that visited the Christ child in Bethlehem so many years ago? First we need to deal with some misconceptions regarding these men. They were not “kings”; There were almost certainly more than three Magi that made the journey; We have absolutely no idea of their names in spite of some inaccurate traditions which appeared in 6th century, and they would not have ridden camels.
History tells us they belonged to a hereditary order of Medeian priests who over the centuries became powerful political and priestly advisers to the kings of the ancient middle eastern world. Some historians have traced them back to the time and location of Abraham in Ur of the Chaldees. The Magi were to became well known as “king makers.” In the days of Nebuchadnezzar the godly Jewish captive Daniel was made the “chief of all his wise men” (Daniel 4:48) which included the Magi.
Based on Daniels character it is very possible that a number of Babylon’s wise men became believers in Jehovah the God of Israel. The Magi were highly educated and studious men. Over the 600 years between Nebuchadnezzar's reign and the birth of Christ they most likely had continued access to the ancient Jewish scriptures (Old Testament) that originally belonged to Daniel. These writings included the “kingly” prophecies of a Messiah which are recorded in Micah 7:8-20.
Let’s now paint a picture of the Magi, who entered Herod’s Jerusalem. Fitting their political position they would have arrived in the city riding black Arabian stallions bred for speed and endurance. They would have been escorted by a large number of soldiers for protection on their journey and to deal with any potential conflict with Roman soldiers on their arrival in Israel. History tells us that at this time many of Herod’s army were in fact out of the country.
Finally, Herod would have been well aware of their reputation as advisors and “king makers.” Their arrival in the city and the questions they asked about a baby king certainly warranted the city being “deeply disturbed” (Mat 2:3). On leaving Jerusalem they followed the Shekinah glory to the house where the Christ child now lived.
Jesus’ whole life was a series of disturbances, Herod’s was just the first. Jesus was a thorn in the side to the chief priests, the Pharisees, the Sadducees, the self-sufficient, those who conducted business in the temple, and Pilate.
Today he continues, through the message of the gospel, to “disturb” those who are in need of his message of spiritual regeneration. However, may the disturbing work of Christ be replaced by the peace that comes hand in hand with the miracle of spiritual renewal through the power of salvation that is in Jesus alone.
“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).
Copyright. Bruce December 2010
Note: All quotes taken from the New Living Translation Second Edition.
Whose woods these are I think I know.
