Difference between revisions of "Matthew 2:1-12 The Extended Family Portrait"

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=Matthew 2:1-12 The Extended Family Portrait=
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**Matthew 2:1-12: The Extended Family Portrait**
  
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Nathan Wakefield / General
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**Theological Proposition/Focus:** The guests who visited Jesus remind us that the Lion of Judah is the King of Creation. We honor the King by recognizing His lordship and offering our best gifts, as the Magi did.
  
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Portraits of the King / Matthew 2:1-12
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**Christ Focus:** This passage connects to the overarching narrative of Scripture, showing how God reveals Himself to all nations, pointing to Christ as the fulfillment of the prophecies concerning His universal kingship.
  
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The guests who came to visit Jesus remind us that The Lion of Judah is King of Creation.
+
**Homiletical Proposition/Application:** This sermon encourages Christians to consider how they recognize Jesus in their lives and what gifts they can offer Him in worship. It also challenges them to reveal their faith in a world that often overlooks Christ's sovereignty.
  
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'''Theological Proposition/Focus:''' The guests who came to visit Jesus remind us that The Lion of Judah is King of Creation. We honor the King who came to us by recognizing His lordship and presenting our best to Him, just as the Magi did.
+
**Introduction**
  
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'''Christ Focus:''' This passage connects to the overarching narrative of Scripture, showing how God reveals Himself to all nations, pointing to Christ as the fulfillment of the prophecies concerning His universal kingship.
+
**Image: Family Christmas Pictures**
  
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'''Homiletical Proposition/Application:''' This sermon can encourage Christians to consider how they recognize Jesus in their lives and what gifts they can offer Him in worship. It can also challenge them to reveal their faith in a world that often overlooks Christ's sovereignty.
+
How does your family handle Christmas photos? Who is involved?
  
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=Introduction=
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**Need:** We must recognize that the King of the Universe is also our personal King.
  
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==Image: Family Christmas Pictures==
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**Preview:** We should seek the Sovereign King of the universe, acknowledging that it will impact us personally, challenging our self-exaltation and calling us to submit in sincerity.
  
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How does your family do Christmas pictures? Who all is involved?
+
**Setting the Stage:**
  
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==Need: We must recognize that the King of the Universe is also our personal king.==
+
One intriguing aspect of major church holidays is the way different characters are portrayed. One such group is the Magi. While details are uncertain, their journey from the East to honor the King of the Jews is a classic story. These men were Gentiles, reminding us that Jesus' message is for everyone.
  
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==Preview: We should seek the Sovereign King of the universe while acknowledging that it will impact us on a personal level, challenging our tendency to self-exaltation and calling us to submit in sincerity.==
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**Text: Matthew 2:1-12**
  
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==Setting the Stage:==
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**Body**
  
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One of the things I always enjoy when we get to major church holidays is looking at the way different characters are portrayed. One particularly interesting group is the Magi.
+
**Seek the Sovereign**
  
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Not all scholars agree on the details, but the story of wise men from the east is a classic.
+
The birth of the Savior is an event of global significance (1-2). The Magi traveled far to pay homage to a King they had never met. This shows God revealing Jesus to all nations. We should ask ourselves how we acknowledge Jesus' lordship in our lives and seek Him diligently.
  
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We don't know the exact identity of these men nor do we know exactly where they came from. We don't know exactly how they knew to expect the King of the Jews to be born. We don't even know how many there were.
+
**God's Plan for Salvation is Universal**
  
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What we do know is that a group of significant men came from the East, and it is that story that we study today. These magi were not Jews but rather gentiles, reminding us that Jesus is for everyone.
+
Verse 1 begins with a genitive absolute used temporally, indicating that the events of chapter 1 are the primary event, followed by those of chapter 2. Jesus is the main event, but we should not stop there because there is much more to consider.At this stage, we are ready to introduce a pivotal fact: the arrival of Magi, a priestly class of magicians and astrologers. They had come to Jerusalem. This arrival signifies that the worship of Jesus was not only intended for Jews but extended to the entire world. It also suggests that these men may have been unfamiliar with Micah 5:2, "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times," as they arrived in Jerusalem instead of Bethlehem. This incident reminds us that God's plan for Jesus was to make him accessible to everyone.
  
