Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for December 20, 2015

“Known and Worshiped” Matthew 2:1-12 Bible Study 12/20/15

Matthew’s account of the visit of the Wise Men underscores the wisdom and power of God in pursuing His great goal: that His Son would be known and worshiped as King over all. Know Him and worship Him this Christmas-and always!

I. Honor Jesus as King of Kings

-Herod: king of the Jews

-inquiry about Messiah

-emphasis on “where” (Micah 5:2-4)

II. Honor Jesus as King of the nations

-represented by the wise men

-focus on foreigners (Isaiah 60:1-3)

-King and Promise-Fulfiller

III. Grasp the guidance and goal of God

-speculation about the “star’

-exertion of supernatural influence

-the worship of the nations

IV. Identify the features of non-worship

-indifference of religious leaders

-hostility of Herod

-the far-off near and the near far-off

V. Worship through joyful recognition and sacrificial giving

-authority and dignity

-quadruple rejoicing

-gifts that focus and foreshadow

VI. For further reflection

-The One “pavilioned in splendor” placed Himself in a manger.

-“Worship is communion with God in which believers, by grace, center their mind’s attention and their heart’s affection on the Lord, humbly glorifying God in response to His greatness and His Word.” (B. Leafblad)

-“Thou hast given so much to me, Give one thing more, a grateful heart; Not thankful when it pleaseth me, As if Thy blessings had spare days, But such a heart whose pulse may be Thy praise.” (G. Herbert)

-“May we say from the heart, ‘Lord Jesus you are the Messiah, the King of Israel. All nations will come and bow down before you. God wields the world to see that you are worshiped. Therefore, whatever opposition I may find, I joyfully ascribe authority and dignity to you, and bring my gifts to say that you alone can satisfy my heart, not these.’” (J. Piper)