Visit of the Magi and Flight to Egypt

Wise men followed a star to Bethlehem, bearing gifts for the newborn King. Fearing Herod, Joseph, Mary, and Jesus fled to Egypt.

Visit of the Magi and Flight to Egypt

Matthew 2:1-12

1. Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
2. Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
3. When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
4. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
5. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,
6. And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
7. Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.
8. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
9. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.
10. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
11. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
12. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

Sermons Related to this Bible Chapter - Visit of the Magi and Flight to Egypt

Christmas / The Incarnation: The Magi (Matthew 2) : Before this reading , a brief reminder of the characters of the nativity: Mary: A very remarkable young woman. Listening to the Angel: disturbed, certainly surprised. Ask questions with freedom and relevance…. Personal problem that such news (pregnancy) can pose. Definitely must have told Joseph in confidence. (Joseph is seen deep in thought in Matthew 1 ) Has complete trust in God. Joseph: Fair, thoughtful man Benevolent man, does not want to harm Mary. Think about the best way for Mary to get out of this situation Listening to God and trusting him. The Mary-Joseph couple: desire to walk together. Do 120/130 km shortly before the birth of Jesus. (The route Lausanne-Thun). Are subject to the authorities of the time … we do not see them grumbling … Let's read to illustrate this true relationship with God!! the canticle of Mary, a magnificent psalm. Luke 1:46-55 (Sower Version) The birth of Jesus : The arrival of the Magi in Matthew 2 : Traditional image: 3 Magi: Melchior, Gaspard and Balthazar. In the sixth century, tradition gave them a first name. Most certainly not neither three nor kings, Legend built over the centuries. The biblical account: very sober:

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A group of people, exhausted but determined, traverse a sandy desert at night, their silhouettes lit only by a faint moon; emphasize the hardship and danger of their flight, and convey their faith as they move towards the uncertain future. Showcases the long and dangerous night journey and the unwavering determination of the holy family.

A detail of a star, the same star that guided the Magi, seen through the leaves of an olive tree, reflecting the journey of the holy family and the celestial guidance in the dark. Subtly depicts divine guidance through the natural world during the journey.

Close up of a worn wooden toy donkey, meticulously carved, suggesting a child's plaything, found amidst the family's simple possessions; hinting at the innocent vulnerability of the Holy Family and the long journey. Subtly hints at the innocence and vulnerability of the holy family amidst their journey.

Macro closeup of frankincense resin, shimmering with golden light, alongside myrrh, reflecting the gifts of the Magi. The textures should be highly detailed, showcasing the natural beauty of these precious offerings. Focuses on the precious gifts, symbolizing the reverence and importance of the event.

Macro closeup of a worn, leather-bound scroll detailing the prophecy of the Messiah's birth, slightly illuminated by candlelight; showing detailed calligraphy evocative of the biblical era and hinting at the journey's divine guidance. Highlights the prophecy and divine guidance leading to the flight to Egypt.

Bright morning light bathes a desert landscape. Camels laden with simple baggage move slowly across the sand dunes, the sun casting long shadows. A single star is visible in the pale morning sky, guiding the journey. Depicts the journey across the desert, referencing the hardships of the flight.

Golden morning sun illuminates lush date palms and a clear oasis. Mary sits nursing Jesus, sheltered under a date palm; Joseph watches, a look of peace on his face. The scene radiates warmth and the promise of refuge. Illustrates the refuge found in the oasis, contrasting with the dangers of the journey.

Evening shadows lengthen over a rocky, mountainous pass. A small caravan, silhouetted against the setting sun, makes its way through the rugged terrain, conveying a sense of journey and impending darkness. Captures the sense of urgency and precariousness of their escape.

Deep twilight descends upon a humble village nestled among olive groves. Smoke rises from a few chimney pots, casting an ethereal glow on the surrounding landscape. The feeling of quiet sanctuary and temporary safety pervades. Showcases the fleeting moments of peace and safety found along the way.

