Matthew 2:11-12 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

Gentile worshippers.

Guided by the providence of God, the devout scientists from the East, who inquired in Jerusalem for the King of the Jews, are arrived at Bethlehem. Now they enter the house of the carpenter. Let us also enter, that we may see and worship with them.

I. WHAT DO THEY SEE ?

1 . They behold the King of the Jews.

2 . They see him veiled in humanity.

(a) The reality of our interest in his mission and work.

(b) The reality and perfection of his sympathy with us.

(a) to open all our anxieties to him;

(b) to trust him with a perfect confidence.

3 . They see Immanuel in humiliation.

(a) how humanity is dignified in Christ;

(b) how in him the Divine royalty of man is and may be asserted amidst circumstances of reverse.

4 . They see a heavenly vision.

II. HOW DO THEY WORSHIP ?

1 . They worship Jesus as the King of the Jews.

(2) "Opening their treasures," etc. It was also customary in the East to bring gilts to kings. Note:

(a) "The powers that be are ordained of God," and should therefore be religiously respected.

(b) Kings exist for the order and happiness of states, and should therefore be religiously sustained in the due exercise of their functions.

2 . They worship Jesus as the Christ of God.

3 . They worshipped him with gifts.

4 . Their worship was typical.

5 . their gifts were symbolical.