Reference

Matthew2:1-12

Sermon Notes

I. Wise men _________________ Jesus (v. 1-8)

A. _________________ for the King (v. 1-3)

B. Determining the King’s _________________ (v. 4-6)

C. Herod’s _________________ (v. 7-8)

II. Wise men _________________ Jesus (v. 9-11)

A. His _________________ led the way (v. 9-10)

B. They _________________ Jesus (v. 11)

Three gifts 

  1. Gold for the _________________ of kings
  2. Frankincense for the Great High _________________
  3. Myrrh for the _________________ of God

Three Applications:

  1. Who do you _________________ with most?
  2. Seek the _________________
  3. Seek the _________________

Going Deeper

  1. Why was Herod so disturbed by the birth of Jesus? Read Luke 9:23. How might we be disturbed by the call of Jesus? What does He desire us to do? If we apply this, what will it mean for us this week?
  2. The chief priests and scribes had correct biblical knowledge yet they did not seek Jesus. Why do you think they did not seek Jesus? In what ways do we stop at head knowledge rather than do what we know is right? (read James 1:22; James 2:19)
  3. The wise men traveled far, at great cost, to seek Jesus. What sacrifices—time, comfort, reputation, or resources—might God be calling you to make in order to seek Him more fully? (read Luke 14:27–33)
  4. God used a star to draw Gentiles from the East to His Son. How does this passage shape your understanding of God’s heart for the nations and for people different from you? (Read Rev. 7:9–10)
  5. The wise men responded to Jesus by falling down and worshiping Him. How does your worship (corporate and personal) demonstrate that Jesus is truly Lord of your life? (Read Rom. 12:1–2)
  6. The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh point to Jesus as King, High Priest, and Savior. Read Rev. 19:16; Heb. 4:14–16; 1 Pet. 3:18. What do we learn about Jesus from these passages? What will you do in response?
  7. The wise men rejoiced with overwhelming joy when they found Jesus. How would you describe your current joy in Christ, or what might be dulling it?
  8. Scripture says no one naturally seeks God (Romans 3:10-11), yet Jesus seeks and saves the lost (Luke 19:10). How has Jesus pursued you personally, and how does this compel you to reach others with the gospel?
  9. Jesus calls His followers to be light in the world. Jesus seeks us, and now we can seek others. Name the specific people God has placed in your life that you need to intentionally seek with the gospel this year. (Read Matt. 5:14–16; 2 Cor. 5:20)
  10. As you begin a New Year, what specific step will you take to seek the Lord more faithfully—through Scripture, worship, obedience, or witness? Who will hold you accountable to this? (Read Matt. 6:33; Ps. 105:4)