This verse, Matthew 2:8, is a key part of the story of the Magi visiting Jesus. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"He sent them to Bethlehem..." This refers to King Herod sending the Magi (wise men) to Bethlehem. Herod had learned from them about the prophesied birth of the King of the Jews.
"...and said, “Go and search diligently for the young child..." Herod instructs the Magi to carefully and thoroughly search for the child. The word "diligently" emphasizes the importance he places on their mission (at least ostensibly).
"...When you have found him, bring me word..." This is the most deceptive part of the verse. Herod wants the Magi to return to him with information about Jesus' location.
"...so that I also may come and worship him.”" This is a lie. Herod's true intention is not to worship Jesus, but to eliminate him as a potential threat to his power. He's trying to manipulate the Magi into unwittingly helping him find and kill the baby Jesus.
In summary, the verse reveals:
Herod's fear: He is threatened by the idea of a rival king and sees Jesus as a potential danger.
Herod's deceit: He pretends to be pious and interested in worshipping Jesus, but his real motive is sinister.
The Magi as unwitting pawns: The Magi are being used by Herod, unaware of his true intentions.
This verse sets the stage for the next part of the story, where the Magi are warned in a dream not to return to Herod, ultimately foiling his plan. The verse highlights the contrast between genuine worship and self-serving manipulation.
This verse, Matthew 2:8, is a key part of the story of the Magi visiting Jesus. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"He sent them to Bethlehem..." This refers to King Herod sending the Magi (wise men) to Bethlehem. Herod had learned from them about the prophesied birth of the King of the Jews.
"...and said, “Go and search diligently for the young child..." Herod instructs the Magi to carefully and thoroughly search for the child. The word "diligently" emphasizes the importance he places on their mission (at least ostensibly).
"...When you have found him, bring me word..." This is the most deceptive part of the verse. Herod wants the Magi to return to him with information about Jesus' location.
"...so that I also may come and worship him.”" This is a lie. Herod's true intention is not to worship Jesus, but to eliminate him as a potential threat to his power. He's trying to manipulate the Magi into unwittingly helping him find and kill the baby Jesus.
In summary, the verse reveals:
Herod's fear: He is threatened by the idea of a rival king and sees Jesus as a potential danger.
Herod's deceit: He pretends to be pious and interested in worshipping Jesus, but his real motive is sinister.
The Magi as unwitting pawns: The Magi are being used by Herod, unaware of his true intentions.
This verse sets the stage for the next part of the story, where the Magi are warned in a dream not to return to Herod, ultimately foiling his plan. The verse highlights the contrast between genuine worship and self-serving manipulation.