Luke 2
BSB1 Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the whole empire. 2 This was the first census to take place while 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. 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. 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” ), 24 and to offer the sacrifice specified in the Law of the Lord: “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons." 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. 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." 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. 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. 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. He was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him. 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 ?" 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.
Study Notes — Luke 2
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Luke 2
- Themes from Luke 2
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Luke 2
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Luke chapter 2 begins with the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus ordering a census, which requires Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem, the city of David. While they are there, Mary gives birth to Jesus and lays him in a manger because there is no room for them in the inn. An angel appears to nearby shepherds, announcing the birth of Jesus and telling them to go to Bethlehem to find the baby. The shepherds hurry to Bethlehem, find Jesus, and spread the news about his birth. Meanwhile, a group of Magi, also known as wise men, follow a star to Jerusalem and then to Bethlehem, where they worship Jesus and give him gifts. The chapter concludes with Jesus' parents taking him to the temple in Jerusalem to dedicate him to God, where they meet a righteous man named Simeon who has been waiting for the Messiah. As the chapter unfolds, it highlights the significance of Jesus' birth and the various reactions to it, from the angels and shepherds to the Magi and Simeon.
Context for the Chapter
Luke chapter 2 is part of the larger narrative of Jesus' life and ministry, as recorded in the Gospel of Luke. The chapter is situated in the context of the Roman Empire, with Caesar Augustus ordering a census that requires Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem. The chapter also connects with the Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity. The chapter sets the stage for Jesus' future ministry and his role as the Messiah, as seen in the subsequent chapters of the Gospel of Luke.
Heart Application
The significance of Jesus' birth and the recognition of his divinity should lead us to worship and adore him. As we reflect on the humility of Jesus' birth and the recognition of his divinity by the shepherds and the Magi, we should be reminded of the importance of humility and the pursuit of God's glory. The chapter encourages us to seek Jesus, to worship him, and to spread the news about his birth and its significance.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Luke chapter 2 tells the story of Jesus' birth, from the census that required Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem to the visit of the shepherds and the Magi. The chapter highlights the significance of Jesus' birth and the recognition of his divinity by the shepherds and the Magi. As seen in Luke 2:11, Jesus is the Savior, the Christ, and the Lord, emphasizing his mission to save humanity from sin and its consequences.
Voices from the Church
“The birth of Jesus is a reminder of God's love and mercy towards humanity. It is a call to repentance and a reminder of the significance of Jesus' mission to save humanity from sin and its consequences.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The recognition of Jesus' divinity by the shepherds and the Magi demonstrates the significance of his birth and the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Census and Jesus' Birth (Luke 2:1-7) — The chapter begins with the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus ordering a census, which requires Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem. While they are there, Mary gives birth to Jesus and lays him in a manger because there is no room for them in the inn.
- The Announcement to the Shepherds (Luke 2:8-20) — An angel appears to nearby shepherds, announcing the birth of Jesus and telling them to go to Bethlehem to find the baby. The shepherds hurry to Bethlehem, find Jesus, and spread the news about his birth.
- The Visit of the Magi (Luke 2:21-24) — A group of Magi, also known as wise men, follow a star to Jerusalem and then to Bethlehem, where they worship Jesus and give him gifts.
- Jesus' Dedication at the Temple (Luke 2:25-40) — Jesus' parents take him to the temple in Jerusalem to dedicate him to God, where they meet a righteous man named Simeon who has been waiting for the Messiah.
- Jesus' Growth and Wisdom (Luke 2:41-52) — The chapter concludes with a description of Jesus' growth and wisdom, highlighting his obedience to his parents and his understanding of his mission to save humanity.
Core Doctrines
- The Incarnation
- The chapter teaches the doctrine of the incarnation, which emphasizes Jesus' divinity and humanity. The angel's announcement to the shepherds and the recognition of Jesus' divinity by the Magi demonstrate the significance of his birth and the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity.
- The Messiah
- The chapter teaches the doctrine of the Messiah, which emphasizes Jesus' role as the anointed one who would bring salvation to God's people. The recognition of Jesus' divinity by the shepherds and the Magi demonstrates the significance of his birth and the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity.
- The Trinity
- The chapter implies the doctrine of the Trinity, which emphasizes the unity and diversity of God's nature. The angel's announcement to the shepherds and the recognition of Jesus' divinity by the Magi demonstrate the significance of Jesus' birth and the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity.