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==Text: [https://ref.ly/logosref/BibleNIV.Mt2.1-12 Matthew 2:1-12] read all at the beginning.==
+
===Jesus is the Rightful King of the Jews (2a).===
  
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=Body=
+
Matthew provides context by informing us that these events occurred during the reign of King Herod. Herod the Great, born in 73 BC, was appointed King of Judah in 37 BC. Herod's excessive jealousy and paranoia were notorious, as evidenced by the Roman historian Suetonius's quote, "It is safer to be Herod's pig than his son." This pun, based on the Greek words "hys" (pig) and "huios" (son), highlights Herod's ruthless nature, even towards his family. Despite being a practicing Jew, Herod refrained from eating pork, considering pigs safe, but he did not hesitate to execute his sons whom he perceived as threats to his throne.
  
−
==''Seek'' the ''Sovereign'' — The birth of the Savior is an event of global significance (1-2).==
+
In verse 2, the Magi ask a significant question: "Where is the one who was born King of the Jews?" This question, which was likely offensive, warrants further discussion of Herod's rise to power.
  
−
The recognition of Jesus as a King is significant. The Magi traveled from afar to pay homage to a King they had never met. In this, we see God revealing Jesus as the King to all nations. We are encouraged to ask ourselves how we acknowledge Jesus' lordship in our lives and follow their example by seeking Him earnestly.
+
* In 47 BCE, Herod was appointed governor of Galilee with Roman approval.
 +
* After Julius Caesar's assassination in 44 BCE, Herod aligned with Mark Antony.
 +
* In 40 BCE, with support from Mark Antony and the Roman Senate, Herod was declared King of Judea.
 +
* Herod consolidated his power through marriages, building projects, and strong ties with Rome, particularly after aligning with Octavian (Augustus) following the defeat of Antony and Cleopatra in 31 BCE.
  
−
===God's plan involves offering salvation to every person (1).===
+
In contrast, Jesus was the rightful King of the Jews.
  
−
Verse 1 begins with a genitive absolute used temporally. That is, the events of Chapter 1 are the primary event, and what is described in Chapter 2 is made to follow-up on those events. Jesus is the main event, but we should not just stop with the birth of Jesus; there is so much more, and it matters.
+
===Jesus is Worthy of Universal Worship (2b).===
  
−
With the stage set, we are ready to introduce the pivotal fact: a priestly class of magicians and astrologers known as Magi had arrived. These men had come to Jerusalem. What we learn is that worship of Jesus was something not just for Jews but for the whole world. What we also learn is that these men must not have been familiar with [https://ref.ly/logosref/BibleNIV.Mic5.2 Micah 5:2]
+
The ultimate affront to Herod occurred when these notable men informed him that they had not come to honor him but to worship this new King of the Jews. Through their observations in the night sky, the astrologers perceived a sign of Jesus' birth.**Assumed Importance of the Star**
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"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." since they arrived in Jerusalem, not Bethlehem.
 
  
−
Through this, I am reminded that God's plan was for Jesus to be accessible to everyone.
+
Various interpretations exist regarding the celestial event witnessed by the Magi, including a supernova, a divine manifestation, or an unidentified phenomenon. However, their central understanding was that it signified God's intervention in Israel's affairs. Recognition of God's actions should elicit a response of worship.
  
−
===Jesus is the rightful King of the Jews (2a).===
+
****
  
−
Matthew also helps us understand the time period and situation by telling us that all of this happened during King Herod's time. Herod the Great was born in 73 BC and was named King of Judah in 37 BC. Herod was known for his jealousy and paranoia.
+
**Global Significance of Jesus' Birth**
  
−
The phrase, "It is safer to be Herod's pig than his son," is attributed to the Roman historian Suetonius and is an important example of how ruthless Herod was, even toward his own family. This saying plays on a word pun in Greek: hys (pig) and huios (son), highlighting Herod's reputation for ruthlessness, even towards his own family. Herod, a practicing Jew, would not eat pork (making pigs safe), but he did not hesitate to execute several of his sons whom he perceived as threats to his throne.
+
Rarely do we encounter events of truly global significance. While major elections and sporting events hold importance, none compare to the birth of Jesus Christ.
  
