Out of Egypt Have I Called My Son
Hosea 11:1 fulfilled in the holy family's return from Egypt.
Hosea spoke of Israel's exodus, yet by inspiration the words foreshadowed a greater Son. Matthew records Joseph fleeing to Egypt with the child Jesus and returning after Herod's death — that Hosea 11:1 might be fulfilled.
The Prophecy
"When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt."
The Fulfillment
"When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: 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."
Israel's history, Israel's Messiah
Hosea recounted God's calling of national Israel out of Egypt. Christ, the true and faithful Israel, recapitulates the nation's history — going down into Egypt and being called back to the land of promise.
People in This Prophecy
Verse Commentary
Read verse-by-verse commentary on the key passages of this prophecy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Joseph take Jesus to Egypt?
To escape Herod's slaughter of the children — and so to fulfill Hosea 11:1.
Related Bible Prophecies
The Messiah Born in Bethlehem
Micah 5:2 named the village seven centuries in advance.
Rachel Weeping for Her Children
Jeremiah's lament fulfilled in Herod's slaughter of the innocents.
The Messiah Born of a Virgin
Isaiah 7:14 foretold a virgin would bear Immanuel — fulfilled in Mary.
The Eternal Throne of David
God's covenant with David fulfilled in Christ's everlasting reign.
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