Matthew 2:21

Matthew 2:21 marks a pivotal moment in the early life of Jesus, signifying the end of the Holy Family's exile in Egypt and their divinely guided return to their homeland. This verse highlights Joseph's continued obedience and God's unwavering protection over His Son.

Context

This verse directly follows the death of King Herod the Great, who had sought to destroy the young child Jesus. An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, instructing him that those who sought Jesus' life were dead (Matthew 2:19). This divine message prompted Joseph to reverse their perilous journey, which had begun with the flight to Egypt to escape Herod's murderous decree against infants in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:16). The return from Egypt also fulfilled the prophecy, "Out of Egypt have I called my son" (Matthew 2:15, citing Hosea 11:1).

Key Themes

• Divine Guidance and Protection: The narrative consistently demonstrates God's active involvement in preserving Jesus' life. From the warnings to the Magi to the angelic dreams given to Joseph, God orchestrates every step to protect His Son from the dangers of the world, ensuring His mission would be fulfilled.
• Joseph's Obedience and Faith: Joseph consistently responds with immediate and faithful obedience to God's instructions given through dreams. His actions in this verse—"he arose, and took the young child and his mother"—show his unwavering commitment to protecting Jesus and Mary, even when it meant uprooting his family multiple times. This echoes his earlier obedience in taking Mary as his wife (Matthew 1:24).
• The Return to the Land of Israel: This journey back signifies not just a physical relocation but also a return to the promised land, a place central to God's covenant with His people. It echoes the historical pattern of Israel's journey out of exile and back to their heritage, emphasizing Jesus' identity as the true Israel.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "he arose" translates the Greek word anastas (ἀναστὰς), which implies a decisive and immediate action. It suggests Joseph's prompt and unwavering response to the divine command, indicating his readiness to obey God's will without hesitation. The "land of Israel" (gen Israel - γῆν Ἰσραήλ) specifically names the ancestral homeland, underscoring the significance of their return to the heart of the Jewish nation, where Jesus' ministry would eventually unfold.

Practical Application

Matthew 2:21 offers valuable lessons for believers today:

• Trusting God's Leading: Just as Joseph trusted God's guidance through dreams, we are called to trust God's leading in our lives, even when the path is unclear or requires significant change. God's providence is always at work for those who belong to Him.
• Obedience in Action: Joseph's example reminds us that faith is not just belief, but also action. Our obedience to God's revealed will, even in small or seemingly inconvenient matters, is crucial for His plans to unfold in and through us.
• God's Protection: This verse reassures us of God's watchful care over His children. Though we may face dangers or uncertain circumstances, God's promise to protect and guide those who follow Him remains steadfast, much like His protection over the young Messiah.