Matthew 2:21 is a simple statement about the return of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus to Israel after their flight to Egypt. Let's break it down:
"He arose": This refers to Joseph. He is the active agent, acting on God's instruction.
"and took the young child and his mother": This highlights the family unit - Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus. It also emphasizes Joseph's role as protector and provider for his family. Note that Mary is identified as Jesus' mother, emphasizing the special relationship.
"and came into the land of Israel": This indicates their return from Egypt back to their homeland. The danger that prompted their flight (Herod's threat to Jesus' life) had passed.
In essence, the verse signifies the following:
Obedience to God's Will: Joseph's actions show his obedience to the divine instructions he received in dreams.
The End of Exile: The family's time as refugees in Egypt is over.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: This event fulfills Old Testament prophecies regarding Israel's return from exile (though this return is from a much smaller, personal exile).
New Beginnings: Their return signals a new chapter in Jesus' life, setting the stage for his upbringing in Israel.
In short, it's a concise statement about the end of a temporary exile and the family's return to their homeland, all orchestrated by divine guidance.
Matthew 2:21 is a simple statement about the return of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus to Israel after their flight to Egypt. Let's break it down:
"He arose": This refers to Joseph. He is the active agent, acting on God's instruction.
"and took the young child and his mother": This highlights the family unit - Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus. It also emphasizes Joseph's role as protector and provider for his family. Note that Mary is identified as Jesus' mother, emphasizing the special relationship.
"and came into the land of Israel": This indicates their return from Egypt back to their homeland. The danger that prompted their flight (Herod's threat to Jesus' life) had passed.
In essence, the verse signifies the following:
Obedience to God's Will: Joseph's actions show his obedience to the divine instructions he received in dreams.
The End of Exile: The family's time as refugees in Egypt is over.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: This event fulfills Old Testament prophecies regarding Israel's return from exile (though this return is from a much smaller, personal exile).
New Beginnings: Their return signals a new chapter in Jesus' life, setting the stage for his upbringing in Israel.
In short, it's a concise statement about the end of a temporary exile and the family's return to their homeland, all orchestrated by divine guidance.
