Matthew 1:23

KJV

Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold {G2400}, a virgin {G3933} shall be with child {G1722}{G1064}{G2192}, and {G2532} shall bring forth {G5088} a son {G5207}, and {G2532} they shall call {G2564} his {G846} name {G3686} Emmanuel {G1694}, which {G3739} being interpreted {G3177} is {G2076}, God {G2316} with {G3326} us {G2257}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"The virgin will conceive and bear a son, and they will call him `Immanu El."a (The name means, "God is with us.")

Berean Standard Bible

“Behold, the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel” (which means, “God with us”).

American Standard Version

Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, And they shall call his name Immanuel; which is, being interpreted, God with us.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 1:23 serves as a foundational declaration in the Gospel, announcing the miraculous, divinely orchestrated birth of Jesus Christ. It explicitly connects Mary's virgin conception and the naming of her son, Emmanuel, to the fulfillment of ancient prophecy from Isaiah, thereby establishing Jesus' unique identity as "God with us" from the very outset of the New Testament narrative. This verse encapsulates the theological cornerstone of the Incarnation, revealing God's direct intervention in human history to bring about salvation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 1:23 is the climactic verse in the account of Jesus' miraculous conception and birth, immediately following the divine revelation to Joseph. Prior to this, Matthew traces Jesus' genealogy, establishing His lineage through Joseph back to Abraham and David, underscoring His legal claim to the Davidic throne. The narrative then shifts to Joseph's discovery of Mary's pregnancy and his righteous intention to quietly divorce her. An angel of the Lord intervenes in a dream, revealing that Mary's child is conceived by the Holy Spirit and is destined to "save his people from their sins" ([Matthew 1:21](/matthew/1-21 "Matthew 1:21 - Angel's Instruction to Joseph")). Verse 23 then explicitly states that these events fulfill the prophecy from [Isaiah 7:14](/isaiah/7-14 "Isaiah 7:14 - Prophecy of Immanuel"), solidifying Jesus' identity as the promised Messiah and God's presence among humanity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For Matthew's predominantly Jewish audience, the concept of prophetic fulfillment was paramount. They lived with the expectation of a Messiah who would deliver Israel, and Matthew meticulously demonstrates how Jesus fulfills these long-awaited prophecies. The mention of a "virgin" birth would have been profoundly counter-cultural, challenging conventional understanding of lineage and divine intervention, yet simultaneously affirming the supernatural nature of God's work. The name "Emmanuel" itself, derived from Hebrew, carried deep theological weight, resonating with the Old Testament understanding of God's covenantal presence with His people, particularly during times of distress or deliverance. The Roman occupation of Judea further amplified the longing for a deliverer, making the declaration of "God with us" a powerful message of hope and sovereignty.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Matthew's Gospel and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Fulfillment of Prophecy**, as Matthew deliberately presents Jesus' birth as the culmination of God's ancient promises, particularly those concerning the Messiah. This emphasis establishes Jesus' legitimacy and divine authority. Another crucial theme is the **Divine Nature of Jesus** and the **Virgin Birth**, highlighting that Jesus' origin is not merely human but supernatural, setting Him apart as uniquely God's Son. This miraculous conception is central to understanding His sinless nature and His role as Savior. Finally, and most profoundly, the verse introduces the theme of the **Incarnation** and **God's Presence**, captured in the name "Emmanuel." This signifies that in Jesus, God Himself has come to dwell among humanity, bridging the gap between the divine and the human, a truth echoed throughout the New Testament, such as when [John declares that "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us"](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Incarnation of the Word"). This theme assures believers of God's constant, intimate involvement in their lives, a promise Jesus Himself reiterates in [His final commission to His disciples](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - The Great Commission and Jesus' Presence").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **virgin (Greek, _parthenos'_):** Derived from G3933, this term specifically denotes a maiden or an unmarried daughter, implying a woman who has not had sexual relations. Its use here is critical, emphasizing the miraculous and supernatural nature of Jesus' conception, highlighting that His origin is not through natural human means but by divine intervention.
