The Wise Men's Gifts

Matthew 2:11 “And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.”

TREASURES OPENED BEFORE A KING

At Christmas, gifts are chosen carefully. We think about who we are giving to and what would best reflect our love for them. In Matthew 2, we are introduced to a group of men who travelled a great distance, not to receive anything—but to give.

These men are known as the Wise Men. Their gifts were not random. They were deliberate, costly, and deeply meaningful. Each one declared something true about who Jesus is.

THE JOURNEY OF THE WISE MEN — SEEKING THE KING

The Bible tells us that the Wise Men came from the East. They saw a star in the sky and understood that it signified the birth of a King.

“Where is he that is born King of the Jews?” (Matthew 2:2)

Their journey was not convenient. It required time, effort, and perseverance. Yet when they finally arrived, they did not rush, demand, or speak first. Scripture tells us they fell down and worshipped Him.

Before they gave gifts, they gave reverence.

THE GIFTS — THREE DECLARATIONS ABOUT JESUS

1. Gold — A Gift for a King

Gold has always been associated with royalty. By presenting gold, the Wise Men declared that Jesus was a King.

“Jesus of Nazareth the King of the Jews.” (John 19:19)

This gift reminds us that Jesus is not merely a historical figure or moral teacher. He is King—then, now, and forever.

2. Frankincense — A Gift for God

Frankincense was used in worship. It symbolised prayer and reverence offered to God.

“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us.” (John 1:14)

This gift declared that Jesus was more than a child in a manger. He was God in human flesh, worthy of worship, devotion, and surrender.

3. Myrrh — A Gift with a Sobering Meaning

Myrrh was commonly used for healing and burial. It carried with it a quiet but powerful message.

“He was wounded for our transgressions.” (Isaiah 53:5)

This gift pointed forward to the suffering Christ. Jesus came not only to reign—but to redeem. He was born to die, so that we might live.

ILLUSTRATION — WHAT DO WE BRING TO JESUS?

We no longer bring gold, frankincense, or myrrh. But Scripture reminds us that God still desires gifts from His people.

“My son, give me thine heart.” (Proverbs 23:26)

Today, we bring:

• Our gratitude

• Our obedience

• Our attention

• Our hearts

Like the Wise Men, we do not merely observe Jesus—we respond to Him.

WHAT WE LEARN FROM THE WISE MEN

From their actions, we are reminded of three enduring truths:

1. Jesus is King — He deserves our respect and allegiance

2. Jesus is God’s Son — He is worthy of our worship

3. Jesus is our Saviour — He deserves our gratitude

True worship always leads to action.

GOSPEL FOCUS — GOD’S GREATEST GIFT

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son…”John 3:16

The Wise Men gave gifts to Jesus—but Jesus is the greatest gift God has ever given to us. Salvation, forgiveness, and eternal life are not earned. They are received by faith.

Christmas ultimately points us beyond the manger—to the cross—and from the cross to an empty tomb.