While there are many perplexing matters in Matthew 2, some things are certain and faith building. Let’s consider a few significant points from this chapter.
- First, note that the events of the chapter are set in history. Real places are mentioned, like: Bethlehem of Judea, Jerusalem, the land of Judah, Egypt, and Nazareth. Likewise a specific time in history: “the days of Herod the king” (v.1). Individuals are mentioned: Jesus, Herod, Mary, Joseph, Jeremiah, and Rachel. Groups of people are mentioned: the chief priests, scribes, and wise men. Why is this significant? It gives serious credibility to that which is written.
- Secondly, notice the contrast between King Herod and King Jesus. While Herod was a king, Jesus was a greater one, even being “born king of the Jews” (v. 2). Not only was He born king of the Jews, He also died “king of the Jews” (Mt. 27:37). Ironically, King Herod was blinded to the spiritual import of the birth of Jesus, being blinded by his selfish ambition and pride. Jesus, the Messiah, was born into this world as a baby and was “gentle and lowly in heart” (see Mt. 11:29).
- In the third place, and likely the most important aspect of this chapter, note the fulfillment of prophecy related to the birth and early years of Jesus. Christ was born in Bethlehem as was prophesied (see vv. 5-6; Mic. 5:2). A part of what makes this prophecy so remarkable is that Joseph and Mary did not live in Bethlehem, yet Jesus was born there when they went to be present for the census (see Lk. 2:1-7). The exacting nature of fulfilled prophecy is astonishing and faith building!
Note briefly the other fulfilled prophecies: (1) The fulfillment of Genesis 49:10, Jesus being a ruler from the tribe of Judah (v. 6). (2) The fulfillment of Jesus being called out of Egypt (vv. 14-15; Hos. 11:1). (3) The weeping and lamentation in Ramah (vv. 17-18; Jer. 31:15). (4) Jesus being called a Nazarene (v. 23). There is actually no specific prophecy of this. Eric Lyons (in his article entitled: Where Was Jesus Called a Nazarene?, on the Apologetics Press website: www.apologeticspress.org), points out that the city of Nazareth was known in the first century as a rather obscure locality (see Jn. 1:45-46; Acts 24:5), which certainly seems fitting of the prophecies made concerning Him (see Is. 53:2-3; Ps. 22:6-7).
It is amazing to consider how easily one of these prophecies could have failed if they weren’t of a divine nature! But the Scripture remains unbroken! (Jn. 10:35). It can be trusted!
- Finally, and related to the former point, we should note God’s providential hand at work in Matthew 2. Even the most vicious of enemies would only be used as a pawn in the hand of Almighty God! God knows and God is greater than all of the adversaries under heaven combined and are no match for Him accomplishing His redeeming plan to save mankind!
CONCLUSION:
We may debate many things in Matthew 2, like: Who were the wise men? Where exactly were they from? How many were there? Were they Jew or Gentile? But here is a question to consider: How motivated ought we to be to assemble together in order to show how grateful we are for our Lord and for God’s plan to save us from our sins?
Daren Schroeder
