Weekend Message/Devotion
January 6, 2019
Communion Sunday
Matthew 2:1-12
Three Kings – Seek THE KING – Avoiding The Evil King
Today’s reading is all about kings. However, the King of the Jews (Our Christ) is our only Sovereignty.
Let’s look at these kings. First are the three “Kings of Orient Are”. They are referred to in songs and tales as the Three Magi. In depth study of “Magi:” will produce several differing explanations of who the Magi were and their origins.
I like the one found in a publication of Christianity Today: https://www.christianitytoday.com/history/2016/december/magi-wise-men-or-kings-its-complicated.html
My best understanding is that they came from Persia and were among a tribe of priests. Maybe say a tribe of priests as was the tribe of Levy among the Israelites. However, they evolved into scientists and teachers,
with astronomy being a major interest and concentration.
When this brightest of stars appeared in the heavens, they knew that they just had to solve its significance. Thus, the preparation and journey to seek out the prophesied one born under the Star of Magnificence.
When word reached Herod that these “wise men” were in search of the birth of the Messiah, he had them brought before him for his “counsel”. Herod’s counsel was for these men to return to Judea and inform Herod of the exact location of the Baby born to be the long- awaited Messiah. His true intent was to learn of the location so that he might send soldiers to kill this babe and eliminate any threat to his reign.
Let’s pause here and try and evaluate a lesson for modern day seekers of the Savior. Folks, whether you identify yourself as an Evangelist or not, if you are a believer in all of the Holy Scripture, you are not only called to be an Evangelist you are so COMMANDED.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. Matthew 28:16-20
As I read this passage that we all refer to as the GREAT COMMISSION, I do not find anything that indicates it as a request; as limited to any societal standing; as to any level of education; as an option. What do you see?
Where am I going with the Great Commission as it relates to modern day seekers? How many “Herods” do we encounter, who will do anything to dissuade us from the purpose of our seeking the Messiah? Just look around you at the distractions. There are way too many to list them but among them are drugs, alcohol, lustful desires and offers to fulfill them, violence, hate, corruption, threats, and even laws that infringe upon Christian beliefs and practices.
How did God handle this dilemma? He told the wise men in a dream to avoid Herod on their return journeys.
Beloved, that is exactly what God is telling us: AVOID the Herods in our daily encounters. They are everywhere, and we need not battle them – that fight is a spiritual battle and is fought in the heavenlies. Too often, when man tries to enter such a battle it simply pours fuel on the fire so to speak.
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 6:12
Now, let’s look in on the King of the Jews – Our Christ. Remember, He was born in a manger, in a stinking cave or shelter where animals were stabled. Now, read closely Matthew 2:11. “And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother and fell down and worshiped Him.”
When it became apparent in Bethlehem (The House of Bread) that this newborn baby was the object of worship by angels, shepherds from afar and now wisemen (kings, if you prefer) the family was provided immediate housing. It doesn’t say but can’t you just picture the ladies of the village clamoring to feed them and extend every form of hospitality at their disposal.
There is a great parallel today when sharing the gospel. Churches all across America are struggling to fulfill a “calling”. The Herods are all about, in every conceivable form. Small churches rely on volunteer musicians, non-salaried pastors and staff. No criticism intended but the glamour and clamor of many mega churches become a draw that extends more emotion and entertainment than deep rooted bible study and doctrinal preaching. Yet, if it’s mega or nowhere, I say go mega. If it’s deep rooted fellowship, worship, study and bible preaching, there is a church out there for you.
Let us pray-
We ask that you bless us each one with great and greater opportunities to love and serve YOU by loving and serving each other.” Amen
I humbly and sincerely ask for your prayers!
https://churchleaders.com/outreach-missions/outreach-missions-articles/311609-how-to-pray-for-your-pastor-ronnie-floyd.html?utm_source=outreach-cl-daily-nl&utm_medium=email&utm_content=read-more&utm_campaign=cl-daily-nl&maropost_id=&mpweb=256-7370272[HG1]
Note: It is the practice of this church to preach straight from the bible. We follow the lectionary assigned readings from which the sermon/messages are derived.
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