETECT|”
I Chron. 1:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=13.3.17|AUTODETECT|”
, where the Hebrew has Israel, the LXX has Jacob. So does Matthew (1:2). Also, both LXX 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=13.3.17|AUTODETECT|”
I Chron. 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.15.13|AUTODETECT|”
) and Matthew (1:12) use the form Salathiel, where the Hebrew has Shealtiel. Dependence to some extent on LXX, I Chron. 1 3, seems probable therefore, whether it be direct or indirect. Here follows the complete list of names as presented by Matthew. Where the Greek form he uses differs considerably from the Hebrew, Matthew s is indicated between parentheses. The earlier form i.e., the Hebrew (transliterated into English) is the one used in this Commentary (as, for example, also in A.R.V.). In the second column, No. 5, Greek Iwsafavt, naturally refers to Jehoshaphat. Just as obviously, in that same column, No. 7, Greek Oziv�, refers to Uzziah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.15.13|AUTODETECT|”
II Kings 15:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.15.30|AUTODETECT|”
, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=12.15.30|AUTODETECT|”
30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=14.26.1|AUTODETECT|”: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.26.1|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 26:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.14.21|AUTODETECT|” ff.; etc.); elsewhere called Azariah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.14.21|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 14:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.12|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 3:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; etc.). Finally, the Jec(h)oniah of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.1.12|AUTODETECT|”

1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.16|AUTODETECT|” I Chron. 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=13.3.17|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.2.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=17.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Esther 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.24.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.24.1|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 24:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.27.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.27.20|AUTODETECT|” 27:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.28.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.28.4|AUTODETECT|” 28:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.29.2|AUTODETECT|” 29:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.6|AUTODETECT|” ; is the Jehoiachin of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.6|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 24:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.24.8|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.8|AUTODETECT|” , etc.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.8|AUTODETECT|” II Chron. 36:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=14.36.9|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.52.31|AUTODETECT|” ; and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.52.31|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 52:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.24|AUTODETECT|” ; the same as the Coniah of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.24|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 22:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.22.28|AUTODETECT|”
1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.37.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.37.1|AUTODETECT|” 37:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 126 There must have been many such lists. A Genealogy of Priests was found in Cave 6 of the Dead Sea Scrolls (M. Burrows, More Light on the Dead Sea Scrolls, New York, 1958, p. 407).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.2.2-6.2.21|AUTODETECT|” 127 That Rahab was a non-Israelite is clear 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=6.2.2-6.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Joshua 2:2 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.2.6|AUTODETECT|” . Ruth was a young woman from Moab 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=8.2.6|AUTODETECT|” Ruth 2:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.0|AUTODETECT|” ). ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.38.0|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 does not specifically state that Tamar was a Canaanite; nevertheless, this is probably implied in the Genesis context (see verses 1, 2, 6, 11 13). Cf. G. Ch. Aalders, Genesis (Korte Verklaring); Vol. 3, p. 94.) 1 10 2 8 0 0 128 One of the most delightful and thorough recent studies on Solomon it has been my pleasure to read is that, in the Dutch language, by J. Schoneveld, Salomo, Baarn, The Netherlands, no date.) 129 Not between Uzziah and Jotham, as Lenski states, op. cit., p. 30.) 130 Some try to solve the problem by means of the conjecture that originally (whether in the Greek autograph or in an earlier Hebrew Matthew, of which the later Greek was supposedly a revision; see pp. 87 91) verse 11 read, Josiah became the father of Jehoiakim . Later in verse 12 the name Jehoiachin was changed to its equivalent Jechoniah; and, since the two names Jehoiachin and Jehoiakim resemble each other so closely, the latter in verse 11 was also changed to Jechoniah. If we now wish to restore the original text, the name Jechoniah in verse 11 must be replaced by Jehoiakim. If this emendation is adopted, Jechoniah s name would not be mentioned until verse 12 is reached. It would have to be counted only once, and the change would result in a series of fourteen names in each of the lists.

