Joseph the Just Man of Christmas - Matthew 1:18-25

Introduction

Joseph no doubt was one of the most honorable men who ever lived. Joseph ranks with royalty, he stands with sovereigns, and takes his place of preeminence among the mighty and famous of history. Joseph was a working man and what most would call a blue collar man of humble means, yet God chose him. God chose him to raise His only begotten Son. Joseph was His protector and teacher. He was His example of what a man should be.

I. Joseph a Sensitive Man of God

Joseph was sensitive to his spouse - No amount of money, success or fame can ever make up for an inventive, inconsiderate husband.

Joseph was sensitive to the Spirit - Joseph was in tune and in touch with the voice of God. Joseph could discern the speaking of the Spirit of God. Joseph was alert to the message which God sent him through an angel by the means of a dream (V.20). Men fail today in the 21 century to listen to God.

Joseph was sensitive to the Scriptures - Joseph knew the Holy Scriptures (v.22). Joseph was aware of God’s prophecies concerning the redeemer.

Genesis 3:15 “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.”

Isaiah 9:6 “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: And the government shall be upon his shoulder: And his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

II. Joseph a Strong Man of God

Joseph was a man of strength. There’s no doubt he would have physically strong but Joseph was a strong man inwardly as well.

a. Joseph & Mary Were Facing Tremendous Criticism - In the midst of criticism Joseph would need to stay tuned to God’s voice.

b. Joseph & Mary Were Facing a Tremendous Challenge - These two individuals were chosen to be the guardians of the eternal Son of God. What a responsibility! Think about being a parent now and all the responsibilities.

III. Joseph a Self-Controlled Man of God

Joseph should serve as an example for all Christian men. Joseph was characterized by spirituality, not sensuality. Obedience was his watchword, not expedience. He was a man of character, not carnality. For Joseph spiritual priorities took precedence over sensual pleasures as far as Joseph was concerned. The question may be asked, “why did Joseph name the child Jesus?”

1 Timothy 1:15 “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.”

Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”

Conclusion

Receive Christ today! Open your heart to the Lord Jesus Christ. The greatest Christmas gift of all is described in Romans.

Romans 6:23 “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”