Matthew 2:22

But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:

Matthew 2:22 (KJV)

Context

In Matthew 2:22, “he” refers to Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus. The preceding verses describe how Joseph and his family had fled to Egypt to escape the wrath of Herod the Great, who had ordered the killing of all male children in Bethlehem who were two years old and younger, hoping to eliminate the newborn King of the Jews. After Herod’s death, Joseph received news about the change in leadership and decided to return to Israel. However, instead of going to Judea, he chose to go to Galilee because of his fear of Archelaus, Herod’s son, who was ruling there.

Meaning

Joseph’s decision to turn aside into the parts of Galilee was prompted by a warning from God in a dream. This demonstrates Joseph’s faith and willingness to obey God’s guidance. Throughout the narrative of Jesus’ birth, Joseph consistently responded to divine instructions, highlighting his righteousness and obedience. The fact that Joseph received a warning from God in a dream emphasizes God’s care for His people. God ensured the safety of Jesus and His family by guiding them and leading them away from potential harm. This event reminds us that God is actively involved in the lives of His followers, providing direction and protection when needed.

Biblical connections

Joseph’s decision to go to Galilee instead of Judea also fulfilled a prophecy. In Matthew 2:23, it is mentioned that Jesus would be called a Nazarene. By settling in Galilee, Jesus grew up in Nazareth, thus fulfilling this prophecy. This highlights the meticulous fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah. The change in leadership from Herod the Great to Archelaus highlights the political landscape of that time. It also underscores God’s sovereignty over earthly rulers and events. Even in the midst of political instability and uncertainty, God’s plans were being accomplished. This serves as a reminder that God’s purposes are not thwarted by human actions but are ultimately fulfilled according to His will.

Application

Matthew 2:22 provides insights into Joseph’s obedience, God’s guidance and protection, the fulfillment of prophecy, and God’s sovereignty. It encourages us to trust in God’s leading and to be attentive to His guidance in our own lives. Joseph’s fear was justified, as Archelaus was known for his cruelty, including the massacre of thousands at the Temple. Yet Joseph did not let fear paralyze him; he responded with faithful action, heeding the divine warning and changing his plans. For believers, this underscores the importance of heeding divine warnings and being willing to change plans in obedience to God’s guidance, even when it means relocating or altering one’s course. The geographical detail of Galilee, a region less politically volatile than Judea, shows God’s wisdom in directing His family to a place of relative safety.

Reflection

Joseph’s experience reveals the humanity of a man who faced fear and uncertainty, yet chose faithful obedience. God’s providential protection of the Messiah guided the family to safety, away from the political dangers of Judea. This pattern of God’s leading through dreams and prophets echoes His guidance of His servants in the Old Testament. As we consider Joseph’s example, we are reminded that God’s purposes are not thwarted by human actions but are ultimately fulfilled according to His will.