−
In verse 2, the magi make a significant statement: "Where is the one who was born the King of the Jews?" This statement was nothing short of offensive but also warrants a little more discussion of how Herod had gained the throne.
+
****
  
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- Around 47 BCE, Herod was appointed governor of Galilee by his father, with Roman approval. He quickly demonstrated his administrative and military capabilities by suppressing banditry.
+
****
  
−
- After Julius Caesar's assassination in 44 BCE, Herod aligned himself with the Roman general Mark Antony.
+
**Acknowledge Jesus' Supremacy**
  
−
- In 40 BCE, with the support of Mark Antony and the Roman Senate, Herod was declared King of Judea. This appointment was partly a Roman strategy to counter Parthian influence in the region.
+
Acknowledge Jesus' Lordship and emulate the Magi's earnest pursuit of Him.
  
−
- Herod solidified his power through strategic marriages (including marrying a Hasmonean princess, Mariamne), extensive building projects, and maintaining strong ties with Rome, particularly after aligning with Octavian (Augustus) following the defeat of Antony and Cleopatra in 31 BCE.
+
****
  
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In other words, Herod was not the people's ruler but a shrewd politician. In contrast, Jesus was the rightful King of the Jews.
+
****
  
−
===Jesus is worthy of universal worship (2b).===
+
**The Local Significance of the Savior's Birth**
  
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The ultimate slap in the face to Herod comes when these men of significance tell Herod that they are here, not to pay honor to Herod, but to worship this new King of the Jews.
+
Herod's anxiety at Jesus' birth highlights the local impact of Christ's kingship beyond its global implications. This challenges us to confront how Jesus' arrival disrupts our lives and to uphold our faith amidst opposition.
  
−
Through some means, these astrologers saw something in the sky and assumed it was of significance for the Jewish throne. Various people have made various proposals for what the Magi saw: a supernova, a work of God, or something else, but what really matters of significance is that they saw something that led them to believe God was acting in Israel.
+
****
  
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The proper response to the work of God is nothing short of worship.
+
**Messianic Prophecy and Jewish Significance**
  
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===Image: Events of Global Significance===
+
The Messiah was prophesied to descend from David's lineage, making Jesus' birth particularly significant for the Jewish people (Isaiah 9:6-7).
  
−
It's not often that we're exposed to an event truly of global significance. Sure, we have major elections in superpowers. The Olympics are significant, but really, nothing compares to the birth of Jesus.
+
****
  
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===MTR: Acknowledge the Lordship of Jesus in your life and follow the example of the Magi by seeking Jesus earnestly.===
+
**Herod's Contrast with the True King**
  
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==''Shock'' at the ''Significance'' — The birth of the Savior is an event of local significance (3-6).==
+
Herod's title as "King" is significant, as it is later omitted (verse 7), highlighting the contrast between him and the "King of the Jews." This contrast is further emphasized by the prophecy in Isaiah 9:6-7, which describes the rightful ruler as a descendant of David, reigning with justice and righteousness eternally.
  
−
Herod's fear of the news of Jesus' birth reminds us that Jesus has local influence in addition to global influence. The local ruling powers were troubled when confronted with Christ's kingship. We are challenged to consider how the arrival of King Jesus might disrupt our lives and to stand firm in our faith despite opposition.
+
****
  
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===The Messiah was promised to come from the line of David and was incredibly significant to the Jews (3, [https://ref.ly/logosref/BibleNIV.Is9.6-7 Isaiah 9:6-7]).===
+
**Herod's Unlawful Rule**
  
−
Some more details on Herod are helpful as we consider this next passage of Scripture. The text tells us that "When King Herod heard this, he was disturbed." The title "King" is significant; later in the text, Herod will be called by his name Herod (as in verse 7), but right now, Matthew wants to draw our attention to the contrast between the one "born king of the Jews" and "King Herod."
+
Herod was not a legitimate Jewish king, being a descendant of Esau, Jacob's brother, rather than Jacob himself. This made him unpopular among the Jewish population, despite his contributions to the region. The birth of a rival king posed a local threat to Herod's stronghold.On a grand scale, Jesus was the Savior. However, locally, accepting Jesus might have drastically altered the authority tightly held by Herod and other Jewish leaders. Thus, the news disturbed all of Jerusalem.
  
