Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 2:9-10

"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. And when they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy." — Matthew 2:9-10 (ASV)

Yes, they departed, and were wise to get out of Herod’s vile company. They made no compact with him. They heard his false professions and they went their way. The star appeared when the tyrant disappeared.

The star was probably a meteor or moving light that, after shining long enough in the western heavens to guide them to Judea, then ceased to be visible, but shone forth again as they left Jerusalem. We must not always expect to have visible signs to cheer us, but we are very glad of them when the Lord grants them to us. We seek not the star of inward feelings or outward signs, but Jesus Himself.

Yet we have great joy when heavenly comfort shines into our souls. Lord, show me a token for good. This will make me glad. Show me Yourself, and I will rejoice with exceeding great joy.

See how the stars above, as well as men below, pay their obeisances to the New-born King! My soul, be not slow to adore your Savior! The star moved till it came and stood over where the young child was. So my heart will never rest until it finds the Lord.

When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

You see, the light of the star was taken from them for a time, just as sometimes the delightful presence of God is withdrawn from his people. Then, beloved, you walk by faith alone, and not by sight, as these men did; but oh! when the light comes back again, when, after hearing all the chatter of false priests and scribes, and all the talk of Herod the great one, they see the star again, how glad they are! When God sends to his people clear shinings after rain, the brightness of his presence after a time of gloom, then it is with them as it was with the wise men, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.