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14 Bible Verses about Bethlehem

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“But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Too little to be among the clans of Judah, From you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, From the days of eternity.”

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying,

Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth.

“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near; A star shall come forth from Jacob, A scepter shall rise from Israel, And shall crush through the forehead of Moab, And tear down all the sons of Sheth.

Now it came about in the days when the judges governed, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehem in Judah went to sojourn in the land of Moab with his wife and his two sons. The name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife, Naomi; and the names of his two sons were Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehem in Judah. Now they entered the land of Moab and remained there.

So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem). Jacob set up a pillar over her grave; that is the pillar of Rachel’s grave to this day.

Included also were Kattah and Nahalal and Shimron and Idalah and Bethlehem; twelve cities with their villages.

All the people who were in the court, and the elders, said, “We are witnesses. May the Lord make the woman who is coming into your home like Rachel and Leah, both of whom built the house of Israel; and may you achieve wealth in Ephrathah and become famous in Bethlehem.

If your father misses me at all, then say, ‘David earnestly asked leave of me to run to Bethlehem his city, because it is the yearly sacrifice there for the whole family.’

Now it came about in those days, when there was no king in Israel, that there was a certain Levite staying in the remote part of the hill country of Ephraim, who took a concubine for himself from Bethlehem in Judah.

Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the descendants of David, and from Bethlehem, the village where David was?”

Thus says the Lord , “A voice is heard in Ramah, Lamentation and bitter weeping. Rachel is weeping for her children; She refuses to be comforted for her children, Because they are no more.”

Then when Herod saw that he had been tricked by the magi, he became very enraged, and sent and slew all the male children who were in Bethlehem and all its vicinity, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the magi. Then what had been spoken through Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: “A voice was heard in Ramah , Weeping and great mourning , Rachel weeping for her children ; And she refused to be comforted , Because they were no more .”

From Thematic Bible

Bethlehem » a city » a city southwest of jerusalem » and beth-lehem-judah.

Now there was a young man from Bethlehem in Judah, of the family of Judah, who was a Levite; and he was staying there. Then the man departed from the city, from Bethlehem in Judah, to stay wherever he might find a place; and as he made his journey, he came to the hill country of Ephraim to the house of Micah. Micah said to him, "Where do you come from?" And he said to him, "I am a Levite from Bethlehem in Judah, and I am going to stay wherever I may find a place."

He said to him, “We are passing from Bethlehem in Judah to the remote part of the hill country of Ephraim, for I am from there, and I went to Bethlehem in Judah. But I am now going to my house, and no man will take me into his house.

Now David was the son of the Ephrathite of Bethlehem in Judah, whose name was Jesse, and he had eight sons. And Jesse was old in the days of Saul, advanced in years among men.

Bethlehem » A city » A city southwest of jerusalem » Called ephratah and ephrath

Now as for me, when I came from Paddan, Rachel died, to my sorrow, in the land of Canaan on the journey, when there was still some distance to go to Ephrath; and I buried her there on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem).”

Behold, we heard of it in Ephrathah, We found it in the field of Jaar.

“ But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Too little to be among the clans of Judah, From you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His goings forth are from long ago, From the days of eternity.”

Bethlehem » A city » A city southwest of jerusalem » Birthplace of jesus

Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,

When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, “Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.”

Bethlehem » A city » A city southwest of jerusalem » Rachel dies and is buried at

Then they journeyed from Bethel; and when there was still some distance to go to Ephrath, Rachel began to give birth and she suffered severe labor.

So Rachel died and was buried on the way to Ephrath (that is, Bethlehem).

Bethlehem » A city » A city southwest of jerusalem » The city of boaz

So they both went until they came to Bethlehem. And when they had come to Bethlehem, all the city was stirred because of them, and the women said, “Is this Naomi?”

Now behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem and said to the reapers, “ May the Lord be with you.” And they said to him, “May the Lord bless you.”

Bethlehem » A city » A city southwest of jerusalem » The city of joseph

They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet: 'AND YOU, BETHLEHEM, LAND OF JUDAH, ARE BY NO MEANS LEAST AMONG THE LEADERS OF JUDAH; FOR OUT OF YOU SHALL COME FORTH A RULER WHO WILL SHEPHERD MY PEOPLE ISRAEL.'"

Bethlehem » A city » A city southwest of jerusalem

Now there was a young man from Bethlehem in Judah, of the family of Judah, who was a Levite; and he was staying there.

