Sunday School 12.29.24 Outline

Matthew 2:13-23

I. God Does Not Give Up on Us (Matthew 2:13-15)
II. Not-so-Silent Nights (Matthew 2:16-18)
III. Finding Confidence in Unexpected Places (Matthew 2:19-23)

Questions:
  1. How does the flight to Egypt serve as a reversal of Israel's history?
  2. In Matthew 2:13-15, Jesus’ flight to Egypt is described as fulfilling the prophecy, “Out of Egypt I called my Son” (Hosea 11:1). How does this connection between Jesus and the Exodus highlight the concept of Jesus as the true Israel? What are the implications of this for understanding Jesus' mission?
  3. In verses 13 and 19, God directs Joseph through dreams to protect Jesus. What is the significance of God using dreams to guide Joseph? How does this reflect God's sovereign care over the life of Jesus?
  4. Why is it important that Matthew emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy in the flight to Egypt? How does this show God’s faithfulness to His covenant promises to Israel? In what ways does this reinforce the idea that Jesus’ life is marked by divine purpose?
  5. In Matthew 2:16-18, we encounter the brutal actions of King Herod. How does Herod’s response to the birth of Jesus contrast with the typical Jewish expectation of a Messiah? What does Herod’s tyranny reveal about the nature of earthly kingdoms and the battle between light and darkness?
  6. How should we understand the massacre of the children in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:16-18) in light of God’s sovereignty and justice? How does God respond to this evil in the broader redemptive story?
  7. Matthew 2:23 states that Jesus would be called a Nazarene. What is the significance of this statement, especially considering Nazareth’s lowly reputation? How does this reflect the humble nature of Jesus’ earthly life and mission? Why is the prophecy of Jesus coming from Nazareth so significant in understanding the nature of Christ’s Kingdom?
  8. What is the contrast between the reign of Herod and the Kingdom of God that Jesus came to establish? How does this passage challenge our understanding of power, authority, and leadership in the world? What does it teach us about how we should live as citizens of Christ’s Kingdom?
  9. How does this passage illustrate God’s sovereignty over human history, even in the midst of evil and suffering? What role does God’s providence play in Jesus’ protection and eventual return to Israel? How can this understanding encourage believers today who face adversity and injustice?

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