* **Emmanuel (Greek, _Emmanouēl'_):** Derived from G1694, this is a Hebrew name meaning "God with us." Matthew's explicit interpretation of this name within the verse underscores its profound theological significance. It is not merely a title but a declaration of Jesus' divine identity and His unique role as the embodiment of God's presence among humanity. This name encapsulates the essence of the Incarnation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, a virgin shall be with child":** This opening phrase, introduced by the attention-grabbing "Behold" (G2400, _idoú_), immediately points to a miraculous and extraordinary event. The declaration that a "virgin" (G3933, _parthenos_) will conceive and be "with child" (G1722, _en_ G1064, _gastēr_ G2192, _echō_) directly fulfills the ancient prophecy of Isaiah 7:14. It establishes the supernatural nature of Jesus' conception, signaling His unique status as distinct from all other human beings.
* **"and shall bring forth a son":** This clause continues the prophetic fulfillment, indicating the natural outcome of the virgin's miraculous conception—the birth of a male child. The verb "bring forth" (G5088, _tíktō_) denotes the act of giving birth, emphasizing the physical reality of Jesus' human birth, even though His conception was divine. This son is the promised Messiah.
* **"and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.":** This is the theological crux of the verse. The act of "calling his name" (G2564, _kaléō_ G3686, _ónoma_) is significant, as names in biblical culture often conveyed identity and destiny. "Emmanuel" (G1694, _Emmanouēl_) is then immediately interpreted by Matthew as "God with us" (G2316, _theós_ G3326, _metá_ G2257, _hēmōn_), leaving no ambiguity about its meaning. This interpretation reveals Jesus' divine nature and purpose: He is the physical manifestation of God's presence among humanity, the Incarnate Word who bridges the gap between the Creator and creation.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew employs several powerful literary devices in this verse. The most prominent is the **Fulfillment Formula**, a common Matthean device where he explicitly states that an event in Jesus' life occurs "that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet." This formula, used throughout his Gospel, serves to underscore Jesus' identity as the long-awaited Messiah and to demonstrate God's sovereign plan unfolding precisely as foretold. The direct **Quotation** of Isaiah 7:14 is another key device, lending authoritative weight to Matthew's claims by rooting them firmly in the revered Hebrew Scriptures. Furthermore, the **Symbolism** embedded in the name "Emmanuel" is profound. It is not merely a name but a theological statement, symbolizing the Incarnation itself—God's personal, intimate, and saving presence among His people. This name functions as a condensed theological summary of Jesus' entire mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 1:23 is a theological cornerstone, asserting the profound truth of the Incarnation—that God, in the person of Jesus Christ, literally took on human flesh and dwelt among us. This verse reveals God's active and intimate involvement in human history, demonstrating His faithfulness to His ancient promises and His boundless love for humanity. The virgin birth signifies Jesus' unique, sinless nature, essential for His role as the perfect sacrifice for sin. The name "Emmanuel," "God with us," is not merely a historical fact but a continuing theological reality, assuring believers of God's constant presence, guidance, and comfort through Christ and the Holy Spirit. It underscores that God is not distant or aloof, but personally accessible and deeply invested in the lives of His people.

