Would There Be Christmas if Joseph Ran Away?

Session 3: Bible Study: Would There Be Christmas if Joseph Ran Away?

Guiding Verse:
"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.’"
—Matthew 1:20

Session Focus

This study focuses on Joseph’s critical role in the Christmas story and the importance of obedience to God, even when His plans seem incomprehensible or challenging.

Introduction: Joseph's Dilemma; A Test of Faith and Character

• 1. The Shocking Discovery
  Joseph’s world was turned upside down when he discovered Mary was pregnant. In those days, a Jewish betrothal was much more binding than modern engagements. Although they were not yet living together as husband and wife, their betrothal was legally binding, requiring a formal divorce to end the relationship. For Joseph, Mary’s pregnancy seemed like an undeniable betrayal. Imagine the heartbreak, confusion, and sense of betrayal he must have felt as the woman he loved appeared to have broken their sacred commitment.

2. The Cultural Context
   In Jewish society at the time, morality and reputation were of utmost importance. A woman found to be pregnant outside of marriage would face public humiliation, severe judgment, and in some cases, the penalty of death by stoning (Deuteronomy 22:23-24).

Joseph’s association with Mary could have severe consequences for him as well. His reputation as a righteous and honorable man would be called into question. People would either assume he had sinned by being intimate with Mary before their marriage or that he had been deceived and cuckolded by an unfaithful fiancée. Either way, the shame would tarnish both their families.

3. Joseph’s Plan to Divorce Quietly
   Despite his own pain and the societal expectations, Joseph’s actions reveal the depth of his character. Matthew 1:19 describes him as a “righteous man” who did not want to expose Mary to public disgrace. Instead of seeking revenge or vindication, Joseph resolved to divorce her quietly, sparing her further shame or danger.

This decision was no small act of mercy. A quiet divorce would mean Joseph would accept the public assumption of shame on himself rather than subject Mary to severe punishment. It was a selfless and compassionate choice that demonstrated his integrity and care for Mary, even in the midst of what he believed to be betrayal.

4. The Weight of the Decision
   Imagine the sleepless nights and internal turmoil Joseph must have endured as he wrestled with this decision. On one hand, the law and cultural norms demanded justice. On the other, his love for Mary and his commitment to do what was right conflicted with the harsh realities of their situation.

Joseph likely prayed for guidance, seeking wisdom to handle a situation that seemed impossible. The fact that he was open to God’s intervention in this moment of uncertainty speaks volumes about his faith and humility.

Application for Today
Joseph’s dilemma reminds us that life often presents us with challenging decisions that test our faith, character, and obedience to God. His initial response—compassion and mercy even in the face of perceived betrayal—serves as an example of how we should approach difficult situations with grace and humility.

Joseph’s story challenges us to ask:

• How do we respond when life doesn’t go according to our expectations?
• Are we willing to trust God’s guidance, even when the path ahead seems unclear or unfair?

• Discussion Starter: Have you ever faced a moment where obedience to God seemed incredibly difficult or risky?

1. God’s Unexpected Plans

• Scripture Reading: Matthew 1:18-20
• Highlight that Joseph's initial reaction was logical and aligned with societal expectations.
• God intervenes through an angel, revealing His divine plan and urging Joseph not to be afraid.
• Key Point: God’s plans often challenge our human understanding, but they are  always perfect and purposeful.
• Application: Reflect on a time when God’s direction in your life didn’t make sense. What helped you trust Him?

2. Joseph’s Obedience

• Scripture Reading: Matthew 1:24-25
• Joseph wakes up and immediately obeys God’s command.
• Despite the social risks, Joseph chooses faith over fear and takes Mary as his wife.
• Key Point: Obedience to God often requires courage and sacrifice. Joseph’s willingness to follow God’s plan ensured that Jesus would be born into a family that provided love, care, and protection.
• Illustration: Eric Liddell and the 1924 Olympics
• Eric Liddell, famously known as "The Flying Scotsman," was a world-class sprinter and devout Christian. He had trained for years to compete in the 100-meter dash at the 1924 Paris Olympics, a race he was heavily favored to win. However, when the Olympic schedule was released, Liddell discovered that the preliminary heats for the 100-meter race were set to take place on a Sunday.

Liddell faced a heart-wrenching decision: honor his deep conviction to keep the Sabbath holy or pursue the dream he had worked so hard for. Despite immense pressure from his country, the Olympic committee, and even his own teammates, Liddell chose to withdraw from the race rather than compromise his faith.

His decision made headlines worldwide, and many criticized him as unpatriotic and foolish. Yet, Liddell remained steadfast, trusting that obeying God was more important than worldly success.

Unexpectedly, Liddell was given the opportunity to run in the 400-meter race instead—a distance he had not specifically trained for. On the day of the race, a trainer handed him a note with 1 Samuel 2:30 written on it: “Those who honor Me, I will honor.” Inspired, Liddell ran with everything he had and not only won the gold medal but set a new world record in the process.

