Introduction
The infancy of Jesus as depicted in the Bible is quite an astonishing and miraculous story. One of the main questions that people often ask is: what book in the bible is Jesus born? This article attempts to answer this important question through discussion of relevant scriptures, analysis of the biblical narrative, and perspectives from experts.
The Biblical Narrative
The Bible paints a beautiful narrative of Jesus’ arrival; one that is full of symbolism and power. The most significant passages referencing Jesus’ birth appear in the books of Matthew and Luke. Matthew 1:18-25 reads, “Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’”
Interpretations
The book of Matthew reveals the symbolically significant nature of Jesus’ birth. Mary is identified as the virgin mother, who miraculously conceives Jesus. This, combined with the angel’s directive to Joseph alludes to Jesus’ divine heritage. Furthermore, his given name, the symbolism of which was previously discussed, is an ode to his purpose: to save humanity from their sins.
The book of Luke offers an important companion to the story of Jesus’ birth. This book offers a first-person narrator and contextualizes the events with stories of an aging Elizabeth, an inherited prophecy and the product of divine intervention: Christ.
Expert Opinion
Within his book, ‘Approaching the Bible: Reflections on the Christian Scriptures’, theologist and professor, James M. Dunn, expresses insight into the message behind this story of Jesus’ birth. Dunn offers perspective and insight that the significance of Jesus’ arrival extends beyond his maternal lineage to the wider context of where he arrived. Dunn notes that Jesus’ simple arrival was profoundly important — it was God (in human form) arriving at the margins of a politically and socially oppressed Jewish culture.
Additonally, theologian, Marcus Borg, emphasizes the importance of contextualizing the birth of Jesus. In his book ‘Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time: The Historical Jesus and the Heart of Contemporary Faith’, Borg notes that Jesus’ birth was not merely a rare miracle, but an event that characterized a time of Messianic promise. In light of his Jewish upbringing and upbringing, Jesus’ birth is contextualized within the social and political observations of his time.
Analysis
The narrative of Jesus’ birth paints vivid imagery of a miracle sent by God. Indeed, it serves as a powerful reminder of the divine power of God and his plan for mankind. Jesus’ re-entrance into humanity was quite intentional, as evident through his divinely appointed name, purpose and mission on earth. This carefully crafted story defined a tumultuous time for the people of God, and was intertwined with deep angst and tension. In addition, the expert opinions help to provide greater insight into the greater symbolic and contextual implications of Jesus’ entrance.
Eschatology
The narrative of Jesus’ birth is not merely one of astonishment and divine power — it is one of eschatological implications, as discussed by scholars Jacob Neusner and John J. Collins. According to Neusner, Jesus’ birth serves as a bridge to connect earth with the Kingdom of Heaven. For, it is described as God’s entrance into the world for the purpose of bestowing blessing and hope for humanity. Collins concurs and notes that Jesus’ birth marks an important point in God’s redemptive plan.
Modern Application
The story of Jesus’ birth is an important one for modern day believers to consider. While it prevails as an inspirational narrative of divine intervention in difficult times, it also offers connection to a divine plan for the future. More specifically, Jesus’ birth serves to illustrate the divine power of God and his commitment to saving mankind.
Contextualizing Jesus’ Birth
Today, with increased media attention on the story of Jesus’ birth, it is important to stay inspired while remaining grounded in the true contextualization of the narrative. Jesus’ entrance did not mark the launch of political power or material gain. Rather, it served to enhance humanity and the good and perfect of the world, while re-asserting the power of God’s redemptive plan.
Conclusion Impact and Meaning
At the end of the day, the impact and meaning of Jesus’ birth remains constant. This narrative serves as a sign of new life, hope and promise. The symbolism of Mary’s divine motherhood and Joseph’s symbolic guardianship allude to a divine plan sent to earth. Regardless of what book in the Bible Jesus is born, the story is one of a miraculous event that symbolizes the power of love, hope and redemption.
