1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,
6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.
8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.
10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.
Commentary: The Magi, men of wealth and wisdom, traveled far to honor Jesus, a child born in humble circumstances. Their willingness to bow before the infant King demonstrates profound humility, as they not only acknowledged His divine authority but also surrendered their wealth to Him. Offering gold, frankincense, and myrrh to a young child—one who outwardly appeared insignificant in the world’s eyes—revealed their humility and deep care for His wellbeing. Their gifts were not about elevating themselves but about ensuring Jesus had a foundation of provision and honor for His mission.
In contrast to Herod, who arrogantly clung to his power and wealth, the Magi exemplified humility by prioritizing the needs and future of another over their own. Their actions show that true greatness lies in valuing others and investing in their wellbeing, even when they might seem "lesser" by worldly standards. Jesus’ own humility is also evident in His early life, as the King of kings began His mission in modest conditions, reminding us that greatness in God’s kingdom transcends material wealth or status.
Application: Humility involves surrendering our resources to honor and support others, even when they may seem lesser by worldly measures. Like the Magi, we are called to value the wellbeing and potential of others above our own material comfort, offering our best to those who may benefit from it. In doing so, we reflect the heart of God, who values generosity and service over personal prestige. Let us seek ways to give humbly and selflessly, ensuring that our actions prioritize the flourishing of others over the maintenance of our own status.
12 And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.
13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
14 When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:
15 And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.
16 Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men.
17 Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying,
18 In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.
Commentary: Herod’s response to the Magi’s actions reveals the destructive nature of pride. His fear of losing power leads to the horrific massacre of innocent children, highlighting how pride can drive one to harm others in an attempt to maintain control. This stands in stark contrast to the humility of the Magi and Joseph, who acted selflessly in obedience to God’s guidance. Herod’s actions warn us that harmful intentions or thoughts toward others stem from a prideful heart that seeks its own gain above all else.
In contrast, God’s plan for salvation through Jesus reflects a humility that prioritizes life and restoration over control and dominance. Even as a vulnerable child, Jesus’ presence begins to shift the narrative of power, showing that true authority operates through humility and trust in God’s purposes, not through pride or violence.
Application: Humility involves resisting pride by guarding our hearts against harmful thoughts or actions toward others. If you find yourself wishing harm or failure upon someone, recognize this as pride and battle it by praying for their growth, success, and well-being. Let humility lead you to celebrate the blessings and progress of others, trusting that God’s sovereignty is sufficient for your own needs. Instead of clinging to control or resentment, choose to reflect Christ’s heart by seeking peace and good for all.
19 But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt,
20 Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life.
21 And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.
22 But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:
23 And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.
Commentary: Joseph once again demonstrates humility by obeying God’s direction to return to Israel and then settle in Nazareth. His willingness to adapt to God’s instructions without complaint reflects a heart that prioritizes obedience over personal ambition. Settling in an unremarkable town like Nazareth (John 1:46) underscores the humility of Jesus’ earthly life—He grows up in a place of low reputation, further reflecting His identification with the humble and lowly.
Application: Humility calls us to obey God without hesitation and embrace the roles He assigns us, even when they seem small or insignificant. Be willing to do anything that the Word commands, without care for whether others view such actions as unimportant.