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." (Matthew 1:21)

Summary and Meaning

This pivotal verse in the Gospel of Matthew encapsulates the purpose of Jesus' coming into the world. The name "Jesus" is derived from the Hebrew name "Yeshua," which means "The Lord saves." This verse highlights both the humanity of Christ, as He is born of Mary, and His divine mission to save humanity from sin.

Insights from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes that Jesus' very name indicates His role as the Savior. He points out that this saving work pertains to "His people," highlighting that Jesus came specifically to redeem those who believe in Him, ensuring both the scope and intent of His mission. Henry also reflects on the significance of this event in God’s redemptive plan.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes shares that the phrase "save his people from their sins" signifies liberation not merely from the consequences of sin but from the power of sin itself. He notes the intimate connection between this promise and the broader narrative of salvation history, drawing parallels to Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke elaborates on the implications of the sacrificial role of Jesus, stating that His birth signifies the initiation of a new covenant. Clarke underlines the contrast between the expectation of a political savior and the spiritual salvation that Jesus offers, which remains a crucial aspect of Christian theology.

Bible Verse Cross-References

This verse can be cross-referenced with the following Passages:

• Isaiah 7:14 - Birth of Immanuel: "Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."
• Luke 2:11 - Announcement of Jesus' birth: "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."
• John 3:16 - God's love and salvation: "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."
• Romans 5:8 - God's love demonstrated: "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
• Acts 4:12 - Salvation through Jesus: "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."
• Titus 2:14 - Redeeming us for good works: "Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works."
• 1 John 4:14 - Testifying of the Son: "And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world."

Connections and Thematic Links

Thematic connections can be drawn from the confluence of prophetic fulfillment and the salvific identity of Jesus. Each referenced verse works synergistically to enhance the understanding of Matthew 1:21 and reveal the profound implications of Christ's incarnation.

As one studies these Bible verses that relate to each other, it becomes evident that a cohesive narrative unfolds about God's plan of redemption across both the Old and New Testaments. A comparative Bible verse analysis reveals profound insights into the nature of God's promise and the role of Jesus as the Messiah.

How to Use Bible Cross-References

Utilizing a Bible cross-reference guide can enhance your study experience, allowing for deeper exploration of themes such as salvation, glory, and fulfillment. These tools not only provide insight into the texts but also illuminate relationships within the Inter-Biblical dialogue.

Conclusion

Matthew 1:21 stands as a cornerstone verse in Christian doctrine, narrating the significance of Jesus’ mission and identity. It serves as a catalyst for exploring the entirety of Scripture and the interconnections that signify God's redemptive plan. Through comprehensive study methods, believers can achieve a nuanced understanding of the rich tapestry of Biblical teachings and cross-references.