The birth of Jesus is the central topic of Luke 2. The journey
to Bethlehem, the angelic appearance to shepherds, prophecies
about baby Jesus, and one childhood event are all found in Luke
2.
Birth of Jesus
Joseph and Mary travelled to Bethlehem to register for a census
declared by Caesar Augustus. While in Bethlehem, Mary gave birth
to Jesus. She laid him in a manger because there was no room at
the inn. That night, an angel appeared to shepherds, telling
them a Savior, Christ the Lord, was born in Bethlehem. The
shepherds quickly went to Bethlehem, and after finding Jesus
related all that the angel had told them to Joseph and Mary.
Mary treasured their words in her heart.
Luke 2 Outline
2:1-7
Birth of Jesus in Bethlehem
2:1-3
Census decreed by Caesar Augustus
2:4-5
Joseph and Mary go to Bethlehem
2:6-7
Mary gives birth to Jesus
2:8-20
Shepherds visit Jesus
2:8-14
Angels appear to Shepherds at night
2:15-20
Shepherds visit Jesus at manger
2:21-38
Jesus presented at the Temple
2:21
Purification sacrifice of 2 turtle doves
2:22-24
Purification sacrifice of 2 turtle doves
2:25-35
Simeon prophesies about Jesus
2:36-38
Anna the prophetess sees Jesus
2:39
Joseph and Mary return to Nazareth
2:40-52
Childhood of Jesus
2:40
Jesus grows
2:41-51
Jesus amazes Temple teachers
2:52
Jesus grows
Read Matthew 1:18 – 2:23 for more about the birth of Jesus
Childhood of Jesus
The gospels reveal very little about the childhood of Jesus.
Following the birth narrative, Luke twice stated that Jesus grew
physically, mentally, and in favor with God (Luke 2:40 & 52).
Luke relates one story when Joseph and Mary took Jesus to
Jerusalem for Passover. Jesus was 12, and may have become a son
of the law (bar mitzvah) at that time.
Now it was customary for Jews to travel in caravans from the
festival, with women at the front and men at the back. Jesus may
have been eligible to travel with either group, which may
explain why Jesus’ parents unknowingly left him in Jerusalem.
Upon returning to Jerusalem they found Jesus in the temple,
speaking with teachers who were amazed at his understanding.
Fast Facts
- A manger is an open box from which cattle eat straw.
- At age 12 Jesus knew God was his father (Luke 2:49).