New Testament
Matthew 1:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Joseph, her husband-to-be, was a good and honorable man. He didn't want to disgrace her publicly, so he planned to quietly break off the engagement.
Compare translations
Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.
What Matthew 1:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Joseph, who is engaged to Mary, facing a difficult situation. He learns that Mary is pregnant, and he knows the child is not his. Despite this shocking news, Joseph is described as a good and honorable man. Instead of publicly shaming Mary, which was a common practice at the time, he chooses to handle the situation with compassion. He plans to end the engagement quietly, showing his desire to protect her from disgrace. This decision reflects his character and the values he holds dear. Joseph's actions highlight the importance of mercy and understanding in difficult circumstances, as well as the struggle between societal expectations and personal integrity. His choice to act discreetly rather than vindictively sets the stage for the divine intervention that follows, emphasizing the theme of grace in the face of adversity.
How to apply Matthew 1:19 to your life
This verse encourages us to respond to difficult situations with compassion rather than judgment. When faced with challenges in relationships, we should strive to act with kindness and understanding, prioritizing the well-being of others. Joseph's example teaches us the value of discretion and mercy in our interactions.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Speaks to Joseph (Matthew 1:18–25)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 1:19
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 1:19
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 1:19 mean?
Matthew 1:19 describes Joseph's reaction upon learning that Mary is pregnant. It highlights his character as a good and honorable man who chooses to handle the situation with compassion rather than publicly shaming her.
What is the significance of Joseph's decision in Matthew 1:19?
Joseph's decision to quietly end his engagement with Mary reflects his integrity and mercy. Instead of following societal norms that would lead to public disgrace for Mary, he opts for a more compassionate approach.
How does Matthew 1:19 relate to themes of mercy and compassion?
In Matthew 1:19, Joseph's choice to protect Mary from public shame illustrates the themes of mercy and compassion. His actions serve as an example of prioritizing kindness over judgment in difficult situations.
What can we learn from Joseph's actions in Matthew 1:19?
Joseph's actions in Matthew 1:19 teach us the importance of responding to challenges with understanding and discretion. His example encourages us to prioritize the well-being of others and to act with kindness in difficult circumstances.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.