Christ’s Supremacy | Matthew 2

Why does the supremacy of Jesus’s birth as King of the Jews demand that his followers prioritize Kingdom politics over worldly politics?

Christ’s supremacy as King of the Jews…

1. Exposes the gruesome reality behind worldly politics.
   1. A kingdom ruled by fear and insecurity (2:1-3).
   2. A kingdom ruled by intrigue and manipulative deception (2:4-8).
   3. A kingdom ruled by the power of violence and death (2:13-19).
2. Challenges his followers to prioritize God’s kingdom agenda over the agendas of the world.
   1. Choose your side: the dependability and stability of the prince of peace (Isaiah 9:6-7; Matthew 2:2-6, 16).
   2. Discern truth: The reliability and trustworthiness of God’s word (2:5-6).
   3. Pay the price: the sacrificial nature or joyful worship (2:10-11).

The Herods of this world are overcome when God’s people make glorifying God through Jesus alone the highest purpose of their lives. Don’t let the noise of worldly politics drown the message of Christ in your life.

1. Is the enemy trying to neutralize your witness by getting you caught in the polarizing politics of our culture? If politics have become a louder voice in your life or head than the witness of Christ, perhaps this has become an idol of which you must repent. Confess and repent so that we may be healed (James 5:16).
2. True worship is costly. When you sacrifice your personal agendas at the feet of Christ and make pleasing him the supreme priority of your life through the giving of your time, talents, and treasures, you join the many who defeat the world by pledging allegiance to the lamb.
3. Have you given Jesus your unconditional “yes”? Or are you still flirting with the world?