Scripture Text: Matthew 2:23
And he went and lived in a city called Nazareth, so that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, that he would be called a Nazarene.
Matthew 2:23
From our last study of Apostle Matthew's writings, we observed the great lamentation in the town of Bethlehem. King Herod ordered the killing of all male children two years old or younger because he knew that the wise men from the east tricked him by not revealing where the King of the Jews, Jesus, was. This event fulfilled what the prophet Jeremiah had spoken. From our previous study, we understood that it was not just about lamentation; it signaled the arrival of Hope – the Messiah, which was already unfolding at that time.
Continuing our study of Apostle Matthew's writings, this is the time when Mary, Joseph, and Jesus are commanded by the angel of the Lord to return to the land of Israel because King Herod is now dead. However, upon their return, they avoid Judea due to Joseph's fear, knowing that Archelaus is reigning over Judea. As a result, they went and lived in the city called Nazareth. Apostle Matthew indicates that this move fulfills another prophecy by the prophets – that Jesus would be called a Nazarene.
What was the reputation of the village of Nazareth in Jesus' time?
In Jesus' time, Nazareth held a lowly status, lacking respect and recognition from many. Consequently, the village and its inhabitants were considered insignificant and gained no respect.
How does this connect to the prophecy and person of Jesus?
We see the connection when the Lord Jesus Christ came into the world; he was despised and not respected by his fellow Jews. This aligns with what the prophet King David expressed in Psalm 22:6-8,
But I’m just a worm, less than human;
insulted by one person, despised by another.
All who see me make fun of me—
they gape, shaking their heads:
“He committed himself to the Lord,
so let God rescue him;
let God deliver him
because God likes him so much.”
Furthermore , if we carefully study, this was foreseeing the Messiah's brutal persecution, humiliation, abuse, and disdain. These events happened in the time when Jesus was arrested and crucified as if he were a sinner. However, Jesus endured this to accomplish His plan – to save His people from their sins, make them righteous before God, reconcile them with God, and adopt them as His sons through Christ.
My fellow believers, the Lord Jesus is the Messiah spoken of by the prophets, who willingly endured being despised even though he did not deserve it. This was His will, driven by His love for us, to reach and save us from our trespasses.
Reflect
Did you witness the faithfulness of God in allowing His Son to be despised for you?
Did you perceive the grace and steadfast love of our loving Savior for you?
Is it worth sharing with others? If yes, share the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Remember
As the Lord was despised and persecuted, it brought Him joy to save us because He loved us. He is our loving Savior, the Messiah, and the Son of God.
Read
Psalm 22, Isaiah 53, Isaiah 11, Matthew 2:19-23, Ephesians 2
Pray
Heavenly Father, thank you for your grace always, saving sinners like us and making us part of your kingdom through Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. This truth surpasses worldly riches, because knowing who our Lord Jesus Christ is, is the true treasure in this life. All glory belongs to you. This is my prayer in the name of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen!
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