Topical Bible: Kindness: Joseph to Mary

◄ Kindness: Joseph to Mary ►

Jump to: Nave's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical narrative, the relationship between Joseph and Mary is a profound example of kindness, particularly in the context of the cultural and religious norms of their time. Joseph, a righteous man, is betrothed to Mary when he discovers that she is pregnant. This situation presents a significant challenge, as betrothal in Jewish culture was a binding agreement, and any breach was considered a serious offense.

Joseph's Dilemma and Decision

According to the Gospel of Matthew, Joseph's initial reaction to Mary's pregnancy is one of compassion and discretion. Matthew 1:19 states, "Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and was unwilling to disgrace her publicly, he resolved to divorce her quietly." This decision reflects Joseph's kindness and desire to protect Mary from public shame and potential punishment, which could have included stoning under the Mosaic Law.

Divine Intervention and Obedience

Joseph's kindness is further demonstrated when he receives divine guidance through a dream. An angel of the Lord appears to him, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 1:20). Joseph's response to this revelation is immediate and obedient. Matthew 1:24 records, "When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him, and he took Mary as his wife."

Protection and Provision

Joseph's kindness extends beyond his initial acceptance of Mary and her child. He provides for and protects his family, demonstrating steadfast love and commitment. When King Herod seeks to kill the infant Jesus, Joseph is again guided by an angel in a dream to flee to Egypt. Matthew 2:13-14 recounts, "An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. 'Get up!' he said. 'Take the Child and His mother and flee to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the Child to kill Him.' So he got up, took the Child and His mother by night, and withdrew to Egypt."

Role as a Father

Joseph's kindness is also evident in his role as a father to Jesus. Though not the biological father, Joseph raises Jesus as his own, providing for Him and teaching Him the trade of carpentry. This nurturing environment is a testament to Joseph's character and his dedication to both Mary and Jesus.

Cultural Context and Significance

In the cultural context of first-century Judea, Joseph's actions are remarkable. His willingness to embrace Mary and her divine mission, despite potential social ostracism, highlights his deep faith and kindness. Joseph's account is a powerful example of how kindness, guided by faith and obedience to God, can transcend societal norms and expectations.

Through Joseph's actions, the biblical narrative illustrates the profound impact of kindness within the family unit and its role in fulfilling God's divine plan. His life serves as an enduring model of righteousness, compassion, and unwavering commitment to God's will.

Nave's Topical Index

Matthew 1:19
Then 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

Annunciation to Joseph of the Birth of Jesus.
... mercifully toward the reputation of Mary], and not ... Joseph evidently intended to omit
stating any cause ... In his kindness Joseph anticipates the special teaching ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/ix annunciation to joseph of.htm

Jesus is Born in Bethlehem
... and all Elizabeth's friends were glad, and came to see her, and to thank God with
her for His great kindness. ... The angel told Joseph to marry Mary, and he ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/anonymous/the good shepherd/chapter ii jesus is born.htm

Days of Conflict
... His forbearance and kindness were termed cowardice. ... The sons and daughters of Joseph
knew this, and by ... Mary often remonstrated with Jesus, and urged Him to ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/white/the desire of ages/chapter 9 days of conflict.htm

The Third Homily. On the Annunciation to the Holy virgin Mary.
... But why canst thou not read it, O Joseph? ... the bush, my coming will indeed also injure
Mary; but if ... may receive the enjoyment, by the grace and kindness of our ...
/.../the third homily on the.htm

The Life of Mary is Set Before virgins as an Example...
... is not that faith is being sought for, but kindness which is ... at the solemn day of
the passover, and went with Joseph. ... And so Mary did not go even to the temple ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/chapter ii the life of.htm

The General Epistle of James
... Jacob " +""" Joseph == Mary Clopas (or Alphaeus ... Joseph. ...
and act upon it, kindness and purity are ...
/.../pullan/the books of the new testament/chapter xx the general epistle.htm

Christ's Birth
... full of happiness at having shown them loving-kindness. ... innkeeper of his village
about Joseph's journey through ... He greeted Mary and worshipped the Infant Jesus ...
/.../emmerich/the life of the blessed virgin mary/xi christs birth.htm

The Eve of the Resurrection.
... things in the town during the absence of Mary. ... When Joseph had related what had taken
place, they ... with him and asking many questions with pretended kindness. ...
/.../the dolorous passion of our lord jesus christ/chapter lx the eve of.htm

The Taxing. --Birth of Christ at Bethlehem.
... [43] Joseph and Mary belonged to ... It was the policy of the emperor, at that time,
to treat the Jews with kindness, and therefore he would naturally make the ...
/.../section 15 the taxing birth of.htm

The Arabic Gospel of the Infancy of the Saviour (Nt Apocrypha)
... to a desert; and hearing that it was infested by robbers, Joseph and the ... And the
Lady Mary, seeing that the robber had done them a kindness, said to him ...
/.../the arabic gospel of the infancy of the saviour/the arabic gospel of the.htm