Matthew 2
Christian living requires perseverance. This is seen throughout the account of the Exodus, and is echoed in Jesus’ birth, his family’s fleeing to Egypt, and their return from hiding. People who have made a genuine commitment to Christ persevere in that commitment to come out of slavery to sin through faith in Jesus Christ. We are God’s household—members of His family—if we hold on to the courage and the confidence of our hope. People who are members of God’s family follow Jesus’ example of faithfulness.
Read Matthew 2:1-12:
- When your personal “empire” feels threatened, what is a natural first reaction?
- What is surprising to you about the wise men’s involvement in God’s plan for Jesus’ birth?
- Why did Herod run to the chief priests and scribes for answers?
- What does Herod’s response say about his view of the Messiah? How did Jesus meet or contradict those expectations?
Read Matthew 2:13-21:
- What was the significance of Jesus’ time in Egypt?
- Why is it important that Jesus fulfilled prophecy? Couldn’t God have stopped Herod’s plan another way without further uprooting Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus? Why do you think He didn’t?
- Which similarities do you find most compelling between the story of Moses and the story of Jesus?
- What evidence of divine orchestration do you see in the circumstances surrounding Moses’ birth and adoption?
Taking it home:
- What causes you the most worry in your daily life? What are your go-to methods for alleviating fear and worry?
- Have you ever considered using this part of Jesus’ birth story to share the gospel with someone in your oikos? How might you do that?
Other Scriptures to Engage with this week:
Numbers 24:12-19 • Hosea 11 • Micah 5 • Psalm 54 • Jeremiah 31:10-17 • Psalm 40.