−
To better understand this contrast, let's look at [https://ref.ly/logosref/BibleNIV.Is9.6-7 Isaiah 9:6-7] "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace, there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this."
+
The Messiah was destined to rule (4-6).
  
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The rightful ruler of the Jews was to be a king descended from the line of David. Now a little more on Herod.
+
We have previously examined the text of Isaiah 9 and were reminded of the Messiah's destined rule. However, I want to take a moment to reflect on the significance of the Messiah's rule.
  
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Herod was not a rightful king of the Jews. Specifically, he was not a descendant of Jacob, let alone David. Herod was an Edomite, that is, a descendant of Esau, Jacob's brother. For this reason, most of the Jews showed great hatred for Herod despite the things he had done for the region, like updating the temple.
+
People enjoy origin stories. In fact, one could argue that origin stories are what make comics popular. Consider this: would you enjoy a Marvel movie as much if the origin story were removed? We embrace the concept of origin stories partly because we relate to the relatability of our superheroes. We prefer them to be ordinary people destined for greatness.
  
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If someone had been born King of the Jews, this was locally significant as there was a candidate to usurp the power to which Herod clung so tightly.
+
Well, Jesus' origin story is incredibly significant.
  
−
On the grand scale, Jesus was the Savior, but locally, accepting Jesus might have radically changed the power that Herod and other Jewish leaders held so tightly, and so all Jerusalem was disturbed at this news.
+
"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times" (Micah 5:2).
  
−
===The Messiah was destined to rule (4-6).===
+
Jesus was born in obscurity, in an insignificant town, to an impoverished family. However, he was destined to save the world. Jesus understands us because he was not born into affluence. Jesus is accessible to all.
  
−
We already looked at
+
However, the local significance of Jesus implies that he challenges. What do I mean? Jesus is not a ruler cloistered in an ivory tower, making inconsequential decisions. Instead, Jesus overturns that model. As we embrace this ruler of universal importance, Jesus calls upon us to undergo a significant paradigm shift. He challenges each of us, as individuals, to change as well!
 +
 
 +
Submit to Jesus, even if it disrupts your plans and aspirations.
 +
 
 +
"Subterfuge" in "Self-exaltation" — The Savior's birth inevitably instills fear in some (7-8, 12).
 +
 
 +
Let's explore Herod's deceitful intentions in greater depth, contrasting them with the Magi's genuine pursuit. While some may pretend to honor Jesus, true worship demands sincerity and sacrifice. Jesus exposes false worship. Let's examine Herod's response in verses 7-8 and 12.
 +
 
 +
Those who oppose God are often fully aware of their actions (7-8).
 +
 
 +
Before we delve directly into verses 7 and 8, I want you to notice something. Pay attention to what the Magi call Jesus in verse 2 and what Herod, by implication, calls Jesus in verse 4. The Magi seek a king, while Herod grasps that the request is far more profound: they are seeking the Messiah. In fact, in verse 8, Herod falsely feigns a desire to worship Jesus. Herod's dilemma is shared by many. Herod simply did not desire the Messiah. The more I interact with individuals who "do not believe in God," the more convinced I become that they actually do believe in**Edited Text:**
 +
 
 +
God, some people just don't like him. Most of you here today don't belong to that category, but I believe there are times when we dislike certain aspects of God. We may not agree with a decision he's made or a direction he's led us. We may not like something he withheld or something he gave us.
 +
 
 +
God didn't create us as robots, so having our own will isn't wrong. However, we should strive to align our will with God's instead of rejecting him outright. I often advise people to express their feelings to God while simultaneously asking him to help them align with his will.
 +
 
