Godly Fatherhood

1
Godly Fatherhood

• Joseph a godly example of fatherhood. Matt.
  118-25

2
Introduction

• Not much is known of Joseph the father of
  Jesus.
• While conceived of by the Holy Spirit we know
  that Joseph raised Jesus as his own son.
• This scriptures point out his righteousness.
• What little is stated Joseph serves as a
  beautiful example for Christian fathers.
• Lets look at the example Joseph served and the
  encouragement we can glean.

3
Josephs Example of Godly Fatherhood

• He found favor with God. Lk. 128
• This passage is explicitly about Mary.
• It also might indicate more about Josephs
  parents (who would have traditionally established
  the betrothal) than himself.
• Providentially speaking, however, Joseph
  inevitably found favor with God by being the
  father to raise the Savior of this world (it was
  no coincidence. Matt. 11-15).

4
Josephs Example of Godly Fatherhood

• He was a righteous man. Matt. 119
• While a short description of his character, it
  speaks volumes of Josephs walk before God.
• This is a man who loves God, wants to serve Him
  according to His word, with a good and noble
  heart.
• This short phrase can serve as an indicator for
  not only his actions but as an influence on his
  family. Cp. Lk. 251

5
Josephs Example of Godly Fatherhood

• He showed mercy to his wife. Matt. 119
• While betrothed, the man/woman were legally bound
  to one another as husband/wife. Cp. Dt. 2223-24
• Not wanting to disgrace his wife shining his
  virtuous character as read in the Scriptures.

6
Josephs Example of Godly Fatherhood

• Further, his mercy toward his wife was coupled by
  amazing faith. Lk. 126, 39ff, 56
• It was approximately three months before Mary
  returned to Joseph (visiting w/ Elizabeth).
• Seeing her he was minded to put her away (divorce
  her) privately (secretly).
• Yet, acceptance of the angelic message was a
  testament to his great faith. Matt. 120-25

7
Encouragement To Fathers Today

• We may not be raising the Son of God but have the
  equal task of raising children for God.
• We will not be perfect at raising our children
  God has entrusted to our stewardship, but we can
  train our children to be perfected in Christ.

8
Encouragement To Fathers Today

• All this will take a man who strives to
• Live with righteousness.
• Show mercy unto our family (wife/children) and
  others.
• Demonstrate faith (trust) in God in situations
  that are seemingly impossible.

9
Conclusion

• Fathers, God bless you in your effort to raise
  children who love God.
• Children, give honor to whom God has placed over
  you.