New Testament
Matthew 1:20
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But while he was wrestling with this decision, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. "Joseph, son of David," the angel said, "don't be afraid to take Mary as your wife. The child she carries was conceived by the Holy Spirit.
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But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
What Matthew 1:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joseph is faced with a difficult decision regarding his betrothed, Mary, who is pregnant. He is troubled and uncertain about what to do. However, an angel appears to him in a dream, addressing him as 'Joseph, son of David,' which emphasizes his royal lineage. The angel reassures him not to fear taking Mary as his wife, explaining that her pregnancy is a miraculous work of the Holy Spirit. This moment is significant as it reveals God's plan for the birth of Jesus and reassures Joseph of his role in this divine purpose. The angel's message encourages Joseph to trust in God's plan, despite the societal implications of marrying a pregnant woman. This encounter highlights the importance of faith and obedience in the face of uncertainty, showing that God provides guidance when we seek it.
How to apply Matthew 1:20 to your life
When faced with difficult decisions, we can seek guidance through prayer and remain open to divine messages. Trusting in God's plan, even when it seems challenging, can lead to fulfilling our purpose and overcoming fear in our lives.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Speaks to Joseph (Matthew 1:18–25)
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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.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Matthew 1:20
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Key themes
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 1:20 mean?
Matthew 1:20 describes how Joseph, troubled by Mary's pregnancy, receives reassurance from an angel in a dream. The angel tells him not to fear taking Mary as his wife because her child is conceived by the Holy Spirit, highlighting God's plan for Jesus' birth.
What is the significance of the angel's message in Matthew 1:20?
The angel's message in Matthew 1:20 is significant because it reassures Joseph of his role in God's plan and encourages him to overcome his fears. It emphasizes the miraculous nature of Jesus' conception and the importance of faith and obedience.
What does 'fear not' mean in Matthew 1:20?
In Matthew 1:20, 'fear not' is a command from the angel to Joseph, urging him to set aside his worries about marrying Mary. It signifies trust in God's plan despite societal challenges and personal doubts.
How does Matthew 1:20 relate to faith?
Matthew 1:20 illustrates faith by showing Joseph's response to the angel's message. Despite his initial fears and uncertainties, Joseph chooses to trust in God's guidance and obey the divine instruction.
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