Verse of the Day (December 13, 2019)

Verse of the Day (December 13, 2019) #BMSeminary – [chief priests] These were the temple hierarchy. They were mostly Sadducees (see note on 3:7). [scribes] Primarily Pharisees, i.e., authorities on Jewish law. Sometimes they are referred to as “lawyers” (Luke 10:25). They were professional scholars whose specialty was explaining the application of the law. They knew exactly where the Messiah was to be born (Matt. 2:5), but lacked the faith to accompany the Magi to the place where he was. This ancient prophecy from Mic. 5:2 was written in the eighth century b.c. The original prophecy, not quoted in full by Matthew, declared the deity of Israel’s Messiah: “from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.” [a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel] This portion of Matthew’s quote actually seems to be a reference to God’s words to David when Israel’s kingdom was originally established (2 Sam. 5:2; 1 Chron. 11:2). The Greek word for “ruler” evokes the image of strong, even stern, leadership. “Shepherd” emphasizes tender care. Christ’s rule involves both (cf. Rev. 12:5). (MacArthur Study Bible)