Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Once Upon a Time: the perfect beginning for the perfect hero

Matthew 1: 18 – 25

What is the most embarrassing thing you have ever had to tell someone you were dating?

Betrothal in the ancient world was much more serious than our modern “engagement,” none the less, imagine you were Joseph and heard this news about your fiancé. How would you be feeling?
What do Joseph’s initial actions tell us about what kind of person he is?
How does Joseph in this passage exhibit the ideal of what it means to be a disciple?

What needs to change in your life to better match Joseph’s example of integrity?
What do we learn about who Jesus is from the message of the angel to Joseph?
Why does the angel mention how Jesus’ birth fulfills Scriptural prophecy?

Why is it necessary for an angelic announcement in order for Joseph to do what is right?
What does God have to do in your life in order to get your attention?
How can you become more open to the things that God is trying to communicate with you?
Why does the Joseph decide to obey what the angel tells him to do?
What kind of pressure might this situation have put on their relationship?
What do you figure would be the likelihood this pregnancy would be brought to term in our world?

Trace the emotions Mary would have gone through in this entire process.
Why does God select such a fragile situation for his Son to be brought into the world?
Why might it be important that Jesus was legally recognized as the son of Joseph?
How have you seen God use strange situations in your life to accomplish his purposes?
How do we make sure that when we know God is speaking to us that we are obedient to his will?

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