Joseph: The Forgotten Figure of Christmas

A Thrill of Hope 
Joseph: The Forgotten Figure of Christmas 
Matthew 1:18-25

Joseph is not as famous or well-known as many other people in the Bible, but his role was a vitally important one.

4 Qualities in Joseph’s Life That Enabled Him to Fulfill His Vitally Important Role

1. He was a Righteous man (18-19)

The word righteous refers to:

• His Relationship with God
• His Behavior toward God and others

Joseph Displayed his righteousness in the way that he treated Mary.

A Crisis Will Reveal Our Character

Those closest to us will most often Test our character and our relationship with God. 

Our Response during a crisis shows our maturity in Christ.

2. He was Sensitive to God (20-23)

It is hard to be sensitive to God when…

• You’ve already made your Plans
• You’re Emotionally Involved with the problem
• Risk is involved
• God’s plan doesn’t seem to make much Sense
• Other People won’t understand

3. He Believed God (24-25)

Do we really believe in a miracle working God?

Christians believe in the virgin birth of Jesus. 
Atheists believe in the virgin birth of the universe. 
Choose your miracle.

4. He was Obedient to God (24-25)

Obedience was a central feature of Joseph’s life. (1:24; 2:13-15; 2:19-23)

"The real secret of an unsatisfied life lies too often in an unsurrendered will." Hudson Taylor

Halfhearted obedience satisfies neither us, nor God.   

What we do reveals what we truly believe about God regardless of what we say.

“The Bible recognizes no faith that does not lead to obedience, nor does it recognize any obedience that does not spring from faith. The two are at opposite sides of the same coin.”  A.W. Tozer.

"One word stands out from all others as the key to knowing God, to having His peace and assurance in your life--it is obedience." Eric Liddell

Making It Personal

• Have I genuinely received the greatest gift of all the gift of eternal and abundant life only found in Jesus Christ through repenting of my sin and placing my faith in Christ alone as the forgiver of my sin and the leader and Lord of my life?
• As a follower of Jesus Christ, what can I learn from Joseph’s story? What is one thing I can do to apply this truth in my life?
• Who can I share these truths with?

Ready to take your Next Step?

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