The phrase "Out of Egypt I called My Son" is a significant biblical reference found in both the Old and New Testaments, carrying profound theological implications. It is primarily associated with the prophecy in Hosea 11:1 and its fulfillment as described in the Gospel of Matthew.

Old Testament Context:

In the Old Testament, the phrase appears in Hosea 11:1: "When Israel was a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called My son." . This verse is part of a larger narrative where God, through the prophet Hosea, recounts His love and care for Israel, His chosen people. The reference to "My son" in this context is metaphorical, referring to the nation of Israel as God's son. The calling "out of Egypt" alludes to the historical Exodus, where God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt under the leadership of Moses. This event is foundational in Jewish history, symbolizing God's redemptive power and covenantal relationship with Israel.

New Testament Fulfillment:

The Gospel of Matthew reinterprets this phrase in a messianic context. In Matthew 2:13-15, after the visit of the Magi, an angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream, instructing him to take Mary and the infant Jesus to Egypt to escape King Herod's massacre of the male children in Bethlehem. Matthew 2:15 states, "And he stayed there until the death of Herod. This fulfilled what the Lord had spoken through the prophet: 'Out of Egypt I called My Son.'" . Here, Matthew identifies Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of Hosea's prophecy, presenting Him as the true Son of God. This typological interpretation sees Jesus as the embodiment of Israel, reliving the nation's history and fulfilling its destiny.

Theological Significance:

The dual application of "Out of Egypt I called My Son" highlights the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. It underscores the belief in Jesus as the Messiah who fulfills Old Testament prophecies. The phrase illustrates the concept of typology, where events in Israel's history prefigure and find their ultimate meaning in the life and mission of Jesus Christ. This connection emphasizes God's sovereign plan of salvation, demonstrating His faithfulness to His promises.

Furthermore, the use of this prophecy in Matthew's Gospel serves to affirm Jesus' divine sonship and His role as the deliverer of God's people. Just as God called Israel out of physical bondage in Egypt, Jesus' return from Egypt symbolizes the spiritual deliverance He brings to humanity. This event foreshadows the greater exodus Jesus would accomplish through His death and resurrection, liberating believers from the bondage of sin and death.

Conclusion:

The phrase "Out of Egypt I called My Son" thus serves as a profound testament to God's redemptive work throughout history, culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ. It reflects the intricate tapestry of biblical prophecy and fulfillment, revealing the depth of God's love and His unwavering commitment to His people.