Matthew 2:4

And when he had assembled all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he asked them where the Christ was to be born.

Study Bible

When he had called together
This phrase indicates a deliberate and authoritative action by Herod. The Greek word used here, "συναγαγών" (synagagōn), suggests a gathering or assembling. Herod, as king, had the power to summon the religious leaders, reflecting his political authority and the urgency of his inquiry. Historically, this action underscores Herod's concern about the birth of a new "king" and his desire to maintain control over his realm.

all the chief priests
The term "chief priests" refers to the leading priests in the Jewish religious hierarchy, including the high priest and those who had previously held the position. The Greek word "ἀρχιερεῖς" (archiereis) denotes their high status. These individuals were influential in both religious and political matters, serving as intermediaries between the Jewish people and the Roman authorities. Their involvement highlights the significance of the inquiry, as Herod sought the most knowledgeable religious authorities.

and scribes of the people
"Scribes" were experts in the Jewish Law, known in Greek as "γραμματεῖς" (grammateis). They were responsible for copying, teaching, and interpreting the Scriptures. The phrase "of the people" indicates their role as representatives and teachers of the Jewish populace. Their inclusion in this assembly emphasizes the importance of scriptural knowledge in determining the birthplace of the Messiah, as they were well-versed in the prophecies concerning the Christ.

he inquired
The Greek word "ἐπυνθάνετο" (epynthaneto) suggests a careful and deliberate questioning. Herod's inquiry was not casual; it was a calculated effort to gather specific information. This reflects his deep concern and possibly fear regarding the prophecy of a new king, which threatened his rule. The historical context reveals Herod's notorious paranoia and ruthlessness in dealing with potential rivals.

where the Christ was to be born
The term "Christ" is the Greek "Χριστός" (Christos), meaning "Anointed One," equivalent to the Hebrew "Messiah." This title signifies the long-awaited deliverer prophesied in the Hebrew Scriptures. Herod's question about the birthplace of the Christ indicates his awareness of Jewish Messianic expectations. Theologically, this moment underscores the fulfillment of prophecy and God's sovereign plan, as the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem was foretold in Micah 5:2. Herod's inquiry, though politically motivated, inadvertently confirms the divine orchestration of Jesus' birth, affirming the truth of God's Word and the hope of salvation through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Herod the Great
The ruling king of Judea at the time of Jesus' birth, known for his paranoia and tyrannical rule. He sought to maintain his power by any means necessary, including the massacre of infants in Bethlehem.

2. Chief Priests
Religious leaders in Jerusalem, primarily from the Sadducees, who were responsible for temple rituals and maintaining religious order. They held significant influence in Jewish society.

3. Scribes
Experts in the Jewish Law, often associated with the Pharisees. They were responsible for teaching and interpreting the Scriptures.

4. The Christ (Messiah)
The anointed one promised in the Hebrew Scriptures, expected to deliver Israel and establish God's kingdom.

5. Bethlehem
The prophesied birthplace of the Messiah, as foretold in the Hebrew Scriptures, specifically in Micah 5:2.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Prophecy
Understanding the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in the New Testament strengthens our faith in the reliability and divine inspiration of Scripture.

God's Sovereignty in History
Despite Herod's attempts to thwart God's plan, the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem demonstrates God's control over historical events to fulfill His purposes.

The Role of Religious Leaders
The chief priests and scribes had knowledge of the Scriptures but failed to recognize the Messiah. This serves as a warning to ensure our knowledge leads to a relationship with Christ, not just intellectual understanding.

Seeking Jesus with Right Intentions
Herod's inquiry was driven by fear and a desire to eliminate a threat. In contrast, our pursuit of Jesus should be motivated by a genuine desire to know and worship Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fulfillment of prophecy in Matthew 2:4 strengthen your faith in the reliability of the Bible?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our knowledge of Scripture leads to a deeper relationship with Christ, rather than just intellectual understanding?

3. How does the account of Herod's inquiry challenge us to examine our own intentions when seeking Jesus?

4. What can we learn from the role of the chief priests and scribes about the dangers of religious complacency?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty in the events surrounding Jesus' birth encourage you in your current life circumstances?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Micah 5:2
This Old Testament prophecy specifies Bethlehem as the birthplace of the Messiah, which the chief priests and scribes reference when Herod inquires about the location.

Matthew 2:1-3
These verses provide context for Herod's inquiry, describing the arrival of the Magi and their search for the newborn King of the Jews, which troubled Herod and all of Jerusalem.

John 7:42
This verse references the expectation that the Messiah would come from Bethlehem, reinforcing the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus' birth.