Matthew 1:19-20 is about Joseph’s initial decision to divorce Mary quietly when he discovered she was pregnant, but after being visited by an angel in a dream who assured him of the divine nature of the child, Joseph chose to obey God and take Mary as his wife.
19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly.
20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
Setting the Scene for Matthew 1:19-20
In Matthew chapter 1, we find Joseph, a righteous man engaged to Mary. The scene unfolds in the small town of Nazareth, a humble village in the region of Galilee. Joseph, a carpenter by trade, is grappling with the shocking news that his betrothed Mary is pregnant. Confusion and hurt fill his heart as he tries to make sense of the situation.
Mary, a young and devout woman, finds herself at the center of a divine plan that she struggles to comprehend. The couple’s love and trust are put to the test as they navigate this unexpected turn of events. In the midst of this emotional turmoil, an angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream, reassuring him of the miraculous nature of Mary’s pregnancy and the role he is called to play in God’s unfolding story of redemption.
The setting is simple yet profound, with the dusty streets of Nazareth bearing witness to a pivotal moment in history. Joseph and Mary, two ordinary individuals chosen for an extraordinary purpose, stand at the threshold of a journey that will forever change the course of humanity.
What is Matthew 1:19-20 about?
This verse is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, trust, and obedience to God’s will. Imagine being in Joseph’s shoes, faced with a situation that goes against all logic and understanding. Despite his initial plan to divorce Mary quietly, he receives a divine message that changes everything. This verse teaches us about the power of listening to and following God’s guidance, even when it goes against our own plans and desires. It challenges us to have faith in God’s mysterious ways, knowing that His plans are far greater than our own.
When we are faced with unexpected or challenging situations, this verse encourages us to seek God’s direction and trust in His plan. Just like Joseph, we may not always understand why things are happening the way they are, but we can find peace and comfort in the knowledge that God is in control. It serves as a reminder that God’s plans for us are always good, even when they may not align with our own thoughts and intentions. So, let us take inspiration from Joseph’s obedience and openness to God’s will, and strive to trust in Him wholeheartedly, no matter how difficult the circumstances may seem.
Understanding what Matthew 1:19-20 really means
In the narrative of Jesus’ birth, we encounter a pivotal moment where Joseph, known for his righteousness, grapples with the news of Mary’s pregnancy. His character is highlighted as he navigates a moral and social dilemma with grace and compassion. Joseph’s reluctance to publicly shame Mary showcases his love and respect for her, despite the confusion and hurt he must have felt. This internal struggle sets the stage for a divine intervention, as an angel appears to Joseph in a dream, signaling God’s direct involvement in human affairs.
The angel’s message to Joseph, urging him not to fear taking Mary as his wife, serves as a reassurance of God’s plan unfolding. This divine encounter not only guides Joseph’s actions but also underscores the theme of trust in God’s providence. The fulfillment of prophecies, such as Isaiah’s prediction of a virgin bearing a son, adds layers of significance to Jesus’ miraculous conception, emphasizing the divine nature of his birth.
Drawing parallels with other biblical passages, like Proverbs’ call to trust in the Lord and Luke’s account of the Annunciation to Mary, we see a tapestry of divine guidance woven throughout the narrative. Joseph’s story resonates with contemporary audiences, offering timeless lessons on navigating moral dilemmas with compassion, trusting in divine guidance amidst uncertainty, and exemplifying faith and obedience in the face of societal expectations.
Consider a modern-day scenario where someone chooses discretion and compassion over public shame when confronted with a loved one’s challenging situation. By seeking guidance through prayer and handling the matter with grace, they mirror Joseph’s response, illustrating the enduring relevance of his actions. Joseph’s righteousness, compassion, and obedience stand as a beacon for us today, reminding us that in moments of adversity, we can find strength and direction through unwavering faith in God’s plan. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the profound impact of following God’s will, even when it diverges from conventional norms.
What does it look like to trust God completely?
Trusting God completely means not allowing doubt or fear to overshadow His plans and promises. It involves surrendering our own understanding and desires to God’s perfect will, even when it may seem difficult or impossible to our human eyes. Joseph demonstrated complete trust in God by obeying the angel’s instruction to take Mary as his wife in the case of Matthew 1:19-20, despite his initial confusion and concern. His obedience and faith in God’s plan allowed him to be a part of the miraculous fulfillment of the prophecy of the Messiah’s birth.
Trusting God completely also involves stepping out in faith and taking action in alignment with His word, even when it may go against societal norms or expectations. Joseph’s decision to trust God and take Mary as his wife not only demonstrated his faith but also played a significant role in fulfilling God’s plan of salvation through the birth of Jesus. This passage reminds us that trusting God completely involves believing in His power to work all things together for good, even in the midst of challenges or uncertainties. Trusting God completely ultimately means relying on His wisdom, power, and faithfulness above all else. It requires letting go of our own limited understanding and placing our confidence in His sovereign guidance and provision. Joseph’s example in Matthew 1:19-20 serves as a reminder that when we fully trust in God and His promises, He can use us in ways that exceed our expectations and bring about His divine purposes in ways we could never imagine.
Application
Listen closely to the whispers of faith echoing in your heart, guiding you toward the path of obedience and trust. Just as Joseph embraced God’s message in the midst of uncertainty, let us also embrace the calls of faith in our modern lives. Take the leap of faith, tread the path with unwavering trust, and witness the miracles unfold in your life. Will you answer the call of faith, stepping boldly into the unknown with courage and trust today?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.