Matthew 1:20

English NASU 1989 - New American Standard Update - Only for Website

Matthew 1:20 — English NASU 1989 - New American Standard Update - Only for Website

Such was his intention when, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home. For it is through the holy Spirit that this child has been conceived in her.

What Does This Mean?

In Matthew 1:20, the angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream and tells him not to fear taking Mary as his wife because her pregnancy is from the Holy Spirit.

Explained for Children

Imagine you're worried about something important. Then, suddenly, an angel visits you in your dreams and gives you good news that makes everything okay again. That's what happened to Joseph!

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this Gospel likely around AD 80-90 for a Jewish-Christian audience. The cultural setting involves understanding the expectations of marriage and divine intervention.

Living It Out Today

If you're facing a difficult decision about starting or continuing a relationship, remember that God's guidance can come in unexpected ways, like dreams, to give you peace and direction.

Topics

• faith
• divine guidance
• marriage
• trust in God
• dreams and visions
• virgin birth

Related Verses

• Luke 1:35
• Genesis 28:10-17
• Daniel 7:9-14
• Acts 16:9-10
• 1 Corinthians 15:3-8

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean that Mary's pregnancy was from the Holy Spirit?

It means that Jesus, who would be born, is uniquely God's son, conceived by divine intervention rather than human conception.

Why did Joseph need to be told not to fear taking Mary as his wife?

Joseph feared because he thought Mary had been unfaithful, but the angel assured him that her pregnancy was miraculous and from God.

How can dreams serve as a form of divine communication?

Dreams are seen in biblical narratives as one way God communicates with people, providing guidance or revelations they need to know.

What significance does Joseph being called 'son of David' have?

It connects Jesus through his stepfather's lineage to King David, fulfilling prophecies that the Messiah would come from David’s line.