Imperfect savior. Perfect Savior

As I read the story of Samson at Christmas time, I can’t help but notice the similarities in the announcements of Samson’s birth, and Jesus’.

You will conceive and give birth to a son…he will begin to save Israel from the power of the Philistines. (Judges 13:3, 5)

You will conceive and give birth to as son, and you will name him Jesus. (Luke 1:31)

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

There are two huge differences, of course, between Jesus and Samson.

First, the scope of the salvation they were to bring. Samson saved the Israelites from the Philistines, while Jesus saved us from our sins.

More importantly, as you look at his life, you find that Samson was a very flawed savior. Jesus, on the other hand, was a perfect Savior.

But one more point: the word “angel” in the Bible, simply means “messenger.” And it seems very likely that the messenger that came to Manoah and his wife was actually Jesus.

Notice the exchange between Manoah and this messenger.

“What is your name, so that, when your words come true, we may honor you?”

“Why do ask my name, seeing it is wonderful?” (Judges 13:17-18, ESV)

And after the messenger ascended into heaven, Manoah recognized, “we have seen God!” (22)

Years later, the prophet Isaiah would say these words,

For a child will be born for us,
a son will be given to us,
and the government will be on his shoulders,

He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6）

Let us worship God today for our wonderful, perfect Savior.