Unexpected Visitors

Matthew 2:1–12aa ESV

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: “ ‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’ ” Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.

God can work even in places that have little or no Christian influence.

Wise men had little or no knowledge of the Scriptures, but yet recognized something unique was occurring.

This general revelation began a process of changing the lives of many, many individuals.

Our response to God’s revelation should be a constant pursuit of Him.

The wise men passionately pursued God, even though they probably did not fully understand. (they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy)

We are responsible for our response to God’s revelation.

Wise men pursued God.

Herod sought to eliminate God.

Our obedience to God can require sacrifice.

Sacrifice of time (length of the journey)

Sacrifice of resources

Food, Animals, Servants.

Wealth

Gold- Symbolizes royalty

Frankincense-Used for preparing offerings to be sacrificed or to make the unclean, clean again.

Myrrh-Used for embalming and preparing the dead.

The wise men sacrificed greatly for something they really didn’t know. How much should we sacrifice for a God who has transformed our lives?