Book of Matthew - Chapter 2 - Verse 15
Meaning
When Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus fled to Egypt to escape King Herod's decree to kill all male infants in Bethlehem, they were fulfilling a prophecy from the Old Testament. The verse in question refers to Hosea 11:1 which says, "Out of Egypt I called my son." This prophecy was fulfilled when Jesus returned from Egypt after Herod's death. This shows that God's plan was at work even in the exile to Egypt, as Jesus, the Son of God, fulfilled this prophecy by being called out of Egypt. This verse highlights the consistent theme throughout the Bible of God's faithfulness to His promises and the fulfillment of His word. It serves as a reminder that God's plans are sovereign and that every detail is part of His divine purpose. Thus, this verse serves as a powerful testament to the divine origin and fulfillment of Jesus' identity as the Son of God.
Theological Overview
One of the key theological interpretations of the verse, "And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son," is that it reflects the fulfillment of prophecies found in the Old Testament. This specific reference is connected to a prophecy in the Book of Hosea, where the prophet Hosea speaks of Israel as God's son being called out of Egypt. However, Matthew applies this prophecy to Jesus, symbolizing a deeper theological understanding of Jesus as the fulfillment of Israel's destiny and calling. This interpretation highlights the continuity between the Old Testament promises and their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Through word studies, we can also delve into the nuances of the original language used in this verse, shedding light on the deeper theological meanings embedded in the text. Overall, this verse demonstrates the intricate tapestry of prophecy and fulfillment woven throughout the biblical narrative, illustrating the divine plan unfolding through history.