Connection to Joseph’s Story:
Like Joseph, Eric Liddell faced a defining moment where obeying God required him to set aside personal dreams and endure criticism. His faithfulness, however, became a powerful testimony that continues to inspire generations.

Takeaway for the Group:
When we trust and obey God, even in the face of great challenges, we align ourselves with His purposes and open the door for Him to do extraordinary things through us. Just as Eric Liddell honored God with his actions, we are called to remain faithful, trusting that God will honor our obedience in His perfect way.

• Discussion: What makes obedience to God difficult in your life? How can Joseph’s example inspire us to trust God even in tough circumstances?

3. What If Joseph Had Run Away?

• Consider the hypothetical: What would have happened if Joseph had abandoned Mary and disobeyed God’s message?
• Jesus’ birth would have been shrouded in even greater difficulty.
• God’s plan would still prevail (His sovereignty is unwavering), but Joseph would have missed his opportunity to be part of God’s great story.
• Key Point: When we step away from God’s plans, we not only face personal consequences but also miss out on the incredible blessings of being part of His work.
• Application: Trusting God in the hardest times aligns our lives with His greater purpose and blessings.

4. Seeing Christmas Through Joseph’s Eyes

• Scripture Reading: Luke 2:4-7

• The Journey to Bethlehem: Joseph’s Role as Protector and Provider

1. The Journey to Bethlehem
   Imagine Joseph’s responsibility as he prepared for the arduous journey to Bethlehem. Mary was in the final stages of her pregnancy, a time when rest and comfort were crucial. Yet, because of the Roman decree requiring all to return to their ancestral towns for the census (Luke 2:1-5), Joseph had no choice but to lead his young family on a trip that spanned roughly 70-90 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Some think it was a 4 day journey however, most believe, given the terrain and Mary’s situation, it was most likely about a weeks trip.

The terrain was rough, with dusty roads, rocky paths, and possible threats from bandits. As they traveled, Joseph had to ensure Mary’s safety, likely walking alongside her as she rode a donkey. Imagine the worry and fatigue Joseph must have felt, balancing his duty to fulfill the census requirement with his deep care for Mary and the unborn child she carried.

2. The Arrival in Bethlehem
   After days of grueling travel, they finally arrived in Bethlehem, only to face yet another challenge: there was no place for them to stay. Every inn was full, leaving Joseph scrambling to find shelter for his laboring wife. The only available space was a stable—a humble, dirty, and unfit place for the birth of a child, let alone the Savior of the world.

Imagine Joseph’s emotions at that moment. As a husband and provider, he might have felt frustration and helplessness, wishing he could offer Mary more. Yet he made do with what he had, doing everything possible to make the stable as safe and comfortable as he could.

3. The Birth in a Stable
   In the stillness of that humble stable, the Savior of the world was born. I find it interesting that in 2017 Newsweek Magazine released an article titled: Isreal: Biblical Stables Discovered in Area Where Jesus Lived and Preached.

Picture Joseph beside Mary as she labored, likely offering words of comfort and encouragement. There was no doctor, no midwife, and no family to assist—just Joseph, steadfast in his role as protector and provider.

When the cries of the newborn broke the silence, Joseph held Jesus for the first time. Imagine the awe he must have felt, realizing he was holding not just a baby but the fulfillment of God’s promise to His people. Despite the humble surroundings, Joseph provided a safe and loving environment for the Messiah’s first moments on earth.

4. Protector of God’s Plan
   Joseph’s responsibilities didn’t end with Jesus’ birth. Shortly afterward, he received a divine warning in a dream to flee to Egypt to escape King Herod’s wrath (Matthew 2:13-14). Once again, Joseph rose to the challenge, immediately obeying God’s command to protect his family.

Joseph’s unwavering faith, courage, and commitment were vital to the Christmas story. He ensured that the Son of God was safe, cared for, and able to fulfill His purpose on earth.

Reflection for Today
Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem and his role in Jesus’ birth remind us of the sacrifices, courage, and faith required to follow God’s plans. His example challenges us to trust God, even when the path is difficult and the circumstances are far from ideal. Just as Joseph protected and provided for his family, we are called to trust in God’s provision and step boldly into the roles He has entrusted to us.

• Joseph wasn’t just a bystander; he was a vital part of the story of salvation.

• Key Point: Seeing Christmas through Joseph’s eyes reminds us that obedience to God’s call may not be glamorous or easy, but it is always meaningful and necessary.
• Discussion: How can Joseph’s faithfulness encourage us to remain steadfast in our own walk with God, especially during trials?

Conclusion: Moving Toward God’s Plan

• Main Takeaway: Joseph’s obedience to God in the face of uncertainty and societal pressure reminds us that God’s plans often require us to step out in faith.
• Challenge: This Christmas, reflect on areas where God may be calling you to trust Him more deeply, even when it’s hard. Ask yourself, Will I run away, or will I move toward God’s plan like Joseph did?

Closing Prayer:

• Thank God for the example of Joseph, who shows us the importance of trusting Him even in difficult circumstances.
• Pray for courage to follow God’s plans, trusting that His ways are always good and purposeful.