The New Testament begins with the Gospel of Matthew, which is the first book in the New Testament. The first chapter of Matthew starts with the genealogy of Jesus Christ, tracing His lineage back to Abraham. This chapter sets the stage for the narrative of Jesus’ birth and His role as the Messiah.
Matthew 1:1-17 provides a detailed account of Jesus’ ancestry, highlighting key figures such as Abraham, David, and other significant ancestors. This genealogy is crucial as it establishes Jesus’ rightful place in the line of David, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah coming from David’s lineage.
Following the genealogy, Matthew 1:18-25 narrates the story of Jesus’ birth, focusing on the divine conception through the Holy Spirit and the role of Joseph in accepting and protecting Mary and the unborn Jesus. This chapter is foundational for understanding the theological significance of Jesus’ birth and His mission on earth.