The Gospel of Matthew portrays Jesus as a new and better version of everyone who came before Him. Where Adam sinned in the Garden, Jesus obeys. Where Israel broke the covenant, Jesus is faithful. Where the religious leaders abused God’s people, Jesus is gentle and lowly. This is the book of new beginnings — a New Genesis for God’s people.

It has been a difficult 400 years for Israel. Enslaved in Egypt, they cry out to God, who hears them, sees their troubles, remembers His covenant, and comes down to rescue His people. The faithfulness of God in this ancient Exodus foreshadows the greater Exodus that Jesus will accomplish for His people at the cross.