SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 2:9-12
The Magi went on their way after talking to King Herod. They followed the star until they saw where it had stopped over the place where Jesus was. They saw Jesus with Mary and worshipped him. The Magi gave Jesus gifts of gold, incense, and myrrh. They did not report back to Herod (having been warned in a dream), so they returned home a different way.
BSF STUDY QUESTIONS LESSON 2, DAY 3: MATTHEW 2:9-12
6 ) The Magi followed the star until they saw where it had stopped over the place where Jesus was. God wanted to make it clear who the real King was to them. God is gracious, indeed.
7a ) You should go to great lengths to worship Jesus and God. The Magis traveled very far on a long journey to see this King and give him gifts and worship. You and I, too, should go to great lengths to worship him.
7b ) Remembering all that Jesus did for me, all of my blessings, and praising him for those blessings and my life.
8 ) The Magi were warned in a dream to not to go back to Herod. This ensured Herod would not find Jesus and kill him.
CONCLUSIONS BSF STUDY QUESTIONS LESSON 2, DAY 3: MATTHEW 2:9-12
This is a great example of ignoring what your leaders tell you when it puts others in harm’s way. The Magi did not trust Herod, and since they were from another country, they were not obligated to follow his orders. Also, this is a great example of going out of your way to worship the One, True King.
END NOTES BSF STUDY QUESTIONS LESSON 2, DAY 3: MATTHEW 2:9-12
The star continually guided the Magi. This indicates that it was obviously from a supernatural power (God himself). It shows God’s care for them. And, it gives us hope that God will guide us with signs, too.
Bible scholars debate is this is where the idea of the halo comes from with the star’s light falling upon Jesus’s head.
Jesus is a child here, so at least six months old. Matthew mentions Jesus first, as fitting a king (which breaks with ancient tradition). And, note that Joseph is no where to be found. This was so that Magis would not think Joseph was the father of the child.
The fact that the Magi offered three gifts gave rise to the notion of three Magi.
Even though the Magi gave the gifts to Jesus, the parents would use them — and indeed they did. It wasn’t cheap to flee to Egypt (coming up). God provides all that we need, when we need it.
When compared to the shepherds’ visit (Luke 2:15-20), you’ll see that they offered what they could — their hearts — instead of expensive gifts. We need to offer what we can.
Note God’s control over the entire situation (every situation, in fact), as well as his control over Herod. He guides the Magi to the precise location of Jesus. Moreover, they worship him with expensive gifts. God sends a dream (one of five dreams in Matthew 1-2) that will protect Jesus from the Enemy.
The Magi themselves relentlessly pursued Jesus and worshipped him when they arrived. So must we.
God is great and actively working in your life. Seek Him today!