Today we will talk about what verses in the Bible tell the Christmas story. Many Christians may not realize that the Christmas story is one of great significance, filled with love, hope, and the promise of salvation. The birth of Jesus Christ is a moment in history that changes everything, offering each of us a reason to rejoice. By exploring scripture, we can reflect on the various facets of this incredible event, as foretold in prophecy and revealed in the accounts of the Gospels. So let’s open our hearts and minds to these beautiful verses as we journey through this sacred story together!
What Verses in the Bible Tell the Christmas Story
The Prophecy of His Birth
The story of Christmas begins long before the birth of Jesus. The prophets of the Old Testament foretold His coming, giving us a glimpse of the wonderful hope God’s people had. These prophecies set the stage for every aspect of the Christmas story, reminding us that God had a plan from the beginning. When we read these verses, we see that God’s promises are true, and He always brings His word to fruition. The anticipation of Jesus’ arrival is a potent reminder of the hope we can cling to in our own lives.
Isaiah 7:14
“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14
Micah 5:2
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” – Micah 5:2
Isaiah 9:6
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6
Jeremiah 23:5
“The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.” – Jeremiah 23:5
Zechariah 9:9
“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” – Zechariah 9:9
The Announcement of His Birth
As the long-awaited moment finally arrives, we read about the joyous announcement of Jesus’ birth. Angels declared this miraculous event to humble shepherds, highlighting how God chose to share this monumental moment with those who were often overlooked. It reminds us that Jesus comes for everyone, regardless of status or background. The shepherds immediately responded, rushing to see the newborn Savior. In reflecting on these verses, we see that we are invited to share in the excitement and joy of His coming, celebrating the gift of the Messiah.
Luke 1:26-28
“In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, ‘Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.'” – Luke 1:26-28
Luke 2:8-11
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'” – Luke 2:8-11
Luke 2:12
“This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” – Luke 2:12
Luke 2:13-14
“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.'” – Luke 2:13-14
Matthew 1:20-21
“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins.'” – Matthew 1:20-21
The Journey to Bethlehem
Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem is a significant part of the Christmas story. It showcases their obedience and faithful trust in God’s plan, even amid unexpected challenges. Traveling during such an important time must have felt daunting for them. Yet they pressed on, illustrating a beautiful sense of commitment. Their journey encourages us to remain steadfast in our own walks. There are times when we must step out of our comfort zones or face unexpected outcomes, trusting that God is orchestrating the path before us.
Luke 2:1-3
“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register.” – Luke 2:1-3
Luke 2:4-5
“So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.” – Luke 2:4-5
Matthew 2:1
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem.” – Matthew 2:1
Luke 2:6
“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.” – Luke 2:6-7
Hebrews 11:8
“By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.” – Hebrews 11:8
The Birth of Jesus
The moment we’ve been anticipating – the birth of Jesus – is filled with humility and wonder. The circumstances surrounding His birth are simple but profound. Born in a stable and laid in a manger, we are reminded that greatness can come from the most humble of beginnings. This modest setting speaks volumes about God’s incredible love and grace. We celebrate the arrival of our Savior with joy, knowing that through Him, we have the gift of eternal life.
Luke 2:7
“And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” – Luke 2:7
Isaiah 53:2
“He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.” – Isaiah 53:2
Luke 2:8-9
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.” – Luke 2:8-9
Luke 2:10-11
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'” – Luke 2:10-11
Matthew 2:2
“And asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.'” – Matthew 2:2
The Shepherds’ Response
The shepherds play a crucial role in our understanding of how to respond to the good news of Jesus’ birth. When the angels came and delivered their message, the shepherds didn’t hesitate; they went forth immediately to find Jesus. Their eagerness reflects our ideal reaction when we hear the call of God. We can learn from their joy, their wonder, and their desire to spread the news of what they had experienced with others. As we embrace the Christmas story, we are invited to be like the shepherds: curious, responsive, and joyful as we share our own faith journey.
Luke 2:15
“When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.'” – Luke 2:15
Luke 2:16
“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.” – Luke 2:16
Luke 2:17
“When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.” – Luke 2:17
Luke 2:18
“And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” – Luke 2:18
Luke 2:19
“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” – Luke 2:19
The Visit of the Magi
The visit of the Wise Men, or Magi, is another beautiful aspect of the Christmas story. Their journey highlights the importance of seeking truth and recognizing the significance of who Jesus is. Though they came from distant lands and were likely of different traditions, they found a way to honor the newborn King. Their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh symbolize the acknowledgment of Jesus’ royal status, His divinity, and His future suffering. Through the Magi’s devotion, we learn that no distance is too great and no obstacles too tough when it comes to finding and worshiping our Savior.
Matthew 2:1-2
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.'” – Matthew 2:1-2
Matthew 2:9-10
“After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” – Matthew 2:9-10
Matthew 2:11
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
Revelation 21:24
“The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it.” – Revelation 21:24
Matthew 2:12
“And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their own country by another route.” – Matthew 2:12
The Significance of the Birth
The birth of Jesus is not just a historical event; it holds profound significance for each of us. It represents God’s promise of redemption and the fulfillment of His covenant with humanity. Through Jesus becoming flesh and dwelling among us, He bore our sins and brought us close to Him. This gift of salvation is available for everyone. As we reflect on the significance of the birth of Jesus, we are reminded of His compassion, His desire for relationship with us, and the hope we have through faith in Him. Christmas is a time for us to embrace this gift, to accept His love, and to share it with others.
John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” – John 1:14
Matthew 1:23
“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God with us.'” – Matthew 1:23
Galatians 4:4-5
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” – Galatians 4:4-5
Romans 10:9
“If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” – Romans 10:9
Isaiah 61:1
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” – Isaiah 61:1
The Call to Share the Good News
As we conclude our exploration of the Christmas story, we cannot ignore the call we have to share the good news of Jesus’ birth. The joyful announcement began with the angelic declaration, and we see an encouragement to continue that spirit of sharing today. Our experience of faith should inspire us to reach out to others and tell them about the hope, peace, and love offered through Christ. Just like the shepherds and the Magi, we are called to spread the word of His coming and the impact it has on our lives. This Christmas, let us not hold back; let’s share the message of Jesus with the world around us!
Mark 16:15
“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'” – Mark 16:15
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” – Acts 1:8
Isaiah 52:7
“How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!'” – Isaiah 52:7
Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” – Romans 1:16
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these verses that tell the Christmas story, we are reminded of the power, hope, and love wrapped within the birth of Jesus Christ. From prophetic announcements to the humble arrival, every detail speaks of God’s grand plan for our salvation. These stories invite us to participate in a narrative that values each of us, encouraging us to seek, cherish, and share the good news of the Savior with those around us. This Christmas, let’s hold tight to the truth that Jesus came for us, and let all our actions reflect the joy of His presence in our lives. May we be inspired to reach out in love and gratitude, sharing His story with reverence and excitement!
In summary, let us rejoice in the hope that Christmas brings and remember to embrace the significance of what Jesus’ birth means for each of us. The call to share is not just a burden; it’s an incredible blessing that enables us to connect with others and witness the love of Christ being brought to life.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4