A Common Man’s Christmas
Mateo 1:18-25
· Jesus was virgin born 1:18, 20, 23
· Jesus came into the world to save people from their sins 1:21
· Emmanuel is another name for Jesus the Son of God and means God with us 1:23
· Jesus was the firstborn son of Mary 1:25
I. Joseph was just a common man
a. He had a common job—carpenter Matthew 13:55
b. Just wanted to marry a fine young lady with a good reputation
c. A common sized family for the day Matthew 13:56
d. He worried about his children like a regular dad Luke 2:48
e. He had taught his son to be a carpenter also Mark 6:3
II. Characteristics of Joseph that ought to be common in our lives
a. He was a just man—saved, right with God 1:19
b. He was saving himself for his marriage 1:18
i. Not only did he wait before he got married
ii. But he waited until after Jesus was born 1:25
c. He was kind –he wanted to do right without hurting his wife 1:19-20
d. He got married according to God’s will for His life 1:20
e. His will was totally surrendered to God and His plans for his life
III. God had uncommon plans for Joseph’s life
a. God was giving this man one of the greatest ministries and privileges of history—to be the step dad to the very Son of God
b. God’s plan meant that Joseph would never be the important one—the key player but rather in the support role
c. God’s plan caused him to suffer nearly perpetual embarrassment Luke 3:23, John 8:41
d. God’s plan for his life endangered him and all of his family 2:13, 19-20
e. God’s plan was blessed and successful because Joseph was obedient to God 1:24, 2:13-14—he was seeking God’s direction in his life
IV. Practical questions for us
a. Are you a just man?
b. Do you maintain a life of sexual purity?
c. Are you completely surrendered to God’s will and plans for your life?
d. Are you willing to risk your security and embarrassment for His causes?
e. Do you seek God’s direction for yourself and your family?
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