Rev. Mitch Boese

Main Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12

Additional Scriptures: Micah 5:2, Matthew 1:6, 20:28, 1 Samuel 8:11-19, Isaiah 52:10

POINTS:

• Jesus’ Geneology and entitlement to the throne threatened Herod who was an illegitimate King.

• Herod aligned himself with Satan, to kill, steal, and destroy the rightful King but nothing can thwart the plans of God.

• The Pharisees were looking for the pure Jewish Messiah (Anointed One) who would come and restore Israel to autonomy and greatness as a powerful King in the likeness of King David.

• The Magi were Zoroastrians, from Persia.

• God chose foreign men of foreign gods to see and herald the Christ child-a sign that this was good news to “all people”.

• The Magi were more in tune with the spiritual world than the carnal one-we should do the same, and not focus so much on the earthly worries and cares of this life.

• CS Lewis “Aim at Heaven and you will get earth thrown in-aim at earth and you will get neither.”

• Some say there are those who are so heavenly-minded they are no earthly good-but to be truly heavenly-minded is to want to help reconcile all on earth with our heavenly Father.

• God the Father chose foreign pagan Magi and uncounted sheepherders and for His Son to be born in an assuming village in a lowly animal shelter. He did this for us, regardless of status

• Jesus’ power came not in might but in sacrifice.

• Jesus came as an unexpected King not to be served like earthly kings, but to serve us, and give His life as a ransom for many.