Luke 2:1-12
Suggested further reading: Matthew 11:20-30.
Here we see that true servants of God may be in unexpected places — like these wise men. They are as little known to us as Melchizedek, Jethro or Job. But they are in the book of life and will be with Jesus at His appearing. It is well to remember this. We must not conclude that the earth is barren of God’s people. God’s grace is not tied to places and families. The Holy Spirit can lead souls to Christ without the help of many outward means.
Those with the most religious privileges do not always give Christ the most honor. We might have expected that the religious rulers would be the first to go to Bethlehem upon hearing the wise men’s news. But no! It was left to some unknown strangers from a far land to be among the first to rejoice at His birth. What a sad picture of human nature! Often those who live nearest to the means of grace are those who reject them most. There is truth in the old proverb: “The nearer the church, the further from God.” Familiarity with sacred things often makes people despise them.
It is sad when there is knowledge of Scripture in the head but no grace in the heart. King Herod enquired of the religious rulers where Christ was to be born and, knowing the Scriptures, they quickly gave him the answer. But none of this caused them to go to Bethlehem and see the Scriptures fulfilled. Their heads were better than their hearts. Let us beware of being satisfied with only a head knowledge. It is an excellent thing when rightly used. But a person may know much of the Bible and perish eternally. What is the state of our hearts? A little grace is better than many mental gifts. Mental gifts alone save no one. But God’s grace in the life will lead on to glory.
Lanny Tanton is the Pastor at The Bible Church of the Lakes in Horseshoe Bay, Texas – just outside of Marble Falls. Pastor Tanton welcomes you to our website and hopes that you’ll enjoy reading these insightful blog posts. Please contact us if you have further questions!!
