The Ordinary People of Christmas: Joseph

If you want to live the way God wants you to live, and if you want to live forever, you must ask Christ to move into your heart and make you righteous and accept the substitution of his sinless record for yours. I. Uncommonly Kind (Matthew 1:18-20) The righteousness the Holy Spirit had worked in Joseph enabled him to be uncommonly kind toward Mary. II. Unquestioningly Obedient (Matthew 1:20-25) Joseph’s unquestioning obedience can only be explained by the miracle of grace in his heart. III. Undauntingly Protective (Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23) Joseph’s call to obedience would not get easier. Joseph had to protect his new son and wife. Once again, there is no record of Joseph’s hesitation or questioning. Undaunted, he steps into danger to protect those entrusted to him. Discussion Questions What part of the sermon and/or passage resonated with you the most? In what ways is Jesus the perfect example of the three attributes listed above? Where might God be calling you to extend uncommon/undeserved kindness to someone in your life? Where are you being challenged to obey God in your life right now? How is God’s goodness displayed in this passage and how can that compel you to obey? Is there someone or a group unable to protect themselves that you can step in to help provide protection for? How is the fact that Joseph was an “ordinary” man encouraging to you as you seek to be faithful in these ways?