Luke Chapter 2

The Birth of Jesus

(Isaiah 7:10-16; Micah 5:1-6; Matthew 1:18-25)

1And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. 2(And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) 3And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 4And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) 5To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. 6And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and Angels

8And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. 12And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. 13And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

15And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. 16And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. 17And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. 18And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. 19But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. 20And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Jesus Presented at the Temple

21And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

22And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; 23(As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) 24And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

The Prophecy of Simeon

25And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. 26And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, 28Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

29Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:

30For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

31Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

32A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

33And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. 34And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; 35(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

The Prophecy of Anna

36And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; 37And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

The Return to Nazareth

(Isaiah 61:1-11; Matthew 2:19-23; Matthew 13:53-58; Mark 6:1-6; Luke 4:16-30)

39And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. 40And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

The Boy Jesus at the Temple

41Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. 42And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. 43And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. 44But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. 45And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. 46And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. 47And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. 48And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. 49And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? 50And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. 51And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

52And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

King James Bible

Text courtesy of BibleProtector.com.

The Birth of Jesus
(Matthew 1:18–25)

1 Now it happened in those days, that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled. 2 This was the first enrollment made when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 All went to enroll themselves, everyone to his own city. 4 Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David; 5 to enroll himself with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him as wife, being pregnant. 6 It happened, while they were there, that the day had come that she should give birth. 7 She brought forth her firstborn son, and she wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a feeding trough, because there was no room for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels

8 There were shepherds in the same country staying in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock. 9 Behold, an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 The angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be to all the people. 11 For there is born to you, this day, in the city of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 This is the sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a feeding trough.” 13 Suddenly, there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army praising God, and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will toward men.”

15 It happened, when the angels went away from them into the sky, that the shepherds said one to another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem, now, and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 They came with haste, and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby was lying in the feeding trough. 17 When they saw it, they publicized widely the saying which was spoken to them about this child. 18 All who heard it wondered at the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these sayings, pondering them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, just as it was told them.

Jesus Presented at the Temple

21 When eight days were fulfilled for the circumcision of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

22 When the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, 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 opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.”

The Prophecy of Simeon

25 Behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 He came in the Spirit into the temple. When the parents brought in the child, Jesus, that they might do concerning him according to the custom of the law, 28 then he received him into his arms, and blessed God, and said,

29 “Now you are releasing your servant, Master, according to your word, in peace;

30 for my eyes have seen your salvation,

31 which you have prepared before the face of all peoples;

32 a light for revelation to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel.”

33 Joseph and his mother were marveling at the things which were spoken concerning him, 34 and Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, his mother, “Behold, this child is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which is spoken against. 35 Yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

The Prophecy of Anna

36 There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity, 37 and she had been a widow for about eighty-four years), who didn’t depart from the temple, worshipping with fastings and petitions night and day. 38 Coming up at that very hour, she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of him to all those who were looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

The Return to Nazareth
(Matthew 2:19–23)

39 When they had accomplished all things that were according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. 40 The child was growing, and was becoming strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

The Boy Jesus at the Temple

41 His parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover. 42 When he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast, 43 and when they had fulfilled the days, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. Joseph and his mother didn’t know it, 44 but supposing him to be in the company, they went a day’s journey, and they looked for him among their relatives and acquaintances. 45 When they didn’t find him, they returned to Jerusalem, looking for him. 46 It happened after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them, and asking them questions. 47 All who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 When they saw him, they were astonished, and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us this way? Behold, your father and I were anxiously looking for you.” 49 He said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Didn’t you know that I must be in my Father’s house?” 50 They didn’t understand the saying which he spoke to them. 51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth. He was subject to them, and his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.

The Birth of Jesus
(Matthew 1:18–25)

1 Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole empire. a 2 This was the first census to take place while b Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And everyone went to his own town to register.

4 So Joseph also went up from Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, since he was from the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to him in marriage and was expecting a child.

6 While they were there, the time came for her Child to be born. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn, a Son. She wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels

8 And there were shepherds residing in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks by night. 9 Just then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people: 11 Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord! 12 And this will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.”

13 And suddenly there appeared with the angel a great multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying:

14 “Glory to God in the highest,

and on earth peace to men

on whom His favor rests!”

15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.”

16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph and the Baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 After they had seen the Child, they spread the message they had received about Him. 18 And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, which was just as the angel had told them.

