Born to Save: The Christmas Story of JesusSample

Embracing the Wonder of God's Salvation Plan

The birth of Jesus is not just a heartwarming story but a fulfillment of centuries-old prophecy. Matthew pauses to emphasize that the events surrounding Jesus’ birth were predetermined and prophesied by God Himself. Long before Christ’s arrival, the prophet Isaiah had foretold that a virgin would bear a son, and He would be called Emmanuel, “God with us.” Through this miraculous birth, the promises of God and the hopes of His people would find their fulfillment.

The events of Jesus’ life were not random; Matthew reminds us they were intentional acts fulfilling Scripture. Through them, God affirmed His faithfulness, showing us that He keeps His promises, no matter how impossible they may seem.

Joseph’s role in naming Jesus highlights the importance of lineage and identity. Though he was not Jesus’ biological father, Joseph’s obedience in naming Jesus ensured Jesus’ place in the lineage of David and affirmed His role as the promised Messiah. The name Jesus, meaning “Yahweh saves,” reflects His purpose: to save us from our sins. Jesus came to address our deepest need, offering forgiveness and a restored relationship with God.

We hear the Christmas story each year. It can become so familiar it almost becomes routine. Yet, in this narrative we see the lengths to which God went to solve humanity’s greatest problem. Our sin wasn’t a minor issue that could be fixed with moral effort or good deeds. It required God Himself to take on human nature and endure the cross so that we might be saved.

Let the significance of the Christmas story sink in. Our sin problem was so great that nothing less than God’s own intervention could resolve it. No amount of religious effort or moral living could suffice. We needed a Savior, and God provided one in His Son. Jesus’ arrival assures us that God’s love is real. Christ was willing to pay the ultimate price for our redemption.

Have you truly grasped the necessity and wonder of Jesus’ birth? If you’re relying on anything other than Christ’s work for salvation, let this text be a wake-up call. There is no other Savior, no other way to eternal life. Embrace the gift of Christ, the one who came to save you from sin and give you new life. Rejoice in the depth of God’s love and let it transform how you approach Him. Through Jesus, God made a way for us to be with Him forever.

This devotional was based on a sermon by Richard Caldwell. To listen to a related sermon and an episode of the Straight Truth Podcast related to this message, visit our website