But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” – Luke 2:10
Bible Verses About The Nativity
The Promise of a Savior
As we reflect on the nativity, we can see that it all begins with the promise of a Savior. God, in His infinite wisdom, foresaw our need for redemption and sent His Son to us. This is a testament of His love; that even before we knew Him, He had a plan in place for our salvation. The anticipation of the Savior’s birth filled the hearts of many with hope and joy, reminding us that we are never alone in our struggles. Through these scriptures, we can embrace the promises made to humankind, knowing that they were fulfilled in Jesus Christ. We can find comfort in knowing that God keeps His promises, and in the nativity story, we witness the beautiful unfolding of His grand design for our salvation.
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
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
Luke 1:31-33
You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end. – Luke 1:31-33
John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. – John 3:16
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
The Announcement of His Birth
The announcement of Jesus’ birth marks a momentous occasion in biblical history, awakening hope in the hearts of many. Angels rejoiced in the heavens, proclaiming the good news to shepherds in the fields. This heralding was not limited to a select few, as the angels declared that the news was for all people. The nativity illustrates God’s desire for everyone to hear about His incredible gift. When we consider this divine announcement, it stirs in us a responsibility to share the message of Christ’s birth and the joy it brings. We are encouraged to spread this news, recognizing that it is intended for every person, no matter who they are or where they come from.
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.” – Luke 2:8-11
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
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
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
The Journey to Bethlehem
The journey to Bethlehem represents both physical travel and spiritual significance. Mary and Joseph set out on this journey to fulfill the decree for a census, displaying obedience and faith amid uncertainty. Though the circumstances were challenging, including the fact that Mary was pregnant and they had no place to stay, they remained hopeful. This teaches us the importance of trusting God’s plan, even when the path seems difficult. As we walk in faith, similar to Mary and Joseph’s journey, we find that God is often working behind the scenes to fulfill His promises. The nativity story encourages us not to shy away from our own journeys but to embrace them, knowing we are supported by God every step of the way.
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
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 2:4-5
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
Luke 2:6-7
While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 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 2:6-7
Micah 5:2-4
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. Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor bears a son, and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites. He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth. – Micah 5:2-4
The Gifts of the Magi
The gifts of the Magi hold significant meaning, illustrating the recognition of Jesus’ kingship and divinity. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh were not just valuable items; they represented deep truths about who Jesus is. Gold signifies His royalty; frankincense symbolizes His divinity due to its use in worship; and myrrh foreshadows His suffering and death. This act of giving reminds us of our own desire to offer our best to God. As we consider the gifts presented to the newborn King, we are encouraged to reflect on what we have to offer Him in our own lives. Let us not forget that whether it be our time, resources, or talents, what matters is our heart’s intention to serve Him.
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
Matthew 2:10
When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. – Matthew 2:10
Isaiah 60:6
Herds of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah. And all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and incense and proclaiming the praise of the Lord. – Isaiah 60:6
Psalm 72:10-11
The kings of Tarshish and of distant shores will bring tribute to him; the kings of Sheba and Seba will present him gifts. All kings will bow down to him and all nations will serve him. – Psalm 72:10-11
Revelation 11:15
The seventh angel sounded his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, which said: “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign for ever and ever.” – Revelation 11:15
The Significance of the Manger
The manger holds a special place in the nativity story, symbolizing humility and God’s approachability. Jesus, the King of Kings, was born in a stable and laid in a feeding trough for animals, illustrating how He came to serve rather than to be served. This humble beginning provides us with a powerful message about the nature of God’s love. He came into our world not in grandeur but in simplicity, reaching out to everyday people. The nativity teaches us that greatness often comes in unexpected forms. As we reflect on the significance of the manger, we are reminded that we are invited to come to Jesus just as we are, embracing His love and grace without pretense.
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
Luke 2:16
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. – Luke 2:16
Philippians 2:7-8
Rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross! – Philippians 2:7-8
Matthew 8:20
Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” – Matthew 8:20
Romans 5:8
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8
The Purpose of His Birth
As we come to understand the purpose of Jesus’ birth, we realize it was not merely a historical event but a divine mission to redeem humanity. Jesus came to seek and save the lost, offering us reconciliation with God and salvation from our sins. His birth represents a gift of love, grace, and mercy that lasts beyond our earthly existence. Understanding this purpose encourages us to embrace our own calling to share His message of hope and redemption with others. The nativity story inspires us to live out our faith actively as we recognize that we have a role to play in God’s plan, just as Mary and Joseph did. They accepted their mission, and we too must accept the call to share the good news as we live transformed lives.
John 10:10
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. – John 10:10
Luke 19:10
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost. – Luke 19:10
Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 6:23
1 Timothy 1:15
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. – 1 Timothy 1:15
Ephesians 2:8-9
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. – Ephesians 2:8-9
Final Thoughts
The nativity story is filled with hope and grace, inviting us to reflect on God’s incredible love. We’ve explored how the promise of a Savior resonates throughout Scripture and how the announcement of His birth sent waves of joy across the land. The journey to Bethlehem teaches us about faith, while the gifts of the Magi encourage us to offer our best to God. The significance of the manger reminds us that even in humbleness, great things can come, and the purpose behind Jesus’ birth drives us to share His love with the world.
As we celebrate this season, let us remember the true meaning of Christmas, knowing that we have been gifted the opportunity to embrace and share God’s love with others. Let us take time to internalize the messages of hope, joy, and compassion that come from reflecting on the nativity. Together, we can continue to spread the good news, echoing the best gift ever given to humanity.
As we delve deeper into our faith, I encourage you to explore more topics to read, such as Bible Verses About Jesus Paying Our Debt and Bible Verses About The Nativity.