The Nazarene Called Out of Egypt

This morning we continue in our study through the gospel according to Matthew, looking at Matthew 2:13-23. Matthew continues to give us the origin stories of who Jesus is and where he comes from. The flight to Egypt, Herod's attempt to kill him, and the return to Nazareth are shown to be fulfillments of what was spoken by the prophets. Matthew seems to be foreshadowing the kinds of things we might expect in the story of Jesus moving forward. We also get a picture of the kinds of things that followers of Jesus can expect in their lives if they are associated with Jesus.

Jesus is the New Israel, the true Son of God who went down to Egypt and will bring about a return to the promised land through exile. Jesus is also the New Moses who escapes infanticide and will lead, deliver, and teach the people of God. Finally, Jesus is the fulfillment of the suffering servant, the Messiah who would be despised and take evil upon himself for the sins of His people.