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Song 4 of 8 · Study Page
Don't Be Afraid, Joseph – Joseph
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1Read first. Open Matthew 1:18–25 in the King James Version →
Know the Setting
Mary was Joseph's espoused wife, and “before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 1:18).
Joseph was “a just man” (Matthew 1:19), and “not willing to make her a publick example” (Matthew 1:19), so he “was minded to put her away privily” (Matthew 1:19), ending the marriage quietly. Instead, after the dream, he “took unto him his wife” (Matthew 1:24).
Who Speaks
- The angel of the Lord, in a dream (verses 20–21). Matthew does not name this angel.
- Matthew, quoting the prophet (verses 22–23)
- Joseph has no recorded words. He acts.
Look Closer
- Joseph's faith is shown by what he does: he “did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him” (Matthew 1:24).
- The angel calls him “Joseph, thou son of David” (Matthew 1:20), recalling his place in David's family line (see Matthew 1:1–16).
- The child receives two names. JESUS, “for he shall save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21); and Emmanuel, “which being interpreted is, God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
Connect the Scriptures
- Isaiah 7:14: The prophecy Matthew quotes: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son” (Isaiah 7:14)
- Luke 1:27: Luke also names Joseph as “of the house of David” (Luke 1:27).
- Isaiah 41:10: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee” (Isaiah 41:10)
Ponder
- Joseph was both just and merciful. How do justice and mercy work together in his choice?
- Joseph obeyed without a single recorded word. What does quiet obedience look like in your life?
- What do the names Jesus and Emmanuel each tell you about Him?
Talk About It
When has fear kept you from doing something right, and what helped you move forward?
“Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife” (Matthew 1:20)
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