Jesus, Savior

Scripture Reading — Acts 4:5-12

“You are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
— Matthew 1:21

The name Jesus means “the Lord saves.” That’s the whole purpose of his birth, ministry, death, resurrection, and reign. He came to “save his people.” From what? Scripture is clear: “from their sins.”

Notice what this does not say. It does not say Jesus came to save us from trouble, pain, or ignorance. It does not say he came to save us from bad governments, health problems, or family breakdowns. As real and hard as these things are (and Jesus cares about them), they do not represent our deepest or most pressing need.

Our greatest problem is sin. Sin is killing us. Sin is the root of brokenness. Unaddressed, sin separates us from God— forever.

But—praise God!—there is a Savior: Jesus! And he is the only one. “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

Jesus took the punishment for our sin; his rescue brings us back to God. Even “while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son” (Romans 5:10).

So, when we say Jesus’ name, in faith, we confess our need for him and why he came. More than just a helper, a good example, or a guide, “He is able to save completely those who come to God through him” (Hebrews 7:25).

Jesus, you are the only Savior from sin. We need you. Help us to recognize our sin and that you are the only One who saves. In your saving name we pray. Amen.

Written by: Lora Copley