The Meaning of the Message: The Gospel is Jesus came to Die

Scripture: Matthew 2:11-12

After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned by God in a dream not to return to Herod, the magi left for their own country by another way.

Insights: Today’s verses reveal the last aspect of the magi’s message.  Jesus was born for the purpose of dying for us.  Notice the three gifts the magi brought.  The first gift was that of gold.  Gold represents Jesus Kingly role He would one day have.  The second gift was frankincense.  Frankincense was a spice used by the priestly order as an aroma pleasing to the Lord.  So, the frankincense represents Jesus Priestly role He did fulfill as the intermediary between God and man.  The final gift was myrrh.  Myrrh was used in the embalming process by ancient Israel.  The myrrh represents Jesus death.  In other words, Jesus was born to die as a sacrificial Lamb for the sins of the world.  What an amazing Gift the Lord God gave to humanity.  Beloved, it is our job to tell the world about this unbelievable gift of grace.  We need to pray to the Lord that we would have boldness in proclaiming such truth to the world.  He needs to be exalted and lifted up and we must never forget why He came.  Even His birth points to His death.  What a beautiful picture of God’s grace and love.

Questions:

1. Have you received the sacrificial gift Jesus came to give to you?
2. Does God’s plan ever overwhelm because of His unfailing love?

Prayer: Father, thank You for Your gift of salvation.  Thank You that Jesus came to die on our behalf.  You are glorious and good.  Thank You for the life You give to me.  Amen.