Gracious Jesus -1: Presenting the Kingنموونە
Powers Align at Christ’s Birth
The Magi, or wise men from the East, were high ranking astronomers, astrologers, doctors, and scientists. They were very well qualified and respected ambassadors of Kings. This was probably the largest delegation ever. Seeing the signs, the star, and the unprecedented peace on earth at that time, they believed a great King, the Messiah was born. They were coming to pay their homage on behalf of their nations, to this King. As per Dr. Ron Charles, historians record that their caravans started crossing the gate at Damascus when the sun rose and continued well until mid-day.
Who were these Magi?
This consortium represented at least 13 countries led by around 100 ambassadors who had their own military doctors, scientists, servants, etc attached to them. Historians from various countries also accompanied them. They had a minimum of 800 animals accompanying them. There was more power in this consortium than Rome. They left, after the planetary alignment and the ”star” they had witnessed. They entered without the permission of Rome or Israel. They came only to honour the new born king.
How did they know of Jesus birth?
The prophet Daniel was highly revered at the time. Around 300 years earlier, though he wrote little in the Bible, he wrote over 1000 pieces of literature which were being studied in different parts of the world. He had prophesied the specific alignment of the stars and planets at the time of Jesus’ birth.
He prophesied in Daniel 7:13-14, “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a Son of Man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.”
In February of 7 BC, there was an alignment of planets where Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn were in 15-degree alignment, as never before and never since. Jupiter and Saturn also had a specific alignment in the cosmos, as never before. The ”star” also was seen. Almost two years later, the Magi arrived to represent their countries to acknowledge their allegiance to this Child who would be the King of Kings.
To some, Jesus may seem insignificant in the world today.
But are we aligning ourselves and acknowledging the King of Kings and Lord of Lords in our lives?
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About this Plan
This series – “Gracious Jesus” is a deep dive into the life and teachings of Jesus from the gospels. Historical context is brought in to enrich and bring a more accurate dimension of the context of Jesus’ life. Most importantly, if we are receptive to the Spirit, He opens our spiritual eyes to see God, the world around and ourselves with completely new perspectives.
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