Morning Moments

The visit of the wise men and the fury of Herod Mt 2:1-12

A. The Magi

Joseph and Mary are now in a house, having returned from Nazareth and are residing in Bethlehem. For after the flight to Egypt, we read of Joseph’s plan to return to Judea, though kept from it by God. Jesus was two years old or under.

1. Their Purpose “to worship”

The term “wise men” designates an order, or caste, of priests and philosophers called “magi,” which existed in the countries east of the Euphrates, from a very remote period. We first find the word in Scripture in Jer 39:13. This class is frequently referred to in the Book of Daniel, where its members are called magicians (they studied the stars), but not "soothsayers" as we understand the term. They were in many ways the Levites of the East. It is believed that these men were from a special school of astronomers that Daniel had begun while in captivity in Babylon. There is no indication that Daniel ever returned to his homeland. These me knew the prophecy regarding the Messiah's birth and they knew the Gospel in the stars as has now been confirmed.

2. Their Problem “where is He”

They seem to have expected to find all Jerusalem knowing and worshipping this new-born King. Their disappointment is shared by many modern converts from heathendom who visit so-called Christian countries, and are filled with astonishment and sadness at the ignorance and unbelief they discover.

3. Their Presents “gold…myrrh”

Oriental custom requires that an inferior shall approach his superior with a gift. These gifts probably contributed to the sustenance of the parents and the child while in Egypt. Frankincense is a white resin or gun obtained by slitting the bark of the Arbor thuris. The best is said to come from Persia. It is very fragrant when burned. Myrrh is also obtained from a tree in the same manner. The tree grows from 8 to 10 feet high and is thorny. It is found in Egypt, Arabia, and Absynnia. Myrrh means “bitterness.” The gum was chiefly used in embalming dead bodies, as it prevented putrefaction. It was also used in ointments, and for perfume.

4. Their Protection “warned”

They came by night, and were obviously aroused and caused to depart by night, in order that their coming and going might in no way betray the whereabouts of the infant King.

BLESSINGS!