Context of the Birth 4 studies
The Childhood of John the Baptist and Jesus 8 studies
- 5Announcement of the birth of John the Baptist
- 6Announcement of the birth of Jesus the Messiah
- 7Mary's visit to Elizabeth
- 8Mary's praise, or the Magnificat
- 9The birth of John the Baptist
The life of Jesus up to the age of 12 16 studies
- 3The Magi from the East meet Herod
- 13Mary's return to Nazareth
- 14The journey to Bethlehem
- 15The genealogy or genealogies
- 16The visit of the shepherds
Articles in this study path
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ANN004
The date of birth of Jesus the Messiah
The article proposes a birth date for Jesus based on an analysis of Daniel's prophecies and history. The crucifixion is thought to have taken place…
Context of the Birth
This study path immerses readers in the historical, cultural and theological setting surrounding Jesus' birth. Its purpose is not simply to recount the Nativity, but to understand the world in which it took place: Israel's political situation under Roman occupation, the messianic expectations of the Jewish people, and the prophecies that had announced this event for centuries.
The articles gathered here address a range of topics: the customs and traditions of the ancient Near East, the region's geopolitical setting, and the accounts of Jesus' childhood as recorded particularly by Luke and Matthew. Some articles use a synoptic reading to compare and enrich the different Gospel accounts.
This study path is especially useful for anyone wishing to read the Nativity accounts with an informed and deeper perspective. It provides the keys needed to grasp the significance of each narrative detail in its original context.
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PER010
Joseph's first dream
The article explores Joseph's dream in the Gospel of Matthew, revealing how his visions and decisions influence Mary's life and perceptions of Jesus. By taking Mary into his home, Joseph legitimises Jesus' birth despite malicious rumours.
Matthew 1.18-25 (King James Version) :Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER013
The birth of Jesus the Messiah.
This article analyses Jesus' birth in relation to several biblical texts and historical elements, such as the festival of Sukkot and Herod's rule. It surveys the challenges Mary and Joseph faced during their stay in Bethlehem and the theological significance of this event.
Matthew 1.24 (King James Version) :Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER020
The Magi from the East meet Herod
This article examines the Magi's meeting with Herod, recounted in the Gospel of Matthew, highlighting its importance in affirming Jesus' kingship. It places the visit in its historical context, exploring the Magi's motives and Herod's intentions while discussing Jesus' birth and its historical and theological implications.
Matthew 2.1-8 (King James Version) :Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
CHR008
The death of King Herod the Great
The study explores the chronology of the death of Herod the Great, which affects the dating of the birth and ministry of Jesus. Based on the work of Schürer, who proposes the year 4 BC, it stresses the importance of reconsidering historical interpretations in light of the texts of Flavius Josephus.
Daniel 9.24-27 (King James Version) :Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
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ANN080
Is Jesus a mamzer?
The article examines the theory that Jesus might be a 'mamzer', the offspring of a union forbidden by Jewish law, because of his conception…
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ANN062
The manger in Bethlehem
This article examines the Christmas nativity scene tradition, comparing the historical accounts with its modern cultural representation. It draws on the Gospel of Luke…
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ANN003
The birth and ministry of John the Baptist
This appendix studies the birth and ministry of John the Baptist through the Gospel of Luke. It introduces his parents, Zechariah and…
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ANN013
The Star of Bethlehem
The article analyses the star of Bethlehem in the Gospel of Matthew, questioning whether it was symbolic or real. It describes how the Magi, through their expertise…
The Childhood of John the Baptist and Jesus
This study path explores the foundational accounts surrounding the birth and early years of two central figures of the New Testament: John the Baptist and Jesus of Nazareth. It draws on the Gospel accounts, particularly those of Luke and Matthew, the only ones to provide details about this period, often called the Nativity and childhood of the Messiah.
The articles gathered here cover events such as the angelic announcements, Mary's visit to Elizabeth, the birth of John and then of Jesus, the flight into Egypt, and the famous episode of Jesus in the Temple at the age of twelve. Each account is placed in the cultural, historical, and geopolitical context of the first-century Jewish world.
This study path will interest any reader wishing to understand the parallel origins of these two figures, their family and prophetic connections, and how the evangelists establish the meaning of their respective missions from the opening chapters. It is an ideal starting point for an in-depth synoptic study of the Gospels.
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PER003
Announcement of the birth of John the Baptist
This article describes the announcement of John the Baptist's birth, recounted exclusively in the Gospel of Luke, highlighting the attention to historical detail and John's prophetic significance as the forerunner of Jesus.
Luke 1.5-25 (King James Version) :There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judæa, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest’s office before God in the order of his course,According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother’s womb.And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple.And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house.And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying,Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER004
Announcement of the birth of Jesus the Messiah
The article discusses the announcement of Jesus' birth by the angel Gabriel to Mary in the Gospel of Luke, emphasising his conception through the Holy Spirit. It also explores the prophetic and family contexts surrounding this major event in Christianity.