Jesus Presented at the Temple

21 When the eight days until His circumcision had passed, He was named Jesus, the name the angel had given Him before He had been conceived.

22 And when the time of purification according to the Law of Moses was complete, His parents brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord: “Every firstborn male shall be consecrated to the Lord” c), 24 and to offer the sacrifice specified in the Law of the Lord: “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.” d

The Prophecy of Simeon

25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 Led by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. e And when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for Him what was customary under the Law, 28 Simeon took Him in his arms and blessed God, saying:

29 “Sovereign Lord, as You have promised,

You now dismiss Your servant in peace.

30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation,

31 which You have prepared in the sight of all people,

32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,

and for glory to Your people Israel.”

33 The Child’s father and mother were amazed at what was spoken about Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to His mother Mary:

“Behold, this Child is appointed to cause

the rise and fall of many in Israel,

and to be a sign that will be spoken against,

35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed—

and a sword will pierce your soul as well.”

The Prophecy of Anna

36 There was also a prophetess named Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, who was well along in years. She had been married for seven years, 37 and then was a widow to the age of eighty-four. f She never left the temple, but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.

38 Coming forward at that moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the Child to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.

The Return to Nazareth
(Matthew 2:19–23)

39 When Jesus’ parents had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.

40 And the Child grew and became strong. g He was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him.

The Boy Jesus at the Temple

41 Every year His parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when He was twelve years old, they went up according to the custom of the Feast.

43 When those days were over and they were returning home, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but His parents were unaware He had stayed. 44 Assuming He was in their company, they traveled on for a day before they began to look for Him among their relatives and friends.

45 When they could not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for Him. 46 Finally, after three days they found Him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard Him were astounded at His understanding and His answers.

48 When His parents saw Him, they were astonished. “Child, why have You done this to us?” His mother asked. “Your father and I have been anxiously searching for You.”

49 “Why were you looking for Me?” He asked. “Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house h?” 50 But they did not understand the statement He was making to them.

51 Then He went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But His mother treasured up all these things in her heart.

52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.

The Birth of Jesus

(Isaiah 7:10-16; Micah 5:1-6; Matthew 1:18-25)

1And it came to pass in those days, there went forth a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world be enrolled -- 2this enrolment first came to pass when Cyrenius was governor of Syria -- 3and all were going to be enrolled, each to his proper city, 4and Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, that is called Bethlehem, because of his being of the house and family of David, 5to enrol himself with Mary his betrothed wife, being with child. 6And it came to pass, in their being there, the days were fulfilled for her bringing forth, 7and she brought forth her son -- the first-born, and wrapped him up, and laid him down in the manger, because there was not for them a place in the guest-chamber.

The Shepherds and Angels

8And there were shepherds in the same region, lodging in the field, and keeping the night-watches over their flock, 9and lo, a messenger of the Lord stood over them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they feared a great fear. 10And the messenger said to them, 'Fear not, for lo, I bring you good news of great joy, that shall be to all the people -- 11because there was born to you to-day a Saviour -- who is Christ the Lord -- in the city of David, 12and this is to you the sign: Ye shall find a babe wrapped up, lying in the manger.' 13And suddenly there came with the messenger a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying,

14'Glory in the highest to God, and upon earth peace, among men -- good will.'

15And it came to pass, when the messengers were gone away from them to the heavens, that the men, the shepherds, said unto one another, 'We may go over indeed unto Bethlehem, and see this thing that hath come to pass, that the Lord did make known to us.' 16And they came, having hasted, and found both Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger, 17and having seen, they made known abroad concerning the saying spoken to them concerning the child. 18And all who heard, did wonder concerning the things spoken by the shepherds unto them; 19and Mary was preserving all these things, pondering in her heart; 20and the shepherds turned back, glorifying and praising God, for all those things they heard and saw, as it was spoken unto them.

Jesus Presented at the Temple

21And when eight days were fulfilled to circumcise the child, then was his name called Jesus, having been so called by the messenger before his being conceived in the womb.

22And when the days of their purification were fulfilled, according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem, to present to the Lord, 23as it hath been written in the Law of the Lord, -- 'Every male opening a womb shall be called holy to the Lord,' 24and to give a sacrifice, according to that said in the Law of the Lord, 'A pair of turtle-doves, or two young pigeons.'

