The Magi were Gentiles who came from the far east to pay homage to the messianic king. They typify the nations in Isaiah’s “procession of the nations to Zion” theme (Isa 2:2–5; 11:10, 12; 14:1; 49:22; 56:3, 60:3, 6, 11) and reenact the Queen of Sheba’s visit to Solomon with royal gifts (1 Kgs 10:1–10).4 They also show that indeed the whole world will worship the Messiah and declare him King (cf. Rev 21:24, 26). At the same time, it is clear that God’s sovereign hand is evident.
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