Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.
Matthew does not tell us where or how Christ was born, but how His heavenly generation became known to Joseph. Mary was found with child by the Holy Spirit, not that this secret work of God was widely known, but the historian mingles what men saw by outward signs with the power of the Spirit, which remained unknown.
AI summary
Christ's incarnation is mystery to be adored, not probed. The espousal to Joseph honored the marriage state and saved the virgin's credit; without it, the world would ask whether He was a harlot's son rather than a carpenter's. God guards the reputation of His children with jealous care.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 1:18-25
Mary was found with child not of man but of the Holy Ghost, so that Christ's human nature might be free from original pollution and fit for union with the Son of God and His office as Mediator. The espousal and discovery of her conception before they came together secured the outward credit of both Mary and Jesus.
AI summary