Bethlehem » A city » A city southwest of jerusalem » Taken and held by the philistines

David was then in the stronghold, while the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem. David had a craving and said, "Oh that someone would give me water to drink from the well of Bethlehem which is by the gate!" So the three mighty men broke through the camp of the Philistines, and drew water from the well of Bethlehem which was by the gate, and took it and brought it to David Nevertheless he would not drink it, but poured it out to the LORD;

Bethlehem » A city » A city southwest of jerusalem » Herod murders the infants of

Then when Herod saw that he had been tricked by the magi, he became very enraged, and sent and slew all the male children who were in Bethlehem and all its vicinity, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had determined from the magi. Then what had been spoken through Jeremiah the prophet was fulfilled: "A VOICE WAS HEARD IN RAMAH, WEEPING AND GREAT MOURNING, RACHEL WEEPING FOR HER CHILDREN; AND SHE REFUSED TO BE COMFORTED, BECAUSE THEY WERE NO MORE."

Bethlehem » A town of zebulun, six miles west of nazareth

Bethlehem » a town of zebulun, six miles west of nazareth » israel judged at.

Then Ibzan died and was buried in Bethlehem.

Bethlehem » A city » A city southwest of jerusalem » Jeroboam converts it into a military stronghold

Thus he built Bethlehem, Etam, Tekoa,

Judea, modern » Towns of » Bethlehem

‘ And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah , Are by no means least among the leaders of Judah ; For out of you shall come forth a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel .’”

Wells » Mentioned in scripture » Bethlehem

David had a craving and said, “Oh that someone would give me water to drink from the well of Bethlehem which is by the gate!”

David had a craving and said, "Oh that someone would give me water to drink from the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate!" So the three broke through the camp of the Philistines and drew water from the well of Bethlehem which was by the gate, and took it and brought it to David; nevertheless David would not drink it, but poured it out to the LORD;

