Most people know the story of the wise men traveling from the East to worship Jesus. But what many don’t realize is that these men—called Magi—were likely astrologers, men who studied the stars for signs and meaning. What’s interesting is that the Bible strictly forbids astrology (Deuteronomy 18:10-12). Yet, God used a star to lead these men to the truth.
The Magi traveled to Jerusalem, 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” (Matthew 2:2). This tells us two things: first, they were watching the skies for meaning, and second, they knew this star was connected to the King of the Jews.
How did they know? It’s possible they had access to Jewish prophecy, since the Jews had lived in Babylon for 70 years during the captivity. Numbers 24:17 says, “There shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel.” If the Magi were familiar with this, they may have understood that this wasn’t just any star—it was the sign of the long-awaited King and God still led them to the right place.
What’s even more amazing is that after they found Jesus, they didn’t need the star anymore. Once they worshipped Him and presented their gifts, they were warned in a dream to go home another way (Matthew 2:12). God had spoken to them directly, and there’s no mention of them following the star again. The light of the world had been revealed, and they no longer needed the light in the sky to guide them.
This story is a powerful picture of God’s grace. He didn’t leave these men to follow stars—He led them to the truth. They came searching for a king, and they found more than they ever expected. It’s a reminder that God can reach anyone, anywhere, and bring them to Jesus. The question is, once He shows us the truth, are we willing to follow?
