The Significance of “He Shall Be Called a Nazarene”
Deep Study
After returning from Egypt, Joseph settles the family in Nazareth “that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, ‘He shall be called a Nazarene.’”
- There is no single Old Testament verse that says this exact phrase.
- “Nazarene” likely refers to multiple prophecies:
- The Messiah would be “despised and rejected” (Isaiah 53:3).
- He would come from the “branch” (netzer) of Jesse (Isaiah 11:1).
- Nazareth was a small, insignificant town looked down upon (“Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” — John 1:46).
Yeshua Connection:
Jesus being called a Nazarene fulfills the pattern of the Messiah being humble, rejected, and coming from an unexpected place. He is the true “Branch” (Netzer) of David.
Key Truth:
God often chooses the lowly and despised to display His glory. Yeshua, the Nazarene, is the perfect example.
Cross-Reference: matthew-02-nkjv