The redemptive function and theological meaning of Matthew's citation of Hosea 11:1

Abstract

This dissertation reexamines Matthew's use of Hosea 11:1 (2:15). Chapter 1 offers a summary and critique of important works on the subject and introduces those questions that are common to the debate surrounding this passage.

Chapter 2 is entirely devoted to the hermeneutical debate surrounding Matthew's enigmatic citation. Is Matthew's citation an example of midrash or pesher , or is Matthew simply giving his readers the sensus plenior or sensus literalis reading of the text? Or, should we consider that his citation is a clear example of typology?

Chapter 3 examines the significance of the exodus-event in Israel's history. A summary analysis of key OT texts from the Pentateuch, the Psalms, and the Prophets helps to make this point. This is followed by Hosea's own contribution to the exodus-motif. Ultimately, the aim of this chapter is to interpret Hosea 11:1.

Chapter 4 is lays the foundation for reading Matthew's citation of Hosea 11:1 within the greater context and purpose of Matthew's Gospel. It is argued that Matthew 1:21 is the programmatic verse that frames the rest of his Gospel and defines his purpose, of which Matthew's citation is but a part.

Chapter 5 examines Matthew's use of Hosea 11:1 in the context of his Gospel. Attention is given to the meaning of the main terms of the citation and proposes that his citation is an example of typology.

The final chapter summarizes the entire work and discusses the theological implications of the Jesus' fulfillment of Hosea 11:1.

This work contends that Israel's past exodus from Egypt is the fundamentally decisive event that defines the nation's life before God. Accordingly, when Matthew says that Jesus fulfilled Hosea 11:1, God is now grounding the lives of "his people" whom Jesus shall save from their sins, not in an event, but in his Son.