Definition: Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse together! Here's what it means in simpler terms: “Matthew 2:1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem.” “When Jesus was born…” – This tells us that this is a story about a very important event – the birth of Jesus. “…in Bethlehem of Judea…” – Bethlehem is a city in Israel (modern-day Bethlehem, West Bank). It’s where Jesus was born. “Judea” means the region around Jerusalem, which was a key area for Jewish tradition. “…in the days of Herod the king…” – This refers to King Herod who ruled over Judea during Jesus' time. He was known for building many grand palaces and temples. “Behold, there came wise men from the east…” – “Behold” is a word that means "look!" This describes people traveling from far away - specifically, wise men (often called Magi) – who were part of a religious tradition. So, putting it all together: This verse tells us that Jesus was born in Bethlehem, which was near Jerusalem, and that wise men from the east came to visit him. It’s an account of a significant event in Jewish history and a foundational story for Christianity. --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts further? For example, would you like me to: Explain why this story is important? Talk about the role of wise men in the story?

Definition: When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 2:10: “When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.” Basically, it means: They were amazed. The story starts with these men – likely shepherds – who were traveling and passing by a really bright, unusual light in the sky. It was a sign! This wasn’t just any ordinary light; it was a star. Stars are often associated with hope, guidance, and divine presence. They reacted with happiness. Their faces lit up with joy, excitement, and pleasure – a feeling of overwhelming delight. What's the big takeaway? The verse highlights that God’s presence is powerful and noticeable. The star wasn’t just there ; it was a sign that something amazing was happening. It suggests a divine event – perhaps the birth of Jesus – and that this event brought immense joy to those who witnessed it. It's a classic example of how God can be revealed through signs and events. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what the verse might symbolize in a broader context (like the beginning of Jesus’ ministry)?

Definition: And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 2:11. It’s a really significant passage that tells us about the birth of Jesus! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says: When Mary and Joseph came to the house where Jesus was born, they saw him with Mary – his mother – and they were overwhelmed with awe and wonder . They realized he was incredibly special. Then, they opened their treasure – which is a fancy word for gifts – and presented them to him: Gold: A valuable precious metal. Frankincense: A fragrant resin used in religious ceremonies. Myrrh: A fragrant resin also used in religious ceremonies, often associated with sacrifice and mourning. So, it's a beautiful picture of Jesus being presented as the most precious gift imaginable – a baby born to a virgin. Why is this important? This verse is considered one of the most important passages in the Bible because it shows the incredible significance of Jesus’ birth. It represents the beginning of God’s plan for humanity and the promise of salvation through his life, death, and resurrection. Does that make sense? Do you want me to explain anything further or delve into a particular aspect of this verse? For example, we could talk about: The symbolism behind the gifts? Its connection to the Old Testament prophecies?

Definition: And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 2:12. It’s a really important and impactful passage about Jesus’ arrival. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Jesus is Born: The verse tells us that Jesus was born to Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem. This is a pivotal moment – the beginning of the story of Christianity! A Warning: Before he could return to his family, Jesus received a dream (a vision) from God. This dream warned him that he would be returning to Herod, a powerful ruler who was trying to kill baby Jesus. Leaving Bethlehem: Because of this warning, Jesus decided to leave Bethlehem and travel in a different direction – away from the area where Herod lived. What it Means on a Deeper Level: Protection for Jesus: The dream is essentially a divine protection for Jesus. It’s telling God that Jesus needs to be safe and protected. A Journey Begins: This verse marks the beginning of Jesus' journey – a journey that would eventually lead him to fulfill his destiny as the Messiah, or “Christ-maker.” God's Plan: It shows us that God is actively involved in our lives and has a plan for things to happen. He doesn’t just let events unfold randomly; he uses dreams and guidance to shape our path. In short, this verse highlights Jesus’ protection and a divine plan to guide him on his journey. Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this event in more detail?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 2:13. It's a really important part of the story of Jesus’ birth! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Joseph is worried: Joseph, a man who had been tasked with caring for Jesus after his mother died, is very anxious about something bad happening to him and his son. An Angel Appears: An angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream. This angel is a special person sent by God. The Message: The angel tells Joseph that he needs to flee with Jesus and his mother into Egypt. A Time Limit: He’s given a specific timeframe – until Joseph receives news from God. He has to leave immediately. The Threat: Herod, a powerful ruler in the region, is determined to kill Jesus. He wants the baby's future and his own safety. Putting it Together - What's happening? Basically, this verse describes a premonition – a warning – that Herod will try to take Jesus’ life. God has chosen Joseph to protect Jesus and guide him to Egypt as a safe haven until he gets news from God about what’s going to happen. Key Takeaways: Divine Protection: The angel is acting on God's behalf, protecting the baby. A Journey Begins: This is the start of a significant journey for Jesus – a journey that will involve danger and uncertainty. God's Plan: It’s all part of God’s plan to bring about salvation through Jesus. Important Note: This passage is a bit symbolic, but it speaks to the idea that God has a plan for our lives and that we should be prepared for challenges. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of the verse in more detail? Connect this story to other parts of the Bible?

Definition: When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 2:14. It's a really important story about Jesus’ arrival in Egypt! Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus was taken away from Nazareth (the town where he grew up) by his family and fled into Egypt. Let's unpack that a little further: “When he arose…” This tells us this happened after Jesus had been crucified. It’s like saying, “After the death of Jesus, something important happened.” “…he took the young child and his mother by night…” This is the key part. It means Jesus, in a dramatic and secretive way, left the place where he was imprisoned. He chose to go to Egypt – a land known for its powerful Pharaoh. "...and departed into Egypt:" He traveled to a place of safety and protection. Why is this significant? This story is often seen as a sign that Jesus wasn’t just dying but was also coming to live. It's considered one of the earliest stories in the Bible about Jesus' journey and preparation for his future ministry. Important Note: The exact details of what happened are debated among theologians, but it generally means he left behind his family and went to Egypt to be safe from persecution. Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the story in more detail? Discuss its symbolism?