Matthew 1.18 (King James Version) :Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER005
Mary's visit to Elizabeth
Mary's visit to Elizabeth, recounted in the Gospel of Luke, highlights Mary's faith and the prophetic importance of this event in the fulfilment of Scripture. The article explores the historical and theological context of this encounter.
Luke 1.39-45 (King James Version) :And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER006
Mary's praise, or the Magnificat
This article examines Mary's Magnificat, a hymn of praise in which she expresses her gratitude to God, acknowledging her role in the plan of redemption. An analysis of Luke 1:46-55.
Luke 1.46-55 (King James Version) :And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name.And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER007
The birth of John the Baptist
The article discusses the birth of John the Baptist, the son of Zechariah and Elizabeth. His birth, described as miraculous, is accompanied by prophecies and recalls ancient biblical accounts. John, whose name means "God is gracious", is announced by Gabriel and will become a forerunner of the Messiah.
Numbers 4.3 (King James Version) :From thirty years old and upward even until fifty years old, all that enter into the host, to do the work in the tabernacle of the congregation.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER008
Zechariah's praise at the birth of his son John
The article explores Zechariah's praise at John's birth, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and looks ahead to John's role as the forerunner of Jesus, the Messiah. Taking place in Ein Karem, these events reveal the divine plan that Zechariah and Mary see unfolding.
Daniel 9.24-27 (King James Version) :Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER026
Joseph's fourth and final dream
Joseph receives divine instructions in a dream, leading him to return to Nazareth with his family rather than Bethlehem. Matthew emphasises that this decision fulfils the prophecy that Jesus will be called a Nazarene.
Matthew 2.22-23 (King James Version) :But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER029
The ministry of John the Baptist
The article examines John the Baptist's role in preparing for Jesus' coming. Appearing in Matthew, Mark and Luke, John baptises and preaches in the Judean wilderness. Regarded as Christ's forerunner, he never claimed to be the Messiah. His teachings prepared the people to welcome Jesus, the royal Messiah.
Matthew 3.1-12 (King James Version) :In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea,And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan,And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
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ANN069
Joseph, Jesus' adoptive father
Joseph, Jesus' adoptive father, is described in little detail in the Gospels but plays a crucial role. Often regarded as the father…
The life of Jesus up to the age of 12
The period of Jesus' life up to the age of 12, though only briefly covered in biblical texts, offers a fascinating glimpse of his early years. This stage of Jesus' life is recounted mainly in the Gospel of Luke, which describes events such as his presentation at the Temple and the famous scene in which Jesus speaks with the teachers of the Law. These accounts, though rare, highlight Jesus' preparation and growth, laying the foundations for his later divine mission.
Studying this period helps us better understand the family and religious setting in which Jesus grew up. The circumstances of his birth, the Jewish customs of the time, and the geographical and sociopolitical environment are all important elements in understanding the influences that shaped his childhood. This immersion in the story of Jesus as a child reveals how he flourished in a setting that prepared him for his public ministry.
For contemporary readers, exploring Jesus' youth also reveals a human and approachable dimension of Christ. His participation in the cultural and religious traditions of his time illustrates his mission to convey divine teachings while living fully as a human being. Reading about this period thus enriches our understanding of Jesus by offering a perspective on his humanity and his relationship with the divine from his earliest years.
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PER009
Mary's return to Nazareth
The article examines Mary's return to Nazareth after visiting Elizabeth. Familiar with the prophecies, Mary witnesses John's birth, confirming his future role in God's plan. She returns with her family after the Passover pilgrimage.
Micah 5.2 (King James Version) :But thou, Beth-lehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER012
The journey to Bethlehem
Joseph and Mary travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem for a census, foretold to coincide with the Messiah's birth. Despite Mary's advanced pregnancy, the couple cover 137 km, with the journey planned for the Feast of Tabernacles. Luke is the only biblical author to document this journey. After the arduous trip, Mary goes into labour, bringing their arrival into line with the prophecies.
Luke 2.3-5 (King James Version) :And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER014
The genealogy or genealogies
The article examines Jesus' genealogies in Matthew and Luke, reflecting both his royal lineage through Joseph and his humanity through Mary. These complementary accounts emphasise Jesus' divine and human duality, reinforcing his messianic legitimacy.
Luke 3.23-38 (King James Version) :And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli,Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Janna, which was the son of Joseph,Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge,Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Juda,Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri,Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er,Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi,Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Juda, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim,Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David,Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson,Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda,Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor,Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala,Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech,Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan,Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER015
The visit of the shepherds
Recounted only by Luke (Luke 2:8-20), this episode describes the Bethlehem shepherds' visit to the infant Jesus, guided by a radiant angelic apparition on the night of 13 October -2 BC. The sole witnesses of this heavenly revelation, they leave their flocks to behold the Messiah. Their visit comforts Mary and Joseph, far from their families. In a first act of evangelisation, the shepherds return glorifying God and testifying to what they have seen.
