Joseph

AI summary: Joseph matters because the cross references present him as the man who receives the scandal of Mary's pregnancy in faith and then repeatedly obeys divine direction at decisive moments. He names Jesus, safeguards the child through flight to Egypt and return, and anchors the Messiah's early life within Davidic lineage and a humble working household. Scripture says relatively little about him, but what it does say is strikingly consistent. Taken together, the material presents this Joseph as a just and responsive guardian through whom God protects the incarnate Son in vulnerable early years.¹

The foster-father of our Lord (Matt. 1:16; Luke 3:23). He lived at Nazareth in Galilee (Luke 2:4). He is called a “just man.” He was by trade a carpenter (Matt. 13:55). He is last mentioned in connection with the journey to Jerusalem, when Jesus was twelve years old. It is probable that he died before Jesus entered on his public ministry. This is concluded from the fact that Mary only was present at the marriage feast in Cana of Galilee. His name does not appear in connection with the scenes of the crucifixion along with that of Mary (q.v.), John 19:25. ³