Matthew 2:13 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Matthew 2:13 |
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← 2:12
2:14 →
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"The Flight into Egypt". Painting by Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld (1828).
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| Book | Gospel of Matthew |
| Christian Bible part | New Testament |
Matthew 2:13 is a verse found in the Gospel of Matthew, which is part of the New Testament in the Bible. This verse describes a very important moment in the early life of Jesus. After the magi (wise men) had visited and honored the young Jesus, an angel appeared to Joseph, Jesus's stepfather. The angel gave Joseph a serious warning in a dream.
The Angel's Urgent Message
In this verse, an angel from God speaks to Joseph while he is sleeping. The angel tells Joseph that he must act quickly. He needs to take the young child, Jesus, and his mother, Mary, and leave their home right away.
The angel's exact words, as written in the Authorized King James Version of the Bible, are:
- 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.
This message was a clear command to escape.
Why Flee to Egypt?
The angel explained the reason for this urgent journey. King Herod, who ruled the area, was looking for the young child Jesus. Herod wanted to harm or even kill Jesus. This was because Herod felt threatened by the idea of a new "King of the Jews" being born. He saw Jesus as a rival to his power.
Egypt was a good place to flee because it was outside of King Herod's control. It was also a place where many Jewish people lived. This made it a safe haven for Joseph, Mary, and Jesus.
Staying Safe in Egypt
The angel told Joseph to stay in Egypt until he received another message from God. This meant they would live there for some time, away from Herod's danger. This journey is often called the "Flight into Egypt." It shows how God protected Jesus from a very young age.
This event is a key part of the Christmas story. It highlights the dangers Jesus faced even as a baby. It also shows Joseph's obedience and faith in following God's instructions.
