Detailed account including how God sent a message to Joseph regarding Mary, and the cultural context of Joseph's rights and responsibilities by custom in dealing with a pregnant fiancée.

Divine Message to Joseph

Mary’s Pregnancy and Joseph’s Dilemma: When Mary was found to be pregnant before she and Joseph came together, Joseph faced a significant dilemma. According to Jewish law and customs, he had the right to publicly disgrace Mary or even have her stoned for adultery (Deuteronomy 22:23-24).

Joseph’s Righteousness and Compassion: Matthew 1:19 describes Joseph as a "just man and unwilling to put her to shame," indicating his desire to handle the situation discreetly and with compassion. He planned to divorce her quietly.

Divine Intervention: An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying:

"Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:20-21)

Joseph’s Obedience: Upon waking, Joseph obeyed the angel's command. He took Mary as his wife but did not consummate their marriage until she had given birth to Jesus (Matthew 1:24-25).

Joseph’s Rights by Custom

Betrothal in Jewish Tradition: In Jewish custom, betrothal (or engagement) was a binding agreement, more serious than modern engagements. It required a formal divorce to break, even though the couple did not live together or engage in sexual relations.

Dealing with Infidelity: If a betrothed woman was found to be pregnant and the man knew he was not the father, he had two main options:

Public Exposure and Trial: He could bring her before the authorities for a public trial. If found guilty of adultery, the penalty could be severe, including stoning, as per Deuteronomy 22:23-24.Private Divorce: He could choose to divorce her quietly. This would involve giving her a certificate of divorce without public shaming or trial, which was a more compassionate option.

Joseph’s Choice: Joseph initially chose the latter, planning a quiet divorce to protect Mary from public disgrace. His compassionate nature is highlighted here, showing his character as a righteous and merciful man.

Further Interaction and Influence

Protective Role: Joseph’s immediate compliance with divine instructions demonstrates his protective role. He ensured the safety and well-being of Mary and Jesus by moving to Egypt and later settling in Nazareth upon divine direction (Matthew 2:13-23).

Teaching and Mentoring: By raising Jesus in a devout Jewish household, Joseph imparted religious and moral teachings. His trade as a carpenter provided Jesus with practical skills and a humble yet honorable profession.

Summary

Divine Message and Obedience: Matthew 1:18-25 details the angel’s message and Joseph’s response.Customary Rights and Compassion: Joseph’s rights under Jewish law allowed for severe punishment for perceived infidelity, but his choice of a quiet divorce reflects his just and compassionate nature.Protective and Nurturing Role: Joseph’s actions in protecting and nurturing Jesus highlight his significant role in Jesus' early life.

Joseph’s faith and obedience to God’s messages were pivotal in fulfilling the prophecies regarding the Messiah, and his compassionate handling of the situation with Mary reflects his righteousness and integrity. For further exploration, the Bible Gateway provides extensive scriptural references and detailed biblical accounts.