Luke 2.8-20 (King James Version) :And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER016
The circumcision of the infant Jesus
Luke 2.21 recounts the circumcision of the infant Jesus, eight days after his birth in Bethlehem. In accordance with Mosaic law, Joseph and Mary have the child circumcised and name him Jesus, as announced by the angel Gabriel. This Hebrew name (Yehoshua) means ‘the Eternal is salvation’. Luke alone recounts this episode, emphasising the Messiah's humanity and his roots in Jewish tradition.
Leviticus 12.3 (King James Version) :And in the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER017
The purification of Mary
The article discusses Mary's purification after Jesus' birth, a Jewish ritual observed by Joseph and Mary at the Temple of Jerusalem. This act of devotion and humility, recounted in Luke 2:22-24, demonstrates their faithfulness to the law of Moses despite their modest financial circumstances.
Leviticus 12.1-8 (King James Version) :And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a woman have conceived seed, and born a man child: then she shall be unclean seven days; according to the days of the separation for her infirmity shall she be unclean.And in the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.And she shall then continue in the blood of her purifying three and thirty days; she shall touch no hallowed thing, nor come into the sanctuary, until the days of her purifying be fulfilled.But if she bear a maid child, then she shall be unclean two weeks, as in her separation: and she shall continue in the blood of her purifying threescore and six days.And when the days of her purifying are fulfilled, for a son, or for a daughter, she shall bring a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon, or a turtledove, for a sin offering, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest:Noteof the first…: Heb. a son of his yearNoteshe be…: Heb. her hand find not sufficiency ofWho shall offer it before the LORD, and make an atonement for her; and she shall be cleansed from the issue of her blood. This is the law for her that hath born a male or a female.And if she be not able to bring a lamb, then she shall bring two turtles, or two young pigeons; the one for the burnt offering, and the other for a sin offering: and the priest shall make an atonement for her, and she shall be clean.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER018
The encounter with Simeon
The meeting between the Holy Family and Simeon at the Temple of Jerusalem, according to the Gospel of Luke, deepens Mary and Joseph's awareness of Jesus' divine mission.
Luke 2.25-35 (King James Version) :And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER019
The encounter with Anna
The article explores the encounter between the prophetess Anna and Jesus at the Temple, emphasising her recognition of the Messiah and the spiritual impact of her testimony on Temple visitors, in connection with Jewish messianic expectations.
Luke 2.36-38 (King James Version) :And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER020
The Magi from the East meet Herod
This article examines the Magi's meeting with Herod, recounted in the Gospel of Matthew, highlighting its importance in affirming Jesus' kingship. It places the visit in its historical context, exploring the Magi's motives and Herod's intentions while discussing Jesus' birth and its historical and theological implications.
Matthew 2.1-8 (King James Version) :Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER021
The infant Jesus worshipped by the Magi
The article discusses the worship of Jesus by the Magi, foreign sages guided by a star to Bethlehem. They recognise Jesus' divine kingship and offer gifts despite the modest conditions of his birthplace. This account highlights the universality of recognising Jesus as king and the spiritual awakening of the Magi, warned in a dream not to return to Herod.
Matthew 2.9-12 (King James Version) :When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER022
Joseph's second dream
The article discusses Joseph's second dream, recounted in Matthew (Mt 2:13-15), in which an angel orders him to flee to Egypt with Mary and Jesus. It highlights divine protection and Joseph's crucial role, examining differences between Matthew and Luke and offering historical and theological insights.
Matthew 2.13-15 (King James Version) :And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER023
The stay in Egypt
The article explores the Holy Family's stay in Egypt, highlighting their biblical flight from Herod. Warned in a dream, Joseph leads a difficult journey of approximately 400–500 kilometres. The analysis covers practical matters, the Magi's contribution and the political context, although precise details of the stay remain uncertain.
Matthew 2.14-15 (King James Version) :When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER025
Joseph's third dream
The article ‘PER025 - Joseph's third dream’ recounts a divine revelation in Matthew 2.13-15. Joseph receives the message that he may return from Egypt to Israel after Herod's death, highlighting the family and political dynamics of the return.
Matthew 2.13-15 (King James Version) :And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER027
The return to Nazareth
The article analyses Jesus' return to Nazareth, contrasting Matthew's and Luke's accounts and their distinct aims. Matthew, addressing Jews, mentions the stay in Egypt to highlight a prophecy, whereas Luke omits it, aiming instead at a non-Jewish audience.
Matthew 2.13-15 (King James Version) :And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER028
The twelve-year-old Jesus in the Temple
This article discusses the event in Luke's Gospel in which twelve-year-old Jesus teaches in the Temple. It highlights the coexistence of his divine knowledge and human life, explaining his spiritual and physical growth. Luke and the Gospels omit his adolescent years, a choice intended to emphasise his ordinary divine journey.
Luke 2.41-52 (King James Version) :Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org -
PER024
The massacre of the children in Bethlehem
The article explores Herod's massacre of the children in Bethlehem following the visit of the Magi, as described in Matthew 2:16–18. This account raises questions about the ignorance of the religious leaders and the impact of Herod’s decisions. It also addresses the tense political context of the time.
Matthew 2.16-18 (King James Version) :Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org