The wise men from the East were philosophers. They belonged to a large and influential class that included men of noble birth, and comprised much of the wealth and learning of their nation. Among these were many who imposed on the credulity of the people. Others were upright men who studied the indications of Providence in nature, and who were honored for their integrity and wisdom. Of this character were the wise men who came to Jesus. (DA 59.2)
The
light of God is ever shining amid the darkness of heathenism. As these
magi studied the starry heavens, and sought to fathom the mystery hidden
in their bright paths, they beheld the glory of the Creator. Seeking
clearer knowledge, they turned to the Hebrew Scriptures. In their own
land were treasured prophetic writings that predicted the coming of a
divine teacher. Balaam belonged to the magicians, though at one time a
prophet of God; by the Holy Spirit he had foretold the prosperity of
Israel and the appearing of the Messiah; and his prophecies
had been handed down by tradition from century to century. But in the
Old Testament the Saviour's advent was more clearly revealed. The magi
learned with joy that His coming was near, and that the whole world was
to be filled with a knowledge of the glory of the Lord. (DA 59.3)
The
wise men had seen a mysterious light in the heavens upon that night
when the glory of God flooded the hills of Bethlehem. As the light
faded, a luminous star appeared, and lingered in the sky. It was not a
fixed star nor a planet, and the phenomenon excited the keenest
interest. That star was a distant company of shining angels, but of this
the wise men were ignorant. (Revelation 1:16, 20; 12:4, 7-9)* Yet they were impressed that the star was
of special import to them. They consulted priests and philosophers, and
searched the scrolls of the ancient records. The prophecy of Balaam had
declared, “There shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall
rise out of Israel.” Numbers 24:17.
Could this strange star have been sent as a harbinger of the Promised
One? The magi had welcomed the light of heaven-sent truth; now it was
shed upon them in brighter rays. Through dreams they were instructed to
go in search of the newborn Prince. (DA 60.1)
As by faith Abraham went forth at the call of God, “not knowing whither he went” (Hebrews 11:8); as by faith Israel followed the pillar of cloud to the Promised Land, so did these Gentiles go forth to find the promised Saviour. The Eastern country abounded in precious things, and the magi did not set out empty-handed. It was the custom to offer presents as an act of homage to princes or other personages of rank, and the richest gifts the land afforded were borne as an offering to Him in whom all the families of the earth were to be blessed. It was necessary to journey by night in order to keep the star in view; but the travelers beguiled the hours by repeating traditional sayings and prophetic utterances concerning the One they sought. At every pause for rest they searched the prophecies; and the conviction deepened that they were divinely guided. While they had the star before them as an outward sign, they had also the inward evidence of the Holy Spirit, which was impressing their hearts, and inspiring them with hope. The journey, though long, was a happy one to them. (DA 60.2)
Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, Chpt. 6, 59.2-60.2
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