Message Takeaways - Advent Week 3 - The Wise Men

The Wise Men: Worshiping the True King
Matthew 2:1–11; Micah 5:2; Luke 9:23; Philippians 2:6–8

The wise men traveled from the East because they believed God’s Word and acted on it. While Jerusalem knew the Scriptures, they failed to respond with obedience. This message contrasts knowledge with faith that moves, showing how Christ’s humility, incarnation, and costly call to discipleship reveal what true worship looks like. Jesus, the eternal Creator, entered His own creation, lived humbly, faced real temptation, and endured the cross so that we might follow Him fully.

Takeaways

• Knowing Scripture without obedience leads to spiritual apathy.
• True worship involves submission, reverence, and costly devotion.
• Jesus willingly humbled Himself to save His people.
• Following Christ requires daily denial of self.

Ask yourself where God’s Word is calling you to action—not just agreement. Worship is not sentiment; it is obedience shaped by humility and trust in Christ’s authority as King.

Devotional 1 – Faith That Moves
Matthew 2:2 – 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.
Reflection Question:
Where is God calling me to step out in obedience, even when the path feels uncertain?
Prayer Prompt:
Lord, help my faith move beyond words into action. Give me the courage to follow where You lead and to worship You with my whole life.

Devotional 2 – Knowledge vs. Obedience
John 1:11 – He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him.
Reflection Question:
Am I close to truth but unwilling to respond with obedience?
Prayer Prompt:
Father, soften my heart to receive You fully. Guard me from knowing Your Word without allowing it to shape how I live.

Devotional 3 – The Cost of Following Christ
Luke 9:23 – And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.”
Reflection Question:
What am I holding back from full surrender to Christ?
Prayer Prompt:
Jesus, teach me to take up my cross daily. Help me trust You with every part of my life, even when obedience is costly.

Devotional 4 – The Humble King
Philippians 2:7 – But emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.
Reflection Question:
How does Christ’s humility shape the way I view my own life, position, and calling?
Prayer Prompt:
Jesus, form Your humility in me. Teach me to serve others with the same self-giving love You have shown to me.