Matthew 1

Matthew 1:1-17

In this genealogy of Christ, by his supposed father, we have four women inserted, three of them Gentiles; and Bathsheba, an adulteress; to discover him as the Saviour of the Gentiles and of the greatest sinners. The three immediate descendants of Joram by Athaliah are omitted, to mark the curse of God upon unhallowed marriages 110 123* to the third and fourth generation. 18, 10. Mary’s espousal to Joseph prevented the imputation of bastardy to her son, and secured her an assistant to bring him up.—Joseph was afraid of marrying an unchaste woman on the one hand; or on the other of publicly exposing to be stoned one whom he hoped might be innocent. 10 N

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. I.—Though long delays of God’s favours may much exercise our patience, they do not in the least weaken his promises. Full and convincing is the evidence that our Jesus is the true Messiah, the Saviour of Jews and Gentiles, males and females, of sinners, even the chief. Marvellous was the providence of God, that he should prepare him his holy manhood, through and from such abominable persons and acts. But strange alterations take place in the temporal condition and moral qualities of families in a few generations. How miraculous was our Saviour’s conception and birth, and how honourably testified! With great wisdom and prudence God conducted every circumstance thereof, to his honour, and to the happiness of those concerned. Yet they, who receive remarkable honours from God, may expect remarkable trials; but, if we keep a good conscience, God will maintain, or in due time vindicate, our honour. It is very comely when piety towards God, fidelity towards men, and tenderness of our reputation go together. And in suspicious cases we should always hope the best, and depend upon God for such solution of our doubts as may enable us to proceed with freedom and comfort. But nothing can more enliven a perplexed mind than discoveries of Jesus Christ as the great God-man, who effectually saves from sin and wrath