“When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” Matthew 2:4-6
This is the first mention of the Jewish council, which is comprised of the “Chief priests and teachers of the law”, and Matthew reveals that the Jewish leaders were alerted early to the coming of the Messiah. Their quick recital of Micah 5:2 showed their astuteness concerning the messianic prophecies. They were knowledgeable of the hundreds of prophecies regarding the coming Messiah.
It is interesting to note that Matthew clearly records how the Jewish religious authorities, who later became Christ’s enemies, unintentionally affirmed that Jesus had fulfilled a messianic prophecy in His birth. Even Herod’s question indicated his awareness of Old Testament promises of a Messiah. God uses the words of His enemies to speak the truth to people.
“But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah” indicates the Lord addressed His wonderful promise of a future ruler to a people and king whose situation seemed hopeless at the time. Bethlehem, birthplace of both David and Jesus, was 18 mi NE of Moresheth, Micah’s hometown. When the Wise Men came to Jerusalem seeking the king of the Jews, they were directed to Bethlehem based on this passage.
God’s blessings on your day…