Topical Encyclopedia Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus Christ, is a prominent figure in the New Testament, known for his faithfulness and righteousness. He is a model of a faithful husband, demonstrating obedience to God and commitment to his family. Joseph's account is primarily found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.Lineage and Betrothal Joseph was a descendant of King David, as noted in the genealogies presented in Matthew 1:1-16 and Luke 3:23-38. This lineage fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's descent from David. Joseph was betrothed to Mary, a young woman chosen by God to bear His Son, Jesus. Betrothal in Jewish culture was a binding agreement, akin to marriage, requiring a formal divorce to break. Faithfulness in Adversity Joseph's faithfulness is first tested when he discovers that Mary is pregnant before they come together as husband and wife. According to Matthew 1:19 , "Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and was unwilling to disgrace her publicly, he resolved to divorce her quietly." This decision reflects his compassion and adherence to the law, as well as his desire to protect Mary from public shame. Divine Intervention and Obedience Joseph's plans change when an angel of the Lord appears to him in a dream, instructing him not to fear taking Mary as his wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:20-21). The angel reveals that the child will be named Jesus, "because He will save His people from their sins." Joseph's response is immediate and obedient; he takes Mary as his wife, demonstrating his unwavering faith in God's plan (Matthew 1:24). Protector and Provider Joseph's role as a faithful husband extends to his protection and provision for his family. After Jesus' birth, Joseph is again visited by an angel in a dream, warning him to flee to Egypt to escape King Herod's massacre of the infants (Matthew 2:13). Joseph promptly obeys, taking Mary and Jesus to Egypt, where they remain until Herod's death. This act of obedience fulfills the prophecy, "Out of Egypt I called My Son" (Matthew 2:15). Upon Herod's death, Joseph is instructed by an angel to return to Israel. He settles in Nazareth, ensuring the safety and upbringing of Jesus in accordance with God's guidance (Matthew 2:19-23). Role in Jesus' Early Life Joseph's faithfulness is evident in his role in Jesus' early life. He ensures that Jesus is raised in a devout Jewish household, participating in religious customs such as the presentation of Jesus at the temple (Luke 2:22-24) and the annual pilgrimage to Jerusalem for the Passover (Luke 2:41-42). Joseph's influence is seen in Jesus' understanding of the Scriptures and His growth in wisdom and stature (Luke 2:52). Legacy of Faithfulness Though the Gospels do not provide details about Joseph's later life or death, his legacy as a faithful husband and father is evident. His obedience to God's commands and his dedication to his family serve as an enduring example of faithfulness and righteousness. Joseph's life reflects the virtues of humility, integrity, and unwavering trust in God's plan, making him a model for husbands and fathers throughout Christian history. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 1:19Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privately. Nave's Topical Index Library Whether There was a True Marriage Between Mary and Joseph? The Story of Joseph and his Coat of Many Colors A Statement of the Reason Why the Enumeration of the Ancestors of ... The Nativity Christ the Believer's Husband The Murder of Aristobulus and Hyrcanus, the High Priests, as Also ... The Veil of Veronica. The Personal History of Herod - the Two Worlds in Jerusalem. Matt. I. 17 Chapter xxx Resources Does a wife have to submit to her husband? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to be a godly husband? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about being a Christian husband? | GotQuestions.org Husband: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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