What role does Scripture play in guiding our understanding of Jesus' identity? Setting the Scene: A Question that Drives Us to the Word “Where is the One who has been born King of the Jews?” Herod asked the chief priests and scribes. Their reply is preserved in Matthew 2:5: “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written:” From the start, Jesus’ identity is anchored in what “the prophet has written.” Scripture itself provides the coordinates for finding and recognizing Him. How Matthew 2:5 Illustrates Scripture’s Guiding Role - It directs seekers. • The Magi might have followed a star, but they still needed the written Word to pinpoint Bethlehem. - It confirms prophecy. • The citation points straight to Micah 5:2, showing that Jesus’ birthplace fulfills an ancient promise. - It exposes unbelief. • Herod hears the same Scripture yet rejects the Messiah, reminding us that Scripture’s authority demands response. Scripture as the GPS to Jesus’ Birthplace (Micah 5:2) “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are small among the clans of Judah, out of you shall come forth for Me One to be ruler over Israel—One whose origins are from of old, from the days of eternity.” - Location: Bethlehem—no guesswork. - Nature: “from of old… eternity” points to divine, pre-existent origins. - Mission: “Ruler over Israel” conveys kingship. Matthew 2:5–6 ties Jesus directly to each detail, proving that Scripture—not human speculation—defines who He is. Scripture as the Lens for Seeing Jesus Throughout His Ministry - Luke 24:27 — “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about Himself.” • Jesus Himself uses Scripture as the authoritative lens to interpret His life, death, and resurrection. - John 5:39 — “You pore over the Scriptures … These are the very words that testify about Me.” • The Scriptures are a living testimony of Jesus’ person and work. - Isaiah 7:14; 9:6 — Prophecies of virgin birth and divine titles (“Mighty God,” “Prince of Peace”) root His unique identity in written revelation. From Prophecy to Personal Certainty - 2 Peter 1:19 — “We also have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it as to a lamp shining in a dark place…” • Scripture keeps our understanding clear when culture grows dark. - 2 Timothy 3:15 — The Scriptures “are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” • Knowing who Jesus is (Messiah, Savior, God-in-flesh) leads directly to salvation. - John 20:31 — “These are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.” • Written testimony is God’s chosen means for bringing us to life-giving faith. Living Under the Light of the Word Matthew 2:5 sets the pattern: when questions about Jesus arise, Scripture speaks first and last. It locates Him in history, defines His nature, declares His mission, and calls every hearer to belief. Let the same Word that guided wise men to Bethlehem keep guiding us to a richer, clearer, unwavering grasp of the true King. |
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