Offering Your Best to Christ

Offering Our Best to Christ

Matthew 2:11 ESV

11 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.

Matthew 2:

Introduction: When we last visited this passage we were encouraged by a couple things by these wise men: (1)their determination to worship Christ and (2) their determination to worship in the place where Christ is.

Today we wish to focus on the determination to offer Christ their very best. The text acknowledges that these men entered the house, kneeled and worshiped Jesus; however, they also gave Jesus 3 particular gifts.

Transition: They offered Christ gold

Gold

very expensive metal but most importantly is generally the expected gift offering to a king.

ILLUS: When people would come before kings in the ancient world their gifts were always composed of gold because of the kings authority , position and royalty.

Transition: The actions of these men display their belief that Christ is a king. Not just any king but the King of kings.

Application: As we go forward today reflect on the Kingship of Christ. We can worship Him as King of Kings. Celebrate the sovereignty of Christ, meaning He is all powerful.

Transition: They also offered Christ Frankincense

Frankincense

Is a spice with a magnificent aroma. It is used primarily for worship and the only of spices to be used with the grain and bread offerings. In fact it is a part of the recipe for the special fragrance that is to be burned and offered unto God.

Traditionally as Christians, we believe Frankincense offered by the wise men symbolize the Divinity of Christ.

These men believed and knew that Jesus is God. Immanuel, “God with us”

Matthew 1:23 ESV

23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).

Application: Reflect on the true essence of Christ. He is God. He is with us. Remind your family that God is with us.

Transition: Lastly they gave Christ Myrrh

Myrrh

is a bitter oil sometimes used for perfume and worship. It was used for consecrating the tent and furniture of the Lord.

Our tradition teaches that myrrh symbolizes the death of Christ. (for it is through His death we are saved).

These men presented this gift to Christ knowing Him to be Savior of the world.

Transition: What an interesting level of foresight and insight of these men. They gave the best they had to give to Christ because they realized Him to be the best God has to give to the world.

Application: As we consider Christmas, let us do it by focusing on giving to Christ the best we have to give. Not the left overs. But our very best. Perhaps you are saying, “I can’t give gold or Frankincense and Myrrh.” That’s ok!

You can give Christ You! Your Best Commitment, Your Best Praise and Your Best Worship.