Here are a few thoughts that might assist us in our study. I would appreciate your response.
Chapter 1 is sometimes known as the "begat chapter." Why do you think it is important for Matthew to include this genealogy?
What do you notice about Matthew's Christmas story that is different from what you are used to hearing?For me, the importance of beginning with a genealogy gives credibility to what Matthew is writing. This is not a myth, a fable, or a fairy tale. It is an historic fact. It also links Jesus back to Abraham through the line of David. Again, another item to give credibility to Jesus.
Mary’s perspective is not presented. Perhaps her perspective had already been widely known while Joseph’s needed to be explained. This account establishes the fact that both Mary AND Joseph believed and agreed to the impossible by faith. I wonder if we would be as accepting to the Angel’s information? Or, would we have been more like Zechariah?
Was it a request by the Angel? Was it a command? Did Mary & Joseph have options? How did their response affect the events of history? Could they have made different choices? Would God’s plan have been thwarted?
What about us? Does God make requests? Give commands? Do we have options? How do our responses affect the events of history?
What prompted Jesus to go into the wilderness following his baptism?
Jesus’ baptism symbolizes the beginning of his earthly ministry. It is a public rite of passage from the "boy from Nazareth." to the "Savior of the World."
I wonder if all of us are tested after we make those "big" decisions in life? Perhaps the struggle refines our decision, especially when our decision involves personal sacrifice.
We like to talk about sacrifice. Maybe the reason we hesitate making those decisions that involve personal sacrifice is is because we dislike the test that comes with it.
Here are few more thoughts on the question
http://andymccullough.blogspot.com/2006/05/jesus-was-led-by-spirit-into-desert.html
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