1 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.
2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town.
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David,
5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child.
6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth.
7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear.
10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
14 “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”
16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.
17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child.
18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.
19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.
20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.
21 And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
22 And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.
23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”)
24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”
25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.
26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law,
28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,
29 “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word;”
30 for my eyes have seen your salvation
31 that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.
33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him.
34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed.
35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.
36 And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin,
37 and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day.
38 And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.
39 And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.
40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.
41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover.
42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom.
43 And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it,
44 but supposing him to be in the group they went a day’s journey, but then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances.
45 And when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him.
46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions.
47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.
48 And when his parents saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.”
49 And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?”
50 And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them.
51 And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart.
52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
The True Meaning of Luke 2
The Gospel of Luke was written by Luke, a physician and companion of the Apostle Paul. Luke’s perspective as a Gentile convert to Christianity provides a unique insight into the life of Jesus Christ and the early Church. The birth of Jesus, the long-awaited Messiah, is introduced in this chapter. The events that unfold foreshadow the profound impact Jesus will have on the world, as witnessed by the reactions of both the humble and the powerful. We see the fulfillment of ancient prophecies, the adoration of shepherds, and the presentation of the child in the temple, all of which point to the divine nature of this newborn king.
The chapter also highlights the contrast between the humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth and the grand significance of his arrival. This sets the stage for the remarkable ministry and teachings that will follow, as recorded in the subsequent chapters of Luke’s Gospel.
Luke 2:1-7
The account of the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem is seen in Luke 2:1-7. The first section of this passage sets the historical context by mentioning that Emperor Augustus issued a decree for a census to be taken throughout the Roman world. This census required everyone to return to their ancestral towns, which is why Joseph and Mary had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem. This part serves as a reminder of how God’s plan for the birth of Jesus was orchestrated through secular events and rulers, ultimately fulfilling prophecies spoken of in the Old Testament, such as Micah 5:2 which foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.
The part where Mary gives birth to Jesus and lays Him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn is one of the most iconic scenes in the Bible. It beautifully portrays the humility and simplicity of the birth of the Savior of the world. Despite being the King of Kings, Jesus was born in modest circumstances, highlighting the theme of humility and the idea that God works in unexpected ways. This event echoes the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, where it was foretold that a virgin would give birth to a Son called Immanuel, which means “God with us.”
The mention of the shepherds in the fields who were visited by the angel of the Lord and informed about the birth of Jesus is significant. Shepherds were considered lowly in society at that time, yet God chose to reveal the news of the Messiah’s birth to them first, symbolizing that Jesus came for all people, regardless of their social status. The angel’s announcement of “good news that will cause great joy for all the people” in Luke 2:10 foreshadows the universal impact of Jesus’ birth. This ties back to the prophecy in Isaiah 9:6, where it was prophesied that a child would be born who would bring light to the nations and be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Luke 2:1-7 captures the essence of the Christmas story – a story of humility, simplicity, and the universal significance of the birth of Jesus. It underscores the fulfillment of prophecies, the divine orchestration of events, and the inclusive nature of Jesus’ mission. This passage invites us to reflect on the profound truth that the Savior of the world chose to enter humanity in such a humble manner, demonstrating God’s love and plan for redemption for all people.
Luke 2:8-14
One of the most significant passages in the Bible detailing the birth of Jesus Christ is encountered in Luke 2:8-14. The passage begins with the mention of shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Shepherds in that time were often considered among the lowly and marginalized in society. This setting is crucial as it highlights the humility and simplicity of the circumstances surrounding the birth of the Savior. It underscores that Jesus’ message of salvation is universal and intended for all people, regardless of their social status.
The appearance of an angel of the Lord to these shepherds signifies the announcement of the most extraordinary event in history. The glory of the Lord shining around them reveals the divine nature of the message being conveyed. The shepherds, who represent the common people, are chosen as the first to hear of the birth of the Messiah. This reflects God’s heart for the humble and His desire to reveal Himself to those who are often overlooked or downtrodden.
When the angel announces the birth of Christ, he proclaims, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” This declaration encapsulates the essence of the gospel message – it is about good news, joy, and salvation for all. The birth of Jesus signifies the fulfillment of prophecies and the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah who would bring redemption and reconciliation between God and humanity.
The heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests,” encapsulates the core message of the gospel. The birth of Jesus brings glory to God and establishes peace between God and humanity through His saving work on the cross. This momentous event sets the stage for the ministry, death, and resurrection of Christ, which are all central to the Christian faith and the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation.
