The Role of Genealogies in Scripture: An Introduction to MatthewSample

The Uniqueness of Jesus

At first glance, Matthew’s genealogy seems typical. It follows the familiar pattern of “the father of” for each generation. Throughout the genealogy, we read, “the father of,” repeated consistently. For example, “Jesse the father of David,” “David the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah,” and so on. But when we come to verse 16, the language changes: “the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born.” The phrase "of whom" is translated from a Greek relative pronoun that is singular and feminine, clearly referring to Mary. This indicates that Jesus was born of Mary, not of Joseph.The illustrious Bible commentator Donald Hagner notes that this shift to a divine passive construction in verse 16 signifies that God is the active agent in Jesus’ birth. Joseph’s role is crucial as his genealogy is traced, but he is not the physical father of Jesus. Instead, Joseph is Jesus’ legal parent. Jesus’ conception was a divine act, not a natural one, as Mary was found to be with child by the Holy Spirit while still a virgin.

This unique birth points to the miraculous nature of Jesus’ conception. Who is this one born of a virgin, born of a woman, but not of a man? He is the Son of God. As the subsequent verses in Matthew will explain, Jesus’ birth fulfills the Scriptures. The prophet Isaiah foretold that the Messiah would be born of a virgin. This extraordinary event was a fulfillment of God’s promise and highlighted Jesus’ divine nature.

Jesus’ genealogy testifies to His true humanity, showing His descent from Abraham and David. But it also testifies to His deity, as His conception was by the Holy Spirit. Jesus is unique—fully human and fully divine.

As you reflect on the uniqueness of Jesus, consider the miracle of His birth and what it means for your faith. Jesus is truly the Son of God sent to save humanity. He understands our struggles and can empathize with our weaknesses. His deity means He has the power to save us and restore us to God.

Thank God for the miracle of Jesus’ birth and what it means for your life. Reflect on how Jesus’ nature as both fully human and fully divine impacts your relationship with Him.

Remember, Jesus is unlike anyone else. His birth was miraculous, His life was sinless, and His sacrifice was perfect. He is the fulfillment of God’s promises and the source of our salvation. Let this truth deepen your awe and worship of Him and guide you in your daily walk with the Lord. Share it with someone today.