Understanding Matthew 1:21

Verse: "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins."

Overview of Matthew 1:21

This verse from the Book of Matthew is a pivotal passage in the New Testament, encapsulating the purpose of Jesus Christ's coming into the world. The name "Jesus" itself signifies "the Lord saves," which lays the foundational understanding of his mission: to bring salvation.

Bible Verse Meanings and Interpretations

• Message of Salvation:

  According to Matthew Henry, this verse emphasizes the core of Jesus' mission: salvation from sin. The phrase "he shall save" indicates that Jesus is the source of redemption, projecting a powerful assurance to humanity regarding deliverance from their transgressions.

• Divine Promise:

  Albert Barnes interprets this as a fulfillment of God's promise to save His people, highlighting the continuity of Old Testament prophecies. It signifies a divine intervention in human history, where God, out of love, sends His Son to provide a means for salvation.

• Calling His Name:

  In his commentary, Adam Clarke mentions that naming the child Jesus was not merely a cultural practice but a prophetic declaration of the child's identity and purpose. This act signifies acknowledgment of Jesus' role as Savior.

Detailed Exegesis and Analysis

The statement "she shall bring forth a son" connects to the prophetic fulfillment foretold in Isaiah 7:14 about a virgin conceiving (Isaiah 7:14). This highlights the divine nature of Jesus' birth, establishing his identity as both fully divine and fully human.

Historical Context

Matthew's genealogy (Matthew 1:1-17) sets the stage for this verse, illustrating Jesus' rightful claim to the throne of David and His place in Jewish tradition. This context amplifies the significance of his role as the Messiah.

Application and Relevance

Believers today can draw profound insights from Matthew 1:21 regarding their faith and relationship with Jesus. The promise of salvation is a cornerstone of Christian faith, reassuring individuals of God's grace and mercy.

• Faith and Trust:

  One can trust in Jesus' ability to deliver from sin, reflecting on the past and taking a forward step in faith.

• Calling upon His Name:

  In prayers and worship, acknowledging Jesus' name means recognizing His saving role in life.

Related Scripture References

• Isaiah 9:6 - "For unto us a child is born..."
• Luke 2:11 - "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior..."
• John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son..."
• Acts 4:12 - "Neither is there salvation in any other..."

Conclusion

Matthew 1:21 holds a significant place in the narrative of Jesus' life and mission. The insights provided by various commentators help deepen our understanding of Scripture and the implications of Jesus' identity and purpose. This verse essentially invites believers into a profound relationship with Christ, grounded in the promise of salvation and the hope of eternal life.

Study Resources

For those looking to explore further, consider using the following:

• Bible study groups to discuss and reflect on Biblical teachings.
• Online Bible study platforms for interactive learning.
• Bible study guides to help facilitate deeper understanding of Scripture.
• Commentaries for academic insights into specific verses.