What does Luke 2:11 mean?
This is one of the Bible's most often-quoted verses. As part of the "nativity story" (Luke 2:1–16), these words are frequently read aloud during the Christmas season as the world celebrates the birth of Jesus. This message is spoken to common shepherds (Luke 2:8), shortly after Mary gave birth to Christ (Luke 2:6–7), in the very place predicted by prophecy (Micah 5:2). The One just born is the promised Savior (Isaiah 7:14; 9:6–7), whose arrival is truly good news for the entire world (Luke 2:9–10).As part of this message, the angel will tell the shepherds where to find this newborn Jesus (Luke 2:12). The once-terrified men will then be treated to the sight and sound of numerous angels praising God (Luke 2:13–14).
Luke 2:8–21 describes shepherds who are visited by numerous angels. These beings proclaim the birth of Christ and explain where He can be found. The men follow the angels' directions and find Jesus, Joseph, and Mary just as predicted. Jesus' family celebrates these events, as God continues to use simple people to proclaim His most important truths. When Jesus is eight days old, in accordance with Jewish tradition, he is circumcised and officially given His prophesied name.
The early part of this chapter is famously read at Christmas, while celebrating the birth of Jesus. Luke gives a relatively brief description of how Mary came to give birth in a stable, laying Jesus in a feeding trough. Nearby shepherds are informed of the news by multiple angels. Two people speak in praise of God at Jesus' circumcision. Years later, Joseph and Mary lose track of Jesus on the way back from Jerusalem, only to find Him astounding teachers in the temple with His wisdom.
