Matthew 2:23- “And he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.”
Extended Explanation
Matthew 2:23 concludes the account of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus’ return from Egypt. Under God’s guidance, Joseph settles his family in Nazareth, a small and humble town in Galilee. Matthew connects this move to the fulfillment of prophetic statements, emphasizing that Jesus’ upbringing in Nazareth was part of God’s plan.
The phrase “he would be called a Nazarene” does not point to a specific Old Testament prophecy but rather to a broader theme. Being from Nazareth was associated with humility, obscurity, and even scorn. This connection aligns with the prophetic descriptions of the Messiah as a humble servant who would be despised and rejected (Isaiah 53:3).
Historical Context
Nazareth was a small and insignificant town in Galilee, far from the political and religious centers of Jerusalem and Judea. It was not highly regarded, as reflected in Nathanael’s question in John 1:46: “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” Choosing Nazareth as the home for Jesus emphasized His humble beginnings and His identification with ordinary people.
This setting contrasts sharply with expectations of a royal and powerful Messiah, highlighting God’s unexpected ways of working. By growing up in Nazareth, Jesus was rooted in humility, which would define His ministry and mission.
Theological Implications
Matthew 2:23 underscores the humility of Jesus’ life and mission. As the Savior of the world, He could have been born into prominence and power, but instead, He was associated with a town of low reputation. This reflects God’s heart for the lowly and His desire to identify with humanity.
The reference to the prophets suggests that the overarching message of Scripture pointed to a Messiah who would not fit worldly expectations of greatness. Jesus’ association with Nazareth reinforces His role as the suffering servant who would bring salvation through humility and sacrifice.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 2:23 ties the narrative of Jesus’ early life to the larger theme of prophetic fulfillment, a key focus of Matthew’s Gospel. The mention of Nazareth provides a deliberate contrast to the grandeur and power often associated with earthly kings, emphasizing Jesus’ role as a different kind of King.
The verse’s structure—moving from Joseph’s action to the fulfillment of prophecy—underscores God’s sovereignty in directing events. The phrase “he would be called a Nazarene” serves as both a statement of Jesus’ identity and a reflection of how He would be perceived by the world.
Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 53:3: Describes the Messiah as “despised and rejected by mankind,” fitting the scorn associated with Nazareth.
- Psalm 22:6-7: A prophetic description of the Messiah being mocked and despised.
- John 1:46: Nathanael’s skepticism about Nazareth reflects the town’s low reputation.
- Philippians 2:5-8: Highlights Jesus’ humility in taking on human form and being obedient to death.
- Micah 5:2: The Messiah’s humble origins, despite being destined to rule.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
Matthew 2:23 reminds Christians that God values humility and often works through unexpected people and places. Jesus’ upbringing in Nazareth challenges worldly ideas of power and prestige, encouraging believers to embrace humility in their own lives.
This verse also speaks to the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when it doesn’t align with human expectations. Just as God used Nazareth to prepare Jesus for His mission, He can use ordinary circumstances in our lives to accomplish extraordinary purposes.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His choice to send His Son to live among ordinary people in humble circumstances. This reflects His desire to be close to humanity and to reach those who feel overlooked or unworthy. By identifying with the lowly, Jesus shows that God’s love is inclusive and transformative.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Matthew 2:23 highlights Jesus’ identity as the humble Messiah who fulfills God’s promises. His association with Nazareth aligns with the prophetic theme of a Savior who would be rejected and misunderstood. This verse points to the paradox of Jesus’ life: though He is the King of Kings, He came to serve and save through humility and sacrifice.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does Jesus’ upbringing in Nazareth challenge your view of what it means to live a life of significance?
- What does this verse teach you about God’s ability to use humble circumstances for His purposes?
- How can you reflect Jesus’ humility in your own relationships and daily life?
- In what ways does this verse encourage you to trust God’s plan, even when it seems ordinary or unexpected?
- How does Jesus’ identification with the lowly inspire you to share God’s love with others?