 +
I'll admit that there have been times when I haven't liked the direction God has taken me. In those moments, I find it most helpful to tell God my concerns and then cry out, "Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!'" (Mark 9:24).
 +
 
 +
With that in mind, let's skip ahead to verse 12 of this passage to confirm our suspicions about Herod.
 +
 
 +
**There are those who would even try to thwart God's plans (12).**
 +
 
 +
People can respond to God with rejection or direct opposition. Herod chose the latter, as verse 12 makes clear. He had sinister intentions, which are further confirmed in Matthew chapter 2. The wise men were warned and returned by another route, so Herod's direct attack on God was ultimately thwarted.
 +
 
 +
**Image: The Extended Family**
 +
 
 +
I named this sermon "The Extended Family Portrait" because of the Magi's visit. But let's consider that extended family visits often bring new stressors and can reveal our true selves under pressure. This is precisely what happened with Herod. People already knew he was unstable, but the extent of his madness is exposed here. Herod was willing to defy even God to preserve his power.
 +
 
 +
So, what should we do? I believe we should examine our hearts and intentions in our worship of Christ. When extended family visits, it's helpful to have a plan:
 +
 
 +
* What will we do in certain situations?
 +
* Where can we find some solitude?
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* How will we recharge?
 +
 
 +
With careful planning, a visit from extended family can provide an opportunity for growth and quality time. But it requires self-examination to ensure that our hearts, motives, and needs are in check.
 +
 
 +
As we approach Christmas, let's examine our hearts and motives in our worship of Christ. Where can we grow? What steps can we take to become more submissive?
 +
 
 +
**MTR: Commit to genuine worship through self-examination.****Intentions in Worship of Christ**
 +
 
 +
Despite Herod's negative response to Jesus, the story does not end there, and neither should our response.
 +
 
 +
**Submission and Joy**
 +
 
 +
The Savior's birth brings joy to many (Matthew 2:9-11). The gifts presented to Jesus—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—symbolize aspects of his identity. Like the Magi, we are called to offer our best to him, recognizing his kingship and priesthood. These gifts represent our call to worship and consecrate our lives, emulating their reverence.
 +
 
 +
**God's Guidance**
 +
 
 +
God guided the wise men to the Savior (Matthew 2:9-10). Though Jerusalem to Bethlehem was a short distance, God provided guidance. The star led them to the house where Jesus was. God remained in control, and the Magi responded by submitting to his guidance, experiencing "great joy."
 +
 
 +
**Worship as Response**
 +
 
 +
When the Magi found Mary and Jesus, they knelt and worshipped (Matthew 2:11). Worship is the appropriate response to a Savior. Their worship was enhanced by the specific gifts they brought.
 +
 
 +
* **Gold:** Represents Christ's deity and royalty
 +
* **Frankincense:** A fragrant spice used in perfumes, fitting for God
 +
* **Myrrh:** A resin used in embalming, symbolizing Christ's ultimate sacrifice
 +
 
 +
These gifts had practical value, providing financial resources for Mary and Joseph's flight to Egypt. The Magi's worship enabled the one they worshipped to continue his mission.**Survive!**
 +
 
 +
**Image: You never know how your gifts will be used. A tract in Kenya.**
 +
 
 +
About 15 years ago, I was sitting at my computer when an email arrived. The text looked suspicious, but I felt compelled to read it. A man from Kenya had found a tract with the Gospel message and our church's email address on the back. He had read the tract, accepted Jesus as Savior, and led his family and orphanage to Christ. He needed more materials for training, as he had essentially become the pastor of his family and the orphans.
 +
 
 +
My first thought was, "This is amazing." My second thought was, "Yeah, right." But as I investigated further, I learned about a family from our church who had lost a suitcase while traveling. Inside it were clothes and some tracts. The story suddenly became plausible.
 +
 
 +
I reached out to Baptist Mid Missions, a missions agency with missionaries in Kenya. They put me in touch with a missionary in the area. Working together across thousands of miles, we arranged for the missionary to meet with the gentleman and provide training for several years.
 +
 
