The Gospels explain that Jesus was born in Bethlehem because it fulfilled prophecy and revealed His identity as the promised Messiah from the line of David. Matthew records that wise men came seeking Him and asked:
“Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” (Matthew 2:2)
When Herod inquired where the Christ was to be born, the chief priests and scribes answered by quoting the prophet Micah:
“But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, Are not the least among the rulers of Judah; For out of you shall come a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel.” (Matthew 2:6)
Matthew highlights that Bethlehem was not accidental but, a direct fulfillment of prophecy, confirming Jesus as the true King. Luke gives the historical setting, explaining why Mary and Joseph traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem:
“Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child.” (Luke 2:4–5)
Bethlehem was David’s city, and since Joseph was of David’s line, the Roman census required him to return there. Thus, in God’s providence, the decree of Caesar brought about the fulfillment of God’s promise.
Mark does not include the birth account, but he later identifies Jesus as “the Son of David” (Mark 10:47), which assumes the truth of His Davidic origin that Bethlehem established.
John does not narrate the Bethlehem birth directly, but he shows the controversy surrounding it. Some in the crowd questioned Jesus’ authority by saying:
“Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the seed of David and from the town of Bethlehem, where David was?” (John 7:42)
Even His critics recognized that the Messiah must come from Bethlehem, and in this way, John testifies that Jesus’ birthplace met the scriptural requirement.
Together, the Gospels show that Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem was the fulfillment of prophecy, tied Him to David’s royal line, and proved that He was the promised Messiah who would shepherd God’s people.
