Introduction To Matthew 2
Matthew 2 starts out just after the birth of Christ, immediately placing the reader in what will become a life or death situation for the newborn savior of the world. The jealous and nervous king Herod gave a decree that all of the children two and younger were to be killed, which forced Christ and his parents to flee into Africa to escape.
Date: c 50 - 60 AD (view 1) or c 80 - 90 AD (view 2)
Writer: Matthew
Composition
Matthew 2 is broken down into two major sections. Verses 1 - 15 deal with the circumstances and danger surrounding the birth of Christ, including his family fleeing into Egypt. Verses 16 - 23 deal with Herod's anger in response to the wise men and the eventual return of Christ from Egypt to Israel.
Viewpoints
Matthew 2 focuses on the journey of the Messiah as an infant. His very nature put him at odds with an evil king based on the fact that he was born. Through the ordeal, The Most High sent an angel to instruct Joseph where to go and when to go. Joseph in turn shows his character and faithfulness by remaining obedient to The Most High.
1. The wise men seek out Christ.
2. Herod attempts to deceive the wise men.
3. The wise men give gold, frankincense, and myrrh to new born Christ.
4. Joseph is told to flee into Egypt with Mary and Christ.
5. Herod orders the killing of all children two years old and younger.
6. The death of king Herod.
7. Joseph, Mary, and Christ move to Nazareth.
Importance
Matthew 2 shows us that the Messiah's existence wasn't without danger and turmoil. According to the text, at least two years had passed between Herod meeting the wise men and his decree to kill the children. Joseph's choice to obey The Most High and flee, turned his family into homeless fugitives for years. Matthew's perspective shows a Messiah that is both human and relatable to millions of people around the world.
