Collective Church Kinston: Joesph

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The Christmas story often highlights Mary, baby Jesus, shepherds, and wise men, but Joseph - the humble carpenter - offers profound lessons about biblical manhood. This blue-collar worker from David's lineage was entrusted with the enormous responsibility of being Jesus' earthly father, not because of his status or wealth, but because of his character and faithfulness.Joseph exemplified five essential characteristics of godly manhood. First, he lived with integrity - Scripture calls him a righteous man who followed God's law faithfully. His character was tested in private moments and in how he treated those who couldn't benefit him. Second, he showed compassion when discovering Mary's pregnancy, choosing to divorce her quietly rather than disgrace her publicly, refusing to weaponize his hurt. Third, he demonstrated competence through immediate obedience, responding without delay when God called him to take Mary as his wife and later to flee to Egypt. Fourth, he embraced courage by accepting suffering as a privilege, carrying burdens for his family rather than creating more burdens for them. Finally, he found contentment in faithful service without needing recognition - remarkably, Joseph is never quoted once in Scripture, yet his life itself was a powerful testimony.In our culture that attacks biblical manhood, Joseph's example shows us that godly men don't need platforms or applause to walk in God's power. They simply need faithfulness to serve their families and obey their King, demonstrating the gospel through sacrificial love and stepping into suffering to serve others, just as Jesus did for us.