The Dream of Joseph concerning Mary's innocence is a pivotal event recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, which underscores the divine nature of Jesus Christ's conception and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. This event is crucial in understanding the role of Joseph, the earthly guardian of Jesus, and the divine intervention that assured him of Mary's purity and the miraculous nature of her pregnancy.

Biblical Account

The account is found in Matthew 1:18-25. Joseph, a righteous man betrothed to Mary, discovers that she is with child before they come together. According to Jewish customs, betrothal was a binding agreement, and any breach was considered adultery. Joseph, described as "a just man and unwilling to disgrace her publicly," decides to divorce her quietly (Matthew 1:19).

However, as Joseph contemplates this course of action, an angel of the Lord appears to him in a dream. The angel addresses him as "Joseph, son of David," emphasizing his royal lineage and the messianic significance of the child Mary carries. The angel instructs Joseph, "Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the One conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 1:20). This divine message reassures Joseph of Mary's innocence and the supernatural origin of her pregnancy.

The angel further reveals that Mary will give birth to a son, and Joseph is to name Him Jesus, "because He will save His people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). This name, Jesus, is the Greek form of Joshua, meaning "The Lord is salvation," highlighting the child's divine mission.

Fulfillment of Prophecy

Matthew emphasizes that these events fulfill the prophecy spoken by the prophet Isaiah: "Behold, the virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel" (Matthew 1:23; cf. Isaiah 7:14). The name Immanuel, meaning "God with us," signifies the incarnation of God in human form, dwelling among His people.

Joseph's Obedience

Upon waking, Joseph demonstrates his faith and obedience by taking Mary as his wife, as the angel commanded. He refrains from consummating the marriage until after the birth of Jesus, ensuring the fulfillment of the prophecy concerning the virgin birth (Matthew 1:24-25). Joseph's actions reflect his righteousness and willingness to participate in God's redemptive plan.

Theological Significance

The dream of Joseph is significant for several reasons. It affirms the virgin birth, a cornerstone of Christian doctrine, which attests to the divine nature of Jesus Christ. It also highlights the role of Joseph as a protector and provider for Mary and Jesus, despite the potential social stigma and personal sacrifice involved. Joseph's acceptance of the angel's message and his subsequent actions demonstrate his faithfulness and trust in God's plan.

This event also underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, reinforcing the continuity of God's salvific work from the Hebrew Scriptures to the New Testament. The dream serves as a divine confirmation of Mary's innocence and the miraculous nature of Jesus' conception, setting the stage for the unfolding of the Gospel narrative.Matthew 1:20,21
But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared to him in a dream, saying, Joseph, you son of David, fear not to take to you Mary your wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
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Memoir of John Bunyan
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