Moving From Unbelief To Faith (1)

Matthew 1:18-25

First, we note Joseph's initial response to finding out that Mary - his betrothed (fiancee) - was with child by the Holy Spirit. To understand Joseph's initial response, we must understand the nature of Jewish betrothal. In our society, if an engaged couple decide to break off their engagement, this is a matter between themselves. There is no legal contract binding them to each other. Things were different in Israel at the time of Jesus' birth - Jewish betrothal could be dissolved only by a formal act in which the man gave the woman a certificate of divorce. Joseph planned to do this quietly, in order to avoid a public scandal." Joseph's initial response was to view the situation from a purely human point of view. He did not understand the spiritual significance of what had happened. From the purely human standpoint, Joseph's intended action was perfectly understandable. He wanted to save face. At this stage, however, Joseph was still in the position of 'the unspiritual man' who 'cannot understand the things of God.' Joseph needed to be 'born again.'