Bible Verses of the Week

The Birth of Jesus

¹⁸ This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. ¹⁹ Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. ²⁰ But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. ²¹ She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” ²² All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ²³ “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). (NIV, Matthew 1:18–23)

¹ In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. ² This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. ³ All went to their own towns to be registered. ⁴ Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. ⁵ He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. ⁶ While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. ⁷ And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. (NRSV, Luke 2:1–7)

In ancient Jewish culture the engagement (or betrothal) usually lasted about a year before the couple was formally married. Joseph wanted to break the engagement when Mary was found to be pregnant, but God assured him that Mary's baby would be the Son of God.

The Roman registration or census was used for military conscription and tax collection. Joseph was a Jew and was not required to serve in the army, but he had to pay the Roman taxes.

Jesus was born in the most lowly of circumstances - in an animal stable. Throughout his earthly ministry Jesus demonstrated special affection and concern for the poor and humble of the world (Matthew 5:3-5, Matthew 18:2-5). From his humble beginnings, Jesus became the most influential person who ever lived! Related article: Humility.