“An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.’”
Matthew 1:20
Look at Joseph in the nativity story, specifically the angel’s message to him. The word to Joseph straight from heaven is twofold: first, God is coming to save you from your sins (see v. 21); and second, He is coming to be with you (see v. 23).
This message would have thrilled and shocked Joseph. Every inch of his life from this moment on would be radically different than he anticipated. The two parts of the message were earthshattering enough. Then add that the One conceived in Mary is God Himself, not conceived by Joseph. The baby’s deity is unmistakable, as shown in the names the angel uses for Him: Jesus (meaning God saves) and Immanuel (meaning God with us).
People are often put off by the notion that they need saving from their sins. They are further offended by the truth that Jesus is the only way to eternal life. Many don’t care to have a message such as this interfering with their Christmas holiday. But God has indeed come near. He has turned our weary world upside down, all for His great love of us and promise to rescue us.
This message would have thrilled and shocked Joseph. Every inch of his life from this moment on would be radically different than he anticipated. The two parts of the message were earthshattering enough. Then add that the One conceived in Mary is God Himself, not conceived by Joseph. The baby’s deity is unmistakable, as shown in the names the angel uses for Him: Jesus (meaning God saves) and Immanuel (meaning God with us).
People are often put off by the notion that they need saving from their sins. They are further offended by the truth that Jesus is the only way to eternal life. Many don’t care to have a message such as this interfering with their Christmas holiday. But God has indeed come near. He has turned our weary world upside down, all for His great love of us and promise to rescue us.
Scripture Focus
Matthew 1:18-23
Insight
Our spectacular celebrating at Christmas can be rooted in these breathtaking truths, first presented to humble, faithful, kind Joseph, and kept alive throughout history for us.
Bible In A Year
- Hosea 1-3
- Proverbs 11
- James 1-3