New Testament
Matthew 1:18
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse introduces the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Here is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was engaged to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.
Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse introduces the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. Mary, who was engaged to Joseph, became pregnant before they lived together as husband and wife. This pregnancy was not due to human means but was a divine act of the Holy Spirit. The engagement, or espousal, was a serious commitment in Jewish culture, often considered as binding as marriage itself. Joseph, upon discovering Mary's condition, faced a dilemma, as he knew the child was not his. This situation sets the stage for the unfolding of God's plan for salvation through Jesus. The mention of the Holy Spirit emphasizes the divine nature of Jesus' conception, highlighting that He is both fully human and fully divine. This event marks a significant moment in Christian belief, as it fulfills prophecies about the Messiah's birth and showcases God's intervention in human history. Explore related spirituality.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 1:18 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's plans, even when circumstances seem confusing or challenging. Just as Mary and Joseph faced uncertainty, we can find comfort in knowing that God is at work in our lives, guiding us toward His purpose.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 1:18 mean?
Matthew 1:18 explains the circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ, highlighting that Mary was engaged to Joseph and became pregnant through the Holy Spirit before they lived together. This emphasizes the miraculous nature of Jesus' conception.
What is the significance of the Holy Spirit in Matthew 1:18?
The mention of the Holy Spirit in Matthew 1:18 signifies that Jesus' conception was a divine act, not a result of human relations. This underscores the belief in Jesus as both fully human and fully divine.
What does this verse reveal about God's plan?
Matthew 1:18 reveals that God's plan for salvation through Jesus began with His miraculous birth, fulfilling prophecies about the Messiah. It shows God's intervention in human history to bring about His purpose.
How does Matthew 1:18 relate to the concept of prophecy?
Matthew 1:18 relates to prophecy by indicating that the circumstances of Jesus' birth fulfill Old Testament predictions about the Messiah, highlighting the divine orchestration of events leading to His arrival.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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