Chapter Summary

Generations of Jesus Christ. His conception and birth.

Discussion Questions for Matthew, Chapter 1

1. Genealogies are often skipped by readers because they're "boring" or "have no application" among other excuses. What are some counter arguments for this? How could you convince someone to be willing to dive deep into the different genealogies found in the Bible?
2. In verses 1-17, What names do you recognize? What names do you not recognize? Each of these people had a hand in God's redemptive plan for the world, even if they aren't super famous Bible heros. How does this give you a new perspective on the purpose for your own life?
3. Compare the genealogy in Matthew 1 to the genealogy of Jesus found in Luke 3:23-38. What differences do you see? Are there any mistakes? Why or why not?
4. How can we reconcile the differences between Matthew 1:1-17 and Luke 3:23-38? (Like the different fathers of Joseph in Matthew 1:16 and Luke 3:23)
5. What type of people are found in the genealogy of Jesus? How does this shed light on who God uses in His plan?
6. Do you actually believe in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ? Why is this such an integral part of being a believer?
7. Mary showed incredible obedience and faith by being willing to give birth to the Son of God. Joseph showed incredible obedience and faith by accepting Mary and Jesus. How can we practice obedience and trust in challenging situations this week?
8. Why did Jesus need to be born as a human? Couldn't God save the world another way?
9. Matthew emphasizes Jesus as the King and Messiah in his Gospel. How does this idea set the tone for the rest of the Gospel and impact our understanding of Jesus' teachings?
10. Imagine you are reading Matthew for the very first time. How does the name "Immanuel" give a reader an understanding of who Jesus is before we even see how he behaves? Why did Matthew think it was important for us to know that Jesus is "God with us" from the very start of the story?

Key Words/Phrase

Genealogy, vv. 1, 17.

Characters

God, Christ, Holy Spirit, Joseph, Mary, generations of Christ from Abraham to David.

Strong Verse(s)

21, 22, 23.