Jesus Christ: Prophet, Priest ,and King Part 2

Thematic shadows of Christ run throughout the entire text of the Bible. How did they get there? This is a book that was written over an 1800 year span by 40 plus authors, yet there is consistency in its message. This is nothing more than the fingerprints, per se, of the true Author, God.

In Matthew 2:11 we read of three unusual gifts that were given Jesus at His birth. "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."

Myrrh was used often as a spice for embalming a body in order to cover the smell of decay. Imagine a Friend giving your child embalming fluid at birth! Have you ever been around certain flowers that remind you of a funeral home. I am sure that is how Mary and Joseph may have felt. Here again, we find another allusion to Jesus and the ministry He provided us through His vicarious sacrifice. He was born to die on a cross because God so loved you.

Frankincense was also a very fragrant compound. It was a primary ingredient in the incense that was used by the priests. It symbolizes prayer. Jesus is praying for you as the Great High Priest of humanity. Notice that this ministry again occurs after His atoning death? " Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." Romans 8:34 The frankincense points to this priestly intercession.

Gold symbolizes Deity or divine rule in scripture. Gold was a gift given to the child because He was of the tribe and lineage of King David as a man and the Son of the King of the Universe. Jesus will return soon and take His throne as the scripture says, "Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion. I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee." Psalm 2:6-7.

So what can you do? Follow verse 12 of Psalm 2, "Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him." He is not coming back soon to be abused, but He is coming in power and glory to execute judgement on the ungodly and establish God's righteous rule in Jerusalem. Get ready now. He is coming sooner than you think!