Christmas · The Second Sunday after Christmas
Matthew 2:13-23
The Escape to Egypt
January 4, 2026
Overview & Insights
“Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt.” (Matthew 2:13)
Matthew contrasts Jesus’ identity as the Messiah—the true King who enacts Israel’s return from exile—with Rome’s client-king, Herod, affirming Jesus’ identity through Old Testament testimony, God’s protection, and worship of Jesus by the Gentile magi.
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Commentary
Commentary on Matthew 2:13-23 Working Preacher
Luther Seminary exegesis of the flight to Egypt, the slaughter of the innocents, and the return to Nazareth.
Matthew 2 - The Visit of the Wise Men Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik's verse-by-verse notes covering Herod's plot, the escape to Egypt, and Rachel weeping.
Matthew 2:13-23 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed reading of Jesus reliving Israel's exodus and the cost of Herod's tyranny.
Matthew 2 Commentary Precept Austin
Evangelical verse-level commentary gathering many sources on the escape to Egypt narrative.
Matthew 2:13 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators on the angel's warning to Joseph and the fulfillment of prophecy.
The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, Cycle A Loyola Press · Sunday Connection
Catholic Sunday Connection reflections and activities on Joseph protecting Jesus in Matthew 2:13-23.
Background & Word Study
Matthew Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary introduction to Matthew's Gospel and its use of Old Testament fulfillment.
Gospel of Matthew Overview (Part 1: Chapters 1-13) BibleProject
Animated overview of Matthew 1-13, presenting Jesus as the new Israel and true king.
Matthew 2:13 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek word-by-word text of the flight-to-Egypt verse for close study.
Book of Matthew Study Guide BibleProject
Hub of videos, podcasts, and notes for deeper study of Matthew.
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
What is the Flight into Egypt?
Warned in a dream of Herod's murderous rage, Joseph takes Mary and the child to Egypt and later returns, so that the words of the prophets are fulfilled: out of Egypt God calls his Son.
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