Matthew 1: Expository Bible Preaching Sermon and Study Guide

Overview

Matthew 1 serves as the opening of the New Testament, bridging the Old Testament promises with their fulfillment in Jesus Christ. It contains two main sections:

The Genealogy of Jesus Christ (vv. 1-17) – Matthew traces Jesus’ lineage through Abraham and David, emphasizing His legal right to the Davidic throne.
The Birth of Jesus Christ (vv. 18-25) – This section tells of the miraculous virgin conception of Jesus by the Holy Spirit, with Joseph adopting Jesus as his legal son.

Key theological truths are embedded here: the faithfulness of God to His covenant promises, the divine nature of Jesus, and the beginning of the fulfillment of messianic prophecy. The chapter declares Jesus as the Christ (Messiah), the Son of David and the Son of Abraham, establishing His legal and spiritual credentials as Israel’s true King and Savior of the world.

This chapter upholds the inerrancy and authority of Scripture by grounding Jesus’ coming in the prophetic Scriptures and in a verifiable historical lineage.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Background

Matthew writes primarily to a Jewish audience around A.D. 50-70. His goal is to present Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah promised in the Hebrew Scriptures. For Jewish readers, genealogy was critical, particularly in establishing messianic legitimacy. By anchoring Jesus in the line of David and Abraham, Matthew shows Jesus as the fulfillment of both the Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 12:1-3) and the Davidic Covenant (2 Samuel 7:12-16).

The cultural importance of legal adoption is also significant. Though Joseph is not Jesus’ biological father, his adoption of Jesus gives Him legal standing as David’s heir.

Literary Structure

Matthew uses structured genealogical patterns:

Divides the genealogy into three sets of 14 generations (v. 17), reflecting a symbolic structure possibly tied to the numerical value of David’s name (DVD = 14 in Hebrew).
Purposefully includes both men and women, Jews and Gentiles, righteous and unrighteous, showing God’s sovereign grace in human history.
The narrative portion (vv. 18-25) is brief but theological, focusing on divine revelation and Joseph’s obedience.

Matthew uses Old Testament quotations frequently (v. 23 cites Isaiah 7:14), affirming Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. The Sovereignty of God in Redemptive History

God directs history to fulfill His promises (vv. 1-17).
The genealogy reveals divine providence through generations, including unexpected individuals (e.g., Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba).
Nothing is accidental. God works through flawed people to bring about salvation history.

2. The Virgin Birth and the Deity of Christ

Jesus is conceived by the Holy Spirit (v. 20), emphasizing His divine origin.
This affirms core doctrines: the Incarnation and the sinless nature of Christ.
The virgin birth is not a myth or allegory, but a literal historical miracle essential to Christian doctrine.

3. The Fulfillment of Messianic Prophecy

Matthew’s Gospel begins with fulfilled prophecy (v. 23, citing Isaiah 7:14).
Jesus is explicitly identified as “Immanuel” — “God with us,” highlighting His divine presence.
The entire chapter points to Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and Prophets (cf. Matthew 5:17).

4. The Legitimacy of Jesus as King and Savior

The title “Christ” (v. 1) is not a surname but a messianic title: the Anointed One.
Jesus is both “Son of David” (royal lineage) and “Son of Abraham” (covenant promise).
His mission is to save His people from their sins (v. 21), pointing to the purpose of His coming: redemption.

5. Obedience and Righteousness in Joseph’s Example

Joseph is described as “a righteous man” (v. 19).
His response to God’s revelation is immediate obedience (vv. 24-25).
He acts with humility and faith, demonstrating what righteousness looks like in the kingdom of God.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis (Key Verses)

Matthew 1:1 — “This is the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah the son of David, the son of Abraham:”

Explanation: This opening verse serves as a title for the entire Gospel. “Genealogy” (Greek: biblos geneseos) can also mean “record of origin.” It deliberately links Jesus to David (royal lineage) and Abraham (covenant lineage).
Doctrinal Insight: Jesus is the legal heir to David’s throne (2 Samuel 7:12-14) and the promised seed of Abraham through whom all nations will be blessed (Genesis 12:3).
Application: Christ is the fulfillment of all God’s promises. Believers can trust God’s covenant-keeping nature in both personal and redemptive history.

