Why is Jesus Called “Jesus of Nazareth”?

by Rose Makero | 5 November 2020 08:46 pm11

Blessed be the Name of our Lord forever!
Welcome to today’s Bible study. Today, we will explore an important topic: Why is Jesus often referred to as “Jesus of Nazareth” instead of “Jesus of Bethlehem” or any other title?
This understanding reveals powerful truths about God’s nature and His work in our lives.

1. Jesus’ Birth Prophesied and Fulfilled

Scripture prophesied that the Messiah would be born from the lineage of David and in the city of Bethlehem:

• Micah 5:2 (NKJV):
  “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting.”

• Matthew 2:6 (NKJV):
  “But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not the least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you shall come a Ruler who will shepherd My people Israel.”

Indeed, Jesus was born in Bethlehem as the Scriptures foretold (Matthew 2:1). However, He did not remain there. After King Herod sought to kill Him, Joseph and Mary fled with Jesus to Egypt, fulfilling another prophecy (Hosea 11:1). Later, when they returned, they settled in Nazareth — a seemingly insignificant and despised town — to ensure further fulfillment of prophecy:

• Matthew 2:23 (NKJV):
  “And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, ‘He shall be called a Nazarene.’ “

Although there is no direct Old Testament verse saying “He shall be called a Nazarene,” the prophets generally indicated that the Messiah would be despised and rejected (Isaiah 53:3), much like how people viewed Nazareth.

2. The Reputation of Nazareth

Nazareth, located in the region of Galilee, was considered insignificant socially, politically, and religiously. It was a small, humble village. Its low reputation is reflected in Nathanael’s response:

• John 1:46 (NKJV):
  “And Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see.’ “

People expected the Messiah to emerge from prestigious places like Jerusalem or Bethlehem, yet God chose a despised town for His Son to grow up in.
This teaches us that God’s glory is not limited by human expectations or outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7).

3. Jesus Identified with the Humble

Jesus intentionally associated Himself with lowliness and humility throughout His life — not only through His birth in a manger but also through living in a lowly town. This was consistent with His mission:

• Luke 4:18 (NKJV):
  “The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted…”

Even demons recognized His earthly association:

• Mark 1:24 (NKJV):
  “Saying, ‘Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!’ “

And when Jesus revealed Himself to Saul (Paul) on the road to Damascus, He identified Himself not by any high earthly title but through His humble background:

• Acts 22:8 (NKJV):
  “So I answered, ‘Who are You, Lord?’ And He said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom you are persecuting.’ “

4. Theological Lessons for Us Today

God chooses what the world despises to display His glory.
This is the consistent pattern of Scripture:

• 1 Corinthians 1:27–29 (NKJV):
  “But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise… that no flesh should glory in His presence.”

Jesus being called “of Nazareth” reminds us:

• God’s plans are not bound by our environment or status. Whether you are from a big city or a small village, God can still fulfill His great purpose through you.

• Humility is at the heart of God’s kingdom. The Savior’s association with Nazareth teaches us that greatness in God’s eyes is not about earthly fame but about obedience and humility.

• We must not judge God’s work by outward appearances. Many rejected Jesus because He did not meet their human expectations.

5. Conclusion

The title “Jesus of Nazareth” carries deep spiritual meaning. It points us to His humility, His fulfillment of prophecy, and God’s surprising ways of working through what the world considers insignificant.

Wherever you are — in a village, a small town, or a great city — God can use you to accomplish His divine purposes.
Don’t look down on your background. Remember, the Savior of the world was proudly called “Jesus of Nazareth.”

May the Lord bless you abundantly!

Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2020/11/05/why-is-jesus-called-jesus-of-nazareth/

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