The Shepherd King

This morning we continue in our study through the gospel according to Matthew as we consider the visit of the wise men in Matthew 2:1-12. Our text shows us that Jesus is the Messiah who was born in Bethlehem, in fulfillment with what the prophet Micah had written. Jesus is the Shepherd King who was born King of the Jews.

We see in our story that right from the beginning the arrival of Jesus was met with a variety of responses. There was hostility from King Herod, apathy from the Jewish leaders, and worship from the wise men. This story sets the tone for what we can expect to see throughout the gospel according to Matthew. It also provides us with a picture of the right response to meeting Jesus. This response looks like rejoicing with great joy, falling down to worship, and offering our treasures. We pray, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."