 +
Who would have known that a lost bag could result in the Gospel being spread? When we give things up to God, we never know the impact it might have.
 +
 
 +
**MTR: Present your best to Jesus.**

Revision as of 20:49, 9 December 2024

    • Matthew 2:1-12: The Extended Family Portrait**
    • Theological Proposition/Focus:** The guests who visited Jesus remind us that the Lion of Judah is the King of Creation. We honor the King by recognizing His lordship and offering our best gifts, as the Magi did.
    • Christ Focus:** This passage connects to the overarching narrative of Scripture, showing how God reveals Himself to all nations, pointing to Christ as the fulfillment of the prophecies concerning His universal kingship.
    • Homiletical Proposition/Application:** This sermon encourages Christians to consider how they recognize Jesus in their lives and what gifts they can offer Him in worship. It also challenges them to reveal their faith in a world that often overlooks Christ's sovereignty.
    • Introduction**
    • Image: Family Christmas Pictures**

How does your family handle Christmas photos? Who is involved?

    • Need:** We must recognize that the King of the Universe is also our personal King.
    • Preview:** We should seek the Sovereign King of the universe, acknowledging that it will impact us personally, challenging our self-exaltation and calling us to submit in sincerity.
    • Setting the Stage:**

One intriguing aspect of major church holidays is the way different characters are portrayed. One such group is the Magi. While details are uncertain, their journey from the East to honor the King of the Jews is a classic story. These men were Gentiles, reminding us that Jesus' message is for everyone.

    • Text: Matthew 2:1-12**
    • Body**
    • Seek the Sovereign**

The birth of the Savior is an event of global significance (1-2). The Magi traveled far to pay homage to a King they had never met. This shows God revealing Jesus to all nations. We should ask ourselves how we acknowledge Jesus' lordship in our lives and seek Him diligently.

    • God's Plan for Salvation is Universal**

Verse 1 begins with a genitive absolute used temporally, indicating that the events of chapter 1 are the primary event, followed by those of chapter 2. Jesus is the main event, but we should not stop there because there is much more to consider.At this stage, we are ready to introduce a pivotal fact: the arrival of Magi, a priestly class of magicians and astrologers. They had come to Jerusalem. This arrival signifies that the worship of Jesus was not only intended for Jews but extended to the entire world. It also suggests that these men may have been unfamiliar with Micah 5:2, "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times," as they arrived in Jerusalem instead of Bethlehem. This incident reminds us that God's plan for Jesus was to make him accessible to everyone.

Jesus is the Rightful King of the Jews (2a).

Matthew provides context by informing us that these events occurred during the reign of King Herod. Herod the Great, born in 73 BC, was appointed King of Judah in 37 BC. Herod's excessive jealousy and paranoia were notorious, as evidenced by the Roman historian Suetonius's quote, "It is safer to be Herod's pig than his son." This pun, based on the Greek words "hys" (pig) and "huios" (son), highlights Herod's ruthless nature, even towards his family. Despite being a practicing Jew, Herod refrained from eating pork, considering pigs safe, but he did not hesitate to execute his sons whom he perceived as threats to his throne.

In verse 2, the Magi ask a significant question: "Where is the one who was born King of the Jews?" This question, which was likely offensive, warrants further discussion of Herod's rise to power.

  • In 47 BCE, Herod was appointed governor of Galilee with Roman approval.
  • After Julius Caesar's assassination in 44 BCE, Herod aligned with Mark Antony.
  • In 40 BCE, with support from Mark Antony and the Roman Senate, Herod was declared King of Judea.
  • Herod consolidated his power through marriages, building projects, and strong ties with Rome, particularly after aligning with Octavian (Augustus) following the defeat of Antony and Cleopatra in 31 BCE.

In contrast, Jesus was the rightful King of the Jews.

Jesus is Worthy of Universal Worship (2b).

