Matthew then, desiring to preserve in memory the lineage of the Lord’s humanity through the succession of His parents, begins with Abraham, saying, “Abraham begat Isaac.” Why does he not mention Ismael, his first-born? And again, “Isaac began Jacob;” why does he not speak of Esau his first-born? Because through them he could not have come down to David.
Reproduced in full. Translation: Oxford 1841 (Newman), public domain (Public domain).
Also cites: Hom. iii, and Aug. City of God, 15, 15