A Reflection On Jesus’ Birth

When I wonder why Jesus came

When we think of the Christmas story, we usually think of the birth narratives in Matthew and Luke that explain how Jesus came into this world. But why did Jesus come? One of the answers is given in Matthew 5:17, where Jesus says He came to accomplish the purpose of the Law and the Prophets. These two things are the Word of God—immutable and inviolable. Only by man fulfilling them can man be saved.

How could God accomplish our salvation in light of our numerous willful violations? He sent a Man—Jesus—to fulfill all righteousness. Jesus did not come to tell us “never mind” about the law; God has never just ignored our offenses. Jesus came as a law fulfiller. He paid attention not only to every small letter and stroke of the pen, but also to the Spirit behind them. In doing so, He accomplished what we could not—righteousness—and then He gave it to us. That’s the reason for Christmas. The baby in the manger was our only hope to fulfill God’s law. Thank God He did.

Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose.

Matthew 5:17