Notice in today’s text that we are not told how many wise men came. Many have assumed that there were three wise men because of the three gifts that were given—gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Mt. 2:11)—but the Bible does not say. We are not told their names, their means of transport, or even which countries they were actually from. But what we are told is that they were wise men. They saw “His star” and came to worship Him in a house, not at the stable. This would indicate it took place some time after the birth of the Lord Jesus: some have suggested anywhere from a few months to as much as two years.

They saw His star and came to worship! What star? How did they know about this? Most likely, the magi knew of the writings of the prophet Daniel, who in time past had been the chief of the court wise men in Persia. Daniel includes a prophecy which gives a timeline for the birth of the Messiah (9:24–27). Also, the magi may have been aware of the prophecy of Balaam, who was from the town of Pethor on the Euphrates River near Persia. Balaam’s prophecy specifically mentions a star coming “out of Jacob” (Num. 24:17). These magi were men who read and believed God’s Word, and they sought the Lord Jesus, recognizing His worth. They humbled themselves to worship the Lord Jesus, bringing gifts fit for a King. They were truly wise men!

This time of year, it is easy to lose sight of the reason for the coming of Christ into the world. We can get so busy with many things, but these wise men would not be distracted from the purpose of their coming to the Lord Jesus: they fell down and worshiped Him. May we do the same in our hearts!