But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,
19. But when Herod was dead These words show the perseverance of Joseph’s faith. He kept his feet firm in Egypt, till he was recalled to his native country by a command of God. We see, at the same time, that the Lord never disappoints his own people, but renders them seasonable aid.
Egypt serves for shelter, not a home; Christ must return to the lost sheep of Israel. Mark how swift divine vengeance fell on Herod, proud tyrants that terrify the earth must die and face judgment. Why fear a man that shall perish? His envy and malice die with him, but his guilt for innocent blood condemns him forever.
AI summary
Commenting on Matthew 2:19-23
But when Herod was dead,.... Who died, as before observed, a few months after this tragedy was acted; and, according to the (w) Jewish writers, on the seventh day of the month Cisleu, and which answers to the twenty fifth of our November: and was afterwards observed as a day of rejoicing by the Jews.