Why Magi are Important to Christmas
What if the most profound example of faith in the Christmas story came not from devout Jews, or shepherds, but from pagans? The story of the Magi can easily be thought of as insignificant. But these mysterious figures offer profound insights into God's plan and power.
The Magi were likely scholars from Persia, known for their expertise in astrology, dream interpretation, and esoteric knowledge. Far from being people that were closely linked to worshiping Jehovah, they were deeply entrenched in pagan practices that the Old Testament consistently condemned. Their title, "Magi," is the root of our word "magic," hinting at their involvement in occult arts.
Despite this, these Persian priests embarked on a long journey to worship the newborn "King of the Jews."
The Magi's journey to Bethlehem powerfully illustrates God's desire to draw all nations to Himself. This aspect of God's plan, while present in the Old Testament, became very clear with the coming of Jesus. In Isaiah chapter 60, the prophet foretold, "Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn."
While foreign pagans recognized and sought out the Messiah, many among God's chosen people rejected Him. But Jesus pursued the gentiles in a foreshadowing of the gospel's global reach. Remember the Roman centurion whose faith amazed Jesus? Or the Canaanite woman whose persistence led to her daughter's healing? Or the woman at the well? She was a Samaritan.
These encounters, like the visit of the Magi, demonstrated that Jesus was here to reach across ethnic and cultural borders.
He challenged the prevailing notion of exclusivity, and he pointed toward the inclusive nature of God's kingdom.
Here are four significant realities in the Magi coming to Jesus:
First – God is Sovereign over all nations: The Magi show us God's ability to draw anyone. As Psalm 33 declares, "The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the Lord stands forever." The calling of the Magi is the Great Commission in action.
Second – God can even use our sin as a tool to bring us to the Savior: God chose to reveal the birth of His Son to pagan astrologers through the very means of their misguided practice – a star. God has made our sin His slave.
Third – Worship is the right response to God's call: The Magi's response to finding Jesus was to bow in worship. This is the point in all things. As God opens our eyes to the beauty of the gospel, the response is worship.
And last: Religious complacency is dangerous: While pagan astrologers journeyed far to find the Messiah, many religious leaders in Jerusalem remained indifferent or were outright hostile. This serves as a warning against spiritual apathy and the assumption that religious knowledge equates to genuine faith.
As we reflect on Jesus' coming, let's not overlook the profound significance of these foreign visitors. Their presence is not merely decorative but very important. Let's not confine the gospel or doubt God's power to reach those we might be praying for. God can break down any barrier and save anyone.
Jesus, you came to save sinners, not just here but across the globe. I'm sorry for being doubtful and "small" in my thinking. Thank you that your working is not dependent on my work but on your power and purpose. Please open my eyes to your great love and deepen my faith and satisfaction in you and your purposes.
As we close here, let's listen to the Apostle Paul looking back centuries to what God said to Abraham – this is Galatians 3:8,
"Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: 'ALL NATIONS will be blessed through you.'"
Song: O Come, O Come Emmanuel