The star they had seen in the east guided them to Bethlehem. It went ahead of them and stopped over the place where the child was. (Matthew 2:9)
Regarding the birth of Jesus, why do you think God used a star as both a confirmational and directional device?
For starters, there were scholars (“wise men”) who studied the stars for confirmation and direction. Their discoveries were big news, even in ancient times. “The heavens declare the glory of God!” Their eyes scanned the heavens for unusual activity, and God used it as headline news. News in the heavenlies was readily seen by many, far and wide. It was built into the fabric of the day.
Interestingly, Herod didn’t dismiss them as scholarly fools or quack dreamers. He did even more than sit up and take notice. The disturbed king took extreme action based on this headline news. He knew the validity of the confirmational and directional starry activity. And it shook him to his core.
The scholars knew the star pointed to a king, but it doesn’t say they knew he was a king who would later describe himself as a king whose kingdom is not of this world. They just knew ‘king’ was the operative word. And they were bound and determined to find him. It was an irresistible sign that they had to follow and experience. The scholars continued their research with a journey which would validate their scholarly hypothesis—that indeed they had seen evidence of the birth of a king. No joke.
Before coming to earth, the Son was with the Father, creating the world in all its glory. Which of course included stars! That which he created he also used to confirm his coming and direct seekers to him.
We shouldn’t be surprised that he used so many exquisite parts of the universe and human race—both of which He made—to weave together a master plan.
“Father, thank you for speaking to these scholars through stars and heavenly signs. And we thank you that they didn’t miss what they were certain of, and that which they were looking for! This story makes us ask about what signs you are sending our way, and what evidence of your work are you calling to our attention?”
Freddy Boswell 