What does the act of worship by the Magi teach us about reverence? Setting the Scene “On coming to the house, they saw the Child with His mother Mary, and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh.” (Matthew 2:11) Recognizing the Worthiness of Christ • The Magi’s first response was worship, not mere congratulation. • They treated the Child as divine royalty, acknowledging His messianic identity foretold in Micah 5:2 and Numbers 24:17. • Their action confirms Psalm 2:11: “Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.” Responding with Humble Posture • “They fell down” shows bodily humility—true reverence starts in the heart and expresses itself outwardly (cf. Psalm 95:6). • Reverence refuses casual familiarity; it bows before God’s holy presence (Isaiah 6:5). Bringing Costly, Meaningful Gifts • Gold—fit for a king. • Frankincense—used in priestly incense, hinting at His mediatory role (Exodus 30:34–38). • Myrrh—associated with burial, foreshadowing His sacrificial death (John 19:39). • Genuine reverence gladly parts with treasure, echoing 2 Samuel 24:24: “I will not offer... that which costs me nothing.” Seeking His Presence at Great Cost • The Magi traveled hundreds of miles, illustrating that reverence pursues God despite inconvenience (Jeremiah 29:13). • They submitted to divine leading (the star, then the dream in v. 12), modeling Proverbs 3:5–6 obedience. Confirming Prophetic Expectation • Isaiah 60:3, 6 foretold nations bringing gold and frankincense to Messiah—fulfilled literally here. • Their worship previews universal homage: “All kings will bow down to Him” (Psalm 72:11). Echoes Throughout Scripture • Philippians 2:10—“at the name of Jesus every knee should bow.” • Revelation 4:10—the elders “fall down” and lay crowns, mirroring the Magi’s posture. • Hebrews 13:15—worship still includes sacrificial offerings, now “the fruit of lips” and surrendered lives. Practical Lessons for Reverent Worship Today • Approach Jesus as sovereign Lord, not simply a helper. • Let inner awe shape outward expression—kneel, bow, lift hands as Scripture shows. • Offer Him your best resources, time, talents, finances. • Pursue His presence with perseverance; schedule, travel, and inconvenience are secondary. • Align worship with Scripture, honoring fulfilled prophecy and awaiting future glory. |
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