Who Named Jesus and Why?

While Joseph was betrothed to Mary, she became pregnant. In the culture of the time, Mary could have been stoned for her seeming infidelity. Instead, Joseph being a God-fearing man was going to put her away quietly. But an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20-21).

Jesus was titled by heaven above, and His name means Savior. “Jesus” describes who He is and what He came to do. Ever since the garden, every person sins and falls short of the glory of God. It doesn’t take us long to realize that. But God, the Father, in His gracious love sent His Son into the world to “save His people from their sins.”

If you have placed your trust in Jesus’ payment of His life on the cross for your sins, remember this Christmas season that your sins are paid for, forgiven, washed away. Jesus’ mission was successfully fulfilled. As we receive His gift of forgiveness and being made right in God’s sight—being put back into right relationship with our holy God—let us rejoice!

If you have never asked Christ to save you from your sins, Christmas time would be a great time to do so. The price has been paid. Simply receive the gift. Turn from running away from God to running to the Lord in gratefulness. Jesus came and completed His calling to pay the price to “save His people from their sins.” Ask Him to do so today and then trust.

Merry Christmas!

You can learn more about Jesus from the Dusty Sandals: A Woman's Walk Through the Prophecies and Promises of Matthew Bible study guide.