Matthew 2:1-12

Our Gifts To Jesus

Introduction:

When we think of Christmas our minds focus upon the incarnation of Christ.  God comes to this earth in human form by a virgin birth conceived by the Holy Spirit.  The writers of the Gospels all have a particular emphasis: John - is sure to speak about the glory of Christ. “And the Word (Living Word) became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14) Luke – tells the story how the angel appeared to Mary and that the Holy Spirit will overshadow her and that her offspring shall be called the Son of God. Mary acknowledges that her soul “exalts the Lord and confesses that Jesus is her God and Savior” (Luke 1:34-55) Matthew - places great emphasis on the person and work of Christ.  His person shall be very God and very Man. His name shall describe His Divinity. “And they shall call His name Immanuel, which means God, is with us.” His work shall be to live with man and to be sympathetic to their needs. He does all of His Father’s will by suffering and dying. “And you shall call His name Jesus, for it is He who will save His people from theirs sins.” (Matthew 1:18-25)

I. WISE MEN BEARING GIFTS

A. Not many wise – I Cor. 1:26

B. The Christmas Story

1. Magi were wise astrologers

2. Magi ask an important question –v.2

3. Magi saw a star of providence

C. Matthew central focus:

1. The Magi came to worship

2. This should be our central focus to worship Christ. (Matthew v.2, 8,11; 8:2; 9:18; 14:33; 15:25; 20:20; 28:9,17)

D. Wicked Herod

1. Feared being debarred from his throne

2. Decreed an horrid act – v.16

E. Bethlehem

1. The “house of bread”

2. The place where the Messiah will be born – v.6

F. Three Valuable Gifts

1. Gold – the metal of Kings – Rev. 17:14; 19:16

2. Incense – Used by priests in the temple worship – Phil.4:18; Rev. 5:8; 8:3,4; 18:13

3. Myrrh – the gift of death – Mark 15:23; Psa. 22:1-ff; Isa. 53:4-5

II. MEN WHO ARE TRULY WISE

A. How wise were these Magi?

1. They were wise enough to seek out Jesus. 

2. They were wise enough to seek the Scriptures – Rom. 10:8-10

3. They were wise enough to worship Him – Exodus 20:8; Heb. 10:25

B. When You Find Him:

1. Bring Him your Myrrh  - Self Denial -  Matt. 16:24; Gal.2:20

2. Bring Him your Incense - Prayers

3. Bring Him your Gold – Service

Pastor Nick Iamaio

Reformed Presbyterian Church

207 South First Street, Fulton, NY 13069

Web Site fultonrpc.org

12/23/2007