Jan. 05, 2025

“Seeking A King”

Matthew 2:1-6

 We often know what we’re looking for, but sometimes, it sure is hard to find. The magi, King Herod, and his chief priests and scribes all in search of the King of the Jews. But none of them were searching for the same reason. The magi sought a King. Scripture tells us that the magi were from the East. They were academics who studied the stars, and studied prophecies as well, including Hebrew scripture with its promises from old. They likely would have read prophecies that pointed to the new king. (Micah 5:2) They showed a willingness to seek out the source of true wisdom. The magi didn’t know what to expect. The wise men sought out a king, and instead, they found their Lord, their savior, their messiah. King Herod was seeking a rival. Herod was a ruthless leader who chose to rule with fear. Herod was going to maintain his rule through any means necessary. He wanted to seek the King of the Jews not to honor Him but to kill him. Not everyone who seeks Jesus is doing it to praise and worship Him. What about us? What do we seek? Often what we seek can be distractions that pull us away from God. Throughout the Bible we hear of people who struggled with their faith. Repenting means to turn around and go the other way. But no matter how strong or weak our faith is, no matter what path we follow in life, and no matter how well we follow His directions, God still loves us, and He’s ready for us.

 Questions:

1. Who were the Magi? What were they seeking?
2. Who was Herod? Why was he seeking Jesus?
3. What often gets in way with our walk with God?