Matthew 1:16 — “…and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, and Mary was the mother of Jesus who is called the Messiah.”

Explanation: Unlike the earlier pattern, Jesus is not said to be fathered by Joseph. This break emphasizes the virgin birth.
Cross-reference: Luke 1:35 and Isaiah 7:14.
Doctrinal Insight: Jesus’ divine origin is highlighted. He is truly God and truly man, born of a woman, yet not conceived by a man.
Application: Christ’s birth marks the beginning of new creation — a spiritual rebirth for those who believe.

Matthew 1:21 — “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

Explanation: The angel gives divine instruction to Joseph regarding Jesus’ name and mission.
Greek Insight: “Jesus” (from Yeshua) means “Yahweh saves.”
Doctrinal Insight: Salvation is not political deliverance but redemption from sin, pointing directly to Christ’s role as Savior.
Cross-reference: Acts 4:12, Romans 5:8-9.
Application: Jesus alone is Savior. Our faith must be in Him, not in personal righteousness, politics, or religion.

Matthew 1:23 — “‘The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ (which means ‘God with us’).”

Explanation: Direct citation of Isaiah 7:14, affirming prophetic fulfillment.
Doctrinal Insight: Jesus is God incarnate, dwelling with His people (John 1:14). “Immanuel” underscores the divine presence and intimacy of God with humanity.
Application: Jesus‘ presence gives peace, guidance, and hope in every season of life.

Matthew 1:24-25 — “When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him…”

Explanation: Joseph immediately obeys God’s word, taking Mary as his wife and naming the child Jesus.
Doctrinal Insight: Joseph‘s obedience reflects godly submission and trust in divine revelation.
Application: True righteousness involves responding to God’s Word with obedience, even when it is difficult or misunderstood by others.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Matthew 1 serves as a Christological cornerstone for the entire New Testament. It reveals essential truths about Jesus:

Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s covenantal promises (Genesis 12:3; 2 Samuel 7:12-16).
Jesus is both divine and human, born of a virgin yet conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Jesus is the Savior, whose mission is to redeem His people from their sins (v. 21).
Jesus is God with us, the visible image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15).

This chapter firmly places Jesus at the center of God’s redemptive story. He is not merely a teacher or prophet, but the long-awaited King and Redeemer — the one in whom all Scripture finds its meaning (Luke 24:27).

Connection to God the Father

Matthew 1 reveals the active hand of God the Father in the orchestration of salvation history:

Initiator of the Plan: The Father is the one who ordained the lineage of Christ and promised the Messiah through Abraham and David.
Divine Authority in Naming: The name “Jesus” is given by divine instruction (v. 21), underscoring the Father’s authority in His Son’s identity and mission.
Providential Sovereignty: Through providence, God the Father weaves together flawed individuals, Gentiles, and the righteous into the genealogy of Christ — demonstrating His sovereign grace and wisdom.
Fatherly Care: By choosing Joseph to adopt and protect Jesus, the Father demonstrates His care for the unfolding plan of redemption, ensuring His Son would be legally recognized and protected in Jewish society.

Ultimately, God the Father is glorified in Matthew 1 by sending His Son into the world for the purpose of saving sinners (John 3:16-17). The entire chapter points to the Father’s love, sovereignty, and faithfulness to His promises.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Matthew 1 highlights the direct involvement of the Holy Spirit in the incarnation of Jesus Christ. This is foundational to understanding the supernatural nature of the Gospel.

1. The Virgin Birth by the Holy Spirit (v. 18, 20)

“…she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.” (v. 18)
“…what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.” (v. 20)

These verses reveal the miraculous work of the Spirit in bringing about the conception of Jesus. This was not through natural means, but by the sovereign creative power of the Holy Spirit.

Theological Insight:

The Holy Spirit brings forth new life, just as He hovered over the waters in Genesis 1:2 and gave life to the world.
This divine conception preserves both the full deity and full humanity of Jesus Christ without the inherited sin nature passed through Adam (cf. Romans 5:12-19).

2. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Divine Revelation

The angelic message comes with divine authority, and it is understood that the Spirit of God is active in revealing truth to Joseph, guiding him toward faith and obedience.

Application for Today:

Just as the Holy Spirit initiated the incarnation, He now gives spiritual rebirth to believers (John 3:5-6).
The same Spirit that brought Jesus into the world now dwells within His people, guiding them into truth, holiness, and obedience.

Sermon Outline and Flow: “God With Us: The Coming of the King” (Matthew 1)

Introduction:

Open with a question: “What does Christmas really mean?”
Emphasize the difference between cultural sentimentality and the theological miracle of the Incarnation.
Introduce the theme: God is faithful, sovereign, and near — and He has come in the person of Jesus Christ.

I. The Lineage of the King (vv. 1-17) — God’s Sovereignty Over History

Main Point: Jesus‘ genealogy is not accidental but divinely orchestrated.
Emphasis: God’s promises to Abraham and David are fulfilled in Christ.
Application: God is in control of history — and of your story.
Illustration: Share about a family tree search or a DNA test revealing unexpected heritage. God’s plan is never random; He writes your story with purpose.

II. The Virgin Birth of the King (vv. 18-23) — God’s Power Through the Spirit

Main Point: Jesus’ birth is miraculous, supernatural, and divine.
Emphasis: Conceived by the Holy Spirit, Jesus is fully God and fully man.
Application: Nothing is impossible for God. Trust Him with the impossible in your life.
Illustration: Reference a real-life story of a couple praying for a child and receiving a miraculous answer. Compare with how God brings forth life and hope through impossible means.

III. The Obedience of the Righteous (vv. 24-25) — God’s Work in Our Response

Main Point: Joseph obeyed God immediately, despite risk and social stigma.
Emphasis: Righteousness is seen in trusting obedience to God’s Word.
Application: God may call you to make hard choices, but obedience brings blessing.
Illustration: Share about a missionary or believer who obeyed God’s calling despite fear or sacrifice.

Conclusion: God With Us

Revisit Matthew 1:23 — Immanuel means “God with us.”
Jesus’ birth means that God has entered our world, our pain, and our need.
He didn’t come for the perfect — He came through and for the broken.

Call to Action:

For Unbelievers: Jesus came to save you from your sins (v. 21). Will you trust Him today?
For Believers: Will you obey God like Joseph did? What is He calling you to do right now?
Challenge: This week, live as someone who believes that God is truly with you.

Illustrations and Examples

1. Modern DNA Test Illustration (vv. 1-17)

Imagine sending your DNA to a testing company only to find your ancestry includes unexpected cultures and people. Jesus’ lineage included Gentiles, women, and sinners — showing that God’s grace is for all and that His purposes are not limited by human expectations.

2. Virgin Birth and Medical Miracles

In a world of IVF, fertility science, and medical breakthroughs, we still understand that life is a gift only God can ultimately give. The virgin birth reminds us of a higher miracle — the eternal God becoming man to save His people.

3. Joseph’s Obedience — A Modern Analogy

A man engaged to a woman finds out she’s pregnant — and it’s not his child. Today, this would result in scandal, maybe even a broken relationship. But Joseph responds to God’s Word, not to his feelings or the culture. His courage is a model for all believers faced with tough decisions in a fallen world.

Application for Today’s Christian

Matthew 1 offers timeless truths with direct relevance for how believers live as disciples of Jesus in today’s world. It calls us to trust, obey, and proclaim the One who has come to save.

1. Discipleship: Walk in Obedience Like Joseph

Joseph modeled immediate obedience to God’s revealed will, despite personal cost or public perception.
Practical Application: When God’s Word calls you to a hard path—whether in relationships, integrity at work, or costly sacrifice—choose to obey like Joseph. Faith is proven in trust-driven action.
Challenge: Ask yourself this week, “Where is God asking for my obedience?” Then do it.

2. Stewardship: Steward God’s Calling and Relationships

Joseph was entrusted with the care and naming of Jesus. He did not own the mission but stewarded his role faithfully.
Practical Application: Christians today are stewards of God’s gifts—time, talents, relationships, and responsibilities.
Challenge: Like Joseph, embrace your God-given role, whether as a parent, leader, employee, or servant. Be faithful in the small, knowing God sees it all.

