Matthew 1:16

KJV

And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} Jacob {G2384} begat {G1080} Joseph {G2501} the husband {G435} of Mary {G3137}, of {G1537} whom {G3739} was born {G1080} Jesus {G2424}, who {G3588} is called {G3004} Christ {G5547}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Ya`akov was the father of Yosef the husband of Miryam, from whom was born the Yeshua who was called the Messiah.

Berean Standard Bible

and Jacob the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

American Standard Version

and Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 1:16 serves as the climactic verse in Matthew's opening genealogy, meticulously tracing the lineage of Jesus Christ through Joseph, His legal father, back to Abraham. This verse uniquely pivots from the repetitive "begat" formula to highlight the miraculous birth of Jesus "of whom" (Mary), thereby affirming both Jesus' legal claim to the Davidic throne through Joseph and His divine origin through the virgin birth. It culminates the ancestral record by definitively identifying Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, the Christ, setting the stage for the unfolding narrative of His life, ministry, and redemptive work.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 1:16 stands as the culminating point of Matthew's meticulously structured genealogy, which began in [Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - The Genealogy of Jesus Christ"). The preceding verses, from [Matthew 1:2](/matthew/1-2 "Matthew 1:2 - Abraham to David") through [Matthew 1:15](/matthew/1-15 "Matthew 1:15 - Josiah to Jacob"), consistently employ the Greek verb _egennēsen_ ("begat") to denote direct paternal lineage. However, verse 16 introduces a crucial grammatical and theological shift. While it states that "Jacob begat Joseph," it deliberately avoids saying Joseph begat Jesus. Instead, it uses the passive voice and a prepositional phrase, "of whom was born Jesus," to emphasize Mary's unique role and the non-biological fatherhood of Joseph, subtly yet powerfully affirming the virgin birth. This careful phrasing prepares the reader for the detailed account of Jesus' miraculous conception and birth that immediately follows in [Matthew 1:18-25](/matthew/1-18-25 "Matthew 1:18-25 - The Birth of Jesus Christ"). The genealogy itself is structured into three sets of fourteen generations, a mnemonic device that underscores Jesus' identity as the fulfillment of God's covenant promises, particularly to David.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Genealogies were profoundly significant in ancient Jewish culture, serving as vital records of identity, inheritance, and tribal affiliation. To be recognized as a legitimate heir or to hold a particular office (like king or priest), one's lineage had to be verifiable. Matthew's genealogy, therefore, establishes Jesus' credentials within this cultural framework, demonstrating His rightful claim to the throne of David, a crucial requirement for the Messiah. The mention of Joseph as "the husband of Mary" is key, as Jewish law recognized the legal fatherhood of the husband, even in cases of non-biological paternity, thereby securing Jesus' legal Davidic lineage. The expectation of a Messiah, an "Anointed One" from the line of David, was deeply ingrained in Jewish hope, fueled by centuries of prophetic utterances (e.g., [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")). Matthew's deliberate inclusion of women in the genealogy (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, and the wife of Uriah) also subtly challenges patriarchal norms and foreshadows the inclusive nature of God's redemptive plan, culminating in Mary, through whom salvation comes to all.

* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several pivotal theological and narrative themes central to Matthew's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores the **Messianic Identity** of Jesus. By explicitly calling Him "Christ" (Greek for "Anointed One," equivalent to the Hebrew "Messiah"), Matthew declares that Jesus is the long-awaited deliverer and King, fulfilling the prophecies concerning the promised redeemer, particularly the Davidic covenant found in [2 Samuel 7](/2_samuel/7 "2 Samuel 7 - The Davidic Covenant"). Secondly, it highlights the **Virgin Birth** and the divine origin of Jesus. The distinct phrasing "of whom was born Jesus" (rather than "Joseph begat Jesus") subtly yet powerfully points to a unique, supernatural conception, setting Jesus apart from all human lineage. This truth is foundational to Christian theology and is further elaborated in [Matthew 1:18-25](/matthew/1-18-25 "Matthew 1:18-25 - The Birth of Jesus Christ") and [Luke 1:34-35](/luke/1-34-35 "Luke 1:34-35 - Gabriel's Annunciation to Mary"). Thirdly, it affirms Jesus' **Legal Lineage to David**. Despite the virgin birth, Joseph's role as Mary's husband provides the crucial legal link, ensuring that Jesus fulfills the requirement that the Messiah be a descendant of King David, solidifying His claim as the rightful heir to the throne of Israel. This meticulous record emphasizes God's faithfulness in bringing His redemptive plan to fruition through human history.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **begat (Greek, _gennáō_):** This verb, used extensively throughout the preceding genealogy (G1080), signifies procreation, typically of a father. Its use for Jacob begetting Joseph maintains the pattern. However, its deliberate omission in relation to Joseph and Jesus, replaced by a passive construction, is profoundly significant. It highlights that Joseph did not biologically father Jesus, thus emphasizing the unique, divine conception of Jesus through Mary. The shift from active "begat" to passive "was born" (also _gennáō_ in a different form) is a grammatical pivot that carries immense theological weight, signaling a break in the natural chain of human procreation.
* **husband (Greek, _anḗr_):** This term (G435) specifically denotes a male spouse. Joseph's identification as "the husband of Mary" is crucial for establishing Jesus' legal lineage to David. In Jewish custom, the husband of the mother was considered the legal father of the child, regardless of biological paternity. This legal connection ensured that Jesus, through Joseph, was legitimately part of the Davidic line, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's ancestry.
* **Christ (Greek, _Christós_):** Derived from _chriō_ (to anoint), this title (G5547) means "Anointed One." It is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Messiah" (_mashiach_). By explicitly calling Jesus "Christ" at the culmination of the genealogy, Matthew declares Jesus' identity as the long-awaited, divinely appointed King and Savior, the fulfillment of all messianic hopes and prophecies. This title is not merely a name but a declaration of His office and mission, central to Matthew's entire Gospel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Jacob begat Joseph":** This clause continues the genealogical pattern established throughout Matthew 1, indicating the direct paternal lineage from Jacob to Joseph. It maintains the historical continuity and the legal framework through which Jesus would be identified as a descendant of David.
* **"the husband of Mary,":** This phrase is pivotal. It defines Joseph's relationship to Mary, establishing his legal status as her husband. This legal bond is crucial for understanding Jesus' legal claim to the Davidic throne, as Joseph, being of the house and lineage of David, would legally pass on that right to Jesus, despite not being His biological father.
* **"of whom was born Jesus,":** This is the theological crux of the verse. The Greek phrase _ex hēs egennēthē Iēsous_ ("of whom was born Jesus") uses a feminine relative pronoun ("of whom," referring to Mary) and a passive verb ("was born"). This deliberate grammatical construction breaks the "begat" pattern and unequivocally indicates that Jesus' birth was not the result of Joseph's biological fatherhood but occurred uniquely through Mary, pointing to the miraculous, virgin conception by the Holy Spirit.
* **"who is called Christ.":** This concluding phrase provides the definitive identity of Jesus. "Christ" (Messiah) is not merely a surname but a title signifying Jesus' role as the Anointed One, the long-promised King and Deliverer. This declaration at the end of the genealogy emphatically states that the historical lineage has culminated in the very person who fulfills all messianic expectations, setting the stage for the narrative of His life and ministry as the Savior of the world.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 1:16 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound theological message. The most prominent is **Contrast** and **Shift in Pattern**. The consistent use of the active verb "begat" (_egennēsen_) throughout the preceding 15 verses creates an expectation that Joseph would also "beget" Jesus. However, the sudden and deliberate shift to the passive voice ("was born") and the specific reference to Mary ("of whom") creates a stark contrast, drawing immediate attention to the unique nature of Jesus' birth. This linguistic shift is a subtle yet powerful form of **Emphasis**, highlighting the virgin birth without explicitly detailing it, preparing the reader for the fuller explanation in [Matthew 1:18-25](/matthew/1-18-25 "Matthew 1:18-25 - The Birth of Jesus"). The verse also functions as a **Culmination** or **Climax** for the entire genealogy, serving as the grand finale to the ancestral record. By ending with "Jesus, who is called Christ," Matthew uses **Appellation** to declare Jesus' ultimate identity and purpose, framing the entire Gospel narrative around His messianic role.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 1:16 is a theological cornerstone, linking the historical lineage of Israel to the unique person of Jesus Christ. It meticulously weaves together the themes of divine faithfulness, messianic prophecy, and the miraculous nature of God's redemptive plan. The careful distinction between Joseph "begetting" and Jesus "being born of Mary" underscores the foundational Christian doctrine of the virgin birth, affirming Jesus' dual nature as fully human (through His legal lineage to David via Joseph and Mary) and fully divine (through His unique conception by the Holy Spirit). This verse asserts that Jesus is not merely another descendant in a long line but the climactic fulfillment of God's promises, the very Messiah for whom generations had waited. It sets the stage for understanding Jesus' authority, His mission, and His ultimate sacrifice as the one who comes to save His people from their sins.

