Matthew 2:1-1
There will always be prominent people to rise up in the arenas of politics, sports, entertainment, and even our own local communities. When such icons step into the limelight, public reactions usually bend one of three ways: We either love ‘em, hate ‘em, or we just don’t give a hoot.
These attitudes reflect the same three basic responses people made “after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king” (Matthew 2:1). Gentiles adored Him, Herod was agitated by Him, and the Jews were apathetic about Him.
Rome governed Israel during the time of Christ, and Herod was appointed “king of the Jews” by the Roman senate. Though he made significant economic and cultural contributions, Herod was a cruel and merciless ruler who was incredibly jealous for his place of power over Israel. Naturally then, “king Herod” became extremely nervous when “magi from the east” entered Jerusalem seeking to crown Jesus, the “King of the Jews” (Matthew 2:2).
The Bible doesn’t say their number, names, or mode of transport, but history supports the magi were probably very powerful priestly men whose rituals centered around the elements of nature. Their knowledge and influence was so great in the orient, these “wise men” were officially in charge of advising and appointing Persian kings, and no one was crowned without their approval.
The true King was unknown in Jerusalem, His own royal residence. John the apostle wrote, “He came unto his own, and his own received him not” (John 1:11). Jerusalem’s Jews rejected their King from a few miles away, so God made sure His Son received the worship of foreigners from lands away.
Herod was a counterfeit king. Jewish theologians quoted Scripture about the King (Matthew 2:3-6). But only wise men actually worshiped the King.
Reflect:
What’s your attitude toward Jesus? Do you connect with Herod, the magi, or the religious people? Why or why not?
From today’s passage, would you say there’s a difference between knowing the Bible and knowing Jesus?
Jesus threatened Herod’s job, money, and image. Is there anything in your life competing with Jesus for your heart?