Today we will talk about Bible verses about the first Christmas. This celebration marks a joyous occasion for Christians around the world, as we remember the humble beginnings of our Savior, Jesus Christ. During this time, we reflect on the true meaning behind His birth and the love that God has shown us. The love of God came to earth in a form that we could understand. Rejoicing over the arrival of Jesus is crucial to our faith, making it an essential part of our Christian walk. Let’s open our hearts and minds as we dive into Scriptures that guide us through the beautiful story of the first Christmas.
Bible Verses About the First Christmas
The Prophecy of Jesus’ Birth
In the lead-up to Christmas, we often reflect on the prophetic messages in the Bible that foretold the coming of Jesus. These verses remind us that God’s plan for our salvation was laid long before His birth. We can see that God always has a perfect plan, even when we cannot see the whole picture. As we study these prophecies, we find encouragement in knowing that God was already preparing our hearts for Jesus’ arrival. They contain a timeless message about hope and anticipation, calling us to embrace the season with joy and faith.
Isaiah 7:14
“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” – Isaiah 7:14
Micah 5:2
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times.” – Micah 5:2
Isaiah 9:6
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” – Isaiah 9:6
Jeremiah 23:5
“The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.” – Jeremiah 23:5
Isaiah 11:1
“A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.” – Isaiah 11:1
The Angel’s Announcement
The announcement made by the angels about Jesus’ birth is a pivotal moment in the Christmas story. These heavenly messengers brought joy, hope, and peace to a world desperately in need of it. We find solace in their words, which remind us that God chose to break into our world through an angelic declaration. Whenever we feel overwhelmed or uncertain, we can find comfort in these verses that highlight the great news of Jesus’ birth and the invitation to experience boundless joy, which is available to us all.
Luke 1:30-31
“But the angel said to her, ‘Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.'” – Luke 1:30-31
Luke 2:10-11
“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'” – Luke 2:10-11
Luke 1:35
“The angel answered, ‘The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.'” – Luke 1:35
Matthew 1:20-21
“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.'” – Matthew 1:20-21
Luke 2:13-14
“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.'” – Luke 2:13-14
The Journey to Bethlehem
The journey that Mary and Joseph took to Bethlehem is a reminder of our own journeys in life. Every step they took brought them closer to the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. For us, life can sometimes feel like a long and arduous journey, with challenges along the way. Yet, we can take comfort in knowing that we are never alone on this path. God is guiding us, just as He guided Mary and Joseph. As we reflect on their journey, we are inspired to remain faithful and trusting in God’s plan, no matter the obstacles we face.
Luke 2:1-3
“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone went to their own town to register.” – Luke 2:1-3
Luke 2:4-5
“So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.” – Luke 2:4-5
Matthew 2:1
“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem.” – Matthew 2:1
Luke 2:6
“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born.” – Luke 2:6
Matthew 1:24-25
“When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.” – Matthew 1:24-25
The Birth of Jesus
The actual birth of Jesus Christ in humble circumstances is a core element of the Christmas story that teaches us profound lessons about God’s love and humility. He was born not in a palace but in a stable, surrounded by animals, symbolizing how He came to be with the lowly and rejected. As we reflect on this crucial moment, we are reminded that God’s presence is with us even in our lowest points. Jesus’ birth offers us hope and reassurance that God values us all, regardless of our social status or circumstances. It calls us to reach out to those who may feel unworthy or overlooked, just as Jesus was born into humble beginnings.
Luke 2:7
“And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.” – Luke 2:7
Matthew 2:11
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
Luke 2:12
“This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” – Luke 2:12
Matthew 1:18
“This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 1:18
Luke 2:16
“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.” – Luke 2:16
The Shepherds’ Visit
The visit from the shepherds is another beautiful aspect of the first Christmas, revealing that God’s message of hope is for everyone, even the ordinary and humble. The shepherds, who were often overlooked, were the first to hear about Jesus’ birth and became witnesses to this miraculous event. This teaches us that we all share a role in God’s grand story. We can approach God boldly, knowing that we are accepted regardless of our past or present circumstances. The shepherds inspire us to respond to God’s call and to share the good news of Jesus’ birth with others. Their enthusiasm and faith remind us to remain excited about our faith and share it joyfully.
