Understanding the Bible This post is part of our Understanding the Bible series—short, clear explanations of common questions, phrases, images, and themes found in Scripture. The goal is simple: to help you read the Bible more clearly by explaining what the text says, what it meant in its original context, and why it still matters... Continue Reading →
Who were the Magi in Matthew 2?
Who Were the Wise Men (Magi) in Matthew 2? Series: Understanding the Bible Primary text: Matthew 2:1–12 This post is written in three tiers so you can read at your pace: (1) Quick Answer, (2) Simple Explanation, (3) Deeper Dive. Key to watch: The wise men were unexpected seekers—outsiders whom God drew to Jesus—showing that... Continue Reading →
Matthew 2:13-23: The King Fulfills Prophecy
How to Use This Commentary Matthew now shows how God protects His King and fulfills His plan. Read this passage in three movements: (1) the escape to Egypt (vv.13–15), (2) the tragedy in Bethlehem (vv.16–18), and (3) the return to Nazareth (vv.19–23). Key: Even in danger, suffering, and obscurity, God is fulfilling His promises through... Continue Reading →
Matthew 2:1-23 – The King Who Could Not Be Stopped
Matthew 2 Foundations Commentary Big Idea Matthew 2 reveals that Jesus is the promised King whom God protects and guides according to His plan. While some worship Him with joy, others oppose Him with fear and hostility. Yet no one can stop God's purposes from being fulfilled. Introduction: Everyone Must Decide What to Do with... Continue Reading →
Christmas Family Devotion: Jesus, the Best Gift Ever!
This Christmas family devotion emphasizes the significance of Jesus as the ultimate gift through Scripture and encourages families to honor Him like the Wise Men. It includes a shoebox gift activity to share God's love with children globally, fostering discussions about giving and the eternal life Jesus offers to believers.
The King’s Birth: The King’s Escape
With Matthew as our Morgan Freeman, we are guided through Herod's attempt to murder Jesus brutally; if the king succeeds, the means of salvation and good news for all people, the Savior, is eliminated. Unlike Roger, who had a positive impact on WWII despite his failed attempt to escape, the murder of a young Jesus has no positive effect. As we look at these verses, we see God's protection of His Son and His earthly parents; more prophecy fulfilled confirming Jesus as the King descended from David and thus the Messiah, and application for today.
>SM Study Notes: Matthew 3:1-17
Use these notes to help you study chapter two as Matthew continues to build his case for Jesus matching the description of the Jewish Messiah in the second chapter of his gospel.
Matthew 2:1-23 – The King Who Could Not Be Stopped
Use these notes to help you study chapter two as Matthew continues to build his case for Jesus matching the description of the Jewish Messiah in the second chapter of his gospel.
Legacy of Faithfulness
By being faithful to the Lord today we can have a legacy that outlives us! See the impact of Daniel's faithfulness in this short devotional!