The ultimate affront to Herod occurred when these notable men informed him that they had not come to honor him but to worship this new King of the Jews. Through their observations in the night sky, the astrologers perceived a sign of Jesus' birth.**Assumed Importance of the Star**

Various interpretations exist regarding the celestial event witnessed by the Magi, including a supernova, a divine manifestation, or an unidentified phenomenon. However, their central understanding was that it signified God's intervention in Israel's affairs. Recognition of God's actions should elicit a response of worship.

    • Global Significance of Jesus' Birth**

Rarely do we encounter events of truly global significance. While major elections and sporting events hold importance, none compare to the birth of Jesus Christ.

    • Acknowledge Jesus' Supremacy**

Acknowledge Jesus' Lordship and emulate the Magi's earnest pursuit of Him.

    • The Local Significance of the Savior's Birth**

Herod's anxiety at Jesus' birth highlights the local impact of Christ's kingship beyond its global implications. This challenges us to confront how Jesus' arrival disrupts our lives and to uphold our faith amidst opposition.

    • Messianic Prophecy and Jewish Significance**

The Messiah was prophesied to descend from David's lineage, making Jesus' birth particularly significant for the Jewish people (Isaiah 9:6-7).

    • Herod's Contrast with the True King**

Herod's title as "King" is significant, as it is later omitted (verse 7), highlighting the contrast between him and the "King of the Jews." This contrast is further emphasized by the prophecy in Isaiah 9:6-7, which describes the rightful ruler as a descendant of David, reigning with justice and righteousness eternally.

    • Herod's Unlawful Rule**

Herod was not a legitimate Jewish king, being a descendant of Esau, Jacob's brother, rather than Jacob himself. This made him unpopular among the Jewish population, despite his contributions to the region. The birth of a rival king posed a local threat to Herod's stronghold.On a grand scale, Jesus was the Savior. However, locally, accepting Jesus might have drastically altered the authority tightly held by Herod and other Jewish leaders. Thus, the news disturbed all of Jerusalem.

The Messiah was destined to rule (4-6).

We have previously examined the text of Isaiah 9 and were reminded of the Messiah's destined rule. However, I want to take a moment to reflect on the significance of the Messiah's rule.

People enjoy origin stories. In fact, one could argue that origin stories are what make comics popular. Consider this: would you enjoy a Marvel movie as much if the origin story were removed? We embrace the concept of origin stories partly because we relate to the relatability of our superheroes. We prefer them to be ordinary people destined for greatness.

Well, Jesus' origin story is incredibly significant.

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times" (Micah 5:2).

Jesus was born in obscurity, in an insignificant town, to an impoverished family. However, he was destined to save the world. Jesus understands us because he was not born into affluence. Jesus is accessible to all.

However, the local significance of Jesus implies that he challenges. What do I mean? Jesus is not a ruler cloistered in an ivory tower, making inconsequential decisions. Instead, Jesus overturns that model. As we embrace this ruler of universal importance, Jesus calls upon us to undergo a significant paradigm shift. He challenges each of us, as individuals, to change as well!

Submit to Jesus, even if it disrupts your plans and aspirations.

"Subterfuge" in "Self-exaltation" — The Savior's birth inevitably instills fear in some (7-8, 12).

Let's explore Herod's deceitful intentions in greater depth, contrasting them with the Magi's genuine pursuit. While some may pretend to honor Jesus, true worship demands sincerity and sacrifice. Jesus exposes false worship. Let's examine Herod's response in verses 7-8 and 12.

Those who oppose God are often fully aware of their actions (7-8).

Before we delve directly into verses 7 and 8, I want you to notice something. Pay attention to what the Magi call Jesus in verse 2 and what Herod, by implication, calls Jesus in verse 4. The Magi seek a king, while Herod grasps that the request is far more profound: they are seeking the Messiah. In fact, in verse 8, Herod falsely feigns a desire to worship Jesus. Herod's dilemma is shared by many. Herod simply did not desire the Messiah. The more I interact with individuals who "do not believe in God," the more convinced I become that they actually do believe in**Edited Text:**

God, some people just don't like him. Most of you here today don't belong to that category, but I believe there are times when we dislike certain aspects of God. We may not agree with a decision he's made or a direction he's led us. We may not like something he withheld or something he gave us.

