Join me in a devotional Study of the Birth of Christ. You can write your own devotionals by Summarizing, Reflecting and Responding to each focus verse.  See the verses of study in The flipbook above – “In the Fullness of Time” and download the templates below for your written study.

Day 9
Matthew 2: 1-12

“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem. and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” Matthew 2: 1-2

Wisemen from the East followed a star and came to Jerusalem to find the newborn, King of the Jews. When they entered Jerusalem they asked where he might be. This disturbed King Herod and others living in Jerusalem.   Upon consulting with the priests, Herod learned He was to be born in Bethlehem. He told them to go there to find the newborn King and to return and tell him so he also could go to worship Him. But being warned in a dream the wisemen did not return and went back to their homes another way.

It seems that the ones who should have been seeking the birth of Jesus, and had the knowledge to do so, could care less. The ones closest to even His vicinity, seemingly, were not interested. But a people far off searched diligently to witness His birth. God calls people who are far and near to know the One who was sent. Those who respond come close, but those who refuse are lost (Acts 2:39).
It is the gospel that brings us close to the One who saves. It was true then and it is true now in our present age.

Lord, you are not a respecter of persons; you do not favor one person over the other.  You love us the same. You have proven it by making available to all people your gift of redemption. All we have to do is seek you and you will point to the One who Saves – “Our Bright Morning Star”( Revelation 22:16). Everyone has the opportunity to behold your Son. When we desire to seek you, we will find you. When we accept what you have freely given, we receive the gift of faith and believe in Jesus. ( Ephesians 2: 8-9)

Cross References: Numbers 24:17, Isaiah 60:3, Micah 5:2, Genesis 49:10, Romans 15:12

Key Words: star – Strong’s 792 (aster) – “The New Testament’s use of ἀστήρ weaves together revelation, redemption, resurrection, and consummation. Stars announce the incarnate Savior, illustrate resurrected glory, symbolize ecclesial stewardship, warn of cosmic judgments, expose false guides, and finally point to Christ Himself as the everlasting Light. Taken together, these facets affirm the unity of Scripture and the centrality of Jesus Christ in every epoch of redemptive history.” (biblehub.org)

Christmas Devotional Templates
Download this template for your study.