- Salvation
- The chapter teaches the doctrine of salvation, which emphasizes Jesus' mission to save humanity from sin and its consequences. The recognition of Jesus' divinity by the shepherds and the Magi demonstrates the significance of his birth and the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity.
Lessons from Luke 2
- The Significance of Jesus' Birth — The chapter teaches us about the significance of Jesus' birth and its relation to God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity.
- The Recognition of Jesus' Divinity — The chapter teaches us about the recognition of Jesus' divinity by the shepherds and the Magi, and how it demonstrates the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity.
- The Humility of Jesus' Birth — The chapter teaches us about the humility of Jesus' birth and its relation to his mission to save humanity from sin and its consequences.
- The Importance of Worship and Adoration — The chapter teaches us about the importance of worship and adoration, as seen in the shepherds' visit to Jesus and the Magi's worship of him.
- The Significance of Jesus' Growth and Wisdom — The chapter teaches us about the significance of Jesus' growth and wisdom, and how it relates to his obedience to his parents and his understanding of his mission to save humanity.
Themes from Luke 2
- The Birth of Jesus — The chapter teaches us about the significance of Jesus' birth and its relation to God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity.
- The Recognition of Jesus' Divinity — The chapter teaches us about the recognition of Jesus' divinity by the shepherds and the Magi, and how it demonstrates the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity.
- The Humility of Jesus' Birth — The chapter teaches us about the humility of Jesus' birth and its relation to his mission to save humanity from sin and its consequences.
- The Importance of Worship and Adoration — The chapter teaches us about the importance of worship and adoration, as seen in the shepherds' visit to Jesus and the Magi's worship of him.
- The Significance of Jesus' Growth and Wisdom — The chapter teaches us about the significance of Jesus' growth and wisdom, and how it relates to his obedience to his parents and his understanding of his mission to save humanity.
Questions for Meditation
- What is the significance of Jesus' birth, and how does it relate to God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity?
- How does the recognition of Jesus' divinity by the shepherds and the Magi demonstrate the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity?
- What is the significance of Jesus' humble birth, and how does it relate to his mission to save humanity from sin and its consequences?
- How does the chapter encourage us to seek Jesus, to worship him, and to spread the news about his birth and its significance?
- What is the significance of Jesus' growth and wisdom, and how does it relate to his obedience to his parents and his understanding of his mission to save humanity?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Census and Jesus' Birth (Luke 2:1-7)
| Luke 2:1 | The Roman emperor Caesar Augustus orders a census, which requires Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem. |
| Luke 2:2 | The census is the first to be taken while Quirinius is governor of Syria. |
| Luke 2:3 | Joseph and Mary travel to Bethlehem, the city of David, because Joseph is a descendant of David. |
| Luke 2:4 | While they are there, Mary gives birth to Jesus and lays him in a manger because there is no room for them in the inn. |
| Luke 2:5 | The manger is a feeding trough for animals, highlighting the humility of Jesus' birth. |
| Luke 2:6 | Mary wraps Jesus in swaddling cloths and lays him in the manger. |
| Luke 2:7 | The birth of Jesus is a significant event, marking the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity. |
2. The Announcement to the Shepherds (Luke 2:8-20)
| Luke 2:8 | An angel appears to nearby shepherds, announcing the birth of Jesus and telling them to go to Bethlehem to find the baby. |
| Luke 2:9 | The angel is accompanied by a multitude of heavenly host, praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest.' |
| Luke 2:10 | The angel tells the shepherds not to be afraid, because he has come to bring them good news of great joy. |
| Luke 2:11 | The angel announces that a Savior has been born, who is Christ the Lord. |
| Luke 2:12 | The angel gives the shepherds a sign, telling them to find the baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger. |
| Luke 2:13 | The shepherds hurry to Bethlehem, find Jesus, and spread the news about his birth. |
| Luke 2:14 | The shepherds glorify and praise God for all they have heard and seen. |
