Worship the King
ICS Daily Devotions

Matthew 2:1-2,10-11 (NKJV) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” …When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshipped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

‭‭‬‬The Magi, astrologers, scientists, or wise men from the East are known to be wealthy and influential Gentiles from that region. Some scholars believe that they were descendants of the Babylonian magicians who were intrigued by Daniel’s God, who helped Daniel interpret the king’s dream and thus saved all their ancestors from execution.
Those who are exposed to the spiritual realm, such as the Magi or astrologers, are aware that a higher or greater power exists beyond those they serve—they understand that there is a god. The Magi came to search for the King of the Jews, and the most obvious place to find the baby was the palace where King Herod resided. They journeyed a long way to worship Him. They came to worship the King of the Jews, but we know that Jesus is the Messiah.

We are blessed to have the revelatory understanding of Christ’s position as the second person of the godhead, the Son of God, the Messiah. We are aware of Jesus Christ’s work of redemption and atonement for our sins. Therefore, we worship Him as our God and Saviour.

If the three wise men showed such respect and honour to Jesus at His birth, how much more should we, as believers who know the truth of who Jesus is, demonstrate greater respect, honour, and reverence for Him? No believer would stand with folded arms or behave with indifference in the presence of God.

Our attitude toward God shapes our worship, our relationship with Him, and our faith in Him. That attitude is formed by the thoughts we hold about who He is, and Scripture is where God reveals Himself to us.
Every king can pardon criminals, protect His people, and allocate land or resources to His subjects. The King can also conquer enemies with his armies. Likewise, Jesus has conquered the devil and the fallen angels, and dealt with the sin issue that separated us from God. He is now seated at the right hand of the Heavenly Father. He is our provider and the giver of life. Therefore, He is worthy of our worship and adoration.

Reflection: Considering the example of the Magi, who came with reverence and wholehearted devotion to honour Jesus, how can you cultivate a worshipful attitude of the heart that truly honours God?

Sermon Series: Worshipping the King of kings