The Birth of Jesus

As we meet Jesus, we’ll learn about some things He taught (His words) and some things He did (His works). We’ll also look at the very important last week of Jesus’ life. But first, let’s start by looking at His early life.

Did you Know?  

• Caesar ruled the Roman Empire. 
• Caesar wanted everyone to be counted so that he could tax them. 
• David was Israel’s greatest king who lived one thousand years before Jesus. 
• King David was born in Bethlehem. 
• A ‘manger’ is a place where animals feed. 
• ‘Christ’ is a title that means ‘God’s promised king.’ 
• Joseph was a carpenter who lived in Nazareth.

The Meaning of the Story

Jesus’ follower, Luke, begins with the story of Jesus’ birth. Jesus’ birth was a normal birth, but He was a very special baby.

Jesus was born about two thousand years ago in Bethlehem in Israel. Joseph went there with his wife Mary to be counted. Through an angel, God had told Mary that she would give birth to a boy. This boy would be a very special King.

Joseph and Mary called the boy ‘Jesus,’ which means ‘God saves.’ No one would have thought that this baby, born in a small village, would be the King and Savior of all people.

Then something special happened. God sent an angel to tell some shepherds that this baby boy would be a King and save people. This is good news for everyone..

Who is Jesus?

Jesus was born in a small village. His family were ordinary people. Jesus’ first bed was a manger. The first people to hear the good news were shepherds. In humble circumstances, a great king was born.

If we are in trouble, we need a savior. God sent Jesus to be our Savior.

Thinking about the Story 

1. What is a savior? 
2. Can you think of anything you need to be saved from? 
3. Why were the shepherds afraid? 
4. Why is this message ‘Good News?’