Jesus—The Name Above All Names

“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins.” —Matthew 1:21

When Joseph learned that Mary was pregnant, he planned to divorce her quietly. But an angel appeared and told him to take Mary as his wife. Her pregnancy was not the result of infidelity—it was the work of the Holy Spirit. The angel also gave Joseph a specific instruction: name the child Jesus, because he would save his people from their sins.

That raises an important question. If Jesus was a common name at the time, what made this Jesus different?

In Hebrew, Jesus is Yeshua the same name as Joshua—and it means The Lord saves.

Many Jews longed for a savior, though most expected a political deliverer who would overthrow Roman rule. But not every boy named Jesus playing in Israel’s dusty streets could change the fate of a nation.

Jesus came to offer something greater than political freedom. He came to bring spiritual salvation—meeting humanity’s deepest need.

And he still does.

Here are just five problems the name of Jesus addresses:

The Problem of Guilt and Condemnation

When Adam and Eve disobeyed God, guilt entered the human race (Genesis 3). They hid, covered themselves and shifted blame. God's warning proved true (Genesis 2:17). From that moment on, humanity has lived under guilt and condemnation. Jesus removes that burden.

The Problem of Powerlessness Against Sin

The angel declared that Jesus would save his people from their sins—not merely forgive them. Eternal life begins when we put our faith in Christ. But God promises that temptation is not irresistible and that he always provides a way to endure it (1 Corinthians 10:13). Because of Jesus, victory over sin is possible.

The Problem of Alienation from God

Sin broke humanity’s fellowship with God. Though Old Testament sacrifices provided temporary covering, Jesus’ death and resurrection secured lasting reconciliation.

“You who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Ephesians 2:13).

We can know God again and enjoy him.

The Problem of Misplaced Hopes in Human Saviors

History is filled with leaders who promised salvation but delivered destruction. Scripture warns us not to place hope in human power or wisdom (Psalm 146:3-4; Jeremiah 17:5). True hope is found not within ourselves, but in the Lord.

The Problem of Fear of Death and Separation

Many face death with fear of the unknown. Yet Scripture assures believers that nothing can separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:38-39). To be absent from the body is to be at home with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5:8).

Jesus is truly the name above all names. Through him, guilt is lifted, hope is restored, alienation ends, and death is defeated. He came to give life—full and free (John 10:10).

We have much to be grateful for.

It all comes down to one name—Jesus.

Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!

Dave & Tina Brooks

If the Lord is leading you to support His work in the Philippines, you may make your check payable to Reach Ministries International, designated for Dave & Tina Brooks and send to: Reach Ministries International, c/o CRM, P.O. Box 77160, Corona, CA 92877. You can also give online through the RMI website: https://www.reachministriesinternational.com/donate/​

Learn more about Dave's writing ministry at: https://www.davidharlenbrooks.com/​