Jesus saves

“And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.”

Matthew 1:21 (KJV)

What does this mean?

An angel has come to Joseph in a dream, because Joseph is planning to quietly end his engagement to Mary after learning she is pregnant. The angel tells him not to be afraid to take her as his wife, and that she will have a son, and Joseph is to name him Jesus. The name itself explains the mission: Jesus means the Lord saves, and the angel says this child will rescue his people from their sins.

What does this teach us?

Jesus' name is his job description. Before he is born, his purpose is already named: to rescue his people from their sins, not from Rome or from hardship, but from the sin that separates them from God.

How can we apply this?

If you carry guilt this Christmas, hear the angel's words as if they were spoken to you: this child came to rescue people from their sins, and that includes yours. Bring the guilt to Jesus plainly, and let his name do what it promises — save.

Related KJV passages

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
John 3:16
“For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”
John 3:17
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
Romans 5:8

Reflection

What sin or guilt have you been carrying that you need Jesus to rescue you from?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, your name means the Lord saves, and I need saving. Rescue me from my sins, forgive me, and help me to walk in the freedom you came to give. Amen.