Morning light reveals a weary Joseph, his face lined with concern, tending to a small fire while Mary sleeps, cradling Jesus. Simple cooking utensils and a few meager possessions are scattered nearby. Emphasizes the weariness and poverty of the holy family.

A mother holding a baby, wrapped in simple cloth, sits beside a small fire. She gazes at the child with an expression of love and concern. An donkey is visible in the background, suggesting travel and displacement. Highlights the love and care for Jesus, despite the hardships.

Night falls upon the caravan as it rests for the night. The travelers huddled around a fire, sharing a meager meal under a vast star-studded sky, the immensity of their journey underscored by the darkness. Captures the vulnerability and resilience of the travelers during their night journey.

overlayed with the bible verse 1. Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,

NOTE: The images reflect the following descriptions related to the theme : Visit of the Magi and Flight to Egypt

Macro closeup of frankincense resin, shimmering with golden light, alongside myrrh, reflecting the gifts of the Magi. The textures should be highly detailed, showcasing the natural beauty of these precious offerings.
Macro closeup of a worn, leather-bound scroll detailing the prophecy of the Messiah's birth, slightly illuminated by candlelight; showing detailed calligraphy evocative of the biblical era and hinting at the journey's divine guidance.
Bright morning light bathes a desert landscape. Camels laden with simple baggage move slowly across the sand dunes, the sun casting long shadows. A single star is visible in the pale morning sky, guiding the journey.
Golden morning sun illuminates lush date palms and a clear oasis. Mary sits nursing Jesus, sheltered under a date palm; Joseph watches, a look of peace on his face. The scene radiates warmth and the promise of refuge.
Evening shadows lengthen over a rocky, mountainous pass. A small caravan, silhouetted against the setting sun, makes its way through the rugged terrain, conveying a sense of journey and impending darkness.
Deep twilight descends upon a humble village nestled among olive groves. Smoke rises from a few chimney pots, casting an ethereal glow on the surrounding landscape. The feeling of quiet sanctuary and temporary safety pervades.
Morning light reveals a weary Joseph, his face lined with concern, tending to a small fire while Mary sleeps, cradling Jesus. Simple cooking utensils and a few meager possessions are scattered nearby.
A mother holding a baby, wrapped in simple cloth, sits beside a small fire. She gazes at the child with an expression of love and concern. An donkey is visible in the background, suggesting travel and displacement.
Night falls upon the caravan as it rests for the night. The travelers huddled around a fire, sharing a meager meal under a vast star-studded sky, the immensity of their journey underscored by the darkness.
A group of people, exhausted but determined, traverse a sandy desert at night, their silhouettes lit only by a faint moon; emphasize the hardship and danger of their flight, and convey their faith as they move towards the uncertain future.
A detail of a star, the same star that guided the Magi, seen through the leaves of an olive tree, reflecting the journey of the holy family and the celestial guidance in the dark.
Close up of a worn wooden toy donkey, meticulously carved, suggesting a child's plaything, found amidst the family's simple possessions; hinting at the innocent vulnerability of the Holy Family and the long journey.

General themes for this chapter of the Bible: Visit of the Magi; Escape to Egypt; Return to Nazareth

A link to this resource is much appreciated to let others know about this free christian resource. The AB Church in LAusanne-Renens is happy to make the image collection available for free.

Other Galleries for this theme / Bible book

Feeding the 5000 and Walking on Water
Genealogy of Jesus: Tracing the Lineage
Jesus' Authority over the Sabbath
Jesus' Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem
Jesus' Temptation and the Start of His Ministry
John's Doubts and Jesus' Call to Rest
John the Baptist Baptizes Jesus: A Witness to the Messiah
Parables of the Kingdom: The Mustard Seed
Peter's Confession and Jesus' Prediction of His Death
Prophecies of Matthew: End Times
Sermon on the Mount - The Beatitudes: Blessed are the Meek
Teachings on Forgiveness and Humility
Teachings on Marriage, Wealth, and Servanthood: A Parable of Matthew
Teachings on Purity and Faith: Matthew's Gospel
The Last Supper, Trial, and Crucifixion of Jesus
Visit of the Magi and Flight to Egypt
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