O Come Let Us Adore Him
Matthew 2:1–12

Main Idea:

What we believe about Jesus determines how we respond to Him—either with worshipful adoration like the wise men or with resistance and rejection like Herod.

Overview:

Even as Christmas remains widely celebrated in America, its true focus—Jesus Christ—is often sidelined. Many acknowledge Jesus’ existence but deny His divinity, sinlessness, or saving power. This sermon invites us to pause before we put away the decorations and consider the King at the center of the season. Drawing from the story of the magi in Matthew 2, we’re confronted with the question: How will we respond to Jesus?

Key Themes:

1. The Beliefs and Journey of the Wise Men

The magi, likely astrologers or scholars from the East, recognized the significance of the star and pursued its meaning with faith and intentionality.

• They saw the sign: The star drew their attention and stirred a desire to find the King foretold in Jewish prophecy. “A star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel.” — Numbers 24:17
• They sought the Scriptures: Possibly influenced by remnants of Jewish teaching from the exile, they knew enough to link the star with the birth of a King.
• They set out to worship: Their response was costly and dangerous—but they were determined to bow before the King. “They fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures…” — Matthew 2:11

2. The Reaction of Herod

Herod the Great was not searching for a Savior—he was protecting his throne.

• He was disturbed: The news of a rival king unsettled him and all of Jerusalem. “When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled…” — Matthew 2:3
• He consulted Scripture but with selfish motives: Herod called the priests and scribes to pinpoint the Messiah’s birthplace—not to worship but to eliminate.
• He plotted destruction: His words sounded pious (“that I too may come and worship him”), but his heart was set on murder.

Herod shows us that Jesus is a threat to those who cling to control, comfort, and personal power.

3. The Indifference of the Religious Leaders

Perhaps most tragically, the priests and scribes knew the truth—but did nothing.

• They knew the prophecy: They quoted Micah 5:2 about Bethlehem without hesitation.
• They didn’t act on it: Just six miles separated them from Jesus, yet they never moved to meet Him.

Their response warns us that religious knowledge alone is not enough—true wisdom leads to worship.

Scripture Insights:

• Matthew 2 showcases three responses to Jesus:
  • Worship (wise men)
  • Rejection (Herod)
  • Indifference (religious leaders)
• Each response reveals a heart posture toward the authority and identity of Jesus.

Application:

• Are you like Herod? Does the idea of a King who rules your life feel threatening? Don’t push Jesus away—He is a good King who came to save, not to crush.
• Are you like the religious leaders? You may know the Bible well, but knowledge alone won’t save you. Move from head knowledge to heart surrender.
• Will you be like the magi? Follow the truth, seek the King, and bow in worship. Their journey reminds us that Jesus is worth the pursuit, the cost, and the worship.

Closing Thought:

As the wise men traveled far to offer their gifts and their hearts, they model the only appropriate response to the King of Kings: worship. This Christmas season—and every day—may our hearts echo the invitation: “O come, let us adore Him.” The King has come. Will you come and bow before Him?