Sermon Cloud

The visit of the magi is recorded only in Matthew's gospel. They are mentioned in Matthew 2, and no reference is made to them again in the scriptures.

Magi were highly regarded religious authorities in eastern courts. Some served as counselors to the kings. The notion that these magi were kings may have arisen from the messianic interpretation of such Old Testament passages as Isaiah 60:3 "Nations shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising." Thus, the song says, "We three kings of Orient are."

This visit from persons of considerable religious and political status in their own country is a surprising and powerful affirmation of the universal implications of the birth of Jesus. Their worship of him as they bring their lavish gifts is a true "epiphany."

Jesus is born "king of the Jews," the wise men say, a title he will die with three decades later. And his birth is announced in the heavens in a way that brings students of ancient astrology to Bethlehem.

The meaning of the birth of Jesus goes beyond Jewish history and touches the whole world of humans, including your world.