Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Wisdom in Disobedience: Matthew 2


Matthew 2

The Visit of the Wise Men

Does it sound familiar? Like a song you usually sing around Christmas time? Well forget that for a second.

They are sometimes called the“Three Kings,” though the most literal Bible translation refers to them as 'wise men,' magoi, or magicians, these were learned men: either devoted philosophers, pagan priests or astronomers from the eastern lands of Persia or Arabia. These men were not professing believers in the God of the Bible yet were more aware of His signs than the Jewish priests and scribes. May there never be any misconception: there is one God, any other is a fake and a demon (1 Corinthians 10:20), and God will use whomever He wills to accomplish His purposes. He is not a God in need of people with the right credentials, but the right heart.

The wise men's quest for the “king of the Jews” put them at odds with the man who found his identity in being king over all Judea, Herod the Great, as he we was fond of calling of himself. Historically, this Herod was a paranoid figure, totally willing to kill his own wife and child, if he felt threatened, which was often. So, Herod, knowing he'd have to kill yet another child, attempts to trick these Gentiles into helping him feed his psychosis and keep the throne. Thankfully, the wise men, like Joseph, receive a warning from God and decide to ditch the crazy after worshiping Jesus.

Questions

  1. The wise men were seekers of Truth, they found ultimately led to Jesus. How can this encourage followers of Jesus to dialogue with others about him?
  2. Herod's lust for power led him to fulfill his dreams in horrible ways. How can the obsessions in our lives lead to unhealthy behavior?
  3. The wise men didn't necessarily believe in the God of the Bible yet God was able to led them to Himself, through His creation. If God can make Himself known in this way, couldn't God speak to each of us in ways we understand? What do you think? Can you back this up with scripture?
  4. The wise men were willing to disobey Herod when God told them to. Have you ever found yourself at odds with others over something you believe God wanted you to do?
Jean-Marc


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