Answer
Matthew 1:18 states, “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way: When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit” (ESV). Here, Matthew introduces the virgin birth of Jesus and mentions Mary’s betrothal to Joseph. Other translations speak of the betrothal as a pledge to be married (NIV, BSB) or an engagement (NLT, CSB).
A betrothal in Jewish marital customs was a legally binding arrangement between a man and a woman. It was like an engagement but more formal. Betrothal was the first step in marriage, establishing a contractual relationship between families. During the betrothal period, Mary and Joseph were considered “legally married,” but they did not live together or consummate their union. So, when Matthew writes that “Mary had been betrothed to Joseph,” he emphasizes the sanctity and official nature of their relationship.
After Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, she was found to be pregnant supernaturally. According to Jewish law, a betrothed woman who became pregnant would face severe consequences such as public disgrace and, potentially, death: “If there is a betrothed virgin and a man meets her in the city and lies with her, then you shall bring them both out to the gates of that city, and you stone them to death with stones” (Deuteronomy 22:23–24, ESV). Matthew’s mention of Mary’s betrothal to Joseph amplifies the tension of the situation. Mary and Joseph were faced with navigating a delicate situation. The betrothal also magnifies the Holy Spirit’s role in Jesus’ birth and the fulfillment of prophecy: “The Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14, ESV).
Mary’s betrothal to Joseph also affirms Joseph’s role in God’s plan. As a righteous man (Matthew 1:19), Joseph had a desire to quietly divorce Mary and not make a public spectacle of her. This demonstrates his commitment to the Mosaic Law as well as his desire not to harm Mary. However, an angel appears to him in a dream, revealing God’s plan. Joseph then takes Mary as his wife (Matthew 1:20–24). Their marriage ensures Jesus is born into a stable, God-fearing family.
Mary’s pregnancy landed her in a precarious predicament. However, her willingness to trust God, as evidenced in her response to the angel Gabriel, demonstrates her faith and courage: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38, ESV). God works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things.
Mary’s betrothal to Joseph was significant. God chose a virgin to bear the Savior of the world, and Jesus was truly the Son of God. “My soul magnifies the Lord,” sang Mary, “and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed” (Luke 1:46–47, ESV).
