Faith Series

Series: Christmas Brings…[#3]

FAITH

Hebrews 11:1

Welcome

Hymn 88 “Hark The Herald Angels Sing”

Hymn 108 “How Great Our Joy”

Offering

Hymn 103 “Away In A Manger”

Children’s Choir “Open The Eyes Of My Heart”

Introduction:

“When in doubt, just have faith.” I have heard statements like this many times in my life; but what does this really mean?

Hebrews 11:1

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”

As we continue in our series “Christmas Brings…”, let us see 4 lessons on faith from the life of Joseph.

Matthew 1:18-19

“This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.”

Monologue: “Joseph- The Hurt Of Infidelity”

"I can’t believe this is happening. How could she have done this to me? I could see just about any other girl doing this, but Mary? I thought she was above doing something like this. I couldn’t even imagine her getting lost in the moment with me, much less going behind my back with someone else. But here’s no denying it. She’s definitely pregnant.

"I knew something was up when she disappeared on me like that. I mean, how can you just pick up and leave for three months without even saying good-bye? And when she finally came back home there was no mistaking that swelling in her stomach. She wasn’t very far along, but you could see it. How could she do this to me? We were going to get married! But that was when I knew who she was -- or thought I knew, at any rate. I don’t have any clue who she is now, and she obviously doesn’t know me if she thought I would buy that cock-eyed story about being chosen by God to bear His child -- that was impregnated by the Spirit of God. Like He would do something like that! How could she expect me to believe something so preposterous?!

"If there was one person in the world I was certain would never hurt me it was Mary. And now she’s hurt me more than anyone ever could, and she’s left me with no choice but to end our engagement. After that, it will be up to her parents and the council to decide what to do with her. She won’t be my problem anymore.

(Pausing as he considers the implication of his words) "But if I do that, the council will probably stone her, and I will have to throw the first stone. I don’t think I could do that. I know I couldn’t do that. No matter how much she’s hurt me I couldn’t let her die. I love her too much for that to happen. Maybe, I could end our engagement quietly. I could send her back to Elizabeth’s until the baby is born. Then, maybe the council will let her live for the baby’s sake. Then again, with the influence the Pharisee’s have nowadays, she’ll probably still be put to death.

"O God, I know Mary has sinned, and I know she has done more to hurt me that anyone else ever has. But, please, show me what to do. I need your wisdom now. Please show me what to do. Please, please.

Lesson #1: Don’t Jump To Conclusions

I do have to say that Joseph did better than I would have. He obviously was upset by the fact that Mary was pregnant and the baby was not his. I’m sure his pride was hurt. He probably went over and over in his mind about what she had done and what should he do about this situation.

Although he probably gave consideration to having her killed (which was applicable by law), he decided to handle things quietly and not disgrace Mary publicly.

I’m sure that Joseph was sick over all of this, but he could have been spared some grief if he would have not jumped to conclusions.

GET THE FACTS BEFORE YOU REACT!

Matthew 1:20-21

“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."

Special Music: “A Strange Way to Save The World”

Lesson #2: Don’t Stop Listening To God