Series: Faces Around the Manger

Lesson 3 of 8

Joseph: The Most Surprised Man in Nazareth

This study attempts to honor Joseph for his faith and God and noble treatment of Mary.

1. Summarize what we know about the background of Joseph of Nazareth. What is the uncertainty about his occupation? (See Matthew 13:55) Age? Time of death?

2. As to faith and character, what is a tzaddik in Judaism? What is the relevance of this term to Joseph?

3. Why does this video call Joseph “The Most Surprised Man in Nazareth”? How was Jewish betrothal different from a modern engagement?

4. From Matthew 1:18-24, what “dilemma” did Joseph face between his devotion to the Law of Moses and his concern for Mary? What was his proposed solution to the dilemma? How does Romans 5:7 capture this tension?

5. What do the stories of Jesus’ presentation at the Temple (Luke 2:22-40) and his family’s Passover tradition and experience (Luke 2:41-52) tell us about his parents’ commitment to the spiritual formation of the child entrusted to them?