Mary & Joseph go to Bethlehem

The birth of Jesus
Shepherds visit the infant
Jewish religious rituals
Wise men visit Jerusalem
The holy family flees to Egypt
The holy family returns to Nazareth
Jesus grows up
Jesus starts his ministry
Jesus is tempted
Jesus returns to Galilee
Jesus goes back to Nazareth
Jesus travels to Jerusalem
Jesus passes through Samaria
Jesus performs healing miracles
Jesus teaches in Capernaum
Jesus's teachings on a hillside
Jesus upsets the Pharisees
Jesus crosses the Sea of Galilee
Jesus heals & teaches in Jerusalem
Jesus teaches how to receive the Holy Spirit
Jesus journeys among the Gentiles
Jesus walks on the Sea of Galilee
Jesus in Tyre and Sidon
Who is Jesus?
Jesus is changed on the slopes of Mount Hermon
Jesus pays the Temple Tax
Jesus claims God's personal name
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
The Parable of the Prodigal Son
Lazarus, Come out!
Jesus's entry into Jerusalem
Jesus curses a fig tree
Jesus heralds the end of the sacrificial system
Jesus in Jerusalem during Passover week
The Parable of the Sheep & the Goats
Paying taxes to Caesar
Jesus is betrayed
The Last Supper
Jesus crosses the Kidron Valley
Jesus is arrested
Jesus is taken to the Praetorium
Jesus is tried by Pilate
The death of Judas
Jesus is executed by crucifixion
The Pharisees mount a guard on the tomb
Jesus rises from the tomb
Jesus appears to his followers
Jesus is taken into God's presence
Jesus appears to Peter, James & Paul
Who were Jesus's followers?
The believers are filled with the Holy Spirit
Peter & John heal a crippled man
The believers share their possessions
Opposition in Jerusalem
Stephen is killed & the believers are scattered
Philip's Journeys
Peter's Journeys
Peter hands over the leadership to James
The Gentile Church at Antioch
Saul's Early Life
Saul persecutes the believers
The beginning of Saul's ministry
Saul & Barnabas in Antioch & Jerusalem
Paul starts his 1st Missionary Journey
Paul, Barnabas & Mark in Cyprus
Paul, Barnabas & Mark sail to Pamphylia
Paul & Barnabas travel inland
Paul & Barnabas in Iconium
Paul & Barnabas in Lystra
Paul & Barnabas return to Perga
Paul & Barnabas return to Antioch in Syria
Paul & Barnabas attend the Council of Jerusalem
Paul & Barnabas take the decision to Antioch
Paul starts his 2nd Missionary Journey
Paul travels to Troas
Paul sails across to Europe
Paul arrives in Philippi
Paul travels to Amphipolis & Apollonia
Paul in Thessalonica
Paul in Berea
Paul in Athens
Paul in Corinth
Paul returns to Jerusalem
Paul starts his 3rd Missionary Journey
The Ephesians are filled with the Holy Spirit
The silversmiths riot in Ephesus
Paul travels to Corinth
Paul returns to Macedonia
Eutychus falls from a window in Troas
Paul leaves for Assos
Paul sails to Miletus
Paul visits Cos and Rhodes
Paul visits Philip in Caesarea
Paul meets violent opposition in Jerusalem
Paul addresses the crowds
Paul in Caesarea
Paul appeals to Emperor Nero
Paul sets sail for Rome
Paul is shipwrecked
Paul in Malta
Paul heads for Rome
An Introduction to Paul's Letters
Paul's Letter to Galatia
Paul explains his personal background
Alive in Christ
Set free from Slavery
The Fruit of the Spirit
Paul's 1st Letter to Thessalonica
Paul hopes to visit Thessalonica
The Day of the Lord
How Christians should behave
Paul's 2nd Letter to Thessalonica
The coming Day of the Lord
Saved by the power of the Holy Spirit
Paul's 1st Letter to Corinth
The Holy Spirit helps us understand
Temples of the Holy Spirit
Advice on Marriage & Relationships
Running the Race of Life
The Lord's Supper
Spiritual Gifts
Worship in the early church
The risen Lord Jesus appears to his followers
Paul's 2nd Letter to Corinth
Paul explains his revised plans
Christ's Victory Parade & the New Covenant
How God changes lives
Paul's plans for the future
Paul defends himself against criticism
Paul's weaknesses
Paul's Letter to Rome
How to be put right with God
God's covenant promise fulfilled
New life in the power of the Holy Spirit
Persecution by the Jews
Paul's mission
Paul's Letter to Ephesus
God's secret plan
The new life
The armour of God
Paul's Letter to Colossae
Jesus is exactly like God
Saved by Christ's death
Practical advice for believers
Paul's Letter to Philemon at Colossae
Paul's Letter to Philippi
To live is Christ
Warnings about the Jewish Law
Introduction to Paul's Pastoral Letters
Paul's 4th Missionary Journey
Paul's 1st Letter to Timothy in Ephesus
Worship among the believers
Holding onto the truth
Paul's Letter to Titus in Crete
Appointing Church Leaders
Paul's 2nd Letter to Timothy at Ephesus
The 'last days'
Paul's Final Sacrifice
The Letter to the Jewish believers
God speaks through the prophets & Jesus
Jesus is greater than Moses
Jesus speaks to God for believers
Jesus - a priest like Melchizedek
The New Covenant agreement
God does not want animal sacrifices
Having faith
Looking forwards, not backwards
The General Letters: James, Jude, Peter & John
The Letter of James to the Jewish believers
Faith without actions is worthless
The power of words
The Letter of Jude to the Jewish believers
Signs of 'the last days'
The 1st Letter of Peter to the Jewish believers
The living hope
Living stones
Baptism & the flood
The 2nd Letter of Peter to the Jewish believers
Peter speaks out against immorality
The 'Last Days' & The 'Day of the Lord'
Introduction to John & his 3 Letters
The 1st Letter of John
The 'logos' of God
The 'new' commandment
The last days
Filled with the Holy Spirit
Love one another
God's love drives away fear
The 2nd Letter of John
The 3rd Letter of John
Introduction to the Revelation of John
John's Letter to the 7 Churches of Asia Minor
The messages to the believers on the coastal plain
The messages to the believers living inland
John's vision of God's heavenly rule
The satan's rebellion against God
The downfall of Rome & it's empire
The resurrection of the dead
The final judgement
The new heaven & the new earth
Introduction to the Romano-Jewish world
Roman Emperors in the New Testament
