Matthew 2:23

French Jerusalem 1998

et vint s'établir dans une ville appelée Nazareth; pour que s'accomplît l'oracle des prophètes: Il sera appelé Nazôréen.

What Does This Mean?

This verse tells us that Jesus moved to Nazareth and was called a Nazarene, fulfilling prophecies about him. It shows how God's plans are carried out even in small details.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your parents decided to move you to a new town so a really old story would come true about you! That's what happened with Jesus when he went to Nazareth.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this Gospel around the year AD 80 for Jewish Christians. The prophecy about being called 'a Nazarene' isn't found in one specific Old Testament text but is understood as a fulfillment of broader prophetic themes regarding the Messiah's humble origins and suffering.

Living It Out Today

Today, when you face situations that seem ordinary or even challenging, remember that they might be part of a bigger plan. Just like Jesus being from Nazareth fulfilled an ancient prophecy, your life can fulfill God’s purposes in unexpected ways.

Topics

• prophecy
• fulfillment
• obedience
• humble origins
• messianic expectations
• suffering

Related Verses

• Isaiah 11:1
• John 19:19
• Mark 14:65
• Acts 24:5
• Matthew 2:20

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Nazareth important in the Bible?

Nazareth, where Jesus moved to live, was an insignificant village that became significant because it was home to Jesus. The verse suggests this move was part of fulfilling prophecy.

What does 'called a Nazarene' mean for Christians?

For Christians, being called a Nazarene can symbolize following Jesus in humility and faithfulness, just as he fulfilled God's purposes by living in an ordinary place like Nazareth.

Are there specific Old Testament prophecies about Nazareth?

There are no direct Old Testament prophecies mentioning Nazareth. However, the idea of a humble and sometimes scorned origin fits into broader prophetic themes about the Messiah's character.

How does this verse connect to Jesus' identity?

This verse shows how even seemingly small details like where Jesus lived were part of God’s plan. It reinforces that Jesus is not just an ordinary person but someone fulfilling ancient prophecies as the Messiah.