Definition: ([And] this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Luke 2:2: “And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.” Basically, this tells us about a very important event in the early days of Jesus' ministry. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: What was happening? When Jesus started his ministry – meaning he began to preach and teach – people were collecting taxes on goods and services they bought and sold. These taxes were used to fund things like building temples, roads, and the government. Who was Cyrenius? Cyrenius was the governor of Syria at this time. He was in charge of overseeing the region where Jesus was teaching and ministering. So, what does this mean? It means that the first taxes on goods were started by Cyrenius. He was responsible for collecting them, and his actions initiated the practice of taxation. Why is it important? This event is significant because: It shows the beginning of a system: It’s the very first time that taxes were formally implemented, which is a foundational step in how societies organized themselves. Jesus was aware of it: The Bible tells us Jesus was watching over this situation and was concerned about what was happening. --- Do you want to know more about why this event happened or perhaps delve into the context of Luke 2:2?

Definition: And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:20. It’s a really important part of understanding what happened with Jesus. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: Basically, it means: After Jesus was born, the shepherds who were watching over him returned home and were really happy! They weren't just glad to see him – they were exultant (very happy) and praising God for everything that had happened. Let’s unpack it a bit further: “The shepherds returned…” : This tells us the shepherds were still watching Jesus after he was born, which is fantastic! They were dedicated to keeping an eye on him. “…glorifying and praising God…” : This is the key part. The shepherds weren't just acknowledging that Jesus was born. They were celebrating it – expressing their joy and thanks to God for bringing this new life into the world. It’s a big show of adoration. “For all the things that they had heard and seen…” : This means they heard about his birth through angels, wise men, and other people. They also saw him being born – a miraculous event! So, it's a story of incredible joy and gratitude. It shows that God is pleased with our lives and the events that happen to us. Why is this important? This verse encourages us to be thankful for what we have – whether it’s good things in our lives or even just the simple miracle of being alive. It's a reminder to appreciate God’s blessings! --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some deeper context about this story?

Definition: And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down that passage from Luke 2:21. It’s a really special and important verse! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse describes how Jesus was named. “When eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child…” – This refers to a ritual that Jewish people (and some Christians) practiced when they were going to be circumcised. It’s like a marking or a sign of identification. “…his name was called JESUS.” - This is the core of it! Jesus was named "Jesus." “Which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.” – This is where it gets really interesting. The angel, who is a messenger from God, before Jesus was even born, gave him this name. It's like saying “God chose to call him that.” So, what does this tell us? It’s a very symbolic way of saying that Jesus was uniquely chosen and given special significance by God. The angel's action is important because it shows that Jesus wasn’t just any child; He was destined for greatness. Why is this verse significant? It’s the beginning of the story: It marks the very first mention of Jesus in the Bible and sets the stage for everything that follows. It's a sign of importance: Giving someone a name like "Jesus" was a big deal in ancient times, signifying special status and divine favor. In short, this verse tells us that Jesus was named by an angel before he ever came into being – it’s a foundational moment in the Bible. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this passage might mean in the context of the Old Testament?

Definition: And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present [him] to the Lord;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:22. It’s a really important passage about Jesus’s birth! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse tells us that Jesus was born during a period where the Jewish laws (the Old Testament) were being followed very strictly. Let’s unpack it a little further: “The days of her purification according to the law of Moses…” – This is a fancy way of saying “during the time when God had set a specific ritual and process for Jesus's birth.” It refers to a specific Jewish tradition that involved a period of purification and preparation before a significant event. “…were accomplished.” - This means that this ritual or procedure was finally finished. “They brought him to Jerusalem…” – Jesus was born in the city of Jerusalem, which was very important as it was the center of Jewish religious life. “…to present [him] to the Lord.” - This is the key part! “Present” means to bring something forward or to show it to someone. So, they were bringing Jesus forward to God (the Lord) – meaning he was being offered as a sacrifice and to be accepted by God. In short, this verse describes the birth of Jesus as a special event that happened during a time when Jewish laws were in place, and it’s a sign that he was destined to be accepted by God. Why is this important? It's a foundational part of the story of Christianity and shows that Jesus wasn't just any baby – he was chosen and ordained by God to be the Messiah. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this passage means in light of other biblical stories?