This passage in Luke 2 echoes the Old Testament prophecies foretelling the coming of the Messiah, such as Isaiah 9:6 which says, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” The angels’ announcement to the shepherds serves as a confirmation of these prophecies being fulfilled through the birth of Jesus Christ, who is not just an ordinary child but the Son of God and the Savior of the world.
Luke 2:15-20
Several significant sections in Luke 2:15-20 contribute to the overall narrative of the birth of Jesus. The shepherds went with haste to Bethlehem to see the newborn Savior after being visited by angels who proclaimed the good news. Upon arriving, they found Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus in a manger, just as the angels had told them. The willingness of these humble shepherds to respond to the divine revelation they received is profound because it is shown in the part where the shepherds say, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” They did not doubt or question the message conveyed to them; instead, they immediately set out to witness the miraculous event for themselves. This highlights the theme of faith and obedience, emphasizing the importance of responding actively to God’s calling without delay.
The shepherds finding Mary, Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger is a significant detail that aligns with the prophecy about the Messiah’s humble birth. The imagery of Jesus being born in a lowly manger instead of a grand palace is symbolic of his mission on earth – to identify with the common people and bring salvation to all, regardless of their status or background. This event fulfills the prophecy in Micah 5:2, which foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.
The reaction of the shepherds after seeing Jesus is also noteworthy. They shared with others what they had witnessed, spreading the good news of the Savior’s birth. Their response exemplifies the idea of evangelism and discipleship, encouraging believers to share the message of Christ with others. The shepherds’ testimony serves as a powerful demonstration of the transformative impact of encountering Jesus personally and the natural response of sharing that experience with others.
Furthermore, Mary’s reaction to all these events is worth reflecting upon. The Bible mentions that she treasured all these things in her heart. This phrase underscores Mary’s contemplative and faithful nature, as she ponders the significance of her son’s birth and the unfolding of God’s plan. Mary’s response sets an example for believers to meditate on the works of God and seek to understand His will in their lives. Luke 2:15-20 encapsulates key themes of faith, obedience, humility, evangelism, and contemplation. The shepherds’ prompt response, the fulfillment of prophecies, the humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth, and Mary’s reflective attitude collectively convey the timeless message of God’s redemptive plan unfolding through ordinary people who are willing to believe, obey, and proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ.
Luke 2:21-24
Key sections in Luke 2:21-24 hold significant importance in the overall narrative of the Nativity story. Starting with verse 21: “On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived.” This moment marks the first act of obedience to the law of Moses by Mary and Joseph for their newborn son. The act of circumcision was a covenant between God and the descendants of Abraham (Genesis 17:10-14). They fulfilled the divine command by naming him Jesus as instructed by the angel, ensuring that the child would bear the name that signifies his role as the Savior of the world, as stated in Matthew 1:21.
Moving on to verses 22-24: “When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, ‘Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord’), and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: ‘a pair of doves or two young pigeons.’” This section highlights another instance where Mary and Joseph demonstrated their obedience to the Mosaic Law. It was customary for Jewish parents to present their firstborn son at the temple after 40 days of his birth for purification and consecration.
Here, they offered the sacrifice prescribed for those who could not afford a lamb, showing their humility and adherence to the law. This act of presenting Jesus in the temple echoes the Old Testament practice of bringing the firstborn to the Lord, as seen in Exodus 13:2. The intricacies of the Law prophetically reflect Jesus’ fulfillment of the Law, as stated by Jesus himself in Matthew 5:17. These verses not only depict Mary and Joseph’s faithfulness in fulfilling religious duties but also foreshadow Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and the prophesied Messiah. The meticulous observance of Jewish rituals highlights the importance of obedience to God’s commands and sets the stage for Jesus’ future ministry, which would ultimately lead to the salvation of humanity.
Luke 2:25-35
Simeon, a devout and righteous man in Jerusalem, is encountered in this passage from the Gospel of Luke. Simeon was described as waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. This sets the scene for a significant moment in the Bible where Simeon’s encounter with the infant Jesus holds profound meaning and symbolism.
Simeon’s devoutness and righteousness, coupled with the presence of the Holy Spirit in his life, positioned him perfectly for the unique encounter he was about to have. It is essential to note that Simeon’s life was marked by anticipation and expectation, specifically looking forward to the Messiah, “the consolation of Israel.” This reflects the broader theme in the Bible of waiting on God’s promises and having faith in His timing. Simeon serves as a role model for believers, illustrating the importance of steadfast faith and patience in expecting God to fulfill His promises.
