Final answer:
Matthew's Gospel uses typology to connect Jesus with Moses, illustrating the fulfillment of the Mosaic Law and foreshadowing through Old Testament events. This is demonstrated in Christian theology and art, with Moses and Jesus both serving as figures of liberation and salvation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Matthew's Gospel uses typology as a literary device to connect Jesus with Moses. This method involves drawing parallels between Old and New Testament figures, suggesting that the events in the life of Moses foreshadow and prefigure the life of Christ. Typology is seen as a way to illustrate the fulfillment of prophecy from the Mosaic Law to the new Christian Law under Christ. For instance, we might see how Moses providing water by striking a rock for the Israelites is echoed in Jesus, who is referred to as the 'living water' in the New Testament, providing spiritual sustenance.
Furthermore, Christian art often depicts such parallels, highlighting how both figures acted as saviors, with Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt and Jesus offering salvation to mankind. These narrative connections helped early Christians see Jesus as the new Moses, a liberator, and lawgiver, providing hope and meaning in times of persecution and serving as a model for personal salvation.