Matthew 2:14
“When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt.”
Context:This verse is part of the account of the events following the birth of Jesus.
It occurs in the context of the visit of the wise men, who had come from the east, seeking the newborn King of the Jews. King Herod, upon hearing of this, felt threatened and sought to kill Jesus. In response to this imminent danger, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to take Jesus and Mary and flee to Egypt. This verse describes Joseph’s immediate obedience to the angel’s command.
This verse is significant for several reasons:
Fulfillment of prophecy:Matthew often highlights how events in Jesus’ life fulfilled Old Testament prophecies. In this case, Matthew refers to a prophecy from the book of Hosea: “When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt” (Hosea 11:1). By fleeing to Egypt, Jesus’ sojourn in that country fulfilled this prophecy.
Protection of Jesus:The primary purpose of Joseph taking Jesus and Mary to Egypt was to protect Jesus from the murderous intentions of King Herod. Egypt served as a place of refuge where Jesus could be safe until it was safe to return to Israel.
Identification with the people of Israel:The journey to Egypt also holds symbolic significance. In the Old Testament, Israel as a nation had experienced a sojourn in Egypt, particularly during the time of Moses. By taking Jesus to Egypt, there is a connection between Jesus and the history of God’s people.
God’s provision and guidance:The fact that Joseph received specific instructions from an angel in a dream underscores the divine guidance and protection throughout this episode. God cared for Jesus and ensured His safety by communicating His will to Joseph.
Matthew 2:14 highlights the immediate response of Joseph to the angel’s warning. His swift obedience is commendable and serves as an example of trust in God’s guidance and provision, even in difficult and uncertain circumstances.
By studying this verse, we can gain insight into the faithfulness of God to fulfill His purposes, His protection of Jesus, and the example of obedience set by Joseph.