When Simeon saw the baby Jesus in the temple, he took Him in his arms and praised God. The recognition of the divine nature of this infant is profound. Simeon identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promise, the Savior who brings salvation not only to Israel but to all people. This moment highlights the significance of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, the Redeemer, and the Light to the Gentiles, fulfilling prophecies from the Old Testament. Simeon speaks of being ready to depart in peace since he had seen the salvation of the Lord in his prayer known as the Nunc Dimittis or Canticle of Simeon. This prayer reflects Simeon’s contentment and fulfillment in finally beholding the promised Messiah. It also symbolizes a sense of completion and readiness to depart from this world, having witnessed the fulfillment of God’s salvation plan. This moment underscores the theme of redemption and fulfillment through Christ in the Bible, emphasizing the hope and peace that Jesus brings to those who believe in Him. Simeon prophesies about Jesus, stating that He is appointed for the rising and falling of many in Israel and will be a sign that is opposed. This prophecy foreshadows Jesus’ role as a divisive figure, one who challenges people to either accept or reject Him. It also hints at the redemptive work of Jesus, where through His sacrifice, many will be saved, but others will stumble over Him, as prophesied in Isaiah 8:14.
The encounter between Simeon and Jesus in the temple serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative of Christ’s birth in Luke 2. It underscores Jesus’ identity as the long-awaited Messiah, the salvation of God, and the Light to all nations. Simeon’s faith, devotion, and prophetic words add layers of meaning to the overarching message of redemption, salvation, and the fulfillment of God’s promises through Jesus Christ.
Luke 2:36-38
Anna, a prophetess, is presented in a brief but profound account in Luke 2:36-38. Let’s break down the verse to explore the important sections and gain insight into this passage.
First, we are introduced to Anna, a prophetess, who is described as the daughter of Phanuel and a member of the tribe of Asher. The fact that she is referred to as a prophetess indicates that she has a special gift of receiving and conveying divine messages. Prophetesses in Biblical times, though less common than prophets, played significant roles in God’s plan. Anna’s lineage from the tribe of Asher is noteworthy because the tribe of Asher is one of the ten lost tribes of Israel, and her inclusion in the narrative underscores God’s faithfulness in preserving a remnant of His people.
The next detail provided is Anna’s age. We learn that she is a widow of advanced years, having been married for seven years before her husband’s death. Anna’s status as a widow is significant in that widows were often marginalized and vulnerable in ancient societies. However, in this story, Anna’s widowhood seems to have deepened her devotion to God rather than diminished it. Her choice to devote herself to fasting and prayer in the temple day and night speaks volumes about her unwavering faith and dedication to spiritual matters.
When Anna encounters the infant Jesus and his family in the temple, she responds with praise and thanksgiving to God. Her reaction is one of joy and gratitude, recognizing the significance of this moment where she beholds the promised Messiah. Anna serves as a powerful example of faithful anticipation and recognition of God’s redemption. Her response aligns beautifully with the message of hope and salvation that Jesus brought to the world.
This brief but impactful story of Anna in Luke 2:36-38 carries timeless messages for believers today. It emphasizes the importance of faithfulness, persistence in prayer, and devout expectation of God’s promises. Anna’s life exemplifies patient waiting on God and the reward of encountering His presence. Her prophetic witness resonates with the larger Biblical narrative of God using ordinary individuals to fulfill His extraordinary purposes. This passage also underscores the theme of redemption and restoration present throughout the Bible, showing how God’s plan of salvation unfolds through generations. Anna’s recognition of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah challenges us to be attentive to God’s work in our midst and respond with adoration and praise. Characters like Simeon (Luke 2:25-35) also recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises when connecting Anna’s story to other passages in the Bible. These narratives together form a tapestry of faithful witnesses eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Savior. They inspire us to remain faithful, watchful, and ready to embrace the work of God in our lives and in the world.
Luke 2:39-40
Joseph and Mary returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth after they had done everything required by the Law of the Lord in Luke 2:39-40. And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.”
This section emphasizes the obedience and faithfulness of Joseph and Mary to God’s commands. They fulfilled all the requirements of the Law, pointing to their devotion to God and adherence to the customs of their faith. It also highlights their humility and submission to God’s will by following the prescribed rituals even though they were the earthly parents of the Son of God.
The verse goes on to describe the growth and development of Jesus. The statement that “the child grew and became strong” suggests a normal progression of human development, showing that Jesus experienced the fullness of humanity while still being fully divine. This dual nature of Jesus is a foundational belief in Christianity, as it demonstrates his ability to relate to and understand the experiences of humanity while also being the Savior sent by God.
The mention that “he was filled with wisdom” signifies Jesus’ divine nature, as wisdom is often associated with God in the Bible. This implies that even from a young age, Jesus possessed a profound understanding and insight that surpassed his years, pointing to his divine identity.
