Matthew 2:1-12 tells the story of the wise men (Magi) who traveled from the East to worship the newborn Jesus. Guided by a star, they arrive in Jerusalem seeking the "king of the Jews." Their search troubles King Herod, who secretly plots to kill the child. Herod instructs the Magi to find the child and report back, pretending he also wants to worship Him. However, the star leads the wise men to Bethlehem, where they find Jesus with Mary. They present gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, symbolizing Jesus' kingship, divinity, and future suffering. Warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they leave by another route.
This passage highlights Jesus as the promised Messiah, whose birth draws worshippers from distant nations, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the nations coming to God's light. The Magi's journey contrasts their genuine worship with Herod’s deceitful intentions, emphasizing that Jesus' arrival challenges worldly power and invites sincere devotion. Their gifts and worship foreshadow Jesus' role as King, God, and Savior, signaling that His salvation is for all people.