Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? Part 1

This is the question the magi from the East asked King Herod, the crowned King of the Jews. That magi, AKA wise men, asked King Herod that question is almost laughable. Essentially, they were asking this Roman figurehead, “Where’s the real king?”

Then again, they didn’t have the internet. Perhaps they didn’t realize how dangerous it was to ask this question to a man who executed three of his own sons to hang on to power.

Although Herod had the title of the King of the Jews, he wasn’t even of Jewish descent. He was an Idumean, an Edomite, an enemy of Israel. The Roman decision to make him king of the Jews could be described as “good enough for government work.”

What does it mean to be born King of the Jews?

Through Samuel the prophet, God gave King David a tremendous promise.

When your days are complete and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your descendants after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish his kingdom. Your house and your kingdom shall endure before Me forever; your throne shall be established forever. – 2 Samuel 7:12, 16 (NASB 95)

Nearly 300 years later, the prophet Isaiah had more to say.

For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us:

And the government will rest on His shoulders;

And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

There will be no end to the increase of his government or of peace,

On the throne of David and over his kingdom,

To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness

From then on and forevermore.

The zeal of the Lord of Hosts will accomplish this. Isaiah 9:6-7 (NASB 95)