The Prophecy of Simeon

25And lo, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name is Simeon, and this man is righteous and devout, looking for the comforting of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him, 26and it hath been divinely told him by the Holy Spirit -- not to see death before he may see the Christ of the Lord. 27And he came in the Spirit to the temple, and in the parents bringing in the child Jesus, for their doing according to the custom of the law regarding him, 28then he took him in his arms, and blessed God, and he said,

29'Now Thou dost send away Thy servant, Lord, according to Thy word, in peace,

30because mine eyes did see Thy salvation,

31which Thou didst prepare before the face of all the peoples,

32a light to the uncovering of nations, and the glory of Thy people Israel.'

33And Joseph and his mother were wondering at the things spoken concerning him, 34and Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, 'Lo, this one is set for the falling and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign spoken against -- 35(and also thine own soul shall a sword pass through) -- that the reasonings of many hearts may be revealed.'

The Prophecy of Anna

36And there was Anna, a prophetess, daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher, she was much advanced in days, having lived with an husband seven years from her virginity, 37and she is a widow of about eighty-four years, who did depart not from the temple, with fasts and supplications serving, night and day, 38and she, at that hour, having come in, was confessing, likewise, to the Lord, and was speaking concerning him, to all those looking for redemption in Jerusalem.

The Return to Nazareth

(Isaiah 61:1-11; Matthew 2:19-23; Matthew 13:53-58; Mark 6:1-6; Luke 4:16-30)

39And when they finished all things, according to the Law of the Lord, they turned back to Galilee, to their city Nazareth; 40and the child grew and was strengthened in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

The Boy Jesus at the Temple

41And his parents were going yearly to Jerusalem, at the feast of the passover, 42and when he became twelve years old, they having gone up to Jerusalem, according to the custom of the feast, 43and having finished the days, in their returning the child Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, and Joseph and his mother did not know, 44and, having supposed him to be in the company, they went a day's journey, and were seeking him among the kindred and among the acquaintances, 45and not having found him, they turned back to Jerusalem seeking him. 46And it came to pass, after three days, they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both hearing them and questioning them, 47and all those hearing him were astonished at his understanding and answers. 48And, having seen him, they were amazed, and his mother said unto him, 'Child, why didst thou thus to us? lo, thy father and I, sorrowing, were seeking thee.' 49And he said unto them, 'Why is it that ye were seeking me? did ye not know that in the things of my Father it behoveth me to be?' 50and they did not understand the saying that he spake to them, 51and he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and he was subject to them, and his mother was keeping all these sayings in her heart,

52and Jesus was advancing in wisdom, and in stature, and in favour with God and men.

The Birth of Jesus

¹ In those days, Emperor Augustus, ruler of the vast Roman Empire, issued a decree that would unknowingly set the stage for ancient prophecy's fulfillment—a census requiring everyone to be officially registered. ² This was the first census taken while Quirinius governed Syria. ³ Throughout the empire, people traveled to their ancestral towns to register.

⁴ Now Joseph as a descendent of King David had to register in Bethlehem, Judea. So he travelled there from the village of Nazareth in Galilee. ⁵ He went with Mary, his betrothed, who was now far along in her pregnancy, and raising the occasional eyebrow. ⁶ And while they were in Bethlehem, amid the crowded streets and bustling inns, the moment arrived for Mary's child to be born. ⁷ She gave birth to her firstborn son in the humblest of circumstances. With no proper room available, she wrapped Him in strips of cloth and laid Him in a feeding trough.

The Shepherds and the Angels

⁸ That same night, in the fields outside Bethlehem, shepherds kept watch over their flocks, taking the lowly night shift that no one else wanted. ⁹ Suddenly, an angel of יהוה (Yahweh) appeared before them, and divine glory blazed around them like heaven itself opening up. These simple shepherds were terrified, shielding their eyes from the brilliant sight.

¹⁰ But the angel reassured them: "Don't be afraid! I bring you the most joyful news ever announced, and it's for everyone everywhere! ¹¹ Today, right here in David's town, a Savior has been born for you! He is the Messiah, the Lord of all, wrapped in humility and human flesh. ¹² Here's how you'll recognize Him: You'll find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a feeding trough."

