Matthew 2:1-2 (KJV) [1] “Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, [2] Saying, Where is He that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.”
In today’s Scriptural text, we are told that “wise men from the east” came to Jerusalem, seeking to find “He that is born King of the Jews”, that is, the Lord Jesus Christ. The phrase “wise men from the east” refers to learned men, likely scholars, astrologers, and advisers, skilled in studying stars, astronomy, and ancient writings, probably from regions east of Israel such as Babylon, Persia, or Arabia. In the ancient world, such men often served in royal courts as counsellors. The journey of these wise men was motivated by divine revelation, because they said, “for we have seen His star in the east” (Mat. 2:2; KJV). God used a star to draw them; they recognized the star as a sign of a newborn King. “The East” was associated with Gentile nations (non-Jews) and areas familiar with Jewish prophecies due to the Jewish exile in Babylon. It is possible they knew prophecies such as “There shall come a Star out of Jacob” (Num. 24:17). This shows that God can reveal Christ even to those outside Israel.
Similarly, in Luke 2:8-21, we see that God revealed the birth of Jesus to shepherds watching over their flocks by night. The shepherds, in contrast to the wise men, were unlearned men. Shepherds were not part of the religious or social elite of Israel. They lived simple, labour-intensive lives and were often regarded as ordinary and even socially insignificant. From these two biblical accounts of the birth of Jesus Christ, we see that our God is no respecter of persons, but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him (Act 10:34-35; KJV. See also, Deut. 10:17; Rom. 2:1; Gal. 3:28). This divine revelation to non-Jews foreshadowed God’s plan to save both the Jews and the Gentiles, and men from every nation, tribe, and gender. The gospel is for all peoples, not one ethnic or cultural group. God does not show favouritism based on race, nationality, social status, wealth, or background. God looks at the heart, not external identity. God responds to sincere seekers; He draws them to the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Now, in this season of Christmas, reach out in love to people of all tribe, faith and religion. Show them that God so loved the “world” (which include them), that He gave His only begotten Son for their salvation. Preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in this season of Christmas, is the most appropriate thing to do. Be wise! Win souls to the Lord Jesus today and make the angels of heaven to rejoice greatly. Glory to God in the highest!
Written by: Andrew A. Esemudje