The birth of Jesus is recorded in Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2. It was foretold by the prophets, most notably Isaiah, who said, “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). The fulfillment began when the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, a virgin in Nazareth, and told her she would conceive by the Holy Spirit and bear the Son of God (Luke 1:26–35). Mary submitted, saying, “Let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).
An angel also appeared to Joseph, telling him not to fear taking Mary as his wife because the child conceived in her was of the Holy Spirit. He was to name the child Jesus, “for He will save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:20–21).
Because of a census ordered by Caesar Augustus, Joseph and Mary traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem, the city of David. There, Mary gave birth to her firstborn Son, wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room in the inn (Luke 2:1–7).
Angels appeared to shepherds in the fields, announcing, “There is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). A multitude of angels praised God, saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14). The shepherds went quickly and found Mary, Joseph, and the Baby lying in the manger.
Later, wise men from the East followed a star to Jerusalem and then to Bethlehem. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, and worshiped the child (Matthew 2:1–11). Warned by God in a dream, they returned to their country another way. Joseph was also warned in a dream to flee to Egypt to protect Jesus from Herod, who sought to kill Him (Matthew 2:13–15).
The birth of Jesus marks the incarnation of the eternal Son of God. It fulfills prophecy, reveals God’s grace and faithfulness, and introduces the Savior who would die for the sins of the world. The humility of His birth highlights the depth of God’s love and His desire to dwell with and redeem mankind.
