Matthew 1: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Matthew 1 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The genealogy of Jesus begins by naming him as the son of David and Abraham (vv. 1-2). Abraham became the father of Isaac, who was the father of Jacob.

Key verse

“She shall give birth to a son. You shall call his name Jesus, for it is he who shall save his people from their sins.”
Matthew 1:21 (WEB)

Outline

Matthew 1:1–2 Introduction of Jesus' Genealogy
Matthew 1:3–6 The Lineage of Abraham to David
Matthew 1:7–11 Kings of Judah
Matthew 1:12–16 The Lineage After the Exile
Matthew 1:17 Generational Summary
Matthew 1:18–21 Announcement of Jesus' Birth
Matthew 1:22–25 Fulfillment of Prophecy

Discussion questions

In v1, who is named as the 'son of David'?
What is significant about the 'fourteen generations' mentioned in v17?
In v18, what implications does Mary's 'pregnant by the Holy Spirit' raise for Joseph's understanding?
In v21, why is Jesus identified as the one who 'shall save his people from their sins'?
When have you experienced a situation that required faith, like Joseph's response in v24?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Matthew 1: Isaiah 7, Luke 1, John 1.

Before next time: read Matthew 2.