December 10, 2021 - Matthew 2.1-12
What is your IQ? The average people in the world have an IQ between 70-130 on the IQ scale. The highest score recorded in history is between 250-300. Jim Kwik remarked, "It's not how smart you are, but how are you smart?" Perhaps that should be the question that is asked as we consider the Wisemen in the Christmas story!
Many believe these Wisemen were men from Persia who were a tribe or a caste of priests serving as teachers, astronomers, and magicians to the royalty of Persia, Babylon and possibly Assyria. Some of these individuals were skilled in astrology and held that man's destiny was influenced by the star under which he was born.
Upon searching the stars, they discovered a brilliant illumination that suddenly appeared in the night sky. Through careful research of writings and prophecies, these men became convinced the star heralded the entrance of a great king. They traveled from comfortable and secure homes to the place where the star led them. The wisemen followed the star over the treacherous trails that the exiled Jews had journeyed from captivity back to Israel until they arrived in Jerusalem.
How long this trip took, we are not sure but they arrived and sought to have a consultation with Herod, the King of Israel. Their question was direct, causing perplexity and agitation to the current ruler and his court. Upon investigation, Herod's counselors revealed their knowledge of the prophecy yet, were blinded to the truth of the prophetic fulfillment which the Wisemen declared to them.
Herod urged the strangers to continue their journey and then return to report their findings to him (v. 8). The wisemen of Herod's court were not astute to the light of the star, only the darkness. They worried for their positions and lives instead of worshiping the long-awaited King of Kings.
The men of far away distant lands demonstrated their wisdom by laying aside their everyday lives to seek a King that would change the world! What many assumed to be a fool's errand proved to be the wisest course of action. Isaiah 29:13-14 foretells this when he spoke, "Therefore the Lord said, 'Inasmuch as these people draw near with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, But have removed their hearts far from Me, ... And the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hidden.'"
As you read the different decisions of the wisemen of Persia and Jerusalem, which course of action will you follow? Will you discern the light which leads to the Savior or know the prophecy, choose to ignore it and walk in darkness? It's not how wise you are but how are you wise that will determine your eternal destination.
With an Expectant Hope,
Pastor Miller