Pastor’s Notes Luke 2:11

Luke probably wrote his gospel in the mid 60’s A.D. and had a great understanding of who Jesus is, frequently referring to Him as the Son of man. Luke traces the lineage of Jesus back to Adam and so recognises His human connection yet exhorts His deity, as the divine human One.

Our memory verse is found in Luke chapter 2 which sets forth the birth of Jesus and the events surrounding it. Here we are introduced to the angels of God who pronounce to a group of shepherds taking care of their sheep on a cold night, the best news the world has ever heard.

“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” (Luke 2:10). As angels often did when appearing to godly people, his first words were “fear not.” The word translated as “bring you good tidings” is the same word often translated as ‘evangelize,’ or ‘preach the gospel.’ Not only would it be “of great joy” it also “shall be to all people.” At the very announcement of Christ’s birth it is said that His coming would be a blessing for all peoples. His ministry would affect those far beyond the nation of Israel to the uttermost parts of the earth.

“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour which is Christ the Lord.” (v11). Though it was the middle of the night the message was clear.  It seems clear that these men were godly Jews. They, like all godly Jews of their day, were looking for, even longing for the Messiah. The Greek word “Lord” here tells us that the One just born was not only the Messiah, but also God.