Final answer:
Matthew connects Jesus with Moses using typology, a literary device that presents events in the Old Testament as foreshadowing Jesus' actions, demonstrating Jesus as the fulfillment of the Mosaic law and prophecies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The literary device that Matthew uses to connect Jesus with Moses is known as typology. Typology refers to the interpretation of events, figures, or statements in the Old Testament as prefiguring or symbolically corresponding to events in the New Testament, demonstrating continuity and fulfillment of Mosaic law by the new Christian teachings. In particular, the Gospel of Matthew draws parallels between the life of Moses and Jesus to showcase Jesus as the new Moses, who fulfills the prophecies and brings a new covenant to the people.
An example of this typological connection is seen in the story of the Exodus, where Moses strikes the rock to provide water for the Israelites and contrasts Jesus' offering of 'living water' as a spiritual leader. Through typology, early Christians found deep significance in the life of Jesus as the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and a guide to salvation.