December 23, 2024
Big Book Idea
God with us.
They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet."
1 Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men 1 2:1 Greek magi; also verses 7, 16 from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose 2 2:2 Or in the east; also verse 9 and have come to worship him.” 3 When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; 4 and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet:
6
‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for from you shall come a ruler
who will shepherd my people Israel.’”
Matthew was probably written in the late 50s or early 60s A.D. Matthew (also called Levi), the former tax collector who became Jesus’ disciple, is the author. The original audience may have been the church in Antioch of Syria. Its members included Jewish and Gentile Christians.
Matthew tells the story of Jesus of Nazareth, the long-expected Messiah who brought the kingdom of God to earth.
Matthew writes his Gospel to demonstrate that Jesus is the Messiah, that he has the right to the throne of David as Israel’s true King, and that he is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham that his descendants would be a blessing to all the world (1:1; Gen. 12:1–3). Matthew seeks to encourage Jewish Christians (and all future disciples) to stand strong despite opposition. They should feel secure in the knowledge of their citizenship in God’s kingdom. Matthew shows that Gentiles also can find salvation through Jesus the Messiah.
The events in the book of Matthew take place almost entirely within the vicinity of Palestine, an area extending roughly from Caesarea Philippi in the north to Beersheba in the south. During this time it was ruled by the Roman Empire. The opening chapters describe events surrounding Jesus’ birth in Judea, where Herod had been appointed king by the Romans. The closing chapters end with Jesus’ death, resurrection, and ascension during the rule of Pontius Pilate and the tetrarchs Antipas and Philip.
Herod the Great ruled Israel and Judah from 37 to 4 B.C. He was an Idumean (or Edomite), and was appointed king of the Jews under the authority of Rome. Herod ruled firmly and often ruthlessly, murdering any who might challenge his place on the throne. This included his own wife, several sons, and other relatives. It is no surprise, then, that he tried to kill the baby Jesus. Despite his cruelty, Herod was known as “the Great” because Israel and Judah experienced prosperity during his reign. He was a master builder who restored the temple in Jerusalem and built many theaters, cities, palaces, and fortresses. Herod also financed structures—including pagan temples—throughout the Roman Empire. Ravaged by disease, Herod died in his palace at Jericho and was buried at Herodium. (Matthew 2:16–18)
Matt. 2:1 Bethlehem of Judea. Located about 6 miles (9.7 km) south of Jerusalem. Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem marks him as being from the tribe of Judah and from the city that produced the Davidic kings (1 Sam. 17:12; see note on Luke 2:3–4). Herod the king (Herod the Great) ruled Israel and Judah 37–4 B.C. He was appointed by Rome to be king of the Jews. He ruled firmly and at times ruthlessly. He murdered his wife, several of his own sons, and other relatives. He restored the temple in Jerusalem and built many theaters, cities, palaces, and fortresses throughout the Roman Empire. The term wise men referred to a wide range of people whose practices included astrology, dream interpretation, study of sacred writings, the pursuit of wisdom, and magic. As much as two years may have passed since the events of Matthew 1 (see note on 2:11).
Matt. 2:2 we saw his star when it rose. Through interaction with Jews in Babylon, the wise men would likely have been familiar with OT prophecy (e.g., Num. 24:17). The movement of the star (Matt. 2:9) suggests that it was a supernatural phenomenon. The wise men likely traveled with a large number of attendants and guards. The journey would have taken several weeks.
Matt. 2:4 The chief priests were in charge of temple activities. scribes. Experts in handling written documents. In Israel, their duties included teaching, interpreting, and applying the Mosaic law. The concept of “King of the Jews” had become associated with the Christ, the Messiah.
Matt. 2:5–6 Bethlehem. See Mic. 5:2.
In Matthew 2, we read about the birth and early childhood of Jesus. More specifically, in Matthew 2:1-6, we learn about the wise men who came to visit Jesus after His birth. I believe there are three essential truths we can gather through this passage.
The first truth is that Jesus is the Messiah. This is clearly stated in verse 2, when the wise men ask, "Where is he who has been born king of the Jews?" The wise men are anxious to meet Him because they understand the importance of His existence. Herod, on the other hand, is less enthused. He realizes that this baby is not only a king, but the King of all kings. Herod asked where the child will be born, and the chief priests answer, "In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet" (Matthew 2:5).
The second truth is that Jesus is to be worshiped by all nations, not just Israel. Jesus was visited by wise men (foreigners) from the east, not just shepherds from Bethlehem. Some of the first worshipers of the Messiah were Gentiles, not Jews. This proves that Jesus is the Savior of all nations, and all people are invited into the kingdom of God.
The third truth is that God fulfills His promises. While this one may seem obvious, it is an incredible reminder of His grace and mercy. Time and time again throughout the Old Testament, God promised a Savior for our sins. "For from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people . . . ." (Matthew 2:6, quoting Micah 5:2). This verse highlights the prophecy that was fulfilled in the birth of Jesus and is an expression of God's relentless love for us.
This month's memory verse
everyone who is called by my name,
whom I created for my glory,
whom I formed and made.”
1. From Scripture, what promises has God made to us? Do you believe His promises are for you?
2. Are there times when you doubt that Jesus' sacrifice is enough for you? What Scripture can you memorize to combat those thoughts?
3. In what areas of your life do you hesitate to fully submit to God's will? What is holding you back?
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