We Hear The Christmas Angels The Great, Glad Tidings Tell (part 1)

Joseph considers divorcing Mary but an angel appears to him and commands him to not be afraid to take her as wife and adopt the Baby she delivers. Matthew 1:18-25 Christmas 2025 Gene Pensiero Jr https://www.calvaryhanford.com Find us on Substack https://calvaryhanford.substack.com/ Find us on Apple TV https://apps.apple.com/us/app/calvary-hanford/id1101428480 Find us on Roku https://my.roku.com/account/add?channel=CALVARYHANFORD Find us on Amazon Fire TV https://smile.amazon.com/Calvary-Hanford/dp/B07S5DP7R4/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=calvary+hanford&qid=1566853455&s=gateway&sr=8-1 Discover the Story of Christmas: Join us for a verse-by-verse Bible study through Matthew 1:18-25 as we explore the often-overlooked first angel visit connected to the birth of Jesus Christ—the one that spoke to Joseph, the carpenter. The Christmas narrative is filled with celestial activity, with angels delivering glad tidings to a variety of people: a priest, a young bride, shepherds, and, here, Joseph. Each divine encounter serves a specific purpose in announcing that the Savior is born, the Hope of the world, the Eternal King who has come to rule and rescue us. Joseph, Righteousness, and Godly Morality: This passage reveals incredible truths about Joseph, a righteous man wrestling with the seemingly scandalous pregnancy of his betrothed, Mary. We use this foundational text to discuss the crucial, time-honored principles of Godly morality and sexual purity that God has given for our blessing, contrasting it with the broken promises of the world. Understanding first-century Jewish betrothal customs is essential to appreciating the weight of Joseph’s decision to divorce her secretly—a decision driven by both his desire to honor God and his compassion for Mary. The text shows us how Godly principles applied with love are the keys to navigating life’s most difficult situations. The Angel’s Instruction: Jesus Saves From Sins: The angel’s message to Joseph in a dream changes everything. We study the instruction to take Mary as your wife and the vital command to name him Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins. This is the core message of the Gospel: Jesus did not come for political change or material wealth, but to deliver us from the devastating effects of sin. We challenge every believer to examine their life: Are you playing with sin? Are you one of Jesus’ people? Salvation is a free gift offered by Christ, but it requires that we give our lives to Him. Fulfillment of Prophecy and Immanuel: Matthew provides powerful Scriptural proofs that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah, showing that God always fulfills His promises. We explore the profound meaning of the name Immanuel, which is translated “God is with us.” This powerful name reminds us of the intimate relationship believers share with their Savior. Practical Application for the Christian Life: Joseph’s immediate and obedient response to the Lord’s command—even denying himself for a time by not having sexual relations with her until she gave birth—serves as a powerful model of devotion. This story encourages all Bible study enthusiasts and those interested in Christianity and spirituality to practice trust and obedience. Don’t be afraid to walk by faith! God’s promise to you is the same as the angel’s: “Do not fear, I will help you.”