Bible Question:
i Have been reading about Christ birth in Matthew2 and Luke 2. In Matthew 2:13-15 it says that Mary, Joseph and Jesus went to Egypt after HIS birth. In Luke 2:39, it says that after the circumcision, they went to Nazareth to live. How did both occur (since I do believe the whole Bible is true)? Seedling |
Bible Answer: Greetings Seedling! It is important to look at all of the details in order to answer this question. We know that Jesus was born in Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-7). We also know that circumcision took place on the 8th day after birth (Luke 2:21). We know that Mary and Joseph took Jesus to Jerusalem for the circumcision (Luke 2:22). We know that Mary, Joseph, and Jesus returned to Nazareth (Luke 2:39). The account in Matthew is where most people get confused. The Magi were not at Jesus' birth. They saw the star, began their journey, and arrived some time later. The evidence in Matthew indicates that they may have arrived two years later. 1) After determing the time of the appearence of the star, Herod orders the execution of all male children 2 years old and younger. 2) Matthew uses the word for a 'child', not 'baby' to describe Jesus. So, Jesus was probably about 2 years old when the Magi arrived at where He was (Mt. 2:9), not where He was born. At that point, Joseph is warned to travel to Egypt until the death of Herod. I hope this helps! Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |