From the men's bible study, Dec.15

Isaiah 7: 10-16; Romans 1: 1-7; Matthew 1: 18-25

Matthew’s Gospel focus is on Jewish traditions how Jesus’ teachings are consistent with Mosaic Law “The Law, Prophets, and the Psalms are not abolished, they are fulfilled in Christ.” Matthew 1: 1-17 (just before this lesson) gives Jesus’ Genealogy, tracing his descents from Joseph back to Abraham through 42± generations. Matthew links the birth of Jesus to the Prophesy of Isaiah- 9:6: “For a child has been born for us, a son is given to us.” As well, there is a link to Isaiah 7: 10-16 (our OT lesson for today).

Saint Joseph the Carpenter is the betrothed husband to be of Mary. He was not Jesus’ biological father, but acted as his foster-father and as head of the Holy Family. There is not much information in the gospels about Joseph, but he went against the traditions of his religion and culture in staying the course with Mary and bringing up a son. By the Law he could have walked away. It helped that the angel gave him assurance that all would be right.

The angel gave Joseph courage as well as the name for his adopted son: Jesus (Greek form of Joshua, meaning God is Salvation). At the time of Jesus’ birth, the Holy Spirit was thought of as the force that brought the truth. As an example, a prophet would be inspired or taught by the Holy Spirit. It is in Jesus that the true nature of God is revealed in Love, Goodness, and Charity. Jesus enables us to see God with clarity.

Read this Gospel passage as if you had never set eyes on it; what do you come away with? What is Matthew conveying that is important?
Submitted by Walt Jaap