New Testament
Matthew 2:13
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After the wise men had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother, and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I bring you word, because Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him."
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And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
What Matthew 2:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, after the wise men visit Jesus, an angel warns Joseph in a dream about King Herod's plan to kill the child. The angel instructs Joseph to take Mary and Jesus and flee to Egypt for their safety. This moment highlights the divine protection over Jesus and the lengths to which God goes to ensure His plan unfolds. Joseph's immediate obedience to the angel's command shows his faith and trust in God's guidance. The urgency of the situation is clear, as Herod's intentions are deadly. By escaping to Egypt, Joseph and his family avoid the impending danger, illustrating how God often provides a way out of perilous situations for those who follow Him. This event also fulfills the prophecy that out of Egypt, God would call His Son, emphasizing the significance of Jesus' early life and the fulfillment of God's promises.
How to apply Matthew 2:13 to your life
This verse encourages us to be attentive to God's guidance in our lives, especially during challenging times. Just as Joseph acted on the angel's warning, we should trust and obey God's direction, knowing He protects us and has a plan for our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Escape to Egypt (Matthew 2:13–18)
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Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 2:13 teach about divine protection?
Matthew 2:13 illustrates God's protective nature by sending an angel to warn Joseph about Herod's deadly intentions. This divine intervention ensures the safety of Jesus and His family, highlighting that God actively guides and protects those who follow Him. It reassures believers that even in perilous situations, God has a plan and will provide a way to escape danger.
Why did Joseph flee to Egypt in Matthew 2:13?
Joseph fled to Egypt in response to the angel's warning about King Herod's plan to kill Jesus. The urgency of the situation required immediate action to protect the child. This flight not only safeguarded Jesus but also fulfilled the prophecy that God would call His Son out of Egypt, emphasizing the significance of Jesus' early life in God's redemptive plan.
What can we learn about obedience from Joseph in Matthew 2:13?
Joseph's immediate response to the angel's command in Matthew 2:13 exemplifies obedience and faith. He acted without hesitation, demonstrating trust in God's guidance. This teaches us the importance of being responsive to God's direction in our lives, especially when faced with difficult decisions or challenges, as obedience can lead to safety and fulfillment of God's purposes.
How does Matthew 2:13 relate to the theme of faith?
Matthew 2:13 reflects the theme of faith through Joseph's trust in God's message delivered by the angel. His willingness to leave everything behind and flee to Egypt shows a deep faith in God's protection and plan. This encourages believers to cultivate a similar faith, trusting that God will guide them through life's uncertainties and challenges.
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