While he thought on these things. — The words imply a conflict, a perplexity; and the words of the angel came as the solution of his doubts.
In a dream. — From the Jewish point of view, dreams were the received channels of divine communications to the aged, open visions in the state of ecstasy to the young (Joel 2:28). This, at least, falls in with what has been inferred as to Joseph’s age.
Joseph, thou son of David. — The latter words were, in the highest degree, significant. His character as the heir of Messianic hopes, which was indeed at the root of his fears, was fully recognised. That which he was bidden to do would not be inconsistent with that character, and would bring about the fulfilment of those hopes.
Thy wife. — Here again stress is laid on the fact that Mary was already entitled to that name, and had done nothing to forfeit it.
Conceived. — Better, perhaps, begotten.