Confirmation Week 4: The Visit of the Magi (Matthew 2:1-12)
Confirmation Week 4 (Matthew 2:1-12 — The Visit of the Magi
What was noteworthy this week was that in each of my 1:1 meetings with the students they each asked, “Why did they go around a different way?” And as soon as they asked they said, “Is Herod up to something? Is he going to do something bad?”
We then read further and they see the grossness of Herod’s actions against the innocent infants. I used that opportunity to talk about how the Magi were prompted to follow the star and it led them closer to Christ. There are certain stars, or guides, in our life and those people either lead us closer to or further from Jesus and his teachings. Herod has been led very far astray and will lead others with his corruption. It’s important to find good stars/guides in our lives.
I also took the time to explain that the Magi listened to the inner prompting - they felt a deep need to do something even if it didn’t make perfect sense.
Bible Study for Matthew 2:1-12
The Visit of the Magi - Matthew 2:1-12
In Matthew 2:1-12, we read about the visit of the Magi, or wise men, who travel from the East to find the newborn King of the Jews. Guided by a star, they seek Jesus, bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts are personal and practical. Gold pays for expenses and is a fitting tribute to a king. Frankincense was used in religious rituals and myrrh was used for medical reasons. The Magi’s journey teaches us about seeking and recognizing Jesus, no matter how far we may need to go. They respond to the star with faith, commitment, and reverence.
I used this passage as the basis for my stewardship sermon.
Who Were the Wise Men?
The Magi were likely astrologers or scholars from Persia or Babylon, experts in reading the stars and interpreting signs. They were motivated by a desire to honor the birth of a king, something they saw foretold in the heavens. Their long journey reflects not just physical travel, but also spiritual seeking. They recognized Jesus as special, not through political or earthly power, but by the divine guidance of the star and their willingness to listen to God’s signs. This teaches us that when we seek Jesus with genuine hearts, God will reveal the way.
The Book of Esther teaches us that there is an enclave (a minority of people who live together in a community) of Jewish people who live in Persia. Many of them are accomplished and perhaps these Magi are among those Jewish faithful awaiting the arrival of the Messiah.
Herod’s Fear and the Power Struggle
When King Herod hears about the birth of Jesus, he reacts with fear, feeling threatened by the possibility of a rival king. Herod’s fear reveals how earthly power can lead to insecurity and even violence. Unlike the Magi, who respond with reverence, Herod seeks to control and destroy what he sees as a threat to his authority. His fear contrasts sharply with the faith and openness of the Magi, challenging us to consider how we respond to God’s plans in our lives.
Are we open to God’s leading, or do we try to control situations out of fear?
The Magi’s Gifts and Faithful Return
The gifts the Magi offer Jesus are both practical and symbolic, representing honor, holiness, and sacrifice. If we were to give Jesus a gift, what would we offer from our lives? The Magi’s gifts were costly and thoughtful, showing deep respect and understanding of who Jesus was. Their decision to return by a different route, after being warned in a dream, shows their loyalty and faith. It is a reminder that when we encounter Jesus, we are called to change our paths, following him in obedience and faith, even if it means going against the expectations of the world around us.
Discussion Questions
1. Who were the wise men, and what do you think motivated them to travel such a long distance? How did they recognize Jesus as special?
2. Why was the star so special to the wise men? Are there people in your life that serve as guides? How do we know if someone is a good guide or a bad guide for us?
3. Herod is so interested is finding Jesus, right? What does Herod’s reaction say about power and fear?
4. The wise men offered Jesus gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. God represents wealth and honor. Frankincense symbolizes holiness and the presence of God. Myrrh was used as perfume and medicine. All of these gifts were practical. If you were to give Jesus a gift from your life to show him honor, what would you give?
5. Why do you think the wise men returned by a different route? What does this choice tell us about their loyalty and faith?
