Genesis 5:25-6:8 Psalm 5:7-12 Proverbs 2:9-15 Matthew 2:1-12

Genesis 5:25-6:8:
This section concludes the genealogy from Adam to Noah, noting Methuselah's long life and the birth of his son, Lamech, who then fathers Noah. The narrative transitions to describe a time when humanity has greatly multiplied but has also grown corrupt in God's sight. The "sons of God" take "daughters of humans" as wives, leading to the birth of the "Nephilim," described as mighty men of old. As humanity's wickedness increases, God observes that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time, leading Him to regret having created them. However, Noah finds favor in the eyes of the Lord, setting the stage for the subsequent flood narrative.

Psalm 5:7-12:
In these verses, David expresses his trust in God's protection amidst threats from his enemies. He prays for guidance, asking to be led by God in righteousness due to his enemies' malice. David contrasts the fate of the wicked, who will not stand before God due to their lies and bloodthirstiness, with the protection granted to those who take refuge in God. He ends with a prayer that those who love God may rejoice and be protected, that God blesses the righteous, and surrounds them with favor as with a shield.

Proverbs 2:9-15:
This passage explains that those who embrace wisdom will understand righteousness, justice, and equity—every good path. It describes wisdom entering the heart and knowledge being pleasant to the soul. Wisdom will provide discretion and understanding, protecting one from the ways of wicked men who speak perverse things, leave straight paths to walk in dark ways, and delight in doing wrong. The text underscores the protective power of wisdom, guarding against deceit and immoral behavior.

Matthew 2:1-12:
This passage narrates the visit of the Magi to the newborn Jesus. After Jesus is born in Bethlehem, wise men from the east come to Jerusalem, asking where the king of the Jews has been born, having seen his star. This disturbs King Herod and all Jerusalem. Herod secretly calls the Magi to learn precisely when the star appeared and sends them to Bethlehem to find the child, deceitfully claiming he wants to worship him too. Guided by the star, the Magi come to where Jesus is, offer him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, and, warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they depart by another route. This event highlights the recognition of Jesus as a king not only by Jewish prophecy but also by distant gentiles, signifying his universal significance.