Definition: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important passage from Matthew. It’s a fascinating story about Jesus and his future role in the world. Here's what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that Jesus was born around 23 years before His death. It’s a prophecy – a prediction of something that will happen in the future. Let's unpack it word by word: “And was there until the death of Herod” : This tells us this happened before King Herod died. He ruled over Judea and Galilee, which included much of what is now Israel. “that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.” This is the big part. “The prophet” refers to Moses, who led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. The verse says that God specifically called His Son, Jesus, "out of Egypt." So, what does this all mean? It’s a powerful message about: God's plan: The Bible tells us that God has a plan for humanity. This verse shows that God is working through the birth of Jesus to fulfill His promises and bring about a new era of salvation. Jesus as Savior: This refers to Jesus as the savior of all people – meaning he’s coming to save us from our sins and offer us eternal life. A New Beginning: "Out of Egypt" symbolizes a new beginning, a fresh start for humanity, freed from oppression and struggling with sin. In short, it's a beautiful and significant prophecy about the birth of Jesus that highlights His role as the Messiah – the savior who will ultimately bring about redemption. Resources if you want to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/ESV%20Matthew%202:15](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/ESV%20Matthew%202:15) Wikipedia - Matthew 2:15: [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_2:15](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_2:15) --- Do you want me to explain any of these parts in more detail, or would you like me to talk about something else related to this verse?

Definition: Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 2:16. It's a really shocking and dramatic story about a king’s anger and violence. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Herod is King: This verse tells us we’re talking about King Herod, who was the ruler of Judea at the time. He was known for being very powerful and often involved in harsh punishments. He's Mocked: Herod was upset because people were mocking him. He felt like they were making fun of him and his rule. It’s a bit complicated, but it suggests he was feeling challenged or perhaps even humiliated by something. The Wise Men Observe: The wise men, who are known for their wisdom and foresight, noticed this situation and were concerned. They were trying to understand what was happening. What Happened Next – The Violent Action: He Sent Out Soldiers: Herod was furious and ordered his soldiers to hunt down every child in Bethlehem and all the surrounding areas (the coasts). He Slaughtered Them: He sent soldiers to kill all the babies, children under two years old. This is a very brutal act of violence! What’s the Significance? This verse is incredibly important because it's the beginning of Jesus' story in Matthew 2:17. It highlights several key things: Herod's Jealousy: This event reveals that Herod was consumed by jealousy and anger. He wasn't just upset about being mocked; he was driven by a deep, personal rage. The Beginning of Jesus’ Mission: This violent act is considered the beginning of Jesus' mission to come into the world and offer forgiveness and salvation. It’s a foreshadowing of the coming of Christ. In short, this verse describes a king's extreme anger and a brutal act of violence against innocent children – a significant moment in the story of Jesus. --- Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of the verse further? Connect it to a broader theme like jealousy or vengeance?

Definition: Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 2:17: “Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,” Basically, it means: "Now that the prophecy about Jesus was made, it actually happened!" Here's a more detailed explanation: “Jeremy the Prophet”: This refers to a person named Jeremy who lived long ago. He was a religious leader and spoke words of importance. “Saying…” – This is the key part. The prophecy (a story or message) that Jeremy said was about Jesus. “…that which was spoken…”: This means the prophecy actually came to pass, or happened as it was foretold. So, what does this mean in context? It’s a really significant moment in the Bible. It's often interpreted as a sign that God is working through Jesus – that Jesus is fulfilling the plan He set out for humanity. It suggests that God was preparing the way for Jesus to come and fulfill His purpose. In short, it's a declaration that Jesus is going to be a powerful and transformative figure in history. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is important? Give you more context about the prophecy Jeremy said?

Definition: In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping [for] her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Matthew 2:18. It's a really beautiful and poignant story about a mother’s grief. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Rachel is grieving: The verse begins with Rachel, the wife of Jacob (who was the father of Jesus), feeling incredibly sad. She’s mourning for her children – all twelve of them! A Voice and Lamentations: Suddenly, she hears a voice from God, and it's filled with sorrow and tears. It sounds like a lament – a deep, heartbroken cry. Great Mourning: The sound is so overwhelming that Rachel feels immense pain and sadness. She’s completely devastated. She Doesn’t Find Comfort: Because of this profound grief, she can’t find any peace or comfort. Her heart is heavy with sorrow. What it's saying – A deeper meaning: This verse isn’t just about a woman mourning; it’s a powerful symbol of God’s love and the importance of faith. It suggests: God’s Love is Intense: The voice and the tears represent God’s deep, unwavering love for his people. Faith is Essential: Rachel's sadness highlights how vital faith is to us. When we believe in something, it can be incredibly difficult to feel sad or lost. God’s Presence is Real: The voice and the tears show that God is actively involved in our lives, even when we don’t see him. In essence, Matthew 2:18 tells us that God cares deeply about his children, and he doesn't give up on them, even when they are suffering. It’s a reminder of the importance of hope and faith in times of sorrow. Do you want to explore any specific aspect of this passage further? For example: We could talk about the symbolism of Rachel’s tears? How this story relates to Jesus?