Catholic Doctrine Bible Study

Key Points: Matthew seeks to show the connection  between Jesus and Moses and David through 4 Old Testament quotations in this Chapter alone. The gifts of the Magi reflect Jesus’ Role as King (gold), Priest (frankincense), and Sacrifice (myrrh). Again, though Matthew’s and Luke’ account of Jesus’ birth and first visitors are quite different, they are not contradictory. The Magi travelled far and risked much to find Jesus.  How passionate is your search to know Jesus? OT Joseph’s dreams , as with NT Joseph’s dreams, ultimately resulted in a trip to Egypt, where his people were ultimately saved. The Holy Family’s refugee status may cause us to contemplate and soften our hearts towards potential refugee immigrants in our own country. The horrible slaughter of the innocents in Mt. 2 reminds us of the slaughter of countless millions through the sin of abortion, and that we must work and pray to end this awful practice.

Jesus’ birth story per Matthew....Was Mary really a Perpetual Virgin?” Key Points: Joseph is the “hero” of Matthews account. (Vs Mary the “hero” in Luke’s account.)  This is not a contradiction, just a difference of emphasis. Joseph a great example for us: He chose to forego his legal rights to follow God’s will and act for the benefit of others. The word “until” in verse 25 does not mean that Mary was not a perpetual virgin. (Two other examples of “until” in scripture.) The Magi were non-Jews; Jesus came for all of us! No Magi in Luke, no shepherds in Matthew; just different emphases. Luke emphasizes women, poor. Matthew emphasizes fulfillment of OT prophecy.