THE BIRTH OF JESUS Luke 2:1-7. _“It came to pass in those days [i.e., in the days above mentioned, with reference to John the Baptist and the annunciation of the coming Christ], a decree went forth from Augustus Caesar to enroll all the world.”_ The battle of Actium, between Augustus Caesar and Mark... [ Continue Reading ]
THE SHEPHERDS 8-20. _“The shepherds were at that time tenting out, and keeping watch over their flock through the night.”_ This fact refutes the popular idea of the birth of our Savior taking place in midwinter, thus locating Christmas, December 25th. In the summer time, sheep lie in the shade throu... [ Continue Reading ]
CIRCUMCISION OF JESUS & HIS PRESENTATION IN THE TEMPLE 21-24. _“And when the eight days for circumcising Him were fulfilled, and He was called Jesus, being called by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.”_ Gabriel brought His name down from heaven, designative of His office and character, w... [ Continue Reading ]
THE HOLY FAMILY RETURN FROM EGYPT 19-23, & Luke 2:39-40. _“And Herod having died.”_ We do not know how long they remained in Egypt, but evidently the period was brief. Scarcely has the wail of the slaughtered infants died away on the air of Bethlehem till the cruel old king, becoming quite ill, goes... [ Continue Reading ]
JESUS TWELVE YEARS OLD This inspired omission of our Lord's biography the first thirty years of His life, with the single exception of His visit to Jerusalem when twelve years old, has been a puzzle to thousands. It is certainly very plausible, as we are not interested in that period of His life in... [ Continue Reading ]