The two names of Christ Mt 1:18-25

Introduction

What was so special about the baby that was born in Bethlehem? There would have been many babies born in Israel at that time. What is so different about this one? Why do people say this one is their Lord and King? Why do people still celebrate his birth today?

We find the answer in the message spoken by the angel to Joseph when he found out Mary was pregnant before they had come together.

Two names of Christ.

Tell narrative.

Jesus - v.21

This baby is different because he is the Saviour.

Jesus- Yahweh saves- He is the one who will bring God’s promised salvation.

Save his people- those who believe in him

Save from their sins- the punishment and separation that sin brings.

Sins penalty, power and presence. Past, present, future.

Why do we need to be saved from sin?

How did Jesus do this?

Preach the Gospel.

Christmas looks forward to Easter. Jesus' birth looks forward to Jesus death. The manger looks forward to the cross.

Application

Is he your Saviour?

How could the death of 1 man save multitudes of people? Jesus was not just a man.

Immanuel - v.23

This baby is different because he is God with us.

Fulfillment of prophecy- Isa 7:14.

God incarnate John 1:1,14. The one who made the stars, the one who created the world. He entered into this creation as a real human being.

Jesus is God who became a man. God is Triune. Father, Son and Holy Spirit. One God in three persons. God the Son took on human nature.

Let earth and Heaven combine, Angels and men agree, To praise in songs divine Th’incarnate Deity, Our God contracted to a span, Incomprehensibly made man.

He did this to reconcile us back to himself.

Why this way?

Application

Are you amazed at the love of God for you?

Conclusion

The baby born of the virgin Mary is both Saviour and Lord. He is Jesus and Immanuel.

How should we respond to this?

How did Joseph respond to this message?

He responded with repentance. A change of mind.

He changed his mind about quietly divorcing Mary.

How should we respond?

With repentance and faith. Change your mind about the way you have been going. Turn from sin. Put your trust in Jesus as Saviour and Lord.