¹³ Suddenly, the night sky erupted with praise as an angelic army appeared, joining the first messenger in an awe-inspiring chorus to God:

¹⁴ "Glory to God in the highest Heaven,
And peace on Earth to those He favors!"

¹⁵ After the angels returned to Heaven, the shepherds said to each other, "Let's go to Bethlehem right now! We have to see this miraculous thing the Lord has revealed to us!" ¹⁶ Hurrying through the dark streets of Bethlehem, they found Mary and Joseph, and there was the Baby, lying exactly where they'd been told—in a feeding trough.

¹⁷ After seeing Him with their own eyes, they couldn't contain their joy. They spread the word about this Child and the amazing announcement they had received concerning Him. ¹⁸ Everyone who heard the shepherds' story was astounded—could it really be that the Messiah had come in such a humble way? ¹⁹ But Mary treasured all these words, pondering them deeply in her heart.

²⁰ Then the shepherds returned to their flocks, praising God for all they had seen and heard. Everything had happened exactly as they'd been told by the angels—they were now witnesses to the greatest event in human history.

Jesus Presented in the Temple

²¹ Eight days later, when the time came for circumcision according to Jewish law, they named Him Jesus—the name the angel had given Him before His conception, meaning "יהוה (Yahweh) saves." ²² When the time came for Mary's purification according to the Law of Moses, they took Jesus to Jerusalem to present Him to יהוה (Yahweh). ²³ This fulfilled the Law's requirement: "Every firstborn male must be set apart to יהוה (Yahweh)." ²⁴ So they offered the sacrifice required by the Law: a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons—the offering of a poor couple.

Simeon’s Prophecy

²⁵ In Jerusalem lived a man named Simeon, who was righteous and devoted to God. The Holy Spirit was on him, and he had been waiting expectantly for Israel's consolation—the coming of the Messiah. ²⁶ The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not die before seeing the Lord's Messiah with his own eyes. ²⁷ Led by the Spirit, he came to the Temple courts that day. When Mary and Joseph brought in baby Jesus to fulfill the Law's requirements, ²⁸ Simeon took Him in his arms and praised God—his lifetime of waiting finally fulfilled. And he spoke:

²⁹ "Sovereign Lord and Master!
As You promised, You can now dismiss Your servant in peace.
³⁰ For my eyes have seen Your salvation,
³¹ Which You have prepared for all people to see—
³² A Light to reveal Your truth to the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel!"

³³ Jesus' parents marveled at Simeon's words about their Child, glimpsing again the magnitude of God's plan. ³⁴ Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, "This Child has been appointed to cause many in Israel to fall and rise. He will be a sign that will be rejected, ³⁵ so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too." Prophetic words that Mary would only fully understand at the cross.

Hannah’s Prophecy

³⁶ There was also a prophetess named Hannah there. She was the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher, and she was very old. After seven years of marriage, ³⁷ she had been a widow for eighty-four years. She never left the Temple but worshiped day and night, fasting and praying. ³⁸ Coming up to them as the Baby was dedicated, she began praising God and telling everyone about Him, to all those who had been waiting for Jerusalem's redemption.

The Return to Nazareth

³⁹ When Joseph and Mary had completed everything required by the Law of יהוה (Yahweh), they returned to their hometown of Nazareth in Galilee. ⁴⁰ There the Child grew strong and healthy. He was filled with wisdom beyond His years, and God's special favor and grace was upon Him.

The Boy Jesus at the Temple

⁴¹ Every year, Jesus' parents traveled to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. ⁴² When He was twelve years old, they made the familiar journey up to Jerusalem again, following the ancient traditions of the Feast. ⁴³ After the festival ended, Mary and Joseph started home to Nazareth, unaware that Jesus had stayed behind in Jerusalem. ⁴⁴ Thinking He was somewhere in their traveling group, they journeyed for a full day before starting to look for Him among their relatives and friends.

⁴⁵ When they couldn't find Him, they hurried back to Jerusalem, their hearts breaking with worry as they searched everywhere for Him. ⁴⁶ Three days later, they finally found Him in the Temple courts, sitting among the religious teachers, listening intently and asking profound questions that amazed everyone. ⁴⁷ All who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and His answers, which showed wisdom far beyond His years. ⁴⁸ His parents were both relieved and upset. His mother said to Him, "Son, why have You treated us like this? Your father and I have been worried sick looking for You!"

