Luke 2: The Birth of Jesus Christ

Read Luke chapter 2

Introduction: Luke 2 outlines in detail the birth of Jesus Christ, the visit of the shepherds, and the presentation of Jesus at the temple. The chapter starts with the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, the birth of Jesus, and the announcement of the good news to the shepherds. The chapter also includes the circumcision of Jesus, his presentation at the temple, and the prophecies of Simeon and Anna. The chapter ends with the return of Mary and Joseph to Nazareth and the some life events of Jesus in growing in wisdom and stature. This chapter is a fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies and a reminder to believers worldwide of God’s faithfulness to His creation.

I. The Birth of Jesus (Luke 2:1-7)
The chapter begins with a decree from Caesar Augustus for a census, which leads Mary and Joseph to travel to Bethlehem. While there, Mary gives birth to Jesus and lays him in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn. This event fulfills the prophecy in Micah 5:2, which states that the ruler of Israel will come from Bethlehem. The humble birth of Jesus brings to mind the prophecy in Isaiah 53:2, which describes the Messiah as having no beauty or majesty that people would be attracted to him.

II. The Shepherds and the Angels (Luke 2:8-20)
These verses continues with the announcement of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds by the angel of the Lord. The angel declares that Jesus is the Savior, Christ the Lord, and is joined by a multitude of heavenly hosts praising God. The shepherds go to Bethlehem and find Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus, just as the angel had said. They spread the news of what they had seen, and all who heard were amazed. This event fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 9:6, which describes the child born to us as the Prince of Peace.

III. The Circumcision and Presentation of Jesus (Luke 2:21-40)
The chapter also records the circumcision of Jesus on the eighth day and his presentation at the temple. Simeon, a righteous and devout man, takes Jesus in his arms and prophesies that Jesus is the salvation for all people. Anna, a prophetess, also gives thanks to God for Jesus and speaks of him to all who were looking for redemption. The obedience of Mary and Joseph to the law of Moses and the prophecies of Simeon and Anna fulfill the prophecy in Malachi 3:1, which states that the Lord will suddenly come to his temple.

IV. The Return to Nazareth (Luke 2:39-52)
The chapter ends with Mary and Joseph returning to Nazareth with Jesus. As Jesus grows up, He grows in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God His father, and man. His growth, wisdom, and spiritual maturity mirrors the prophecy in Isaiah 11:2, which describes the Spirit of the Lord resting on the Messiah and giving him wisdom and understanding.

Conclusion: Luke 2 outlines and records the fulfillment of prophecy and the faithfulness of God. The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, the announcement to the shepherds, and the prophecies of Simeon and Anna all point to Jesus as the promised Messiah. The obedience of Mary and Joseph to the law of Moses and the growth of Jesus in spirituality, wisdom and stature show us the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God. This chapter should encourage us to trust in God’s plan and to rejoice in the salvation that Jesus brings, as well as give us hope for a better future in heaven.