Grow Guide | Epiphany

Dec 27

Written By Jen Hackbarth

Star of Wonder

Matthew 2:1-12

Connecting Questions

· What have you been taught about the story of the magi’s visit to Jesus?

· Have you experienced a time of great joy in Christ? When was it? What was it like?

Context

This week we continue to celebrate the liturgical season of Christmas, which lasts 12 days (December 25 through January 6). On Christmas Eve, we heard the story of Jesus’ birth from Luke’s perspective; on Christmas Day, we heard it from Matthew’s perspective. The story continues with the visit of the magi in Matthew chapter 2 (Matthew is the only Gospel that records this visit).

It's important to note that Matthew moves quickly from Jesus’ birth to Herod’s violent reaction to Jesus’ reputation as a new king. Starting soon after Jesus’ birth, some people respond to him by worshiping him while others (usually those in power) respond with hostility. It will be this way throughout his life until his crucifixion—and often the people who understand Jesus’ power and mission are the most surprising characters in Matthew.

Look at the Book

Read Matthew 2:1-12.
- This story has captured the imagination of people for centuries, which has led to embellishments and assumptions that aren’t in the Biblical text. Do you notice any discrepancies between Matthew 2:12 and the stories we tell about the magi? Look closely at the text as you consider the following questions.
  - Does our reading specify the number of magi who visit Jesus?
  - Does Matthew call them kings or wise men (or neither)?
  - Did the magi visit Jesus in the stable? Was their visit immediately following Jesus’ birth or later?
  - Did the star lead them the entire way? When did they get confused?
Matthew 2:10 may be translated as “Having seen the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.” The word for “joy” is used twice in this verse in the original Greek to emphasize the magi’s outsized experience of joy. What may we learn from their reaction to visiting Jesus?
The magi were foreigners to Israel, yet they understand Jesus’ power/identity and make great efforts to worship him. What does their important role in Matthew’s Gospel tell you about who God favors? What does it tell you about who God views as faithful? Does this challenge you?

Taking it Home

· What guides you as we near the end of the Christmas season?

· How will you ensure Jesus’ light stays in front of you?

Jen Hackbarth