Verse of the Day
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Matthew 1:20-21
But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
Introduction
Matthew 1:20-21 introduces us to a pivotal moment in salvation history—the angel's message to Joseph in a dream. Joseph, a righteous man, wrestles with the news of Mary's unexpected pregnancy. In this passage, the angel reassures him, unveiling the divine purpose behind these events. Through the angel’s words, we learn the name and mission of the Messiah: Jesus, who will "save his people from their sins." This passage reveals God's plan of redemption and Joseph's role in it.
Commentary
The angel's appearance is a hallmark of divine intervention in the Gospel of Matthew. The phrase “Joseph, son of David” underscores Joseph's lineage, linking Jesus to the Davidic covenant and fulfilling Old Testament prophecy. The angel's command not to fear indicates that Joseph's decision to divorce Mary quietly stemmed from both personal anguish and a sense of righteousness.
The name "Jesus" (derived from the Hebrew Yeshua, meaning "The Lord saves") encapsulates his purpose. The reference to saving "his people from their sins" expands the concept of Messiahship. While many in first-century Judaism anticipated a political deliverer, Jesus' mission addresses humanity's deeper need for spiritual reconciliation with God.
Understanding Context
This passage must be understood within the Jewish expectations of the Messiah and the broader narrative of God's redemptive work. The mention of Joseph's Davidic lineage ties the Gospel to prophetic promises such as those in 2 Samuel 7:12-16 and Isaiah 9:6-7. It also highlights Joseph's crucial role in the legal establishment of Jesus as David’s descendant, fulfilling Messianic prophecy.
Furthermore, the angel's declaration points to the dual nature of Jesus' mission: fulfilling God's covenant promises to Israel and extending salvation to all nations. By emphasizing "saving people from their sins," Matthew begins to define the Messianic kingdom in spiritual rather than political terms.
Application for Today
1. Trust in God's Plan: Like Joseph, believers often face situations that seem incomprehensible or challenging. His obedience demonstrates the importance of trusting God's guidance, even when it disrupts our plans or expectations.
2. God’s Faithfulness to His Promises: This passage reassures us that God’s redemptive plan is active and unchanging. His promises, fulfilled in Jesus, are as relevant now as they were then.
3. Jesus as Savior: For Christians today, the name and mission of Jesus remain central. Acknowledging Him as the one who saves us from sin encourages believers to live in gratitude and share the hope of salvation with others.
Reflection
Take a moment to reflect on Joseph’s faith and obedience. Imagine the courage it took to step into the unknown, trusting that God was at work in ways beyond his understanding. Are there areas in your life where you feel God is calling you to act in faith, even when the path ahead seems uncertain?
Consider also the profound gift of salvation through Jesus. How does knowing that he came to save you from your sins impact the way you live today? Spend time in prayer, thanking God for his faithfulness and asking for the courage to follow where he leads.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
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