⁴⁹ Jesus replied, "Why were you searching for Me? Didn't you know I had to be in My Father's house, doing His work?" ⁵⁰ But they didn't understand what He meant by that. ⁵¹ Then He returned to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. His mother continued to treasure all these events in her heart, watching her extraordinary Son grow. ⁵² And so Jesus kept increasing in wisdom and maturity, and in favor with God and with people, being prepared in perfect timing for His public ministry.

Footnotes:

Verse 1 (a) Or of the whole land  or of the whole world
Verse 2 (b) Or This was the census before
Verse 23 (c) Exodus 13:2
Verse 24 (d) Leviticus 12:8
Verse 27 (e) Literally the temple ; also in verse 46
Verse 37 (f) Or was a widow for eighty-four years
Verse 40 (g) BYZ and TR became strong in spirit
Verse 49 (h) Or I had to be about My Father’s business

Special thanks to the BSB Translation for the above footnotes.

The F.O.G Commentary:

1What is the meaning of Luke 2?

1.1Context of Luke 2

1.2Ancient Key Word Study

1.3Luke 2 Unique Insights

1.4Question the Text:

1.5Luke 2 Connections to Yeshua

1.6Luke 2 Scriptural Echoes

1.7Luke 2 Devotional

1.8Did You Know

What is the meaning of Luke 2?

Imagine a world waiting in silence—centuries without a prophetic voice, longing for hope, wondering if God was still listening. Then, in the most unexpected way, in an unremarkable town, the silence was shattered by the cry of a newborn. Luke 2 isn’t just a quaint story we remember at Christmas time; it’s the moment God’s ancient promises took on flesh.

This chapter captures the miraculous birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecies in ways no one anticipated. It reminds us that God’s plans often unfold in the ordinary—through a young mother, a taxation census, a humble manger or animal feeding trough, and the shepherds tending their flocks. But beyond the nativity scene, Luke 2 also offers the only glimpse into Jesus’ childhood, revealing both His humanity and divine purpose even at the age of 12. Through this powerful narrative, we see God’s sovereignty at work, weaving together history, prophecy, and personal faith in a way that still speaks to us today.

So what does Luke 2 really mean? Let’s explore one of the most beloved passages of Scripture and discover its timeless message for our lives.

Context of Luke 2

Within Luke’s Gospel, chapter 2 follows the announcement of Jesus’ birth to Mary and connects directly to the broader Messianic narrative Luke develops throughout his account. The careful historical details Luke provides—including the census under Quirinius and the timing of temple activities—demonstrate his commitment to historical accuracy while simultaneously showing how God used these events to fulfill prophecy.

The chapter fits strategically within Luke’s larger purpose of presenting Jesus as the Savior for all people groups. By including both humble Jewish shepherds who were often looked down upon and the teachers of the Torah, Luke shows how Jesus bridges the gap. This theological framework would be further developed in Luke, and in the book of Acts to show Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish hopes and the Savior of the Gentiles (the non-Jewish nations).

The broader biblical context reveals how this chapter fulfills numerous prophecies, particularly Micah 5:2 regarding Bethlehem and Isaiah 7:14 concerning the virgin birth. The chapter serves as a crucial link between Old Testament promises and their New Testament fulfillment, demonstrating God’s faithfulness across generations.

Ancient Key Word Study

Kataluma (κατάλυμα) – Traditionally translated as “inn,” this word more accurately refers to a guest room or lodging place. Understanding this nuance reshapes our understanding of Jesus’ birth circumstances—He wasn’t rejected by an innkeeper but rather born in the lower level of a relative’s crowded home, highlighting the reality of His humble incarnation. And how busy the town was for the Roman census.
Phatne (φάτνη) – The “manger” represents more than just a feeding trough. In ancient Jewish culture, Bethlehem was known for raising sacrificial lambs for the Temple. The placement of the Messiah in a manger foreshadows His role as the ultimate sacrificial Lamb of God.
Shepherds (ποιμένες) – These weren’t ordinary shepherds but likely those who raised sacrificial lambs for the Temple. Their proximity to Bethlehem and their immediate understanding of the sign suggests they were familiar with Messianic expectations and Temple worship practices.
Swaddling clothes (ἐσπαργάνωσεν) – This specific word choice carries royal connotations in ancient literature. Kings’ children were wrapped in special swaddling clothes, making this detail both historically accurate and symbolically significant for Jesus’ kingship.
Peace (εἰρήνη) – In Hebrew thought (shalom), this word encompasses total well-being, not just absence of conflict. The angels’ proclamation therefore announces the restoration of complete harmony between God and humanity through the Messiah.
Sophia (σοφίᾳ) – Used to describe Jesus’ growth in wisdom, this term connects to the Jewish concept of divine wisdom (chokmah). Luke shows Jesus embodying perfect wisdom while still developing as a human child.
Bar Mitzvah (υἱός) – Though not explicitly mentioned, Jesus’ temple visit at twelve refers to the Jewish custom of preparing for bar mitzvah. This detail grounds Jesus firmly within Jewish cultural practices while showing His extraordinary understanding.
Favor (χάρις) – This Greek word, representing the Hebrew chen, indicates divine grace. Its use in describing Jesus’ development suggests He grew in His expression of divine grace while maintaining His divine nature.