* [Isaiah 7:14](/isaiah/7-14 "Isaiah 7:14 - Prophecy of Immanuel")
* [Luke 1:34-35](/luke/1-34-35 "Luke 1:34-35 - Gabriel's Annunciation to Mary")
* [Galatians 4:4](/galatians/4-4 "Galatians 4:4 - God Sent His Son")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 1:16, though seemingly a dry genealogical entry, is brimming with profound spiritual truths for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God's plan of salvation is not haphazard but meticulously orchestrated, spanning generations and culminating in the person of Jesus Christ. This verse invites us to marvel at God's faithfulness, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to His promises, even when human circumstances seem to deviate from the expected path. The unique birth of Jesus, highlighted by the linguistic shift, reassures us of His divine nature and unique authority as the Son of God, offering a firm foundation for our faith. It encourages us to trust in God's perfect timing and His sovereign hand in history, knowing that He is working all things together for His ultimate redemptive purposes. Just as every name in the genealogy played a part in God's grand narrative, so too does every aspect of our lives contribute to His unfolding plan. We are called to recognize Jesus as the Christ, the Anointed One, and to live in light of His supreme Lordship, finding our identity and purpose in Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the careful phrasing of Matthew 1:16 deepen your understanding of Jesus' unique identity and birth?**
* **In what ways does this verse affirm God's faithfulness to His promises throughout history, and how does that encourage your own faith today?**
* **Considering Jesus' dual nature (fully human, fully divine) as implied here, how does this impact your worship and understanding of His redemptive work?**

### FAQ
**Why is Joseph mentioned in the genealogy if he is not the biological father of Jesus?**

Answer: Joseph is mentioned because, according to Jewish legal custom, he was Mary's husband and therefore Jesus' legal father. This legal connection was crucial for establishing Jesus' legitimate claim to the Davidic lineage, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies that the Messiah would be a descendant of King David. While Joseph did not biologically "beget" Jesus, his legal fatherhood ensured that Jesus was recognized as the rightful heir to the throne of David, a key requirement for the Messiah (see [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")). Matthew's genealogy emphasizes this legal lineage, while simultaneously affirming the miraculous nature of Jesus' birth through Mary.

**What is the significance of Jesus being "called Christ" in this verse?**

Answer: The title "Christ" (Greek: _Christós_) is not a surname but a declaration of Jesus' office and identity. It is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew term "Messiah" (_mashiach_), meaning "Anointed One." In ancient Israel, kings, priests, and sometimes prophets were anointed as a sign of their divine appointment. By calling Jesus "Christ," Matthew definitively declares that Jesus is the long-awaited Anointed One, the promised King and Deliverer whom God had foretold through the prophets. This title signifies His unique role as the Savior of the world and the fulfillment of all messianic hopes. It sets the theological framework for understanding Jesus' entire ministry as presented in the Gospel of Matthew.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 1:16 stands as a profound Christ-centered fulfillment, serving as the hinge upon which all of redemptive history turns. The meticulously recorded genealogy, culminating in this verse, demonstrates that Jesus is the pre-ordained culmination of God's covenant promises, particularly the Davidic covenant that promised an eternal king from David's lineage ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2_samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")). The unique phrasing, "of whom was born Jesus," subtly yet powerfully points to the virgin birth, signifying that Jesus is not merely a product of human lineage but the God-man, the Incarnate Word ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")). He is the one whose very conception was a divine act, setting Him apart as the sinless Lamb of God ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")) uniquely qualified to bear the sins of the world. His designation as "Christ" declares His office as the Anointed One, the true King of Israel and the Savior of humanity, whose kingdom is not of this world ([John 18:36](/john/18-36 "John 18:36 - Jesus' Kingdom is Not of This World")) but extends to all who believe. Thus, Matthew 1:16 is not just a historical record; it is a theological declaration of Jesus' divine identity and His central role as the fulfillment of God's ultimate plan of salvation, through whom all humanity can find redemption and reconciliation with God ([2 Corinthians 5:19](/2_corinthians/5-19 "2 Corinthians 5:19 - God Was Reconciling the World to Himself in Christ")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 27:17

Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus which is called Christ?

John 4:25

The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.

Matthew 27:22

Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? [They] all say unto him, Let him be crucified.

Luke 3:23

And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was [the son] of Heli,

Luke 1:31

And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.

Luke 1:35

And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

Luke 1:27

To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name [was] Mary.