So runs the argument. Tempting as this solution may seem, especially because of the close resemblance between the names of a royal son and royal grandson of king Josiah, it is beset with difficulties. First, the best textual evidence supports the text as it is; that is, without substituting Jehoiakim for Jechoniah in verse 11. Also, the proposed change in verse 11 would necessitate a far more extensive alteration; for in all the preceding instances, beginning with Isaac in verse 2, and extending to Josiah in verses 10 and 11, each name is mentioned twice; first as a son, then as a father. The same holds for the list that follows in verses 12 16, ending with Jacob, Joseph s father. Hence, to be consistent, instead of what we now have, Josiah became the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, the restored (?) text would have to read, Josiah became the father of Jehoiakim and his brothers, and Jehoiakim became the father of Jechoniah.

This would be a change not of just a few letters or merely a word; instead, it would mean the addition of an entire clause. Justification for such a radical emendation would seem to be entirely lacking.) 131 The exact manner in which this took place, in connection with Shealtiel and Zerubbabel, is difficult perhaps impossible to ascertain. See R. D. Wilson, art. Zerubbabel, I.S.B.E., Vol.

V., p. 3147; also my Bible Survey, pp. 136 138.) 132 Preservation of such lists was a very ancient custom, by no means confined to the Jews. The Assyrians had their king-lists, and so did the Babylonians; see C. W. Ceram, Gods, Graves, and Scholars, New. York, 1968, pp. 272; 314, 315.) N.T.C. W.

Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 133 The original 0�� presents a problem. Many modern translators completely ignore the word. Some consistently reproduce it in English by means of lo, or behold. The very frequent use of such an interjection, by many considered to be archaic, is probably not the best solution. Yet, the translation loses something of the vividness of the original if it is simply ignored, especially when, as here in 1:20, the sudden appearance of an angel presents a scene full of drama. Could not a safe procedure be this: to translate 0�� variously, depending upon the degree of vividness implied in any given context?

My translation in this instance the question and answer method is one way of retaining and reproducing the striking character of the original. It leaves the way open for a variety of different renderings in other passages, including lo and behold. Other possibilities: lo and behold, look, see, listen, inverted sentence order, suddenly, once upon a time, etc., almost anything that arouses interest.) 134 On this see S.BK., Vol. IV, p. 49.) 135 With the LXX Matthew renders ha almah: ! ��. Instead of ��, you shall call of the LXX, and qara th, she shall call (unless it be construed as a feminine participle), Matthew writes (according to the best text) ��, they shall call = it [his name] shall be called. Matthew realizes that not only in the estimation of Mary but in that of all believers Jesus is God with us.

Matthew s manner of quoting represents no essential departure from the original Hebrew; unless his use of �� be considered such a departure, which I, for one, do not believe at all.) 136 Note plural: the sign is not just for Ahaz but for the entire house of David and, in a sense, for all who read or hear about it.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” 137 Whether the article, present both in Hebrew and in the Greek translation 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” , and of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” ), must be reproduced in English by the definite article the instead of by the indefinite a(n), is hard to determine, because idiomatic usage is not always the same in English as it is in Hebrew or in Greek. From the entire context in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” and certainly also from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 it would appear that one definite almah is meant, not just any almah. Hence, with several other translators, I would give the preference to the, without, however, attaching decisive weight to this argument.) 1 18 2 8 0 0 138) Among the many whose names could be listed for it is a very popular view I mention only the following as representative. It should be emphasized, however, that on many details these authors present varying viewpoints.) Charles R. Erdman, Exposition of the Gospel according to Matthew, Philadelphia, 1920, p. 26.) A. W. Evans, art. Immanuel, I.S.B.E., Vol.

III, pp. 1457, 1458.) G. H. A. Ewald, The Prophets of the Old Testament, London, 1875 81, Vol. II, p. 84 f.) J. Ridderbos, Jesaja (Korte Verklaring), Kampen, 1952, Vol.

I, p. 64.) H. N. Ridderbos, Mattheus (Korte Verklaring) Kampen, 1954, Vol. I, pp. 35, 36.) R. V. G.

