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December 20

Title: The Star

Text: Matthew 2:1-2

The Star of Bethlehem. You know the story. The Magi are going to find the King of Jews. They are following this star. Here is a refresher below. 

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? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” (Matthew 2:1-2)

His star? Very interesting. Scholars have debated forever what “His star” is. Here are the typical theories (from a naturalistic standpoint): 

1) A meteor—or rather, a pair of meteors. 

2) A nova or supernova. 

3) A comet. 

4) A conjunction—an alignment between two or more celestial bodies (e.g., two planets or a planet and a star). 

All of these are possible. Especially if God stepped in and used a naturalistic event for His purposes. But those are not the only explanations. There are supernatural explanations. 

One theologian summarizes it well: 

“So, if the normal usage of the word star doesn’t fit the context, what does? The star of Bethlehem in Matthew 2:1-12 was likely an angel or a manifestation of the Shekinah Glory. The Shekinah, which literally means “dwelling of God,” was the visible presence of the Lord. Prior to this, the most notable appearance of the Shekinah was the pillar of cloud that led the Israelites by day and the pillar of fire that led them by night (Exodus 13:21). The Shekinah can obviously lead people to specific locations, and it was seen later in connection with Christ’s ministry (Matthew 17:5; Acts 1:9). Either an angel or the Shekinah would fit the evidence.” 

Interesting theory. Is it right? Who knows? I personally lean towards a supernatural explanation, but God can do anything He wants—just as long as it is according to His perfect character. 

What does the Star of Bethlehem teach us? Well, for one—God will draw people to Himself and apparently He does it in a variety of ways. But He wants us. That is clear. The God of the Universe cares about us. He cared about the Magi. He drew them to His Son—because that is what God desires—all people to repent and believe in the person and work of Jesus Christ. 5 days until Christmas.