Definition: And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:1: “And it came to pass in those days, that all the world should be taxed.” Basically, it means: In ancient times, around 2000 years ago, a powerful ruler named Caesar Augustus – who was essentially the first Roman Emperor – issued an official decree telling everyone across the entire world (including Rome and its surrounding territories) to pay taxes. Let's unpack it a bit more: “In those days” : This tells us we’re talking about a specific historical period, long ago. “That all the world should be taxed” : This is the core of the verse. It signifies that the Roman Empire (which was vast at the time) had the right to collect taxes from everyone living in its territories – including people in Rome, Greece, and beyond. Why is this significant? This verse is a foundational moment in history because it's the first mention of taxation on a massive scale. It’s a key part of understanding how empires were structured and how power was distributed. It sets the stage for many of the political and religious events that followed, as people would soon begin to question how these taxes were collected and used. Important Note: While it sounds like a simple statement about taxes, this decree had huge implications – it marked the beginning of a system where rulers controlled wealth and power through collecting taxes. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the historical context surrounding this verse? Or perhaps explore how this event relates to the story of Jesus in Luke 2?

Definition: And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Luke 2:10. It's a really beautiful and important message about hope and new beginnings. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: The angel is telling the women at the tomb that they shouldn't be afraid. He’s saying, “Don’t worry! There’s good news!” Let’s unpack it word by word: “And the angel said unto them…” – This means the angel spoke to them directly. “…Fear not: for…” - This is a crucial part. It's telling them not to worry. “…I bring you good tidings of great joy…” – This is the main message! The angel is announcing something wonderful. “Good tidings” means news or information that’s very happy and positive. “…which shall be to all people.” - This explains why it's good news. It promises this joy will be shared with everyone – not just the women, but everyone! In a nutshell, the verse is saying that God is about to reveal something incredibly joyful and positive to humanity. What does it mean in the context of Jesus’ birth? This verse is often interpreted as a sign that Jesus was born to save all people. It's a message of hope for everyone – Jews, Gentiles (non-Jewish people), and ultimately, all of humankind. It speaks to the possibility of reconciliation between God and humanity through the coming of Jesus. Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Luke 2? Discuss what this verse might symbolize in a broader theological context?

Definition: For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important verse from Luke 2:11! Here's what it means in plain language: Basically, this verse says that on this particular day, in the city of David (which was a very important and historic place), Jesus Christ is born. Let’s unpack that a little bit: “For unto you” : This is a fancy way of saying "to you" – it means specifically for those who are meant to receive this gift. “Is born” : Jesus was born! That's the core of the message. “In the city of David” : This refers to Jerusalem, which was the ancient capital of Israel and a very significant place in Jewish history. It was where King David lived and ruled. So, it’s a really big deal because: Jesus is the Savior: "Savior" means someone who saves people from their problems or sins. Jesus is seen as the savior of humanity – he paid for our sins and offers us forgiveness. Christ the Lord : This is a formal title given to Jesus, meaning "the Lord is present." It highlights that Jesus is God’s son and divine. In short, this verse tells us that Jesus Christ was born in Jerusalem, marking the beginning of a new era for humanity. It's a foundational moment in Christian faith – it's about the birth of our savior! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about Jesus’ birth or the significance of David’s city?

Definition: And this [shall be] a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:12. It’s one of the most famous and beautiful scenes in the Bible! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it describes Jesus being born. “And this [shall be] a sign unto you…” – This is a way of saying “This is a special event that will happen.” It’s a message for everyone. “…Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” – This describes exactly what's happening: A baby Jesus is being born! He's wrapped in soft blankets (swaddling clothes) and placed in a simple, covered container (a manger). What does it symbolize? It’s a really powerful symbol of God’s love and plan for humanity. Here’s what it represents: God’s Gift: It shows that God wants to give his son, Jesus, to the world. Comfort & Protection: The manger is a simple place – it's safe and comfortable. It suggests that Jesus will be safe and cared for in our lives. New Beginning: It signifies a new beginning - a new life, a new purpose, and a new way of being with God. In short, this verse tells us that Jesus is coming into the world! --- Do you want to know more about why this verse is so significant, or perhaps delve into a specific aspect of its meaning?

Definition: And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:13. It’s a really fascinating and symbolic moment in the beginning of Jesus' life! Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a huge group of angels – incredibly powerful beings who were watching over God – suddenly coming together to praise God. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Luke 2:13” : This tells us where this is happening, in the book of Luke, and specifically at the very beginning of Jesus' story. “And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host…” : “Heavenly host” means angels – they were all part of God’s plan and presence. "Multitude" means a large number of them. “…praising God, and saying…” : This is the key! The angels weren't just standing around silently. They were singing and adorning God with praise and gratitude. They were essentially offering a huge show of worship. What’s the significance? This verse is a really important sign that Jesus was about to be born. It suggests: God's Presence: The angels' actions point to God being present in a powerful way. A Big Event: This isn’t just a small moment; it’s a huge display of God’s majesty and love. Hope for the Future: It shows that God is working through His people, and He wants us to recognize Him through our worship and praise. It's a symbolic story. Angels are often seen as messengers, or representatives of God. This verse isn’t saying Jesus is an angel; it’s telling us about the incredible scene that preceded his birth! In short: Luke 2:13 describes a massive group of angels celebrating and praising God – a powerful sign of what was to come in the life of Jesus. --- Do you want me to explain another verse or perhaps delve into a specific aspect of this passage? For example, would you like me to: Explain the meaning of "heavenly host"? Discuss why this story is considered significant?

