ACC ~ Matthew 2 v3

TROUBLE IN THE HOLY CITY

CHRYSOSTOM: Since Herod was king, he was naturally afraid both for himself and for his children. But why was Jerusalem troubled? Surely the prophets had foretold him as the Savior, Benefactor and Deliverer who would come from above. But Jerusalem remained troubled by the same idolatrous affections that had previously caused them to turn from God precisely when God was pouring out his greatest benefits on them. While God was offering them new freedom, they were once again mindful only of the fleshpots of bondage in Egypt.

Note the accuracy of the prophets, who had foretold this judgment earlier: “They shall compensate for every garment that has been acquired by deceit and all clothing with restitution; and they shall be willing, even if they had been burnt with fire. For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given.” [1]

Although troubled, they nevertheless did not try to understand what was happening. They did not follow the wise men or even take any particular notice. To this extent were they both contentious and careless. This happened just when those in Jerusalem under Herod had reason to pride themselves that a king was being born among them. This had even attracted the attention of the wise from Persia. They were on the point of having everything going their way, as though their affairs were advancing toward improvement. But most did not even take notice. Amid an empire that had become so magnificent, they showed little improvement.

Jerusalem had only recently been delivered from subjugation. It might have been more reasonable for them to think, If the Persians tremble before this king now merely at his birth, wouldn’t they tremble much more when he grows up? They would fear and obey him, and our situation might then be more glorious than that of the barbarians. Even if they knew nothing of mysteries or revelations but formed their judgments only on the basis of present self-interest, they surely might have thought along these lines. But nothing like this really occurred to them, so great was their dullness in prophecy and envy in human affairs.

Such dullness and envy must be rooted out of our minds. One must be more impassioned than fire to stand up against such an array. This is why Christ said, “I am come to send fire on earth, and how I wish it were already kindled.” [2] And the Spirit on this account appeared in fire. THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW, HOMILY 6.4. [3]

[1] Is 9:5-6 LXX.

[2] Lk 12:49.

[3] PG 57:67-68; NPNF 1 10:40**. Due to their dullness in prophecy and envy in human affairs, the Jerusalem of Herod lost sight of its historic calling and unparalleled opportunity as they clung to bondage and idolatry. Hence they were troubled by the portent of change.