Matthew 2:1-18

Christmas is the most joyful and wonderful time of the year. This is the time of the year when there are more celebrations, parties, money spent, happiness, and joy.

However, it’s not the most joyful and wonderful time of the year for everyone. Some people are currently battling cancer, losing a job, going through a divorce, having a financial crisis, or loneliness. It’s not joyful or wonderful for some because they are simply miserable people. This was true during the very first Christmas there ever was.

Who was Herod?

A descendant of EsauA cruel, ruthless, crafty murderer Hated by the Jewish people

Why did Herod try to kill the first Christmas?

Why did Herod try to kill Jesus?

Matthew 2:1-2a Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? 

This statement rattled Herod. He wanted to be King of the Jews. As king, he would have all the power, control, and authority.

Matthew 2:2b For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.

This statement took a shot at Herod’s ego. If these wise men were recognizing this new-born baby as the rightful king worthy of worship, many more would follow.

Herod responded to Jesus by trying to have Him killed.

The Wise Men responded to Jesus’ birth by acknowledging Jesus as the one true King and seeking to worship Him.

Will you respond to Jesus like Herod or the Wise Men?