International S. S. Lessons.
"So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading." —Neh. 8:8 LESSON XIII.—SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 1893.
[NOTE.—The questions which follow are merely suggestive for the student on the leading points of the lesson; it is presumed that the thorough student will think of many more as he studies the subject. References, where verses alone are given, always refer to the lesson scripture printed above. All other references are given in book, chapter, and verse. The text printed is that of the Revised Version, not because it is especially preferred, but because it is not found in every family, as is the common version.] 1. Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, 2. Where is he that is born king of the Jews? for we saw his star in the east, and are come to worship him. 3. And when Herod the king heard it, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. 4. And gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ should be born. 5. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judea; for thus it is written by the prophet, 6. And thou Bethlehem, land of Judah, art in no wise least among the princes of Judah:
For out of thee shall come forth a governor,
Which shall be shepherd of my children Israel. 7. Then Herod privily called the wise men, and learned of them carefully what time the star appeared. 8. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search out carefully concerning the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word, that I may also come and worship him. 9. And they, having heard the king, went their way; and lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. 10. And when they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. 11. And they came into the house and saw the young child with Mary his mother; and they fell down and worshiped him; and opening their treasures they offered unto him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. Golden Text: "Thou shalt call his name Jesus; for he shall save his people from their sins." Matt. 1: 21.