The traditional belief that the shepherds and three wise men showed up on December 25th and found the newborn baby wrapped in swaddling clothing in a manger does not line up with the biblical record of the birth of Jesus.
Luke 2:15 and 16 The Gospel of Luke records the actual birth of Jesus. Immediately after he was born, the shepherds arrived and found him in a manger outside of an inn in Bethlehem.
Matthew 2:10-11 The Magi found a young child, a toddler, and his mother in a house.
Matthew 2:16 Why two years old and under? This was based on the time the Magi first saw the star. When the Magi arrived, Jesus could have been up to two years old.
Matthew 2:1 The Magi
The number of Magi is never given. They are called Magi, not kings. They were probably a cast of wise men specializing in astronomy, astrology, and natural science. Perhaps the Judean prophet Daniel had his influence on the Magi’s belief regarding the coming Messiah. Daniel 1:20; 2:2, 46-48; 5:8-12.
Matthew 2:2 “Where is he who has been born King of the Jews?”
His star – Whatever this star was, it signified to the Magi that the King of the Judeans had been born.
Matthew 2:3 Herod was troubled. He, through much political maneuvering, obtained the title of King of the Judeans. And now the Magi had announced that “The” King of the Judeans was born.
Matthew 2:4 Herod and the chief priests understood that the King of the Judeans was the Messiah. This is a fulfillment of the promise made to King David. (Acts 2:29-30; Psalms 132:11, 17)
Matthew 2:5-6 This Messiah or King would be the ruler over God’s people and would be born in Bethlehem. (Micah 5:2)
Matthew 2:7-11 They presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh and worshiped the King.
I Kings 10:9 & 10 The Queen of Sheba brought gifts of gold and spices.
Isaiah 60:1-6; Psalms 72:8-11 Gentiles and kings would bring gold & incense, present gifts, and bow down before the king. They will show forth the praises of the LORD when the redeemer comes to Zion.
The Magi believed in the coming Messiah. They traveled hundreds of miles to pay tribute to this one born King of the Judeans. They bowed before this child who is to be King over all the earth.
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