The Wonder of it All – Week 3
December 14, 2025
A Search Worth Continuing
Pastor Ricky Smith
Sermon Notes
Jesus is worth the search, the surrender, and the sacrifice.
Matthew 2:1-11
Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it is written by the prophet: ‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.'” Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.
1. True Worship Seeks the King
Their partial knowledge of the Promise led them to search for more.
2. False Worship Protects the Throne
3. Real Worship Brings Real Surrender
Worship that costs nothing is worth nothing.
Next Steps
- I confess my sin and turn to Jesus as King for the first time
- I commit to pursuing Jesus through daily discipline and biblical community.
- I choose to not give up even when I hit dead ends or have unanswered questions.
Deep Dive
- Compare Romans 12:1 with Matthew 2:11. How is worship an act of surrender?
- What “gifts” are you currently offering Jesus in your life?
- In what ways can our church reflect the Magi’s joyful and sacrificial worship?
Springboards
- How does God’s use of Caesar Augustus challenge your view of who holds real power in the world?
- What are some promises of God you find it hard to trust right now?
- How does Luke 2:1-7 encourage your faith?
