Matthew 2:1-12 tells the story of the Magi (wise men) from the East who, guided by a star, traveled to Jerusalem seeking the newborn "King of the Jews," Jesus, to worship Him, disturbing King Herod, who secretly plotted to find the child and have Him killed, but the Magi found Jesus in Bethlehem, rejoiced, offered gifts, and were warned in a dream to return home by another route, avoiding Herod.
Key Events in Matthew 2:1-12:
- Arrival of the Magi: Wise men from the East arrive in Jerusalem asking for the newborn king, mentioning they saw His star in the East.
- Herod's Disturbance: King Herod and Jerusalem are troubled by this news, and Herod consults the chief priests and teachers of the law.
- Prophecy of Bethlehem: They tell Herod the Messiah will be born in Bethlehem, citing the prophet (Micah 5:2).
- Herod's Deception: Herod secretly calls the Magi, learns the star's timing, and sends them to Bethlehem to find the child, asking them to report back so he too can "worship" Him (though he intends to kill Jesus).
- The Star Returns: The star the Magi saw leads them to the exact spot where Jesus is in Bethlehem, filling them with great joy.
- Worship & Gifts: They enter the house, see Jesus with Mary, bow down, and worship Him, presenting gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (though gifts are mentioned in verses 11, not 12).
- Divine Warning: God warns the Magi in a dream not to return to Herod, so they go back to their own country by a different road.
Themes:
- Epiphany: The revelation of Jesus as King to the Gentiles (non-Jews).
- Faith vs. Fear: The Magi's faith and worship contrast with Herod's fear and jealousy.
- Divine Guidance: God uses the star and dreams to guide His people and protect His Son.
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