Three Reactions To The Birth Of Jesus

Three Reactions to the Birth of Jesus
Matthew 2:1 - 12

The world is excited and busy, but most are not excited for the reason Christians "should" be excited.

As soon as Jesus was born men were forced to make a decision about Him, they grouped into three groups.

I. SOME REACT WITH ANTAGONISM

“Magi” refers to Persian or Babylonian wisemen and priest.

King Herod was a cruel and sneaky man jealousy for power with an uncontrollable suspicion of everyone.

Herod intended to kill baby Jesus but his plan failed, so in rage he kills all the baby boys in Bethlehem less than 2 years of age.

Since Herod millions who have had the opportunity to worship Christ have reacted with hatred and hostility.

Attempts to dethrone the true King today will fail just as the plans of Herod to stop the Christ failed.

II. SOME REACT WITH COMPLETE APATHY

But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will be a shepherd of my people Israel". Matthew 2:6

The chief priests and teachers of the law when confronted with Jesus didn’t care enough to go 20 miles to check it out.

What a tragedy today to exchange cards and gifts, decorate homes, go to Christmas parties, sing Christmas carols, go to a Christmas service and yet never experience the true meaning of Christmas.

III. SOME REACT WITH ADORATION

The Magi left their homes, families and at great expense traveled hundreds of miles to follow a star to search for the Christ Child.

They gave Him gifts that have a very special meaning.

Gold because He is the One True King.
Incense because He is our Great High Priest.
Myrrh, (an odorless gum for embalming soldiers who had given their life in battle) because Jesus was born to die.

Follow the pattern of the Wisemen…

1. Make your own journey to meet the King.
2. Bow down in humble worship.
3. Submit to the Lordship of Christ.

“Trust and obey, for there's no other way to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.” John Sammis