This chapter opens sometime after Jesus’ birth, perhaps as much as two years later. Magi from the east, who had seen His star, came to worship the one born King of the Jews. The identities of these magi and the star they had seen are unknown. But it is likely the magi were Persian astrologers who observed the stars, looking for signs of significant events.
They saw a new light in the heavens, which they interpreted as signifying the birth of a Jewish king. But likely not just any king, otherwise they would not have traveled so far with such costly gifts. Were they familiar with Jewish Scripture and the prophecy of a Messiah? It is possible. But whatever the reason, they undertook a long and potentially dangerous journey from their home to Judea and ultimately to a house in Bethlehem and a young child.
Along the way, they stopped in Jerusalem. As the most important Jewish city, it would be the logical place to search for the new king. While in Jerusalem, they were told where the Child might be found. And they aroused the deadly jealousy of King Herod.
They proceeded on to Bethlehem, found the Child, worshipped Him, presented Him with some kingly gifts, and returned home, avoiding giving Herod a report of the Child’s identity and location.
Then Herod, unable to identify which young boy in Bethlehem might be the threat to his throne, determined to kill all of the boys under two years of age who lived there. Joseph was warned to flee to Egypt, where they lived for a while before returning to Nazareth in the land of Galilee.
Other Posts from this Chapter
We Have Seen His Star in the East
Matthew 2:1-2
Responses to Jesus’ Birth
Matthew 2:1-18
Out of Egypt I Called My Son
Matthew 2:14-15
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