Nothing happens by chance The second chapter of Matthew begins with the story of Jesus birth in Bethlehem, during the time of King Herod. Elsewhere, Luke records that Joseph and a very pregnant Mary were forced to make their way to Joseph’s birthplace to register for a census. It was while they were in Bethlehem—miles Continue reading

But wait! There’s more! A glance through the genealogy in chapter one will reveal an oddity for Jewish genealogies of the time period: there are women on the list. A closer look at the women included will reveal that they each had pretty big buts of their own.  I mean that, of course, in the Continue reading

More Buts About It Joseph and Mary’s engagement took a reality television show turn: “‘Betrothed and pregnant! She says the baby is God’s!’ Next time on Tyra!” His soon-to-be wife being found with child would have, no doubt, caused great heartache and anxiety for Joseph. Theirs wasn’t a culture that overlooked pregnancy out of wedlock. Continue reading

The Big But Matthew records a crucial detail of Jesus lineage: This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. This is a very big but. Matthew uses Continue reading