Matthew 2:1-3 | The King

Enoggera Baptist Church — Christmas Series (Week 1)
Ps. Matt Maloney • Matthew 2:1–3

In the opening message of our Christmas series, Pastor Matt Maloney explored Matthew 2:1–3 and the surprising cast of characters who first recognized the arrival of Jesus the King. The Magi—Gentile, likely pagan astrologer-scholars—had studied the Old Testament promises and, through a mixture of scriptural insight and their own observations, were led by God straight to Christ. Their journey reminds us that God is sovereign over all things, weaving together even imperfect understandings to reveal His glory.

Pastor Matt highlighted that the Magi and Herod, for all their differences, shared one vital belief: both understood that Jesus’ birth signaled the arrival of a true King. And kings, by definition, rule—they exercise authority and preside over a kingdom. Jesus’ kingdom, proclaimed as “at hand” by John the Baptist, confronts the human desire for autonomy. Herod resisted this rule violently, but his posture reflects the natural posture of every heart that wants to remain on its own throne.

Yet Christ is not merely one king among many; He is the King of kings and Lord of lords, whose reign knows no boundaries. He does not depose earthly rulers simply to replace them; rather, He calls every throne—personal, political, or spiritual—to be accountable to His. His authority extends from the mightiest empires to the smallest households.

And the good news of Christmas is this: all who come to this King will never be cast out. The One born in Bethlehem is the rightful ruler of all creation, and His kingdom is one of grace, truth, and everlasting mercy.