Luke 2 Unique Insights

The Jewish ceremony of Pidyon HaBen (redemption of the firstborn) typically occurs 30 days after birth, yet Luke specifically mentions Jesus’ presentation in the Temple at 40 days. This timing coincided with Mary’s purification period, suggesting a deliberate connection between Jesus’ dedication and His mother’s ritual cleansing—a theological statement about His role in purifying humanity.

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I’m ready

The presence of both Simeon and Anna provides a powerful witness according to Jewish law, which required two witnesses for validation. Their advanced ages and devotion to Temple service made them particularly credible witnesses in Jewish society. The Talmud mentions that the spirit of prophecy had departed from Israel after Malachi, making their prophetic declarations about Jesus especially significant as signs of the Messianic age’s dawn.

The Greek text suggests that during Jesus’ visit to the Temple at age twelve, He wasn’t simply asking questions but engaging in rabbinic discourse—a practice known as pilpul. This form of dialectical analysis was typically reserved for advanced Torah scholars, explaining why the teachers were amazed at His understanding.

Several early church fathers, including Origen and Cyril of Alexandria, noted that Luke’s emphasis on Jesus’ physical growth alongside His spiritual development serves as a powerful argument against the Docetic heresy, which denied Christ’s true humanity. The chapter thus provides crucial evidence for both Christ’s full humanity and deity.

The Rabbinical tradition of the “two Messiahs”—Messiah ben Joseph (the suffering servant) and Messiah ben David (the conquering king)—finds resolution in this chapter’s portrayal of Jesus. Simeon’s prophecy about the child being set for the fall and rising of many in Israel bridges these seemingly contradictory Messianic expectations.

Question the Text:

As you read Luke 2, take a moment to question the text. What stands out as puzzling or unexpected? Where do the characters act in surprising ways? What cultural or theological assumptions are being challenged? Instead of rushing to find definitive answers, let these questions guide you into deeper reflection about human nature, divine interaction, and the unspoken details within the passage.

Why did יהוה (Yahweh) choose a Roman census—an event tied to political power and taxation—to bring about the birth of the Messiah? Could this suggest something about how divine purposes unfold through human systems? Luke 2:1
Joseph was from the line of David, yet he and Mary had to travel and struggle to find shelter. How does this contrast with the expectations of a royal lineage? What does this say about God’s ways versus human expectations? Luke 2:4-7
The Messiah—the King of Kings—was born in a manger. What does this say about power, humility, and divine values? How might this challenge worldly assumptions about greatness? Luke 2:7
Why were shepherds, considered lowly and often marginalized in society, the first to receive the angelic announcement? What does this reveal about יהוה’s (Yahweh’s) priorities and the nature of the Messiah’s kingdom? Luke 2:8-9
The angel declares “peace on earth,” yet Jesus’ coming later brings division (Matthew 10:34). How should we understand the shalom-peace being proclaimed? Luke 2:14
Simeon speaks of the Messiah being “a light to the nations and the glory of Israel.” How does this challenge the common Jewish expectations of a purely nationalistic deliverer? Luke 2:29-32
Mary and Joseph are astonished at what is spoken about their Son. After all the angelic revelations, why does this still surprise them? Does this suggest that even those closest to God’s plan sometimes struggle to comprehend it fully? Luke 2:33
Why does Luke include the prophecy that the Messiah will cause the “fall and rise of many in Israel” and that Mary’s soul will be pierced? How does this foreshadow the suffering and division that Jesus will bring? Luke 2:34-35
Jesus, at twelve years old, astonishes the teachers in the Temple with His understanding. How does this foreshadow His future ministry, and why does this incident stand as the only recorded moment of His childhood? Luke 2:46-47
Mary and Joseph do not understand Jesus’ response about being in His Father’s house. How does this highlight the tension between earthly relationships and divine calling? Luke 2:49-50

