Lessons From The Life of Joseph

Matthew 1:18-25

Very little is mentioned in the Bible about Joseph. But from Matthew 1:18-25, we can observe several admirable traits which we ought to emulate in our lives. First, Joseph was a man of conviction. Joseph, not initially realizing Mary’s conception was of the Holy Ghost, was minded to put Mary away. The old law, still in effect at the time of Jesus’ birth, stipulated that a betrothed virgin found guilty of adultery was to be put to death by stoning (Deuteronomy 22:23-24).

Second, Joseph was a man of compassion. The scriptures indicate Joseph was unwilling to make Mary a public example but instead was minded to put her away privily (privately, or secretly). Consider Romans 12:17-21. Although Joseph initially thought he had been wronged, there is nothing in the scriptures to indicate Joseph sought revenge, nor did he act rashly or in anger. Instead, the Bible teaches Joseph "thought on these things."

Third, Joseph was a man whose life demonstrated compliance with God’s word. After it was revealed to Joseph in a vision that Mary’s conception was of the Holy Ghost, Joseph did as the angel had bidden him and took unto him his wife. Further, when Joseph heard and believed the word of the Lord, he was no longer afraid.

Fourth, Joseph was a man who possessed self-control. The scriptures teach that Joseph knew her not till she had brought forth her first-born son. This leaves no doubt as to Jesus’ being conceived of a virgin (though Mary was not a perpetual virgin). Consider Matthew 1:16, 18, 20 and Matthew 15:33. Just as Joseph demonstrated self-control, we are to demonstrate self-control over our bodies (I Corinthians 6:19-20), our words (Proverbs 29:20, Ecclesiastes 5:2), our thoughts (I Corinthians 13:5), and our actions (Galatians 5:22-23).