Day 126/260: Read Matthew 1

Taking note of the intended audience of a particular passage of Scripture helps in our understanding of it. Each gospel account had a different aim and a different audience in mind. Matthew the tax collector wrote his account with his Jewish brethren in mind.

This is one of the reasons that he begins his genealogy in chapter one with Abraham. Abraham was a central figure in the Jewish faith, the “father of many nations.” The Jews took great pride in their heritage.

Matthew also refers extensively to the prophets who were esteemed by the Jewish leaders. Isaiah prophesied of the virgin birth: “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).

Matthew recalls this prophecy as he tells of the angel’s visit to Joseph, who says, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.”

Focus on the meaning of the two names given for the Lord in this chapter: Jesus, meaning “Jehovah is salvation,” and Immanuel, meaning “God with us.” What a blessing to know that Jesus has the ability and the desire to save us, and it was love that brought Him into this wicked world for that purpose.

Memory (Read aloud 5-10 times)

Matthew 5:9. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”

Pray

Pray a prayer of thanksgiving for Christ’s love and mercy.