Furthermore, the statement “the grace of God was on him” highlights the favor and blessing that God bestowed upon Jesus. This foreshadows Jesus’ mission on earth as the one through whom God’s grace and salvation would be offered to humanity. It underscores the unique role and purpose for which Jesus was sent into the world, to bring about the redemption and reconciliation of mankind to God. These verses in the wider context of the Bible echo the prophecies of the Old Testament regarding the Messiah. The fulfillment of these prophecies through the birth and early life of Jesus reinforces his identity as the promised Messiah and the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation.
Luke 2:41-50
Luke 2:41-50 focuses on an event from Jesus Christ’s childhood. The passage begins with Mary and Joseph going to Jerusalem for the Passover festival, a customary pilgrimage for many Jewish families during that time. This demonstrates Mary and Joseph’s devoutness in following their faith’s traditions and laws, as well as their obedience to God’s commands.
One of the most significant sections of this passage is when Jesus, just twelve years old, stays behind in the temple while his parents leave to return home. When his parents realize he is missing, they search for him anxiously and find him in the temple, listening to the teachers and asking them questions. This moment highlights Jesus’ deep connection to the scriptures and his wisdom even at a young age. It sets the stage for his future role as a teacher and leader, foreshadowing his ministry as an adult.
When Mary expresses her distress at not being able to find Jesus, his response in verse 49, “Why were you searching for me?…Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” is profound. Here, Jesus refers to God as his Father, emphasizing his divine identity and purpose. This incident marks a clear turning point in Jesus’ life, where he begins to understand and acknowledge his unique relationship with God the Father.
The interaction between Jesus and his parents in this passage also sheds light on the theme of obedience and submission to God’s will. Despite Mary and Joseph’s confusion about Jesus’ actions, Jesus submits to their authority and returns home with them, growing in wisdom and stature (Luke 2:51-52). This episode underscores the importance of honoring one’s parents and living in harmony with them, a value deeply rooted in Jewish culture and teachings. This episode from Jesus’ childhood portrays him not just as a miraculous and divine figure, but also as a human being who experienced growth, learning, and obedience. It serves as a reminder that Jesus, while the Son of God, also walked the path of humility, obedience, and devotion to God and his earthly parents. The lessons from this passage continue to resonate with believers today, emphasizing the significance of studying God’s word, recognizing Jesus as the ultimate example to follow, and submitting to God’s will in our lives.
Luke 2:51-52
Luke 2:51-52 reads, “Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. The first part of this passage highlights Jesus’ obedience and humility. Even though He was the Son of God, Jesus still obeyed His earthly parents, Joseph and Mary. This act of submission to his parents reflects the importance of honoring and obeying our earthly authorities, as Jesus set an example for us to follow. It is a reminder of the value of humility and obedience, qualities that are highly regarded in the Christian faith. It also highlights the humanity of Jesus, showing that He experienced life just as we do, including the relationship dynamics with His parents.
The next part of the verse gives us a glimpse into Mary’s heart. It mentions that she treasured all these things in her heart. Throughout the Gospel of Luke, Mary is portrayed as a faithful and contemplative woman. She pondered and treasured the events surrounding the birth and life of Jesus. This shows her deep faith and reverence for the miraculous things that were happening in her life. Mary’s response teaches us the importance of cherishing and reflecting on God’s work in our lives. It is a reminder for us to ponder the wonders of God and hold them dear in our hearts, just as Mary did.
Lastly, the verse mentions that Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man. This statement affirms the human and divine nature of Jesus. He experienced growth intellectually, physically, spiritually, and socially. This growth is a testament to the full humanity of Jesus while also indicating that He was in alignment with the will of God. It teaches us the importance of continuous growth in all aspects of our lives – mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Just as Jesus grew in favor with God and man, we are also encouraged to seek favor with both God and our fellow humans.
This passage also echoes similar sentiments found in the book of Proverbs, particularly Proverbs 3:1-4, which emphasizes the importance of listening to parents and seeking wisdom and understanding. The growth and favor that Jesus experienced serve as a model for us to strive for continuous improvement and alignment with God’s will in our own lives.
After Luke 2
We witnessed the humble birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, in a manger in Bethlehem in this chapter. The angels proclaimed the good news to the shepherds, who hurried to see the newborn King. Mary and Joseph marveled at the miracle of God made flesh, as they pondered the significance of this child. As we reflect on the miraculous events of this chapter, let us remember the profound impact of Jesus’ birth on the world. The promise of hope and salvation was fulfilled in a small stable, setting the stage for the incredible journey that lies ahead. Join us in the next chapter as we follow the unfolding story of Jesus’ life and ministry, as he brings light into the darkness and offers redemption to all who believe.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.