Sermon: The Mystery of the Magi

Speaker

Pagan Gentiles from the East (Persian Empire, e.g., Babylon/Persia, northern Iran).
Priesthood of the Medes (6th century BC); scholars, dream interpreters, royal astrologers.
Likely influenced by Daniel (Daniel 5:11: appointed chief over magicians).
Possibly 12+ men in a caravan (not just 3, based on gifts/tradition).
Visited Jesus aged 1-2 (post-shepherds; Herod's massacre of boys ≤2 years old).
Worshiped Jesus as divine king; warned in dream to avoid Herod.

"His star" seen in East; guided to Bethlehem, stood over house.
Not natural phenomenon (e.g., Jupiter-Venus conjunction, supernova, comet).
Speculation: Angel, Shekinah glory/Holy Spirit manifestation; visible only to Magi.
Led to rejoicing upon reappearance.

Gold, frankincense, myrrh: Symbolic, for worshiping divine.
Gold: Jesus' deity/Kingship.
Frankincense: Jesus' priesthood/duty (intercession).
Myrrh: Jesus' death/sacrifice.
Fulfilled Isaiah 60:6 (gold/frankincense in millennial kingdom; no myrrh needed).

Deity: God in flesh (fully God/man); King of kings/Lord of lords.
Duty: High Priest; intercedes/prays for us, understands weaknesses/temptations.
Death: Once-for-all sacrifice atones for sins.

Jesus must be King (Lord), Priest (intercessor), Sacrifice in one's life.
Contrast: God asks Adam "Where are you?" (Gen 3:9); Magi ask "Where is he?" (Matt 2:2).
Altar call: Surrender to Jesus as King, Priest, Sacrifice; prayer for raised hands.