God didn't create us as robots, so having our own will isn't wrong. However, we should strive to align our will with God's instead of rejecting him outright. I often advise people to express their feelings to God while simultaneously asking him to help them align with his will.

I'll admit that there have been times when I haven't liked the direction God has taken me. In those moments, I find it most helpful to tell God my concerns and then cry out, "Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!'" (Mark 9:24).

With that in mind, let's skip ahead to verse 12 of this passage to confirm our suspicions about Herod.

    • There are those who would even try to thwart God's plans (12).**

People can respond to God with rejection or direct opposition. Herod chose the latter, as verse 12 makes clear. He had sinister intentions, which are further confirmed in Matthew chapter 2. The wise men were warned and returned by another route, so Herod's direct attack on God was ultimately thwarted.

    • Image: The Extended Family**

I named this sermon "The Extended Family Portrait" because of the Magi's visit. But let's consider that extended family visits often bring new stressors and can reveal our true selves under pressure. This is precisely what happened with Herod. People already knew he was unstable, but the extent of his madness is exposed here. Herod was willing to defy even God to preserve his power.

So, what should we do? I believe we should examine our hearts and intentions in our worship of Christ. When extended family visits, it's helpful to have a plan:

  • What will we do in certain situations?
  • Where can we find some solitude?
  • How will we recharge?

With careful planning, a visit from extended family can provide an opportunity for growth and quality time. But it requires self-examination to ensure that our hearts, motives, and needs are in check.

As we approach Christmas, let's examine our hearts and motives in our worship of Christ. Where can we grow? What steps can we take to become more submissive?

    • MTR: Commit to genuine worship through self-examination.****Intentions in Worship of Christ**

Despite Herod's negative response to Jesus, the story does not end there, and neither should our response.

    • Submission and Joy**

The Savior's birth brings joy to many (Matthew 2:9-11). The gifts presented to Jesus—gold, frankincense, and myrrh—symbolize aspects of his identity. Like the Magi, we are called to offer our best to him, recognizing his kingship and priesthood. These gifts represent our call to worship and consecrate our lives, emulating their reverence.

    • God's Guidance**

God guided the wise men to the Savior (Matthew 2:9-10). Though Jerusalem to Bethlehem was a short distance, God provided guidance. The star led them to the house where Jesus was. God remained in control, and the Magi responded by submitting to his guidance, experiencing "great joy."

    • Worship as Response**

When the Magi found Mary and Jesus, they knelt and worshipped (Matthew 2:11). Worship is the appropriate response to a Savior. Their worship was enhanced by the specific gifts they brought.

  • **Gold:** Represents Christ's deity and royalty
  • **Frankincense:** A fragrant spice used in perfumes, fitting for God
  • **Myrrh:** A resin used in embalming, symbolizing Christ's ultimate sacrifice

These gifts had practical value, providing financial resources for Mary and Joseph's flight to Egypt. The Magi's worship enabled the one they worshipped to continue his mission.**Survive!**

    • Image: You never know how your gifts will be used. A tract in Kenya.**

About 15 years ago, I was sitting at my computer when an email arrived. The text looked suspicious, but I felt compelled to read it. A man from Kenya had found a tract with the Gospel message and our church's email address on the back. He had read the tract, accepted Jesus as Savior, and led his family and orphanage to Christ. He needed more materials for training, as he had essentially become the pastor of his family and the orphans.

My first thought was, "This is amazing." My second thought was, "Yeah, right." But as I investigated further, I learned about a family from our church who had lost a suitcase while traveling. Inside it were clothes and some tracts. The story suddenly became plausible.

I reached out to Baptist Mid Missions, a missions agency with missionaries in Kenya. They put me in touch with a missionary in the area. Working together across thousands of miles, we arranged for the missionary to meet with the gentleman and provide training for several years.

Who would have known that a lost bag could result in the Gospel being spread? When we give things up to God, we never know the impact it might have.

    • MTR: Present your best to Jesus.**
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