" Was Joseph the Father of JESUS ? "

 

Luke 2:40-52  "And the CHILD grew, and waxed strong in SPIRIT, filled with wisdom: and the grace of GOD was upon HIM. Now HIS parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when HE was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the CHILD JESUS tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and HIS Mother knew not of it. But they, supposing HIM to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought HIM among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. And when they found HIM not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking HIM.

And it came to pass, that after three days they found HIM in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard HIM were astonished at HIS understanding and answers. And when they saw HIM, they were amazed: and HIS Mother said unto HIM, behold, THY Father and I have sought THEE sorrowing. And HE said unto them, How is it that ye sought ME ? Wist ye not that I must be about MY FATHER's business ? And they understood not the saying which HE spoke unto them. And HE went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but HIS Mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And JESUS increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with GOD and man."

     "And Joseph and HIS Mother marveled at those things which were spoken of HIM" (Luke 2:33 picture at top of post). Notice that Luke does not say, "HIS Father and HIS Mother." Joseph was not JESUS' biological Father. The LORD JESUS was the SON of MAN. No man was involved in HIS supernatural conception. Now consider Luke 2:48 (pictured above) where Mary says, "THY Father and I have sought THEE sorrowing." Mary calls Joseph the Father of JESUS. Was Mary mistaken ? If anyone knew about the virgin birth and supernatural conception, Mary certainly did. Was Joseph the Father of JESUS or not ? Keep in mind what a Father is meant to be. Many fathers today are missing in action. Sadly, too many children are born out of wedlock and raised without the presence of a Father. Others have deadbeat Dads who refuse to play a responsible role in their upbringing. This was never GOD's intent. The breakdown of the family has been a curse on our society in so many ways.

     Back to our question: What is a Father supposed to be ? Here are three simple words that sum up the paternal responsibilities: The Father is to provide (1st.Timothy 5:8), protect (Proverbs 14:26), and teach (Ephesians 6:4). Joseph provided for his family by working diligently as a carpenter (Matthew 13:55), protected his family from harm (Matthew 2:13-14), and taught his family (two of his sons, James and Jude, authored books of the Bible). Joseph, our LORD's foster Father, faithfully fulfilled the role of a Father, even though he had nothing to do with JESUS' conception. "Joseph. . .fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the HOLY GHOST" (Matthew 1:20 pictured above). GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

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