Matthew 1:1-17

Matthew 1:1–17

As we begin this journey through Matthew's Gospel, let me make a few introductory comments.

As we work through the Gospel, we will often connect Matthew's account with other passages of Scripture. There will also be occasions when we return to certain verses or sections later in our study. Matthew's opening genealogy has much to teach us, but if we attempt to explore every detail at the outset, we may lose sight of the main purpose. This first study is already longer than I would like. As we progress, I may provide both a shorter and a longer daily thought.

Today we begin with Matthew 1:1–17. You will need to read the biblical references in your own Bible.

Matthew's Gospel does not begin at the beginning of the story. In fact, Matthew immediately reminds us that Jesus is the culmination of a much larger history.

To understand this, it is helpful to consider the situation of Israel in the centuries before Christ.

Israel had been conquered and carried into exile by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon. Although a remnant remained in the land, the nation had experienced the judgement of God because of its persistent disobedience. Yet the Lord had not abandoned His people.

In time, Cyrus became king of Persia, and the Lord stirred his heart to permit the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. The exiles were allowed to return and help restore the house of God.

This was profoundly significant. The temple represented the dwelling place of God among His people. It was the visible reminder that the Lord desired to live in the midst of those who belonged to Him. Cyrus's decree therefore spoke of restoration, renewal, and fresh hope.

At this point it would be worth reading Ezra chapters 1 and 2.

One issue faced by those returning from exile was the need to establish legitimate priestly lineage. Some families could not demonstrate their ancestry and were therefore excluded from priestly service until their claims could be verified (Ezra 2:62). Lineage mattered because God had appointed specific descendants of Levi to serve as priests.

The restoration of the temple was not ultimately about a building. Faithful Israelites such as David longed for the house of God because they longed for the presence of God. The building itself was never the final goal; it was the place where God's people met with Him, worshipped Him, and served Him.

Many of the people gave willingly toward the work of rebuilding and restoring the worship of God (Ezra 2:68–69). Their giving was not forced or reluctant. They contributed because their hearts were moved by the privilege of participating in God's work. This theme runs throughout Scripture. God delights in cheerful and willing giving that flows from gratitude and devotion rather than mere obligation.

The work of restoration was also a work of grace. Ezra 1:5 tells us that God stirred the hearts of those who returned to Jerusalem. Their willingness to give their resources, time, and labour arose from the Lord's work within them. True service and true giving have always been matters of the heart. In contrast see Genesis 4:5 . 

These events should not be viewed as minor details of Israel's history. The nation had learned, through painful experience, what happens when God's people lose sight of their privileges and responsibilities. Yet now they had been given another opportunity to worship and serve the Lord according to His will.

Although these events occurred centuries before the birth of Christ, they help us understand the atmosphere of expectation into which Jesus came. Israel lived with the promises of God ringing in their ears. They were waiting for the Son of David. They were waiting for the King whose kingdom would never end. They were waiting for the One who would establish God's purposes forever.

If such a Messiah was to come, His ancestry would matter. He would need to stand within the line of promise. He must be the true Son of Abraham and the true Son of David.

And so Matthew opens his Gospel with a genealogy.

Far from being a list of unfamiliar names, it is Matthew's declaration that the long wait is over.

Here is the One we have been waiting for.

Here is the promised Son of Abraham.

Here is the promised Son of David.

Here is the Messiah.

End

 Questions for Reflection

Why do you think Matthew begins his Gospel with a genealogy rather than with the birth of Jesus? What does this tell us about who Jesus is and why He came?

As you reflect on Israel's history of exile, restoration, and waiting, what does this passage teach us about God's faithfulness to keep His promises, even over many generations?

The people returned to rebuild the temple because God stirred their hearts. In what ways have you experienced God prompting or encouraging you to serve, give, or draw closer to Him?