The Gifts of Christmas
Key Scripture
Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Matthew 1:21 – “You will call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.”
Matthew 2:1–12 – The visit of the wise men.
1. Motivated by a Star
-
The wise men (Magi) began their journey because they saw a sign in the heavens—a star announcing the birth of a King (Matthew 2:2).
-
Their response reflects spiritual hunger and a willingness to pursue truth, regardless of distance or difficulty.
-
The star becomes a symbol of God’s guidance, drawing people toward the greatest gift: Jesus.
2. Aggravated by a Villain
-
King Herod becomes disturbed when he hears of a newborn “King of the Jews.”
-
His fear turns to hostility, as he sees Jesus as a threat to his power.
-
Herod represents the world’s resistance to God’s kingdom and the darkness that tries to extinguish the light.
3. Educated by Scripture
-
When the wise men arrive in Jerusalem, the religious leaders quote prophecy to locate the Messiah.
-
Matthew 2:5 – “For this is what the prophet has written.”
-
Scripture pointed them to Bethlehem, affirming that Jesus’ birth fulfills God’s long-promised plan.
-
God still leads His people today through His Word, revealing who Christ is and how to find Him.