These questions invite you to wrestle with the text, seeing both its challenges and insights. As you reflect, how do these themes resonate with your own faith journey? Leave a comment with your thoughts and questions below.

Luke 2 Connections to Yeshua

The chapter presents Jesus as the fulfillment of multiple Messianic prophecies while establishing new patterns of God’s redemptive work. His birth in Bethlehem fulfills Micah 5:2, but the circumstances of His birth also establish His identification with humanity’s humblest members. The shepherds’ role as first witnesses connects to David’s shepherd-to-king narrative while prefiguring Jesus as the Good Shepherd who would lay down His life for His sheep.

The presentation in the Temple becomes particularly significant when viewed through the lens of Malachi 3:1: “The Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to His Temple.” Jesus’ arrival as an infant, recognized by Simeon and Anna, fulfills this prophecy in an unexpected way. Moreover, the offering of turtledoves foreshadows His parents’ inability to redeem Him with money—He would instead become the redemption price for humanity.

Luke 2 Scriptural Echoes

The narrative echoes numerous Old Testament themes and prophecies. The journey to Bethlehem recalls Ruth’s story, another account where divine providence works through seemingly ordinary circumstances to advance God’s redemptive plan. The shepherds’ role mirrors 1 Samuel 16 where David, the shepherd-king, is anointed in Bethlehem.

Simeon’s prophecy about Jesus being a “light for revelation to the Gentiles” directly references Isaiah 49:6, connecting Jesus’ mission to the Servant Songs. The chapter also parallels Samuel’s dedication (1 Samuel 1), though Jesus’ role far exceeds that of the prophet who would anoint kings.

Luke 2 Devotional

This chapter invites us to marvel at God’s method of changing the world—not through obvious displays of power, but through seemingly ordinary circumstances orchestrated for extraordinary purposes. Like Mary, we’re called to ponder these things in our hearts, recognizing God’s hand in both miraculous moments and daily life.

The various responses to Jesus’ birth challenge us to examine our own response to His presence in our lives. The shepherds demonstrate immediate obedience and joyful proclamation. Simeon and Anna show us the reward of patient faithfulness and spiritual sensitivity. And Mary models deep reflection and treasuring of God’s works.

Did You Know

The Greek word for “inn” (kataluma) is the same word used for the Upper Room where Jesus would later celebrate the Last Supper, suggesting Jesus’ birth may have occurred in a lower room of a relative’s house rather than a commercial inn.
Bethlehem was known as the birthplace of sacrificial lambs for Temple worship, making it profoundly significant that the ultimate Sacrificial Lamb would be born there.
The shepherds near Bethlehem specifically raised and protected lambs for the Temple sacrifice, making them theologically qualified to recognize the true Lamb of God.
Jesus’ presentation in the Temple likely occurred in the same area where He would later teach as a twelve-year-old and eventually cleanse the Temple during His ministry.
The offering of two turtledoves instead of a lamb indicates Jesus’ family’s poverty, fulfilling prophecies about the Messiah’s humble origins.
Simeon’s prophecy about Jesus being a “sign that is opposed” uses military terminology in Greek, suggesting the cosmic spiritual battle that Jesus’ life would initiate.
The detail about Jesus’ age (twelve) at the Temple connects to modern bar mitzvah customs, though the formal ceremony as we know it today developed later in Jewish history.
Anna’s tribe of Asher was one of the so-called “lost tribes” of Israel, which shows us – God never loses His own despite what man may say.
The Greek text suggests Jesus wasn’t just asking questions in the Temple but engaging in complex rabbinic dialogue, showing His extraordinary wisdom even as a youth.

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Bible Themes

Jean Paul Joseph

After a dramatic early morning encounter with King Jesus, I just couldn’t put my Bible down. The F.O.G took a hold of me and this website was born. What is the F.O.G?

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