3. Living Out the Gospel: Proclaim Christ as Savior

The name “Jesus” means “The Lord saves.” His mission was not to bring political freedom but spiritual salvation.
Practical Application: Be clear and bold in your witness. People don’t just need a better life; they need a Savior.
Challenge: Share the meaning of Christmas or Matthew 1 with a friend or co-worker, pointing to Jesus as the Savior of sinners.

Connection to God’s Love

Matthew 1 is a beautiful revelation of God’s steadfast, redeeming love:

1. God Fulfills His Promises Out of Love

The genealogy shows generations of waiting, struggle, sin, and hope. Despite humanity’s failures, God never abandoned His promise.
Romans 5:8 — “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
God’s love is not conditional on our goodness. It is anchored in His own covenant faithfulness.

2. God Draws Near in Love

“Immanuel” means “God with us.” This is the ultimate act of love: God stepping into human suffering, not watching from afar.
John 1:14 — “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.”
God didn’t send an angel or a prophet—He came Himself in the person of His Son.

3. God Redeems Broken Stories

The genealogy includes adulterers, Gentiles, prostitutes, and kings. No story is too broken for God to redeem.
This shows His inclusive love within His exclusive truth. Jesus came from sinners to save sinners.
Application: God can redeem your past and write a new future, just as He did through the line of Christ.

Broader Biblical Themes

Matthew 1 is not just the beginning of the New Testament—it is the continuation of God’s unfolding redemptive plan.

1. Creation and New Creation

Jesus is born by the power of the Holy Spirit, echoing Genesis 1, where the Spirit hovers over creation.
The virgin birth signals the new creation — a humanity redeemed, not by works, but by God’s initiative.
2 Corinthians 5:17 — “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come.”

2. Covenant Fulfillment

Jesus is called the “Son of David” and “Son of Abraham,” tying Him to both the Abrahamic and Davidic covenants.
- Abrahamic Covenant: Blessing to all nations (Genesis 12:3).
- Davidic Covenant: Eternal King (2 Samuel 7:12-16).
Jesus fulfills both—He is the promised King and the global Savior.

3. Redemption and Restoration

Jesus comes “to save His people from their sins” (v. 21).
This salvation is not partial or moralistic—it is total, personal, and spiritual.
Through Jesus, God restores the broken relationship between Himself and humanity.

4. God’s Presence with His People

“God with us” (Immanuel) marks the culmination of the biblical narrative: from Eden’s separation (Genesis 3), to God dwelling with Israel (Exodus 25:8), to the Incarnation (John 1:14), and ultimately to God dwelling with His people forever (Revelation 21:3).

Reflection Questions for Personal Study and Small Group Discussion

These questions are designed to help individuals and groups engage more deeply with Matthew 1, apply the truths of Scripture to life, and grow in their walk with Christ.

1. How does seeing Jesus’ genealogy strengthen your faith in God’s promises?

Reflect on how God faithfully kept His covenant through generations, even when people failed.
How does this encourage you to trust God’s plan for your life?

2. What stands out to you about the people included in Jesus’ family line?

Consider the presence of outsiders, sinners, and unlikely individuals.
What does this teach you about God’s grace and the kind of people He uses?

3. Why is the virgin birth essential to the Christian faith?

How does the truth that Jesus was conceived by the Holy Spirit affect your understanding of who He is?

4. Joseph responded with obedience when God spoke. How are you responding to God’s Word today?

Are there areas of your life where you know what God is asking, but you’re hesitating to obey?
What steps can you take this week to live out your faith more fully?

5. What does the name “Jesus” mean to you personally?

He came to “save His people from their sins.” Have you experienced His salvation?
If so, how are you helping others know Him?

6. “Immanuel” means “God with us.” Where in your life right now do you need to be reminded of God’s presence?

How does knowing that God is with you change how you face challenges, decisions, or suffering?

7. How does Matthew 1 prepare your heart to understand the rest of the Gospel of Matthew?

What expectations do you have as you continue reading about Jesus’ life and ministry?
How does knowing He is both fully God and fully man shape your worship and trust?