Becoming a Star Witness for Jesus Christ: Matthew 2:1-12
“9) After hearing the king, they went their way; and the star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them until it came and stood over the place where the Child was. 10) When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. 11) After coming into the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Matthew 2:9-11
The story of the star and the magi are unique to the Gospel of Matthew. It is not mentioned in the other three gospels. I must confess, this story intrigues me for many reasons.
I can only imagine the conversation between the magi and their wives as they packed for this journey. The first question was obvious; “So, where are you going?” That brought a blank look and a shoulder shrug. Following a star to an undisclosed location sounded rather suspicious.
But there was another question; “So, how long are you going to be gone?” That was followed by more shoulder shrugs. I also suspect their wives noticed the gold, frankincense and myrrh they packed. Let’s be honest, the whole conversation was at best awkward. There were many more questions than answers. It was packed with suspicion.
It’s the same way for every man or women who is drawn to Jesus Christ. Their whole life seems interrupted. They begin following an inner tug that is hard to explain or describe. Those close to them may think they’ve gone crazy.
I confess, I love hearing the stories of how people came to Jesus. Everyone is special. I also like being on the other side of the story. I enjoy being in the role of the star and pointing people to Jesus.
It just happens that Matthew chapter two provides helpful insights on what it takes to be a star witness for Jesus Christ. Let’s take a moment and look at seven characteristics of the star that were used to lead the magi to Jesus. These seven points give helpful insights on what it takes for you and me to be an effective witnesses for Jesus Christ.
First, the star had a heavenly perspective. They saw the star in the sky. According to Colossians 3:1-2, we need to keep seeking the things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. We need to live with heavenly enthusiasm. We need to be salt and light for Jesus.
Second, the star had an earthly mission. It guided the magi from the far east all the way to Jesus. (Matthew 2:2) It provided direction. In the same way, we should provide direction for people who are seeking Jesus.
Third, the star had a royal focus. The magi came looking for the newborn king of the Jews because they saw “His star” in the East and had come to worship Him. (Matthew 2:2) We must keep in mind that they are not seeking us, they are seeking the King of kings. They didn’t come to worship the star, they came to worship the King.
Forth, the star had consistent radiance. According to the context, it guided the magi for two full years. (Matthew 2:7, 16) We need to be patient with the evangelism process. It takes time. We need to be real and continually shine for Jesus. Clouds are normal when looking at stars. Our struggles add to our witness.
Fifth, the star gave specific direction. The magi came from the far east all the way to Jerusalem. It pointed them to the new born king. According to Acts 4:11-12, Jesus is the only way to God. We need to point people to Jesus and not merely to a religion. Don’t stop short of sharing the gospel.
Sixth, the star brought them to Jesus. According to Matthew 2:9-10, they went into the house and began to worship Him. Of the billions of stars in the sky, this star pointed exclusively to Jesus. Of the millions of people on earth, this star brought them only to Jesus. The star became the divine connection between the magi and Jesus. We share the same calling. God calls us to connect people to Jesus Christ.
Finally, the star completed its mission when the magi went into the house and worshipped Jesus. (Matthew 2:11) This star is never mentioned again in the Bible. From that point onward all attention was on Jesus. Our evangelism mission is complete when people meet Jesus Christ. He becomes their sovereign Lord.
For some people this application of the star might seem like a stretch, but every Christian is called to be a witness. (See Acts 1:8) Ironically, the above seven points help clarify our mission. God wants you and me to point people to Jesus.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
