Study
2 From the Book of Matthew is: Matthew 2
1.
Consider the significance of the coming of the wise men from the
East in the light of such passage as Is. 49:6; Lk. 2:32; Jn. 10:16.
2.
Note the different reactions to the birth of Jesus from the wise
men, the chief priests and scribes, and Herod. How does this prove the truth of
Jn. 9:39; 18:37?
3.
Notice the accuracy of fulfillment of prophecy in our Lord’s infancy (verses 15:17, 18; 23). What does
this teach us about the nature and authority of prophecy?
Notes
1.
Verse 1. ‘Wise men’: the word ‘Magi’ refers to learned
astrologers or those who practised magical arts. There is nothing but tradition to make them
kings.
2.
Verse 23. There is no Old Testament quotation about the Messiah
as a Nazarene. Matthew may be making a play on the Hebrew word nester meaning
‘branch’ from Is. 11:1 and Je. 23:5. Or the phrase may refer to the contempt
associated with Christ’s home background. Cf. Jn. 1:46; Is. 53:2, 3.
