Matthew 1:21

Commentary on Matthew 1:21 (NKJV)

Matthew 1:21 (NKJV):

“And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”

Introduction

Matthew 1:21 holds profound significance, encapsulating the essence of the gospel. This verse is a foundational scripture that highlights the divine purpose of Jesus Christ’s incarnation: to save His people from their sins. It resonates deeply with principles, such as divine sovereignty, grace, and redemption.

Contextual Analysis

Matthew 1:21 is part of the angelic announcement to Joseph, revealing God’s plan for Mary and the child she bears. In the broader context of Matthew 1, this passage sets the stage for understanding Jesus as the fulfilment of Old Testament prophecies and the embodiment of God’s redemptive promise.

Theological Insights

Divine Sovereignty:

The announcement to Joseph underscores God’s sovereign will in salvation history. The name “Jesus,” derived from the Hebrew name “Yeshua,” meaning “The Lord is salvation,” signifies God’s direct intervention in human history to accomplish His redemptive purposes.

Incarnation and Redemption:

The phrase “He will save His people from their sins” highlights the incarnational aspect of Jesus’ mission. It affirms the necessity of the incarnation—God becoming man—to fulfil the requirements of divine justice and to provide a means for humanity’s salvation.

Particular Redemption:

Particular redemption is the belief that Christ’s atonement is specifically for those whom God has chosen. The term “His people” indicates a particular group whom Jesus came to save, aligning with the doctrine of election.

Grace and Faith:

Salvation from sins, as stated in this verse, is an act of grace. Humans cannot achieve salvation through their efforts but receive it through faith in Jesus Christ. This verse encapsulates the essence of sola gratia (grace alone) and sola fide (faith alone).

Application to Modern Christian Living

Assurance of Salvation:

Believers can take comfort in the assurance that Jesus has fully accomplished the work of salvation. This assurance is not based on human merit but on Christ’s finished work on the cross.

Call to Holiness:

Understanding that Jesus saved us from our sins encourages believers to live a life that reflects gratitude for God’s grace. This involves a commitment to holiness and obedience to God’s commands.

Evangelism:

This verse serves as a reminder of the gospel’s central message. Christians are called to share the good news that Jesus saves from sin, making evangelism a vital aspect of modern Christian living.

Identity in Christ:

Recognising that believers are “His people” fosters a sense of belonging and identity in Christ. This identity shapes our worldview and motivates us to live according to God’s will.