My study of the scriptures has had a profound effect on my life. As I have studied, I have grown closer to God and found answers to real challenges in my life. This blog is a scripture journal that records insights I have discovered in the past and continue to gain as I search, ponder, and pray.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Matthew 2, Interesting New Story About Wise Men

I have long thought that the story of the wise men is not exactly like it is depicted at Christmas time.

For example, Matthew records that they found Jesus in a house and not the stable. Therefore, some time had elapsed since the Savior's birth. Another thing I have wondered about is the number of three. When my kids asked this year, I told them that we really don't know how many wise men there were. Three is the traditional number because they brought three gifts.

I recently read a couple of articles about an ancient text detailing the story of the wise men. It's very interesting. The text fits into the category of apocryphal writings. Still, as Joseph Smith said, you can learn a lot from the apocryphal writings. And that much of what is written is true, but not all. We need to rely on the Holy Ghost to discern what is.

Deseret News, January 8, 2011

ABC News, December 23, 2010

USA Today, December 6, 2010

2 comments:

  1. I find apocryphal accounts such as this to be fascinating, especially when they intersect with LDS views or provide insight that makes the Bible make sense. I've long realized that I could dedicate a lifetime to this type of research and only scratch the surface. Thanks for the insightful new blog!

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  2. Brett, thanks for your comment. I appreciate your feedback.

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