“Joseph’s Dilemma: God’s Reassurance ” Matthew 1:18-25
Introduction
o Luke 1:26-38 – An Act of Submission & Trust o A Three Month Visit with Elizabeth (Luke 1:39-56)
I. Joseph’s Dilemma (vs. 18-19):
1. Joseph “discovers” Mary is “with Child” (v. 18) · Mary’s Dilemma - Who is Going to Believe How She Got Pregnant? · God will Protect the Integrity of those Who are Faithful to Him – Matthew Henry
2. Joseph, A “Just” & Compassionate Man - (v. 19) · A “Just” Man (Deuteronomy 22:23-24) · “Put Her Away Secretly” (v. 19b)
II. Mary’s Fidelity Assured (vs. 20-21)
· The Child - “Conceived of the Holy Spirit” (v. 20) · Joseph would share in the blessing bestowed Upon Mary (v. 21) – Raising the Savior of God’s People (Titus 2:14; Revelation 14:4; John 17:6-12, 6:37-40; Ephesians 1:3-14; 2:1-10; Hebrews 7:25; Revelation 5:9-10; 1 Corinthians 1:18; 2 Corinthians 2:16)
III. Mary’s Pregnancy Fulfills Prophecy (vs. 22-23; Isaiah 7:14)
· Called “Immanuel” – “God with Us”
IV. Joseph’s Faith Demonstrated – Obeyed Three Commands of the Angel Gabriel (vs. 24-25)
1. Joseph Took Mary to Himself Mary (v. 24)
2. Kept Mary a Virgin Until Jesus was Born (v. 25a) · After Jesus was Born – No Longer a Virgin (Luke 8:19-21; Matthew 12:50; John 2:12; 7:1-10; Galatians 1:19; Matthew 13:55-56)
3. Named the Child “Jesus” (v. 25b)
Conclusion and Application
· Demonstrate Compassion without Sacrificing Justice · Look to God’s Word for Wisdom · Be Eager to Obey God’s Word Resting in His Wisdom
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