Summary
This episode of the book of Matthew begins his account by giving Jesus’ genealogy (Matthew 1). He then tells of Jesus’ birth and early years, including the family’s escape to Egypt from the murderous Herod and their return to Nazareth.
The conception and birth of Jesus Christ are supernatural events beyond human logic or reasoning. Because of this, God sent angels to help certain people understand the significance of what was happening. Angels are spiritual beings created by God who help carry out His work on earth. They bring God’s messages to people (Luke 1:26), protect God’s people (Daniel 6:22), offer encouragement (Genesis 16:7), give guidance (Exodus 14:19), carry out punishment (2 Samuel 24:16), patrol the earth (Zechariah 1:9-14) and fight the forces of evil (2 Kings 6:16-18; Revelation 20:1, 2).
The angel declared to Joseph that Mary’s child was conceived by the Holy Spirit and would be a son. This reveals an important truth about Jesus – He is both God and human. The infinite, unlimited God took on the limitations of humanity so He could live and die for the salvation of all who would believe in Him.
Bethlehem of Judaea: The city of David [Israel’s greatest king]. Bethlehem signifies the “house of bread,” the fittest place for Him to be born who is the true manna, the bread which came down from heaven, which was given for the life of the world. written by the prophet: Taken from Micah 5:2, where it is foretold (700 years earlier!) that though Bethlehem is little, it shall be found not the least among the princes of Judah. Bethlehem’s honor lay not in the multitude of the people, but in the magnificence of the princes, it produced.
Elder Barbara
LA/MH
The Church Within You! 