Definition: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Luke 2:14: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Here’s a simple explanation: Essentially, it's about God wanting us to live in a world filled with peace and kindness. Let’s unpack each part: “Glory to God in the highest…” – This means that God wants people to be recognized and praised for their goodness and righteousness. It’s a recognition of His power and majesty. Think of it like someone being celebrated for doing good things. “…and on earth peace, good will toward men.” – This is the core of what we're talking about. “Peace” here refers to a state of harmony and tranquility - a lack of war or conflict between people. "Good will toward men" means kindness, compassion, forgiveness, understanding, and love towards everyone. It’s about treating each person with respect and caring for their well-being. So, the verse is saying that God desires a world where we strive to live in a way that reflects His goodness and creates harmony between people. Why is this important? It's a powerful message of hope – it suggests that we have a role to play in making the world a better place. By being kind, forgiving, and striving for peace, we’re fulfilling God’s will. In short, it’s a call to live a life filled with goodness and strive for harmony. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how to show good will toward others? Connect it to a specific story or event from the Bible?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:15. It’s a really important part of the story about Jesus’ birth. Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, shepherds were worried because angels had left to go up to Heaven. “And it came to pass…” – This is just a way of saying “and this happened.” It's like saying "This is what actually occurred." “…as the angels were gone away from them into heaven…” - The angels, who were powerful and divine beings, had left. They were watching over everything. “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.” – This is where it gets interesting! The shepherds gathered together and decided they needed to go to Bethlehem. They realized that something significant was happening. They were told by God (through angels) that this event was about to occur - the birth of Jesus. So, what’s the big takeaway? The shepherds were divinely guided to travel to Bethlehem to witness a very special and important event: the birth of Jesus Christ. It's a message of hope and celebration because it signifies the beginning of God’s plan for humanity! Does that make sense so far? Do you want me to go into more detail about anything, like: The significance of Bethlehem? What does "the Lord hath made known" mean in this context?

Definition: And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:16: “And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.” Basically, it tells us about the birth of Jesus. Here's a simpler explanation: “They came with haste”: This means they were running or moving quickly. It wasn’t a leisurely trip; they were on a mission to find this baby. “…and found Mary…” Mary was a woman who was pregnant, and she was incredibly worried about the birth of Jesus. “…and Joseph…” Joseph was Mary's husband, and he was a kind and responsible man. “…and the babe lying in a manger.”: This is the most important part! They discovered that Jesus had been born – He was sleeping peacefully in a simple wooden manger (a kind of animal-shaped container). So, what does this tell us about the story? It's a pivotal moment in the Bible. It shows that Jesus wasn’t just a baby; he was born into human history, and it all started with Mary and Joseph finding him in a manger. It sets the stage for everything that follows – the story of his life, ministry, and ultimately, his sacrifice for us. Does that make sense? Do you want me to go deeper into any part of this verse or perhaps explain why this story is important? For example, we could talk about: The symbolism of the manger (it represents a humble beginning) The significance of Mary and Joseph's reaction

Definition: And when they had seen [it], they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 2:17. It’s a really important and fascinating part of the story about Jesus’ birth. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, they told people about the baby Jesus. “When they had seen [it]”: This refers to the Magi – the three wise men who traveled from faraway lands to Bethlehem. They were looking at the baby Jesus as they approached. “…they made known abroad…” This means they communicated or shared the news of the baby’s birth with others, outside of their immediate family and community. So, what was the purpose? The verse is a key part of the Gospel – the good news about Jesus Christ. It's telling us that the very first people to learn about Jesus were the wise men who saw him. They weren’t just observing; they were spreading the message! Why is this significant? It shows that God’s plan for humanity was revealed to the world. It highlights that even before Jesus was born, He was known and recognized – a foundational step in the story of salvation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about what happened in Luke 2?

Definition: And all they that heard [it] wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 2:18: “And all they that heard [it] wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.” Here’s a simple explanation: This verse is about astonishment and disbelief . It describes a moment when people who had heard about Jesus' birth – perhaps through prophecies or stories – are completely stunned and bewildered. Let’s unpack it further: “All they that heard” : This refers to everyone who listened to the news of Jesus’ arrival, which was a big deal in ancient times. “[It]” : This is a little tricky – it likely refers to the announcement of Jesus' birth. It could be a specific prophecy or story told to them. “those things which were told them by the shepherds” : This is the key part. The shepherds were basically messengers sent by the Jewish community to announce that Jesus had been born. They told them about this momentous event. So, what’s happening? The verse suggests that people weren't fully understanding the significance of what was happening. They heard the news but didn’t quite grasp how significant it was. It highlights a moment where the unbelievable truth of Jesus' birth became overwhelming and confusing for them. Why is this important? It’s a powerful image because it shows that even when we hear great things, our initial reaction might not be fully comprehended. It foreshadows a time when people would question and struggle to understand the true meaning of Jesus' message. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail (like its role in Jewish tradition)? Connect it to a broader theme in the Bible (like faith, mystery, or revelation)?