The tragic event known as the Slaying of the Children of Bethlehem, also referred to as the Massacre of the Innocents, is a significant fulfillment of prophecy concerning the life of Jesus Christ. This event is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew and is seen as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, highlighting the divine orchestration of events surrounding the Messiah's early life.

Biblical Account

The account of the Slaying of the Children of Bethlehem is found in Matthew 2:16-18. After the birth of Jesus, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem seeking the "King of the Jews." Herod the Great, the ruling king, felt threatened by the news of a potential rival and sought to eliminate this threat. When the wise men did not return to Herod with information about the child's whereabouts, Herod ordered the massacre of all male children in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under. The Gospel of Matthew records:

"Then Herod, when he saw that he had been outwitted by the Magi, was furious, and he sent and killed all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, according to the time he had learned from the Magi." (Matthew 2:16)

Prophetic Fulfillment

This horrific event is seen as the fulfillment of a prophecy spoken by the prophet Jeremiah. Matthew 2:17-18 cites this prophecy:

"Then what was spoken through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: 'A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing consolation, because they are no more.'" (Matthew 2:17-18)

The prophecy referenced is found in Jeremiah 31:15. In its original context, it speaks of Rachel, the matriarch of Israel, weeping for her descendants who were taken into exile. Matthew's Gospel applies this lament to the mothers of Bethlehem mourning their slaughtered children, drawing a parallel between the sorrow of the Babylonian exile and the grief experienced at the time of Christ's birth.

Theological Significance

The fulfillment of this prophecy underscores the theme of Jesus as the anticipated Messiah, whose life and mission were foretold by the prophets. The Slaying of the Children of Bethlehem serves as a stark reminder of the opposition and suffering that would accompany the arrival of the Savior. It also highlights the spiritual battle between the forces of good and evil, with Herod's actions representing the worldly powers that sought to thwart God's redemptive plan.

Furthermore, this event foreshadows the suffering and sacrifice that would characterize Jesus' earthly ministry, culminating in His crucifixion. The early persecution of Jesus, even as an infant, sets the stage for His role as the Suffering Servant, who would ultimately triumph over sin and death.

Historical Context

Herod the Great, known for his paranoia and ruthless measures to secure his throne, was a client king of Judea under Roman rule. His actions in Bethlehem are consistent with his historical reputation for brutality, including the execution of several of his own family members whom he perceived as threats. The massacre, while not recorded in other historical sources, aligns with Herod's character and the political climate of the time.

In summary, the Slaying of the Children of Bethlehem is a poignant fulfillment of prophecy, woven into the narrative of Christ's life and mission. It serves as a testament to the fulfillment of God's promises and the unfolding of His divine plan through Jesus Christ, the Messiah.Matthew 2:16-18
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.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

part ii
... the most-bountiful heavenly Father, Whose children are compassionated ... heavenly Physician,
our Lord Jesus Christ, come to ... so also after the slaying, after the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

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