Matthew 2:1-12
Why does Matthew need to specify Bethlehem of Judea?
Who was this Herod?
What year did this Herod die?
What year might Jesus have likely been born?
Does Matthew indicate the date of year Jesus was born?
The Greek word Matthew uses for the visitors from the east is magos. Strong defines it as follows: Of foreign origin [H7248]; a Magian, that is, Oriental scientist; by implication a magician: - sorcerer, wise man.
Who were these people?
Does Matthew indicate how many magos were visiting Jesus?
From where do the magos come from?
How might the magos know the prophecies concerning the Messiah?
What lead the magos to Judea?
Why would the group from the east go to Herod?
What faithful person was once appointed by a great king as leader of all the king’s magos (Daniel 5:11-12)?
How did the magos refer to the one they sought?
What interest would these magos have in a ruler of Israel?
What interest did Herod have in the quest of the magos?
Why would all Jerusalem be disturbed about the quest?
What did Herod direct them to do for him?
Why would Herod be concerned about the time at which the magos sighted the star?
Who indicated to Herod where the Messiah would be born?
From what prophet did the priests and scribes determine the place of Jesus’ birth?
Where was Bethlehem of Judea relative to Jerusalem?
What gifts did the magos present to the child?
What is the significance of the gifts?
Why didn’t the magos return to Herod with report as Herod directed?
What does the name Bethlehem mean?
How does this birth place relate Jesus to the others in the scriptures?
