Matthew 2:1-2 NCV “Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem in Judea during the time when Herod was king. When Jesus was born, some wise men from the east came to Jerusalem. They asked, “Where is the baby who was born to be the king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him”
Side note; King Herod ruled over the Roman Empire with an iron fist. He is recorded as a power hungry ruler who destroyed anyone he regarded as a threat to him or his throne. Along with his power came jealous greed for complete control. He was the King, and all would know and honor him,
Then three kings from afar show up to honor a baby king! A King of the Jews. What!!!
Matthew 2:4-6 NCV “Herod called a meeting of all the leading priests and teachers of the law and asked them where the Christ would be born? They answered, “In the town of Bethlehem in Judea. The prophet wrote about this in scriptures: ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are not just an insignificant village in Judah. A ruler will come from you who will be like a shepherd for my people Israel.”
Within this scripture we read “the prophet wrote” that prophet was Micah. Micah 5:2 NCV “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are to small to be among the army groups from Judah, from you will come one who will rule Israel for me. He comes from very old times, from days long ago.”
The book of Micah was written somewhere between 687-742 BC. It is believed that the gospel of Matthew was written in the vicinity of 30 AD. There are around 700 years from when Micah prophesied over Bethlehem, and our Jesus, our King, was born.
I love when I can cross-reference Old Testament prophesy with New Testament revelations and the fulfillments. A little more of the Christmas story to be shared. I hope you enjoyed it. Be blessed today, Be a Blessing, and Thank you for joining me. 🥰
Sunshine On My Shoulder 