Biblical Answer

The Birth of Jesus: A Biblical Perspective

Historical Background

Jesus was born during the reign of Herod the Great (Matt. 2:1, 3, 7, 12-22; Luke 1:5). The Bible does not provide a specific date for Jesus' birth, but based on historical records and biblical accounts, it is estimated that Jesus was born between 7 to 5 B.C. This estimate is made possible by considering the decree of the census to be executed during the reign of Herod the Great.

The Infancy Narratives

The infancy narratives in Matthew and Luke provide significant information about the birth of Jesus. Matthew's account mentions the movements of the star that guided the wise men, which seems to refer to a single miraculous event. Luke's account highlights the virgin birth of Jesus, which is a central doctrine of the Christian faith. The doctrine of the virgin birth is based on the explicit biblical references in Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 1:26-38.

The Significance of Jesus' Birth

Jesus' birth is significant because it marks the beginning of his life on earth, which was destined to fulfill Old Testament prophecies. Matthew 1:18-2:23 shows Jesus to be the fulfillment of five key Old Testament prophecies, while Luke 1:5-2:40 highlights the significance of Jesus' birth and early years. The Bible emphasizes that Jesus was born into this world, not from it, and that he did not emerge out of human origins but was conceived by the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:35). The birth of Jesus is a central aspect of the Christian faith, and its significance is still celebrated today in the Christian community.