* [Isaiah 7:14](/isaiah/7-14 "Isaiah 7:14 - The Prophecy of Immanuel")
* [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")
* [Luke 1:35](/luke/1-35 "Luke 1:35 - The Holy Spirit and the Virgin Birth")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 1:23 offers a profound source of comfort, hope, and assurance for believers today. The truth that God is "with us" means we are never truly alone, regardless of our circumstances, struggles, or fears. This verse invites us to trust in God's unfailing presence and His meticulous plan, even when life feels chaotic or uncertain. It reminds us that the same God who orchestrated the miraculous virgin birth and fulfilled ancient prophecies is intimately involved in our individual lives, offering guidance, strength, and companionship. Embracing the reality of "God with us" transforms our perspective, empowering us to face challenges with courage, knowing that the Creator of the universe walks alongside us, providing salvation, hope, and an enduring relationship.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth of "God with us" impact your daily life and perspective on challenges?**
* **In what ways does the virgin birth of Jesus affirm His unique identity and significance for your faith?**
* **How does Matthew's emphasis on the fulfillment of prophecy strengthen your trust in God's faithfulness and His plan for history?**

### FAQ
**Why is the virgin birth important to Christian theology?**

Answer: The virgin birth is crucial because it underscores Jesus' unique identity as both fully God and fully human, yet without inherited sin. It signifies that His origin is not from human will or natural means but by the direct, supernatural intervention of the Holy Spirit ([Luke 1:35](/luke/1-35 "Luke 1:35 - The Annunciation")). This miraculous conception is essential for Jesus to be the sinless Lamb of God, capable of offering a perfect sacrifice for humanity's sins, as He did not inherit the sin nature passed down through human lineage. It sets Him apart as the unique Son of God.

**What is the significance of Jesus being called "Emmanuel"?**

Answer: The name "Emmanuel," meaning "God with us," is profoundly significant because it encapsulates the very essence of the Incarnation. It declares that in Jesus, the invisible, transcendent God has become visible and immanent, dwelling physically among humanity. This name signifies God's ultimate act of love and His desire for intimate relationship with His creation. It assures us of God's personal presence, His solidarity with human suffering, and His active involvement in our redemption. It is a promise of divine companionship and power, echoing throughout the New Testament, such as when [Jesus promises His disciples, "I am with you always, even unto the end of the world"](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - The Great Commission").

**How does Matthew 1:23 connect to the Old Testament prophecy in Isaiah 7:14?**

Answer: Matthew 1:23 directly quotes and interprets [Isaiah 7:14](/isaiah/7-14 "Isaiah 7:14 - The Prophecy of Immanuel"), presenting Jesus' birth as the fulfillment of this ancient prophecy. In Isaiah, the prophet gives a sign to King Ahaz regarding God's protection, stating that "a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." While the immediate context in Isaiah had a contemporary fulfillment, Matthew, guided by the Holy Spirit, reveals its ultimate, fuller, and messianic fulfillment in Jesus. He demonstrates that God's plan, revealed centuries earlier, culminates in the person of Jesus, proving His divine origin and messianic identity to his Jewish audience.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 1:23 stands as a profound declaration of Christ-centered fulfillment, revealing Jesus as the ultimate embodiment of "God with us." This verse is not merely a historical account of a miraculous birth; it is the theological bedrock upon which the entire narrative of salvation rests. In Jesus, the abstract concept of God's presence becomes tangible and personal. He is the Word made flesh, the very image of the invisible God ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")), through whom the fullness of the Godhead dwells bodily ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of Deity in Christ")). The virgin birth, foretold in this verse, ensures His unique, sinless humanity, making Him the perfect High Priest who can sympathize with our weaknesses yet was without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest")). Jesus, Emmanuel, did not merely visit humanity; He permanently united divinity with humanity, demonstrating God's radical love and commitment to redeeming His creation. His life, death, resurrection, and ascension are all extensions of this "God with us" reality, culminating in His promise to be with His followers "always, even unto the end of the world" ([Matthew 28:20](/matthew/28-20 "Matthew 28:20 - Jesus' Promise to Be With Us")). Thus, Matthew 1:23 is a foundational truth, pointing to Jesus as the living, breathing manifestation of God's saving presence, from His miraculous conception to His eternal reign.

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

Isaiah 7:14

Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

Isaiah 9:6

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:7

Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

Psalms 46:11

The LORD of hosts [is] with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.

John 1:14

And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Psalms 46:7

The LORD of hosts [is] with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.

Romans 1:3

Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;