Tasker, The Gospel according to St. Matthew (Tyndale New Testament Commentaries), Grand Rapids, 1961.) 139 James Orr, The Virgin Birth of Christ, New York, 1924, see pp. 133 136.) 140 J. Gresham Machen, The Virgin Birth of Christ, New York and London, 1930, (Grand Rapids, 1965), see pp. 288 291. One can find the same argument, based on the use of the word sign, in Justin Martyr, Dialogue with Trypho, ch. 84, written about the middle of the second century.) 141 Thus also R. C. Foster, Studies in the Life of Christ, Introduction and Early Ministry, Grand Rapids, 1966, p. 165.

In pre-Mosaic literature the two words are at times used interchangeably. See R. H. Gundry, The Use of the Old Testament in St. Matthew s Gospel, p. 227.) 142 Even this has, however, been seriously suggested, namely, by Dr. Naegelsbach, Lange s Commentary on the Holy Scriptures, New York, 1878, reprint Grand Rapids, no date, volume on Isaiah, pp. 123 125.

He speaks about a fallen woman and an illegitimate child. Refutation unnecessary!) 143 Edward J. Young, article on The Virgin Birth in The Banner, April 15, 1955. Cf. his remarks in Studies in Isaiah, Grand Rapids, 1954, pp. 161 185.) 144 G. Ch. Aalders, GTT No. 5 (1953), pp. 132, 133.

See also R. D. Wilson, PTR No. 24 (1926), pp. 308 316.) 145 So also R. H. Gundry, op. cit., pp. 226, 227.) 146 These two are by no means the only classes of name-sources. A name may have been occasioned by an event (Ichabod), or by circumstances attending the child s birth (Saul, meaning asked, or Elishama: God has heard).

Patronymics are also of frequent occurrence (Bar-Jesus). There were matronymics (Bath-Shua). Many names, too, expressed a peculiar relation to Jehovah (Joshua, and ever so many others) or to God (Eli). In some El (God) and Jehovah are combined (Elijah: Jehovah is God). In several names the motives underlying origin overlap. It is a vast subject.

For more on it see N.T.C. on Philippians, pp. 138, 139. Also J. D. Davis, art. Names, Proper, I.S.B.E., Vol. IV, pp. 2113 2117; A.

F. Key, The Giving of Proper Names in the Old Testament, JBL (March, 1964), pp. 55 59.) 147 Earl S. Kalland, The Deity of the Old Testament Messiah, with Special Reference to His Fulfilment in Jesus of Nazareth, a doctoral thesis submitted to the Faculty of Gordon College of Theology and Missions, 1942 (on file in the Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary Library), p. 104.) 148 J. Gresham Machen, The Virgin Birth, p. 292. Similarly J. Orr, op. cit., p. 135.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” 149 Not only would it be very difficult to show that either of these can properly be called an almah, but there are various other difficulties that beset anyone who tries to identify the almah of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 with any contemporary of Ahaz and Isaiah. These obstacles have been clearly pointed out by J. G. Machen, op. cit., pp. 289, 290; J. Orr, op. cit., p. 135; and E. S. Kalland, op. cit., pp. 105 107. It is only fair to state that by no means all the advocates of the double reference theory try to identify the primary almah and/or her son. Some do, however. Recent illustration of this is R. V. G. Tasker, op. cit., p. 34, who suggests that Hezekiah is the son.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 150 Plutarch, Lives (Vol. VII of Loeb Classical Library), Alexander II and III.1, 2.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|” 151 With respect to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 see N.T.C. on that passage.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 152 B. B. Warfield, Christology and Criticism, New York, 1929, p. 452.) 153 On until see also W. Hendriksen, Israel and the Bible, Grand Rapids, 1968, pp. 27, 28.)

New Testament Commentary (Baker)

William Hendriksen (1900–1982) was a Dutch-American Reformed theologian and professor at Calvin Theological Seminary. His New Testament Commentary series, later completed by Simon J. Kistemaker, covers the entire New Testament and is one of the most highly regarded Reformed commentary sets of the …

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MAT MRK LUK JHN ACT ROM 1CO 2CO GAL EPH PHP COL 1TH 2TH 1TI 2TI TIT PHM HEB JAS 1PE 2PE 1JN 2JN 3JN JUD REV

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