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A REGAL RESPONSE TO HOLY LIGHT
Matthew 2:7-15
In the first half of the infancy narrative, Matthew focuses on the identity of Jesus—but in this scene (2:1-15), he introduces Herod and the Magi and sharply contrasts their reactions to the news of Jesus’ birth. The Magi are not kings but a combination of wise men and priests probably from Persia. These wise men come to Jerusalem after observing a star rising in the east. A new star in the sky was often believed to herald the birth of a significant person in the land over which the star shone . The Magi travel to Jerusalem in search of answers about the rising star. In asking the location of the child associated with the star, they emphasize the word born: “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews?” (verse 2, NIV). They are clearly asking about the baby-king who has the legitimate claim to Israel’s throne by virtue of His birth. Herod, by comparison, is viewed as the usurper or unlawful occupant of the throne. Jesus is the legitimate king.
