Matthew 1:21- She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Matthew 1:21 is a key verse in the story of Jesus’ birth, revealing His identity and mission. The angel tells Joseph that Mary will give birth to a son and that he is to name Him Jesus. The name “Jesus” means “The Lord saves” or “Yahweh is salvation,” highlighting the purpose of His life: to save people from their sins. This verse explains why Jesus came into the world—not to establish a political kingdom but to rescue humanity from the ultimate problem of sin and its consequences.
Historical Context
At the time of Jesus’ birth, the Jewish people were under Roman rule and longing for a Messiah who would deliver them from political oppression. Many expected a military or political leader, but the angel’s message makes it clear that Jesus’ mission was spiritual. Sin had separated humanity from God since the fall of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3), and the need for a Savior to restore that relationship had been foretold throughout the Old Testament. This verse ties Jesus’ mission to those prophecies, showing that He came to bring salvation and reconciliation with God.
Theological Implications
This verse defines Jesus’ primary purpose: to save people from their sins. Sin is humanity’s greatest problem, as it separates us from God and leads to spiritual death (Romans 6:23). By sending Jesus, God provided the only solution to this problem. Jesus’ mission was not just to teach or perform miracles but to offer His life as a sacrifice for sin (1 Peter 2:24). This verse also reveals God’s grace, as salvation is a gift offered through Jesus and not something that can be earned by human effort.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 1:21 is a turning point in the narrative, providing the first explicit mention of Jesus’ name and His mission. The angel’s words are direct and authoritative, emphasizing the divine origin of Jesus’ mission. The connection between Jesus’ name and His purpose (“he will save his people from their sins”) reinforces the idea that His identity and mission are inseparable. This verse also fulfills the Old Testament prophecies of a Savior who would redeem God’s people.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 53:5-6: The prophecy of a Savior who would bear the punishment for humanity’s sins.
- Luke 19:10: Jesus’ mission to seek and save the lost.
- John 3:16-17: God’s love in sending His Son to save the world.
- Acts 4:12: Salvation is found in no one else but Jesus.
- Hebrews 9:26-28: Jesus’ sacrifice to take away sin once and for all.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Matthew 1:21 reminds Christians that Jesus came to address humanity’s deepest need: salvation from sin. It challenges believers to recognize the seriousness of sin and their need for forgiveness. This verse also offers hope, as it assures us that through Jesus, we can be reconciled to God and receive eternal life. For Christians, it’s a call to live in gratitude for Jesus’ sacrifice and to share the good news of His salvation with others.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reveals God’s love in its purest form. By sending His Son to save people from their sins, God showed His deep desire to restore the broken relationship between Himself and humanity. Jesus’ name and mission reflect God’s heart for redemption and His willingness to pay the ultimate price to bring people back to Him. It is a reminder that salvation is not earned but freely given because of God’s love and grace.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 1:21 directly ties Jesus’ identity to His mission. As the Savior, Jesus fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah who would save His people from sin. His name encapsulates His purpose, and His life, death, and resurrection accomplish the salvation promised in this verse. Jesus is the only one who can bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity, making this verse central to understanding His role as the Redeemer.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does Jesus’ name reveal about His identity and purpose?
- How does this verse challenge you to take the problem of sin seriously in your own life?
- How does knowing Jesus came to save you from your sins deepen your gratitude and faith?
- In what ways can you share the hope of salvation with others?
- How does this verse help you understand the depth of God’s love and grace?
Matthew 1:21 is a cornerstone verse that reveals the heart of the gospel: Jesus came to save us from our sins. It calls us to trust in His salvation, live in gratitude for His grace, and share the good news of His redeeming love with the world. Through this verse, we are reminded of God’s faithfulness, His love for humanity, and His plan to restore us to Himself through Jesus Christ.