Topical Encyclopedia Joses is identified in the New Testament as one of the physical brothers of Jesus Christ. The mention of Joses occurs in several Gospel accounts, where he is listed among the siblings of Jesus, indicating his familial connection to the Messiah. The name "Joses" is a variant of "Joseph," which was a common name in Jewish culture during the time of Jesus.Biblical References: 1. Matthew 13:55 : "Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t His mother’s name Mary, and aren’t His brothers James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas?" In this passage, Joses is referred to as "Joseph," highlighting the interchangeable use of the names. This verse is part of a narrative where the people of Nazareth express astonishment at Jesus' wisdom and miraculous powers, questioning His humble origins. 2. Mark 6:3 : "Isn’t this the carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? Aren’t His sisters here with us as well?" Here, Joses is explicitly named, affirming his position as one of Jesus' brothers. This passage similarly reflects the skepticism of the Nazarenes regarding Jesus' divine authority, given His familial ties. 3. Mark 15:40 : "And there were also women watching from a distance. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome." This verse occurs during the crucifixion of Jesus, where Joses is mentioned in connection with his mother, Mary. This Mary is often identified as Mary, the wife of Clopas, suggesting that Joses may have been a cousin or close relative of Jesus, depending on interpretations of familial terms. Theological Considerations: The mention of Joses and his siblings has been a point of theological discussion, particularly concerning the doctrine of the perpetual virginity of Mary. Some traditions, such as the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches, interpret these references as indicating that Joses and the others were either Jesus' cousins or step-siblings, possibly children of Joseph from a previous marriage. This interpretation aligns with the belief that Mary remained a virgin throughout her life. Conversely, many Protestant traditions accept the straightforward reading of these passages, viewing Joses as a biological half-brother of Jesus, born to Mary and Joseph after Jesus' birth. This perspective emphasizes the normalcy of Jesus' family life and His full participation in human experiences, including familial relationships. Cultural and Historical Context: The naming of Joses among Jesus' brothers provides insight into the family dynamics and societal norms of first-century Jewish life. Large families were common, and the naming conventions often reflected familial or religious significance. The presence of Joses and his siblings in the Gospel narratives underscores the humanity of Jesus, who grew up in a typical Jewish household of the time. Joses' role in the New Testament is primarily as a member of Jesus' family, with no specific actions or words attributed to him beyond these mentions. His inclusion in the Gospel accounts serves to authenticate the historical reality of Jesus' life and the familial context in which He was raised. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 13:55Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brothers, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? Nave's Topical Index Matthew 27:56 Mark 6:3 Mark 15:40,47 Library The Early Years of Jesus Crucified, Dead, and Buried. ' The Christ of the Gospels. By Rev. Professor Schaff. Resources Who was Barnabas in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgBible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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