| Luke 2:15 | The shepherds return to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they have heard and seen. |
| Luke 2:16 | The shepherds find Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. |
| Luke 2:17 | The shepherds tell everyone they meet about the baby and the angel's announcement. |
| Luke 2:18 | All who hear the shepherds' story are amazed. |
| Luke 2:19 | Mary treasures up all these things and ponders them in her heart. |
| Luke 2:20 | The shepherds return to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they have heard and seen. |
3. The Visit of the Magi (Luke 2:21-24)
| Luke 2:21 | A group of Magi, also known as wise men, follow a star to Jerusalem and then to Bethlehem, where they worship Jesus and give him gifts. |
| Luke 2:22 | The Magi are seeking the king of the Jews, and they ask where they can find him. |
| Luke 2:23 | The Magi find Jesus and worship him, giving him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. |
| Luke 2:24 | The Magi's worship demonstrates the recognition of Jesus' divinity and the significance of his birth. |
4. Jesus' Dedication at the Temple (Luke 2:25-40)
| Luke 2:25 | Jesus' parents take him to the temple in Jerusalem to dedicate him to God. |
| Luke 2:26 | A righteous man named Simeon has been waiting for the Messiah, and he recognizes Jesus as the Savior. |
| Luke 2:27 | Simeon takes Jesus in his arms and praises God, saying, 'Lord, now you are releasing your servant to depart in peace, according to your word.' |
| Luke 2:28 | Simeon blesses Jesus' parents and says, 'This child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against.' |
| Luke 2:29 | Simeon says, 'And a sword will pierce through your own soul also.' |
| Luke 2:30 | Simeon sees Jesus and recognizes him as the Savior. |
| Luke 2:31 | Simeon praises God, saying, 'My eyes have seen your salvation.' |
| Luke 2:32 | Simeon says, 'A light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.' |
| Luke 2:33 | Jesus' parents are amazed at what Simeon says about him. |
| Luke 2:34 | Simeon blesses Jesus' parents and says, 'This child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against.' |
| Luke 2:35 | Simeon says, 'And a sword will pierce through your own soul also.' |
| Luke 2:36 | A prophetess named Anna recognizes Jesus as the Savior and gives thanks to God. |
| Luke 2:37 | Anna speaks about Jesus to all who are looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. |
| Luke 2:38 | Anna gives thanks to God and speaks about Jesus to all who are looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. |
| Luke 2:39 | Jesus' parents return to Nazareth, and Jesus grows and becomes strong, filled with wisdom. |
| Luke 2:40 | The grace of God is upon Jesus, and he grows and becomes strong, filled with wisdom. |
5. Jesus' Growth and Wisdom (Luke 2:41-52)
| Luke 2:41 | Every year Jesus' parents travel to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. |
| Luke 2:42 | When Jesus is twelve years old, he travels to Jerusalem with his parents for the Feast of the Passover. |
| Luke 2:43 | After the feast, Jesus stays behind in Jerusalem, and his parents do not know it. |
| Luke 2:44 | Jesus' parents assume he is with their group of travelers and do not realize he is missing until the end of the first day. |
| Luke 2:45 | They search for Jesus among their relatives and friends but do not find him. |
| Luke 2:46 | After three days, they find Jesus in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. |
| Luke 2:47 | All who hear Jesus are amazed at his understanding and his answers. |
| Luke 2:48 | Jesus' parents are amazed when they see him, and his mother says, 'Son, why have you treated us like this?' |
| Luke 2:49 | Jesus says, 'Why were you searching for me? Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?' |
| Luke 2:50 | Jesus' parents do not understand what he means, but his mother treasures up all these things in her heart. |
| Luke 2:51 | Jesus returns to Nazareth with his parents and is obedient to them. |
| Luke 2:52 | Jesus grows and becomes strong, filled with wisdom, and the favor of God is upon him. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Jesus' birth in Luke 2?
The birth of Jesus is a significant event, marking the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Redeemer to humanity. As seen in Luke 2:11, Jesus is the Savior, the Christ, and the Lord, emphasizing his mission to save humanity from sin and its consequences.
Who are the Magi, and why do they visit Jesus?
The Magi, also known as wise men, follow a star to Jerusalem and then to Bethlehem, where they worship Jesus and give him gifts. They recognize Jesus as the king of the Jews and come to pay homage to him.
What is the significance of Simeon's prophecy in Luke 2:25-35?