Luke 2:8
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.” – Luke 2:8
Luke 2:9-10
“An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.'” – Luke 2:9-10
Luke 2:17
“When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.” – Luke 2:17
Luke 2:19
“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” – Luke 2:19
Matthew 2:9-10
“After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” – Matthew 2:9-10
The Magi’s Visit
The visit of the Magi reminds us that Jesus’ birth was of great significance not only to the Jewish people but to the entire world. The Magi traveled from afar, guided by a star, demonstrating the universal appeal of Christ’s birth. They came offering gifts, which symbolize honor, worship, and recognition of Jesus as King. When we consider their journey, we are inspired to seek Jesus wholeheartedly and present our gifts to Him. Just like the Magi, we can be persistent in our search for God and willing to go the distance to deepen our relationship with Him. Their reverence and generosity encourage us to deepen our worship and follow Christ with dedication.
Matthew 2:11
“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
Matthew 2:2
“And asked, ‘Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.'” – Matthew 2:2
Matthew 2:10
“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.” – Matthew 2:10
Matthew 2:12
“And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.” – Matthew 2:12
Luke 2:38
“Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.” – Luke 2:38
The Significance of the Birth of Jesus
The birth of Jesus holds unparalleled significance in our faith. It marked the beginning of a new covenant between God and humanity. Through Jesus’ birth, we received the gift of salvation—a gift of love, grace, and transformation. His presence on earth shows us God’s immense desire to connect with us personally. As we reflect on the meaning of this miracle, we recognize that His life and teachings offer us guidance, purpose, and hope. The love that Jesus embodies inspires us to strive towards being more like Him, extending our love and grace to others as well. This part of the Christmas story challenges us to not only celebrate His birth but also to actively live out the message of love and peace He came to share.
John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” – John 1:14
Galatians 4:4-5
“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” – Galatians 4:4-5
Acts 4:12
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” – Acts 4:12
Romans 5:8
“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8
Luke 2:30-32
“For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” – Luke 2:30-32
A Call to Celebration and Sharing
Finally, the first Christmas calls us to celebrate and share the joy that comes from knowing Jesus. Christmas is not just a day to exchange gifts or enjoy festive treats; it is a time for us to reflect on the incredible gift that God gave us in Jesus. We are invited to share this joy with others, making our celebrations a time of outreach and love. As we gather with friends and family, we can create a community filled with fellowship, love, and gratitude. Jesus’ birth was meant to be shared, and we are encouraged to let that light shine brightly in our lives, influencing those around us to receive and embrace this good news.
Luke 2:20
“The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.” – Luke 2:20
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” – John 3:16
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
Matthew 5:14-16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” – Matthew 5:14-16
Philippians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” – Philippians 4:4
Final Thoughts
As we conclude our journey through these Bible verses about the first Christmas, we realize that this season is more than just a celebration; it is about recognizing God’s love and presence in our lives. From the prophecies to the humble birth of Jesus and the joyous announcements, we see how profound and beautiful God’s plan truly is. We are reminded to carry the light of Christ into our world, sharing His love and joy with everyone we encounter. Let’s continue to celebrate Christmas with hearts full of gratitude and purpose, holding onto the hope that Jesus brings into our lives.
Ultimately, the story of Christmas encourages us to reflect on how we live out this gift of love day by day. As we spread joy and kindness during this season, let us also keep our eyes fixed on the true meaning of Christmas: the beautiful gift of our Savior, who transforms lives and brings hope. May we always be inspired by the first Christmas to welcome Jesus into our hearts and share His message of love and hope with the world.
Let’s embrace this season with open hearts, ready to rejoice in the true spirit of Christmas and share the incredible gift of Christ with all around us.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
