The Virgin Birth

The Virgin Birth
By Creth D. Hopkins

One of the Scriptural truths that is vehemently attacked is the virgin birth of Jesus Christ. “Why is it so important to believe in the virgin birth of Jesus?” To answer the question succinctly, the virgin birth of Jesus points to the sinless nature of Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 4:15-16 15 “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Opponents use two passages of Scripture to attack the sinless nature of Jesus Christ:

(1.) It is pointed out that Joseph is listed as the father of Jesus and that Jesus came from a family wherein there were at least six children borne to Joseph and Mary:

Matthew 13:53-58 53 ¶ “And when Jesus had finished these parables, he went away from there, 54 and coming to his hometown he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, "Where did this man get this wisdom and these mighty works? 55 Is not this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brothers James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? 56 And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?" 57 And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and in his own household." 58 And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief.”

Joseph never said that he was the father of Jesus; He knew that the true Father was God.

(2.) Opponents also point out a vicious rumor that Jesus was born illegitimately:

John 8:41b-45 “They said to him, "We were not born of sexual immorality. We have one Father--even God." 42 Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and I am here. I came not of my own accord, but he sent me. 43 Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to hear my word. 44 You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me.”

The greatest proof we have for the virgin birth is the life of Jesus Christ Himself. Because Jesus had an intimate relationship with His heavenly Father, he lived a life on this earth that no mere mortal could have lived. Because Jesus was God’s Son, He was able to heal the lame, give sight to the blind, and raise the dead. Only the God-man, Jesus Christ, could have done those things – miracles that His opponents could not deny. Jesus died a horrible death for His people, and rose from the dead to be our living Savior, Who is coming again. It is only Jesus, the Son of God Who forgives men of their sins.

Those who chose to reject the virgin birth of Jesus also reject Jesus, the Son of God. He is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29).