12/20/20
Rev. Clint Smith
Sermon Direct Link
Matthew through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit is quick to point out the birth location of Jesus. Why? Because He was born in Bethlehem, just as Micah the Prophet wrote under the in inspiration of the Holy Spirit. (Micah 5:2) God keeps His word.
Wise men from the East traveled to find and worship the Baby King of the Jews. Something or Someone motivated them to travel close to 1000 miles to see this King.
The wise men specifically explained to Herod they had seen His Star and had plans to worship Him.
Herod was a jealous man. When he heard the wise men, he was disturbed, and the entire town was also.
Herod called a meeting of all the chief priests and scribes. He anxiously asked them where the Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed) was to be born.
The chief priests and scribes quickly had an answer for Herod. They had a copy of the Scriptures, so they referenced Micah 5:2 and clearly indicated Bethlehem as the Messiah’s birthplace.
Herod believed the Scriptures and secretly called the wise men for an exact time reference as to when they had seen the King’s Star.
Herod sent the wise men on their way to Bethlehem to carefully search for the King. He instructed them to bring him word to him so he could worship the King also.
As the wise men departed, the King’s Star they had seen in the east, went on before them [continually leading the way] until it came and stood over the place where the young Child was. The wise men rejoiced with exceedingly great joy when they saw the King’s Star!
The wise men came into the house where Jesus and Mary were, they fell and worshiped Him. They opened their treasures and gave gifts to Him. They gave gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
After worship, God warned them in a dream not to return to Herod. They obeyed God instead of Herod and began the journey back home.
God has not required us to travel thousands of miles to meet Jesus. He is here and waits for us to receive His gift of salvation. Will you receive it?
Is Jesus your Savior and Lord?