Matthew 2:1-10 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

The star.

Luke mentions the occurrence of a grand celestial illumination celebrating the nativity of Jesus, which was witnessed by Jewish shepherds, Matthew here records another heavenly sign, discerned by Gentile scientists. Such phenomena—severally seen by Jew and Gentile, by peasants and by scholars, by persons in humble station and by those of wealth and standing—authenticated this, viz. that the great event so celebrated concerns all sorts and conditions of men. We have here especially to consider the star which denoted Christ (see Revelation 22:16 ), whether viewed as a portent, a disturber, or a guide.

I. AS A PORTENT .

1 . A star is the emblem of a prince.

(a) elevation;

(b) conspicuousness;

(c) splendour;

(d) rule, or influence over the earth (see Genesis 1:14-19 ).

2 . This star indicated an extraordinary Prince.

3 . It denoted the Christ of God.

(a) The sceptre, tribe rod, or tribal magistracy, was visibly departing from Judah ( Genesis 49:10 ).

(b) The family of David was reduced to a humble condition, and all but extinct (cf. Isaiah 7:15 with Matthew 3:4 ; see also Isaiah 53:2 ).

(c) Daniel's weeks were fast running out ( Daniel 9:24 ).

(a) In Israel (see Matthew 24:5 ; Luke 3:15 ; Luke 19:11 ).

(b) Amongst the nations. This is testified by Suetonius, Tacitus, Cicero; also in sundry Oriental traditions.

II. AS A DISTURBER .

1 . It troubled Herod.

2 . Jerusalem was troubled.

III. AS A GUIDE .

1 . By it the Magi came to Jerusalem.

2 . By it they were guided to Christ.