Tuesday, December 20, 2016

What Do You Mean?

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, in the time of King Herod, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem saying, “Where is the one who is born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”
Matthew 2:1-2
 
We have a way of thinking that can lead us astray if we aren't careful.  For example, the phrase translated as "wise men" is actually the word "magi" who were royal astrologers, alchemists, magicians, and well versed in philosophy.  

Then there is the traditional thought that there were only 3 Wise Men.  Scripture doesn't say that.  It simply states "Wise Men from the east came to Jerusalem."  And if they were royal Magi, then an entire entourage would have accompanied them, so their caravan would have been pretty substantial.

Finally, they came to Jerusalem to ask King Herod, "Where is the one who is born king of the Jews?" which means they were familiar with the Jewish prophets and Scriptures.  But their purpose for coming is made very clear: "For we saw his star when it rose and HAVE COME TO WORSHIP HIM."  

Remember why we celebrate Christmas.

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