Definition: (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:23. It’s a really interesting and somewhat surprising one! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse says that anyone who opens their womb – meaning, starts or becomes pregnant – is called holy to God. Let’s unpack that a little further: “As it is written in the law of the Lord…” This is a really important phrase. It means the Bible has a set of rules and teachings that are considered divinely inspired. “…Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord.” This part is direct. It’s telling us that anyone who does this – whether it's a man, or a woman – is given a special status with God. What does "holy" mean in this context? The Bible doesn’t really define “holy” as we understand it today (like something that deserves reverence). Instead, it suggests that opening your womb is a sign of connection to God and being worthy of His favor. It implies a spiritual significance – that you are being chosen by God for something special. Why is this surprising? Historically, the idea of a specific purpose or reason behind pregnancy was not widely accepted. The Bible often focuses on human actions and their consequences, but this verse challenges our usual thinking about the role of women in life. It’s a message that emphasizes God's love and choice for those who are connected to Him. Important Note: This verse is from an ancient text (the Old Testament). It's a symbolic statement, and its meaning has been interpreted through different lenses throughout history. --- Do you want me to explain anything in more detail? For example, would you like me to: Discuss the historical context of this verse? Explore how it relates to themes of creation or human responsibility?

Definition: And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:24. It’s a really important and somewhat surprising passage in the Bible! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, Jesus is offering a sacrifice to show that he fully understands and obeys God’s law. Let’s unpack it further: “To offer a sacrifice…” – This tells us Jesus is performing a ritual or service. “…according to that which is said in the law of the Lord…” - This is key! The "law of the Lord" refers to God's rules and commandments, as described in the Old Testament (like the Ten Commandments). It’s about how to live righteously and worship God. “A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons…” – This describes exactly what Jesus is offering. These animals are symbolic. Tortuedoves: These represent perfect obedience and a pure heart, as described in the law. They’re being offered to show Jesus lives a life that conforms to God's will. Young Pigeons: These symbolize innocence and new beginnings. They represent the fresh start Jesus offers through his sacrifice. So, what does this all mean? Jesus is saying he’s offering a sacrifice – a symbolic offering – to demonstrate his complete commitment to God's law. It wasn’t just about following rules; it was about being right with God. It's a powerful image of Jesus choosing to live a life that honors and satisfies God. Why is this important? This story emphasizes: God's Law: The law isn't just about rules; it’s a guide for living a righteous life, and Jesus understands that perfectly. Sacrifice as a Gift: Jesus offers a sacrifice – a gift of his own life – to show God’s love and forgiveness to humanity. Do you want me to explain anything in more detail? For example, we could talk about: The symbolism behind the animals? What this story reveals about Jesus' role as the Son of God?

Definition: And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name [was] Simeon; and the same man [was] just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:25. It’s a really important moment in the story of Jesus’ birth! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, it says that a man named Simeon was waiting for a special blessing – the Holy Spirit – to come to Israel. Let’s unpack that a bit more: “And, behold…” : This is a dramatic introduction. It's like saying “And here comes something important!” “…there was a man in Jerusalem…” : This tells us the story is happening in the city of Jerusalem, which was a very important place for Jewish people at that time. “…whose name [was] Simeon…” : This identifies the person – it’s a specific man named Simeon. “and [was] just and devout…” : This is key. “Just” means he was honest and truthful, and "devout" means he was very committed to God and his beliefs. “…waiting for the consolation of Israel…” : This is the big part. “Consolation of Israel” refers to a time when there was great suffering or hardship in Israel – maybe a famine, war, or a difficult period. Simeon was waiting for this comfort and hope that God would provide. “…and the Holy Ghost was upon him.” : This is the most exciting part! The Holy Spirit (God’s power and presence) was falling upon him. It means he was being filled with God's grace and blessing. So, in short, this verse describes a man who was living a righteous life and was waiting for God to bless Israel. It sets the stage for the coming of Jesus! Why is this important? This is considered one of the most significant verses in the Bible because it’s a preview of the Messiah – Jesus. It's the beginning of the story that leads to Jesus’ birth and the salvation of humanity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what this verse might mean in a broader context?

