Chapter

Luke 2:18

ESV And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.
NIV and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.
NASB And all who heard it were amazed about the things which were told them by the shepherds.
CSB and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.
NLT All who heard the shepherds’ story were astonished,
KJV And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
NKJV And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

What does Luke 2:18 mean?

Even though Jesus was born in humble circumstances, His arrival did not pass without announcement. Rather than taking the news to rich, powerful, or famous people, God informed common shepherds. Shortly after Mary and Joseph made their way to Bethlehem, Jesus was born and put into a feeding trough while Mary recovered (Luke 2:1–7). Angels appeared to local herdsmen, explaining where to find the newborn Christ and singing praises to God (Luke 2:8–14). The shepherds quickly came into the town and found Jesus and His family (Luke 2:15–17).

According to this verse, the shepherds' story generates amazement. It also seems more people are hearing the story beyond just Mary and Joseph. The reference to "all who heard" suggests there are other people with Joseph and Mary. It may also mean the herdsmen told other people—perhaps everyone they met—about what had just happened.
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What is the Gospel?
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