Matthew 2:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 2:20
20 Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life.
Chapter Context
Matthew 2 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, worship, discipleship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-23: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 2:20
20 Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life.
Analysis
The phrase 'they are dead which sought the young child's life' echoes Exodus 4:19 when God told Moses to return to Egypt, creating a typological parallel between Moses and Christ. Both were deliverers threatened by infanticide, preserved by God's providence. This connection reinforces Christ as the greater Moses who leads God's people from bondage to sin and death.
Historical Context
The parallel to Moses strengthens Matthew's presentation of Jesus as the new and greater deliverer. Just as Moses brought Israel from physical bondage in Egypt, Jesus brings spiritual deliverance from sin.
Reflection
- How does Christ fulfill and exceed the role of Moses as deliverer of God's people?
- What does the parallel between Moses and Jesus teach about God's consistent pattern of redemption?
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Matthew 2:13
- Parallel theme: Exodus 4:19, 1 Kings 11:21, 11:40