Definition: And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Luke 2:26. It’s a really significant moment in Jesus’ life and speaks to his incredible purpose. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a profound revelation that happened to Jesus when he first saw the Lord Jesus Christ. It's saying that before Jesus became fully divine, he experienced a glimpse of something extraordinary – he felt like he was seeing God’s presence and power. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And it was revealed unto him…” : This means that the revelation wasn't just a feeling or an impression. It was a clear, undeniable understanding. “…by the Holy Ghost…” : The Holy Spirit is often seen as God’s guiding presence and power in Jesus’ life. This emphasizes that this wasn't just a random event; it was a divine act of revealing. “…that he should not see death…” : This is the core of the verse. Jesus was experiencing a glimpse of God’s power – a vision of something beyond earthly death. It suggests He understood that death isn't the final word, and there's something more to life than just ending. What does this mean ? It means that Jesus wasn’t just knowing about death; he was experiencing it in a way that connected him directly with God’s divine power. He understood the importance of his future role – that he would be resurrected and conquer death itself. Why is this important? This passage is considered one of the most significant in the Bible because: It foreshadowed Jesus' sacrifice: It sets up the entire story of Jesus’ life – his suffering, death, and resurrection – as a victory over death itself. It shows God's plan: It reveals that God has a plan for salvation and eternal life through Jesus Christ. In short, Luke 2:26 tells us that Jesus experienced a glimpse of God’s power before he became fully divine, and that this glimpse revealed the promise of victory over death. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to another Bible passage?

Definition: And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:27. It's a really important moment in the story of Jesus’ birth! Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it says that Jesus was brought into the temple – which is a very holy place – when his parents arrived to present him to God. Let’s unpack it a little further: “And he came by the Spirit…” This is key. "He came by the Spirit" means Jesus wasn't just physically entering the temple, but he was guided and brought in through something spiritual – a divine presence. It suggests a special connection or blessing. “…into the temple:” The temple was a place of worship for Jewish people, especially during the time of Jesus. It symbolized God’s presence and holiness. “And when the parents brought in the child Jesus…” This describes what happened when Jesus arrived. His parents were bringing him into the temple to be worshipped and honored. “…to do for him after the custom of the law.” This is where it gets a bit more complex, but it means that the Jewish tradition (the laws and customs) dictated how things were to be done with Jesus. It was expected that he would be presented in a specific way according to these rules. So, putting it all together: Jesus was brought into the temple, not just physically, but through a spiritual blessing or guidance. And then, the Jewish tradition demanded that he be presented in a certain way – as if being worshipped and honored. Why is this important? This event is significant because it shows that Jesus fulfilled the law of God and was accepted into the presence of God’s people. It’s considered a pivotal moment in Christian theology, marking the beginning of his divine mission. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss what this verse might symbolize? Connect it to a specific biblical story or concept?

Definition: Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 2:28: “Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said.” Basically, it’s a very short and impactful moment of incredible faith. Here's what it means, explained simply: “Then took he him up in his arms…” – This describes a significant action. It suggests something was held or cradled. “Him” refers to Jesus, the central figure of this story. “…and blessed God…” – Jesus is showing reverence and gratitude to God. He's acknowledging God’s power and goodness. “and said.” – This is the key part. Jesus said something! It's a simple declaration, but it carries a HUGE weight. Putting it all together: Luke 2:28 tells us that Jesus held someone up in his arms and then offered a prayer of praise to God. It’s a picture of a moment of profound connection – a tender embrace with the divine. Why is this important? This verse is often seen as a foundational moment in the story of Jesus' birth. It highlights that even before being born, Jesus was already in a relationship with God and recognized His greatness. --- Do you want me to: Explain why this verse is significant? Give you some context about the story of Jesus’s birth?