Make Room for Courageous Obedience

Sermon by Pastor Derek Sim
Text: Matthew 1:18–25

Following last week’s message on Mary’s response to God’s outrageous disruption, this sermon shifts our focus to Joseph — a quiet but powerful example of courageous obedience. Though Joseph never speaks a recorded word in Scripture, his actions echo through eternity.

Joseph faced a devastating personal crisis. The woman he loved and was pledged to marry was found to be pregnant. From a human perspective, it looked like betrayal. His dreams of a peaceful future collapsed, and he stood at the crossroads of pain, confusion, and social consequence. Yet Scripture reveals Joseph as a righteous and compassionate man. Instead of reacting in anger, he chose mercy, planning to quietly divorce Mary to protect her from shame.

In Joseph’s moment of deepest struggle, God saw him. God did not abandon him in confusion. At the right moment, God spoke — not before the struggle, not after the decision, but right in the middle of it. Through a dream, the angel reassured Joseph, addressed his fear, and revealed only what he needed to know: the child’s divine origin, Joseph’s role in God’s plan, and the next step of obedience.

God did not give Joseph the full roadmap. He did not explain how people would react, how long the stigma would last, or how difficult the journey ahead would be. Instead, God gave Joseph enough light for the next step. This is faith — trusting God without full clarity.

Joseph’s response was immediate. He did not delay, negotiate, or wait for better conditions. He obeyed. His courageous obedience protected Mary, preserved her dignity, and positioned Jesus within the royal line of David. Through Joseph’s quiet “yes,” God’s redemptive plan moved forward.

This message reminds us that:

God sees us in our struggles

God speaks when we need clarity

God’s voice transforms confusion into courageous obedience

Courageous obedience is not loud or dramatic. It is often unseen, costly, and uncomfortable — but it always carries eternal purpose. As we approach the end of the year, we are challenged to ask: Where is God calling us to courageous obedience today? Forgiveness, giving, serving, trusting, standing for truth, or taking a step of faith?

Like Joseph, may we choose God’s voice over public opinion, God’s plan over personal comfort, and God’s will over our own expectations.