Who will save His people from their sins?

Definition of the Question

The question “Who will save His people from their sins?” is drawn directly from a pivotal statement found in the New Testament. The identity of the one who provides ultimate salvation is intertwined with core themes of Scripture—prophetic promises in the Old Testament, the unfolding message in the Gospels, and the historical appearance of the Messiah.

Biblical Origins of the Promise

Throughout the Old Testament, there is an expectation of a deliverer who would address the problem of sin. This deliverer, rooted in covenants made with Abraham (Genesis 12:1–3) and David (2 Samuel 7:12–16), would rescue the covenant people from guilt, bondage, and spiritual separation.

Passages such as Isaiah 53 depict a servant who bears the iniquities of many, hinting at the sacrificial role of the coming Messiah. The Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered in the mid-20th century, contain copies of Isaiah’s text (notably the Great Isaiah Scroll) dating centuries before the birth of Christ. These scrolls confirm that the prophetic words in our modern-day Bible reflect an ancient, consistent witness about a suffering servant who would redeem.

Fulfillment in the Gospels

The New Testament records the birth of Jesus, who is explicitly called the one to save His people from their sins. Matthew 1:21 states, “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.” This birth announcement encapsulates the identity and mission of the child: He is both fully human—born of a woman—and fully divine—appointed to accomplish salvation.

The Gospels emphasize His authority over sickness, nature, and demonic forces (Matthew 8:23–27; Luke 4:33–37). These miracles serve as signs to demonstrate His divine capacity to forgive and rescue from sin (Mark 2:5–12). His crucifixion and resurrection, meticulously documented by multiple sources within the New Testament canon, form the climactic moment in which He makes atonement for the sins of the world (1 Corinthians 15:3–4).

Clarification of “His People”

While originally proclaimed among the Jewish people (the immediate descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob), the scope of salvation extends to all who believe (Romans 1:16). Passages such as John 10:16 reveal Jesus’ heart for “other sheep,” indicating His redemptive purpose encompasses every tribe, tongue, and nation (Revelation 7:9–10).

Archaeological and Historical Corroborations

1. The discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls (Qumran) attests to the accuracy and preservation of Old Testament prophecies, reinforcing confidence in the reliable transmission of Scripture.

2. Early manuscript evidence for the New Testament—such as the John Rylands Papyrus (P52), dated to the early second century—demonstrates closeness to original events and reduces the likelihood of legend or embellishment overshadowing the authentic message.

3. Secular attestations from historians like Josephus and Tacitus reference a historical figure named Jesus, supporting the general historical framework in which these events took place.

The Theological Explanation of Salvation from Sin

1. Nature of Sin: Scripture describes sin as a moral transgression against God (Romans 3:23). This breach in relationship results in guilt requiring atonement or forgiveness.

2. Substitutionary Sacrifice: Jesus’ death on the cross is portrayed as a vicarious sacrifice, bearing the punishment deserved by humanity (1 Peter 2:24).

3. Risen Savior: The resurrection is central as the confirmation that the sacrifice was acceptable before God (Romans 4:25). Multiple attestations to the resurrection and firsthand witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:5–7) serve as evidence of this historical and transformative event.

4. Personal Response: Although salvation is provided by Jesus, individuals must repent and believe (Mark 1:15). This new covenant relationship involves a turning away from sin and turning toward God in faith.

Conclusion of the Answer

The question “Who will save His people from their sins?” is ultimately answered in Jesus, whose birth, life, crucifixion, and resurrection fulfill prophetic scripture. Supported by early and accurate manuscripts, confirmed by historical evidence, and attested to by the consistent witness of both Old and New Testaments, He alone stands as the Savior of humanity. Those who follow Him, from every nation, are reconciled to God and receive eternal life through His redemptive work.