What is the meaning of Matthew 1:25? But • The verse opens with a contrast, linking back to Joseph’s earlier resolve to obey the angel’s command (Matthew 1:20-24). • “But” underscores Joseph’s decisive turn from normal marital expectations to a divinely directed restraint, highlighting obedience over personal desire (cf. Genesis 6:22; Luke 1:38). he had no union with her • Joseph and Mary lived together after their betrothal, yet Joseph chose abstinence, protecting the miracle of the virgin conception (Isaiah 7:14; Luke 1:34-35). • This deliberate purity testifies that Jesus’ origin is heavenly, not humanly engineered (John 1:14; Galatians 4:4). • It models self-discipline for the sake of God’s purpose, echoing Paul’s teaching on yielding personal rights for the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:12-15). until she gave birth to a Son • “Until” marks the completion of prophecy without implying perpetual virginity; Scripture later records Jesus’ brothers and sisters (Matthew 13:55-56; Mark 6:3). • The time-marker stresses that, by the moment of birth, every messianic prediction regarding a virgin birth stood fulfilled (Micah 5:2 alongside Luke 2:1-7). • Joseph’s restraint ensured unmistakable evidence that the Child is “Immanuel”—God with us (Matthew 1:23). And he gave Him the name Jesus • Naming was a father’s legal act, formally acknowledging the Child as his own, thereby grafting Jesus into David’s royal line (2 Samuel 7:12-16; Romans 1:3). • Joseph’s obedience completes the angel’s instructions (Matthew 1:21), displaying faith through action (James 2:17). • “Jesus” means “The Lord saves,” capturing the essence of His mission: to save His people from their sins (Luke 19:10; 1 Timothy 1:15). summary Matthew 1:25 spotlights Joseph’s faithful obedience, Mary’s maintained virginity until Jesus’ birth, and the legally significant naming of the Child. Each detail safeguards the prophecy of a virgin-born Messiah, secures Jesus’ rightful place in David’s lineage, and proclaims His saving purpose. |
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