MOMENTS THAT MATTER - Gifts from Kings

SCRIPTURES
Romans 8:28 | And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

Psalm 72:10-11 | The western kings of Tarshish and other distant lands will bring him tribute. The eastern kings of Sheba and Seba will bring him gifts. All kings will bow before him, and all nations will serve him.

Matthew 2:1-11 | Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem. He called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of religious law and asked, “Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?” “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they said, “for this is what the prophet wrote: ‘And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are not least among the ruling cities of Judah for a ruler will come from you  who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.’”  Then Herod called for a private meeting with the wise men, and he learned from them the time when the star first appeared. Then he told them, “Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. And when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him, too!” After this interview the wise men went their way. And the star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy! They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh

DISCUSSION

1. Who are the kings foretold to bring the promised Savior gifts? How do we see this fulfilled at the birth of Jesus?
2. The wise men knew the Savior had come because they saw his star. Do you know the Bible well enough to recognize things foretold if they were to happen today (like the prophecies about Jesus’ return)? Do you think you know the Bible better or study it more? If so, what will you do about that?
3. What gifts did the kings bring to Jesus? Why do you  think they chose these items? (Do a little research if you aren’t sure!)

• What gifts do you give the Lord?
• Are you consistently giving God your best? Why or why not?
• Are you generous in the way you give to, serve, and worship the Lord? Why or why not?
• Are your gifts, service, and offerings what are fitting for a King who laid down  His own life to save you? Why or why not?

4. Why did the wise men bow down to Jesus? Why is this important? While you don’t physically bow down in front of Jesus right now, how does your life reflect this same attitude? If it doesn’t, why not?