30 Powerful bible verses that tell the christmas story (Full Commentary)

Pastor David

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Today we will talk about bible verses that tell the Christmas story. Christmas is a wonderful time that reminds us of the birth of Jesus, our Savior. During this season, we often gather with friends and family to celebrate, sharing love and joy. It’s essential to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, which is deeply rooted in the Word of God. The Bible gives us a rich narrative about the birth of Jesus, filled with hope, joy, and divine purpose. As we read through these scripture passages, let’s open our hearts to the powerful messages they convey about love, light, miracles, and the arrival of Emmanuel—God with us. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s Word!

Bible Verses That Tell The Christmas Story

The Annunciation to Mary

In the story of Christmas, the moment when the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would give birth to Jesus is pivotal. It speaks to us about the miracle of God’s plans and how they often come when we least expect them. This part of the narrative invites us to embrace the unexpected in our own lives and to trust that God has a perfect plan for us, just as He did for Mary. As we reflect on these verses, let’s find encouragement in knowing that we are all part of a grand story designed by God and that our faith can bring about divine occurrences. How incredible it is to think that the Bible shares this intimate moment in the Christmas story!

Luke 1:26-27

“In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary.” – Luke 1:26-27

Luke 1:28

“The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” – Luke 1:28

Luke 1:30

“But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.” – Luke 1:30

Luke 1:31

“You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.” – Luke 1:31

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

The Journey to Bethlehem

As we consider the journey to Bethlehem, we find ourselves transported into the hustle and bustle of a pregnant Mary and her husband Joseph. Their travel during such a time emphasizes the importance of perseverance in our lives. They faced challenges, yet they trusted in God’s guidance and presence. We are reminded how often we too must take journeys—sometimes difficult ones—while holding onto faith that God is with us through every step. These verses inspire us to trust in God’s providence during our own adventures, no matter how arduous they may seem.

Luke 2:1

“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world.” – Luke 2:1

Luke 2:3

“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.” – Luke 2:3

Luke 2:4

“He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.” – Luke 2:4

Luke 2:5

“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born.” – Luke 2:5

Matthew 1:24

“When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife.” – Matthew 1:24

The Birth of Jesus

The birth of Jesus is the very heart of the Christmas story. In the humble surroundings of a stable, we see how God’s love took form in the most unexpected and lowly place. This reminds us that our worth is not tied to our circumstances; rather, we are valuable because of God’s affection for us. The simplicity of Jesus’ birth teaches us profound lessons about humility and love. As we explore these verses, let’s remember that God often works through the ordinary to bring about the extraordinary, and this is beautifully demonstrated in the nativity story.

Luke 2:6

“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 2:6

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 room for them in the inn.” – Luke 2:7

Matthew 1:25

“But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.” – Matthew 1:25

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

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

The Announcement to the Shepherds

The announcement of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds signifies that Jesus came for all people, not just the privileged. It is a wonderful moment that reflects God’s heart for the lowly and marginalized. This part of the Christmas story reminds us that each of us, regardless of our station in life, is invited into the joy of knowing Christ. The joy that the shepherds experienced serves as an invitation for us, too, to embrace the good news and share it with others. These verses urge us to carry the light of Christ to the world around us, spreading love and encouragement to those we encounter.

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

“An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.” – Luke 2:9

Luke 2:10

“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 2:10

Luke 2:11

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” – Luke 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

The Visit of the Magi

The visit of the Magi or Wise Men is a beautiful reminder of how all nations and people are drawn to Christ. Their journey to see the newborn king illustrates the power of seeking God and the lengths we may go to find Him. Deliberate seekers of truth, the Magi showed us that divine encounters often require effort and dedication. In their act of bringing gifts, we also learn about giving from the heart. As we read through these verses, we are encouraged to seek the Lord meaningfully and offer ourselves and our resources in honor of His greatness and generosity.

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

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 2:11

“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 2:12

“And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their own country by another route.” – Matthew 2:12

The Prophecies Fulfilled

The birth of Jesus fulfilled numerous prophecies, demonstrating that God’s plan has been in motion long before Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem. God’s Word is reliable, and these prophecies serve as a powerful reminder of His faithfulness to His promises. In recognizing these fulfilled prophecies, we can build a stronger faith, knowing that God is not only the author of history but also intimately involved in our stories. As we reflect on these verses, let’s be encouraged that what God has promised will indeed come to pass, for His word holds truth and power.

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 of old, from ancient times.” – Micah 5:2

Isaiah 9:1-2

“Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past, he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan—the people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” – Isaiah 9:1-2

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

Zachariah 9:9

“Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.” – Zachariah 9:9

The Significance of the Name Jesus

The name of Jesus carries immense significance—it means “God saves.” This encapsulates the very essence of Christmas: the arrival of the Savior who came to redeem us. Understanding the importance of Jesus’ name helps us grasp the depth of our need for a Savior. It provides hope and assurance that God loves us enough to send His Son to restore our relationship with Him. These verses remind us that Jesus is not just a figure in history but our living Savior. As we meditate on His name, let’s reflect on its powerful implications in our lives today.

Matthew 1:21

“She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” – Matthew 1:21

Luke 2:21

“On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived.” – Luke 2:21

John 14:13

“And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” – John 14:13

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

Philippians 2:9-10

“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.” – Philippians 2:9-10

The Joy of Christmas

The joy of Christmas is a recurring theme throughout the story. The angels, shepherds, and Magi all experienced profound joy surrounding Jesus’ arrival. This joy is not merely a fleeting feeling but a deep-rooted sense of hope knowing that God is with us. In moments when we may feel lost or despairing, the Christmas story reminds us that joy is found in relationship with Christ. As we explore these verses, let’s allow the joy of the season to fill our hearts, encouraging us to share this joy with the world around us. Together, we embody the light of Christmas, bringing joy to others.

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.” – Luke 2:10-11

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

John 15:11

“I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” – John 15:11

Psalms 98:4

“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, burst into jubilant song with music.” – Psalms 98:4

Nehemiah 8:10

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10

Peace on Earth

The proclamation of “peace on earth” is deeply woven into the Christmas narrative. Jesus came to bring peace—a peace that transcends our understanding and mitigates the chaos of our lives. In a world often filled with turmoil, knowing that Christ is our peace can anchor us in hope. These verses remind us that Jesus is our source of true peace and that we are called to be peacemakers. As we explore these scriptures together, let us commit to being agents of peace in our own spheres of influence, spreading the message of love and grace that Jesus embodied.

Luke 2:14

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” – Luke 2:14

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

Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

John 14:27

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27

Romans 15:13

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” – Romans 15:13

Final Thoughts

As we journey through the magnificent story of Christmas, we are reminded of the profound impact of Jesus’ birth on our lives and the world. This collection of Bible verses brings to light the significance of love, hope, joy, and peace that Christ embodies. Each part of the nativity story paints a picture that invites us to be a part of God’s wonderful plan. Whether we identify with the humble shepherds or the curious Magi, we find ourselves drawn to the heart of Christmas and the light of Christ. Let us carry these messages in our hearts and share the good news with those around us as we celebrate this wonderful season.

In the spirit of Christmas, may we approach each day with the understanding that we are cherished children of God, called to reflect His love and grace to others. Let’s not forget that in every moment, whether joyful or challenging, God is with us, guiding our paths and filling our hearts with hope. This Christmas, let’s embrace the joy of the season and share it abundantly, illuminating the lives of those we meet.

May the story of Jesus’ birth continue to inspire us to be peacemakers and faithful witnesses of His love. Merry Christmas!

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

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