November 18, 2021: SOAP #4368:  Matthew 1-4

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 2:1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” …
9 When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was. 10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. 11 And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

OBSERVATION: People sought out Jesus for many reasons.  Some came to ask questions.  Some came to find fault.  Some came to find relief from some physical ailment.  Most came for themselves, but some came for a child or servant.  But the “Magi from the east” came to worship. 

Those who came to Jesus as an adult expected Him to do something for them.  The “Magi” who we refer to as “wise men,” came to Jesus as a child.  They were not looking for what Jesus could do for them, but what they could give Him!!!  They gave Him worship and gifts appropriate from one king to another, from one royal person to another royal person. 

APPLICATION:  Christian growth and maturity brings changes in understanding of my relationship with Jesus.  He has become a part of my world, now He wants me to be a part of His world.  My consideration of what He can do for me changes to what I can do for Him. 

But what does one give to One who has everything, to the One who created the world?  The Wise Men give us a good example; they gave Him worship! 

PRAYER: Jesus, you are my Lord and Savior.  I worship you.  Thank you for all you have done and continue to do for me.  May my service grow in usefulness to you and your kingdom.  Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!