Simeon's prophecy recognizes Jesus as the Savior and emphasizes his role in the redemption of humanity. Simeon says that Jesus will be a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to God's people Israel.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luke 2:1 → Micah 5:2 | The prophecy in Micah 5:2 says that the Messiah will be born in Bethlehem, which is fulfilled in Luke 2:1-7. |
| 2 | Luke 2:11 → Isaiah 9:6 | The prophecy in Isaiah 9:6 says that the Messiah will be born as a child, which is fulfilled in Luke 2:11. |
| 3 | Luke 2:14 → Isaiah 6:1-5 | The angels' song in Luke 2:14 is reminiscent of the heavenly host in Isaiah 6:1-5, which emphasizes God's glory and majesty. |
| 4 | Luke 2:25 → Isaiah 49:6 | Simeon's prophecy in Luke 2:25-35 is reminiscent of the prophecy in Isaiah 49:6, which emphasizes Jesus' role as a light for revelation to the Gentiles. |
| 5 | Luke 2:32 → Isaiah 42:6 | The prophecy in Isaiah 42:6 says that the Messiah will be a light for the Gentiles, which is fulfilled in Luke 2:32. |
| 6 | Luke 2:38 → Joel 2:28-32 | Anna's prophecy in Luke 2:36-38 is reminiscent of the prophecy in Joel 2:28-32, which emphasizes the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. |
| 7 | Luke 2:40 → Psalm 92:12-15 | The prophecy in Psalm 92:12-15 says that the righteous will flourish like a palm tree, which is fulfilled in Luke 2:40. |
| 8 | Luke 2:46 → Matthew 12:42 | The scene in Luke 2:46-47 is reminiscent of the scene in Matthew 12:42, where Jesus is teaching in the temple. |
| 9 | Luke 2:49 → John 14:23 | The statement in Luke 2:49 is reminiscent of the statement in John 14:23, where Jesus says that he and the Father are one. |
| 10 | Luke 2:52 → Colossians 2:3 | The statement in Luke 2:52 is reminiscent of the statement in Colossians 2:3, where Paul says that all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Christ. |
Sermons on Luke 2
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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A Spirit Hath Not Flesh and Bones by Tim Keller | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the message of Easter, which is that by uniting with Jesus Christ, believers will miss out on nothing. He encourages the congregation to rel |
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Spirit of a True Prophet - Part 1 by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher highlights the historical context of the Israelites' captivity under Pharaoh for 400 years and their subsequent periods of captivity. He emphasizes tha |
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Revival Series 3 by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that there is no reason to be intimidated by the darkness and chaos of the world. He refers to a verse in the Bible that talks about a messen |
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Meet Your Psychiatrist: He Teaches You to Pray by Warren Wiersbe | In this sermon, the speaker shares personal anecdotes about growing up in a close-knit neighborhood where everyone referred to his parents as "ma" and "pa." He emphasizes the impor |
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(Men Who Met God): Jacob Had an Encounter With God by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the character of Jacob from the Bible. He describes Jacob as a man with a streak of avarice and larceny. The preacher emphasizes the need to |
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Road to Reality - the Fear of the Lord - Part 1 by K.P. Yohannan | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a radical lifestyle rather than just acquiring knowledge about theology and the Bible. He challenges the audience to |
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Birthing the Authentic by Art Katz | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of waiting for the consolation of Israel, as demonstrated by Simeon and Anna. The consolation referred to is the authentic gif |
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Baby Jesus by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the topic of baby Jesus and the growth of the baby. He emphasizes the importance of giving time to God and feeding our spirits through worshi |
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He Ever Lives to Make Intercession by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the inner turmoil and self-disclosure experienced by the disciples of Jesus during the events leading up to his crucifixion. The prophecy of S |
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Daughters of Sarah by Art Katz | In this sermon, the preacher begins by describing a characteristic situation where God's people are focused on worldly matters instead of the needs of the world. He warns that grie |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Luke 2
Matthew Henry's commentary on Luke 2 emphasizes the significance of Jesus' birth and the recognition of his divinity by the shepherds and the Magi. Henry highlights the humility of Jesus' birth, the importance of worship and adoration, and the significance of Jesus' growth and wisdom. Henry also emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus' birth and the recognition of his divinity by Simeon and Anna. The commentary encourages readers to seek Jesus, to worship him, and to spread the news about his birth and its significance, as seen in Luke 2:11 and Luke 2:38. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Humility of Jesus' Birth
Jesus was born in a manger, surrounded by animals, and laid in a feeding trough. This humble birth is a stark contrast to the grandeur and majesty of his divinity. The shepherds' visit to Jesus and their subsequent spread of the news about his birth demonstrate the significance of his humble birth.
The Significance of the Shepherds
The shepherds are the first to hear the news about Jesus' birth, and they hurry to find him. Their visit to Jesus and their subsequent spread of the news about his birth demonstrate the significance of his birth and the recognition of his divinity.
The Worship of the Magi
The Magi, also known as wise men, follow a star to Jerusalem and then to Bethlehem, where they worship Jesus and give him gifts. Their worship demonstrates the recognition of Jesus' divinity and the significance of his birth.