Advent: Born to Dwell With Bible Study FellowshipSample

Shattered Expectation

Matthew’s explanation of Jesus’ birth begins with a pledge. In verse 18, Matthew reports that before Jesus’ birth, “His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.”

In Hebrew society, parents often arranged their children’s marriages while the future couples were quite young. These arrangements later became official betrothals, binding agreements that lasted about one year before the actual marriage took place.

During the betrothal period, the couple was recognized as “man and wife,” although they did not live together or have sexual relations. Betrothals could only be terminated by a divorce or through death. A girl whose fiancé died during the betrothal period was known as “a virgin who is a widow.”

Joseph’s Distress

Discovering Mary’s pregnancy creates a crisis for Joseph. Mary would undoubtedly be subject to assumptions of immorality. Under the stipulations of their betrothal, if Joseph chooses not to marry her because of this news, he would be required to divorce Mary.

Pause and think for a moment. God’s sovereign plan to redeem humankind intersected with the lives of a faithful young couple joyfully anticipating their marriage. Suddenly, although momentarily unseen by Joseph, God’s grace stepped into their plans. Initially, what Joseph did see and experience was confusion and pain.

Verse 19 describes Joseph as thoughtful. His response is considerate and honorable toward God and Mary. He shows himself to be “faithful to the law,” yet he is also sensitive to Mary. Joseph does not want to disgrace her publicly. So, he “had in mind” to divorce Mary quietly.

God’s Sovereignty

How has God been evident to you in life’s storms? When confusion and crises come, we can trust that God is always near to us. Creation, God’s Word, the Holy Spirit, and God’s people actively reveal our sovereign God. Through our life circumstances, He exposes our need for Him and our inability to fully comprehend His ways.

Do you believe that God is present and actively guiding you through your life? If so, like Joseph, you know to seek His wisdom for your decisions. In your distress, do you turn to God in prayer? Intentionally thinking about God’s greatness and His love leads us to know what to do. We see Joseph model how faith seeks understanding. Likewise, as you respond to God, He will increasingly lead you to experience His faithfulness.

Questions

1. What stands out about Joseph’s initial response to Mary’s pregnancy (Matthew 1:18-19)?
2. When have you been challenged recently to balance your responsibilities to God with your relationships? How did you proceed?
3. God says, “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways” (Isaiah 55:8). How is this truth shown in Jesus’ birth story, and what does this help you understand about your life?