Matthew 1:24 - Exposition

Then Joseph being raised ; and Joseph arose (Revised Version); for the stress of the Greek is not on "Joseph," but ἐγερθείς . Immediately on arising, Joseph obeyed. From sleep ; from his sleep (Revised Version); i.e. which he was then enjoying. No stress is laid on sleep as such. Did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife. "Bidden," in modern English, too much suggests "asking;" hence the Revised Version "commanded" ( προσέταξεν ). Joseph's faith was seen in immediate obedience to commands received.