Joseph, Jesus’ Adopted Father

Bible Passage: Matthew 1:18-25

I. The essence of the passage:

1. Jesus was conceived supernaturally in Mary’s womb without the involvement of a man
a. The Triune God—Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit collectively participate in this event
b. Jesus “will save His people from their sins”
c. Jesus is God’s provision for human depravity and helplessness
2. God chose Joseph to be Jesus’ adopted father—a human agent to carryout God’s purpose
3. The doctrine of “Virgin Birth” originates from this passage

II. Let’s look at the passage:

1. Joseph and Mary Mother of Jesus were engaged to be married (verse 18)
a. Before they were officially married, Mary found to be pregnant (verse 18)
b. The source of Mary’s pregnancy was the Holy Spirit (verse 18)
c. But Joseph did not know about it
i. Suspicion of infidelity—breaking of trust
ii. Public shame and stigma
iii. Potential divorce
d. Jesus was going to be born in a home that was in the midst of a crisis
e. Joseph went through innocent suffering
III. Joseph decided to divorce Mary secretly because (verse 19)

IV. Joseph did not react emotionally, but waited most likely in prayer (verse 20-21)

1. While Joseph was in prayer, the[a] Messenger appeared to Joseph to communicate [a message a message from God]
2. Mary’s pregnancy was not due to any human agent, but by the work of the Holy Spirit
3. Joseph must not divorce Mary, but take her as his wife
4. The baby, Jesus, will be the Savior of the people, who will save his people from their sins

VI. Joseph obeyed God’s Word (verse 24-25)

1. Upon waking up from sleep, Joseph received Mary as his wife and carried out all that the Messenger commanded him
2. Until Mary gave birth to the child, Joseph did not have any physical relationship with her

VII. When the baby was born, Joseph named him “Jesus” just as he was commanded (verse 25)

VIII. Lessons we learn from this passage

1. God uses his people to accomplish His mission
2. Carrying out God’s mission is often out of the ordinary
3. Most important trait of a believer is obedience

Take Away

Find out where God wants you to join him in His mission