Matthew 1:20

Berean Standard Bible
But after he had pondered these things, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to embrace Mary as your wife, for the One conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
 
King James Bible
But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
 
NET Bible
When he had contemplated this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
 
Greek Text:
ταῦτα δὲ αὐτοῦ ἐνθυμηθέντος, ἰδού, ἄγγελος Κυρίου κατ᾽ ὄναρ ἐφάνη αὐτῷ λέγων, Ἰωσὴφ υἱὸς Δαυίδ, μὴ φοβηθῇς παραλαβεῖν Μαριὰμ τὴν γυναῖκά σου· τὸ γὰρ ἐν αὐτῇ γεννηθὲν ἐκ Πνεύματός ἐστιν Ἁγίου.
 
Transliteration:
taûta dè autou enthymēthéntos, idoú, ángelos Kyríou kat᾽ ónar ephánē autôi légōn, Iōsḗph huiós Dauíd, mē phobēthês paralabeîn Mariàm tḗn gunaîká sou· tò gàr en autêi gennēthèn ek Pneúmatós estin Hagíou.
 
*****************
 
Study Bible:
 
But after he had pondered these things
This phrase indicates a period of contemplation and internal struggle for Joseph. The Greek word for "pondered" (ἐνθυμηθέντος) suggests deep reflection and consideration. Joseph, a righteous man, was weighing the societal implications and personal emotions regarding Mary's pregnancy. This moment of pondering is crucial, as it shows Joseph's humanity and his desire to act justly, even before divine intervention.
 
an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream
The appearance of an angel signifies divine intervention and guidance. In the Jewish tradition, dreams were often seen as a medium through which God communicated with His people. The Greek word for "angel" (ἄγγελος) means "messenger," emphasizing that this was a direct message from God. The angel's appearance in a dream underscores the supernatural nature of the message and the importance of the revelation Joseph was about to receive.
 
and said, 'Joseph, son of David
Addressing Joseph as "son of David" is significant, as it establishes his legal lineage to King David, fulfilling the Messianic prophecy that the Messiah would come from David's line (2 Samuel 7:12-16). This title not only affirms Joseph's heritage but also highlights the divine plan unfolding through him. It reassures Joseph of his role in God's redemptive history.
 
do not be afraid to embrace Mary as your wife
The angel's command to "not be afraid" (μὴ φοβηθῇς) is a common biblical exhortation, often given when God calls someone to a significant task. Joseph's fear likely stemmed from societal judgment and personal uncertainty. The instruction to "embrace" (παραλαβεῖν) Mary as his wife is a call to accept and protect her, affirming her dignity and the divine nature of her pregnancy.
 
for the One conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit
This phrase reveals the divine origin of Jesus' conception. The Greek word for "conceived" (γεννηθὲν) indicates a miraculous birth, not of human origin. The Holy Spirit's involvement underscores the Trinitarian nature of God and the miraculous intervention in human history. This divine conception fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, affirming Jesus as Immanuel, "God with us." This revelation would have provided Joseph with the assurance and courage needed to proceed with God's plan.
 
*************
 
Commentary:
 
Contextual Analysis:
Historical and Cultural Context: In first-century Jewish society, engagement (betrothal) was as binding as marriage. A betrothal could only be ended by a formal divorce. Joseph, upon learning of Mary's pregnancy, would have faced a serious dilemma since betrothal infidelity was considered a grave offense.
 
Joseph's Character: Joseph is described as a righteous man in Matthew 1:19, meaning he adhered strictly to the Law of Moses. His initial plan to divorce Mary quietly speaks to his desire to avoid subjecting her to public disgrace.
 
Theological Insights:
Divine Intervention: The appearance of the angel signifies divine intervention at a critical moment. This is a common motif in biblical narratives where God intervenes directly in human affairs to fulfill divine purposes.
 
Angel of the Lord: The phrase “ἄγγελος Κυρίου” (angel of the Lord) indicates a messenger directly from God, underscoring the importance of the message being delivered to Joseph.
 
Addressing Joseph as "Son of David": This title is significant because it links Joseph to the Davidic lineage, which is essential for the messianic prophecy. It emphasizes that Jesus, as Joseph's legal son, would be of David's royal line.
 
Command to Take Mary as His Wife: The angel's command to Joseph to not be afraid and take Mary as his wife reassures him that Mary's pregnancy is part of God's divine plan. This alleviates his fear and hesitation regarding the societal implications.
 
The Conception by the Holy Spirit:
Virgin Birth: The conception "by the Holy Spirit" is a cornerstone of Christian theology, emphasizing the divine nature of Jesus. It asserts that Jesus' birth is a miraculous event, distinct from ordinary human procreation.
 
Fulfillment of Prophecy: This event is seen as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 7:14, which speaks of a virgin bearing a son. It reinforces the belief in Jesus as the Messiah.
 
Literary and Structural Analysis:
Dreams and Revelations: Dreams are a common medium for divine revelation in the Bible. Joseph's dream echoes other biblical instances where God communicates important messages through dreams (e.g., Joseph in Genesis, Daniel).
 
Narrative Role: This verse serves as a pivotal moment in the nativity narrative. It transitions from Joseph’s internal conflict to his acceptance of his role in God's plan. This acceptance is crucial for the unfolding of the Gospel story.
 
Practical Implications:
Trust in Divine Plan: Joseph’s acceptance and obedience model a profound trust in God's plan, even when it defies social norms and personal expectations. This theme resonates with believers, encouraging faith and trust in divine providence.
 
Righteousness and Compassion: Joseph’s actions demonstrate a balance of righteousness and compassion. He seeks to do what is right according to the law, but also aims to protect Mary from shame, highlighting the importance of compassion in righteous living.