The Where and When of the Message: The Gospel started in Bethlehem 2 Years Prior to the Magi

Scripture: Matthew 2:4-7

Gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet: 'AND YOU, BETHLEHEM, LAND OF JUDAH, ARE BY NO MEANS LEAST AMONG THE LEADERS OF JUDAH; FOR OUT OF YOU SHALL COME FORTH A RULER WHO WILL SHEPHERD MY PEOPLE ISRAEL.'" Then Herod secretly called the magi and determined from them the exact time the star appeared.

Insights: Today’s verses also give us two more parts of the magi’s message for us to consider.  In many ways these two points are more factual in nature and less directive for our lives.  At the same time, however, there are life truths we can instill in our walk with the Lord. The first message of the magi answers the question where.  In other words, where did the gospel message originate?  The answer is Bethlehem.  Over this past month we have over and over again emphasized the sovereignty of God.  The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem also points to this divine reality because it fulfills Old Testament prophecy regarding the Christ Child.  The second message of the magi answers the question when.  In other words, when did the gospel message begin?  The answer is two years before the magi arrive on the scene.  We know this because Herod kills all the male children two years old and younger in accordance to the words he heard from the magi.  Secondly, when the magi arrive, Joseph, Mary and Jesus are living in a house.  If it had actually been on the day of His birth, then they would have gone to the stable.  Beloved, we can apply these historical facts to our lives.  Jesus does have a location each day in which He desires for us to serve Him.  Our job is to be pliable in His hands and obedient to His direction.  The same truth goes for the timing of our conversations with other people.  We need to make certain we know exactly when the Lord has ordained a time for us to speak and serve.  The way we know the answer to both of those questions in our lives is by spending time with the Lord daily in personal quiet times.  As we grow closer to Him we are better able to recognize His voice and promptings in our lives.  Today is the first day of the New Year.  We at FBCBG are reading through the Bible in one year.  What better way to begin hearing the Lord than starting today reading His Word.

Questions:

1. Where is the Lord asking you to serve Him today?
2. When are you going to start your obedient service with Him?

Prayer: Father, You have a perfect time and place for my service to You.  Grant me the wisdom and discernment to know Your will in regards to my service to You.  Amen.