Introduction: The second chapter of Matthew’s Gospel gives us a series of events that unfold with the birth of Jesus. This chapter is filled with theological significance and gives us a greater understanding of events that unfolded during the birth of Jesus. It shows us the visit of the Magi, the flight to Egypt, and the massacre of the babies. As we get into this chapter verse by verse, we will look at the deeper meanings and implications of these events. We will also shed light on the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and pull cross reference verses from other parts of the Bible.
I. Matthew 2:1-2 – The Visit of the Magi
In these opening verses, we learn of the Magi’s journey to Jerusalem to worship the newborn king of the Jews. Their arrival fulfills the prophecy in Numbers 24:17, which speaks of a star coming out of Jacob. Also, Psalm 72:10-11 foretells that kings will bring gifts and bow down to the Messiah. The Magi’s visit signifies the recognition of Jesus as king, and not only by the Jews but also by Gentiles.
II. Matthew 2:3-8 – Herod’s Reaction and Deception
Herod’s troubled response to the news of a new king, as seen in Matthew 2:3, aligns with the prophecy in Jeremiah 31:15 about Rachel weeping for her children. Herod’s deceitful request for the Magi to report back to him in Matthew 2:8 contrasts with the sincerity of the Magi’s worship. This passage highlights the clash between the earthly king’s fear and the heavenly king’s sovereignty.
III. Matthew 2:9-12 – The Magi’s Worship
The Magi’s worship in Matthew 2:11 fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 60:6, which describes nations coming to the Messiah’s light and bringing gold and incense. Their obedience to the divine warning in Matthew 2:12 contrasts with Herod’s disobedience, pointing out the theme of divine guidance versus mans wicked schemes.
IV. Matthew 2:13-15 – The Flight to Egypt
Joseph’s obedience to the angel’s warning in Matthew 2:13-14 demonstrates his faithfulness and is relevant to Moses’ escape from Pharaoh’s decree in Exodus 2:15. The fulfillment of Hosea 11:1 in Matthew 2:15, where God calls his son out of Egypt, illustrates Jesus as the true Israel, who relives and redeems the history of God’s people.
V. Matthew 2:16-18 – The Massacre of the Innocents
Herod’s brutal act in Matthew 2:16 fulfills Jeremiah 31:15, as mentioned earlier, and reflects Pharaoh’s massacre of Hebrew infants in Exodus 1:22. This event also foreshadows Jesus’ sacrifice, as innocent blood is shed due to the sinfulness of humanity.
VI. Matthew 2:19-23 – The Return to Nazareth
The return to Nazareth in Matthew 2:23 fulfills the prophecy of Jesus being called a Nazarene, though the specific prophecy is not directly quoted in the Old Testament. This passage also echoes the themes of divine guidance and protection, as seen in Isaiah 11:1, where a shoot comes from the stump of Jesse.
Conclusion: Matthew 2 presents the story of Jesus, that is both historically grounded by facts, and is theologically profound. Through the events of the Magi’s visit, Herod’s deception, the flight to Egypt, the massacre of the innocents, and the return to Nazareth, we see God’s plan for salvation unfolding. Each verse reveals the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the establishment of Jesus as the Messiah for both Jews and Gentiles. This chapter should bring to our minds the divine guidance, protection, and sovereignty that continue to be present in the lives of believers today, but best of all, it shows us that God’s will will be done in heaven and on earth.
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