Jewish Religious Leaders
New Testament Languages
Jewish & Greek Names
Jewish & Roman Currency
Jewish Nationalists
The Romano-Jewish War
Constantine & the Helena Churches
Ecumenical Church Councils
Palestine - A Land Bridge
Routes across Palestine
The River Jordan
Ancient Israel
The Message of the Old Testament
Who wrote the Old Testament?
Dating events in the Old Testament
The Biblical account of Creation
Adam's Journey from the Garden of Eden
Cain is sent on a journey to the east of Eden
Enoch founds a city in Mesopotamia
Noah journeys to Aratta on the flood
The Colonisation of the Ancient World
The Tower of Babylonia
Abram's Journey to Canaan
Abram settles in Canaan
Abram travels north to rescue Lot
The birth of Ishmael
Sodom and Gomorrah are destroyed
Abraham journeys south and Isaac is born
Abraham's sacrifice on Mount Moriah
Abraham's wife dies at Hebron
Abraham seeks a wife for Isaac
Abraham dies at Hebron
Isaac moves to Beersheba
Jacob cheats Esau and flees to Mesopotamia
Jacob returns to Canaan and meets Esau
God blesses Jacob at Bethel
Joseph is sold into slavery in Egypt
Joseph becomes Vizier of Egypt
Jacob's family joins Joseph in Egypt
The Israelites in Egypt
Prince Moses escapes to Midian
Moses is called by God at Mt Sinai
Egypt suffers ten plagues
The Israelites flee from Egypt
The Israelites cross the Sea of Reeds
Moses receives the Ten Commandments
Moses constructs the Ark of the Covenant
The Israelites rebel against God
The Israelites are counted
Hardships encountered in the desert
Moses sends spies into Canaan
Korah leads a rebellion against Moses
The Israelites remain at Kadesh Barnea
The Israelites attempt to enter Canaan
The Israelites journey north to Moab
The Israelites defeat King Sihon and King Og
Balaam blesses the Israelites
The Israelites defeat the kings of Midian
The boundaries of Canaan are agreed
More laws and religious practices
Moses dies at Mount Nebo
The Israelites cross the River Jordan
The Israelites conquer Jericho and Ai
Joshua builds an altar at Mt Ebal
Joshua is deceived by the Hivites
Joshua conquers the Southern Cities
Joshua embarks on the Northern Campaign
Canaan is divided among the twelve tribes
Six Cities of Refuge are set up
Joshua says farewell
The Israelites fight the remaining Canaanites
God appoints inspirational leaders
Israel under the 'judges': Othniel and Ehud
Deborah and Barak defeat Sisera
Gideon defeats the Midianites
Abimelech becomes king
Jephthah defeats the Ammonites
Samson challenges the Philistines
The conquest of Laish
Gibeah is destroyed & the Benjamites punished
Job is faced with adversity
Ruth's journey to Bethlehem
Samuel is taken to Shiloh
The Ark of the Covenant is captured at Aphek
The Ark is taken to Ashdod
The Ark is moved to Ekron
The Ark is returned to the Israelites
Samuel administers justice from Ramah
Saul's Journey to Kingship
Jonathan demolishes the Philistine pillar at Geba
Samuel condemns Saul at Gilgal
David defeats Goliath of Gath
Saul becomes jealous of David
Samuel dies and is buried at Ramah
David marries Abigail
Saul is killed by the Philistines at Mt Gilboa
David becomes King of Judah and Israel
David captures Jerusalem
The Ark of the Covenant is brought to Jerusalem
David's victories over Israel's neighbours
David's affair with Bathsheba
Absalom's flight & his rebellion against David
Further events during David's reign
Solomon succeeds his father David
Solomon's alliance with Egypt
Solomon builds the Temple in Jerusalem
Solomon builds a palace and furnishes the Temple
The Ark of the Covenant is installed in the Temple
Solomon rebuilds the cities of Israel
Solomon's overseas trading expeditions
The Queen of Sheba travels to Jerusalem
Solomon builds a network of chariot cities
Solomon turns away from God
Solomon dies and the kingdom is divided
Jeroboam builds temples to worship Baal
Israel and Judah fight each other
Israel descends into civil war
Jezebel kills the prophets & Elijah escapes
Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal
Elijah organises the opposition to King Ahab
King Ahab seizes Naboth's vineyard
Elijah is taken up to heaven
Elisha performs miracles and healings
Elisha displays spiritual gifts
Jehu races to Jezreel to depose King Joram
King Joash repairs the Temple in Jerusalem
Pharaoh Shoshenk I rescues Israel
Jeroboam II restores the boundaries of Israel
Tiglath-Pileser of Assyria invades Israel
Israel falls & the exiles are led to Assyria
Assyrians settle in Samaria
King Hezekiah of Judah rebels against Assyria
Sennacherib attacks and destroys Lachish
Isaiah prophesies the destruction of Judah
King Josiah ushers in religious reforms
Assyria is conquered by the Babylonians
King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon invades Judah
Jerusalem falls and the exile in Babylon begins
Biblical sources relating to Judah in exile
The middle years of exile (586-539BC)
Daniel interprets dreams and riddles
Daniel's vision of the 'Son of Man'
Daniel's vision of the 'end times'
The later years of exile & the return to Judah
The completion of the Second Temple in Jerusalem
A third group of exiles returns with Ezra
A fourth group of exiles returns with Nehemiah
Nehemiah becomes Governor of Judah
The people renew their covenant with God
Jerusalem's new walls are dedicated
Esther becomes Queen of Persia
Mordecai uncovers a plot to kill the king
The origin of the Jewish festival of Purim
What are the Psalms?
Some psalms of King David
Songs of Praise and Despair
Later psalms ... and the earliest
Some Memorable Sayings
The wisdom of Solomon's words
The Ways of the LORD
Quarrelling, drinking & gossiping
The Philosopher
More wise words from the Philosopher
More from the Lovers
Love is as strong as death
The Mourner
The LORD's love and mercy continue
Introduction to the Old Testament Prophets
Introduction to the Book of Amos
Amos denounces social injustice in Israel
Introduction to Hosea's prophesy
Hosea laments the unfaithfulness of Israel
The Lord promises to punish Israel
Introduction to Micah's prophesy
Micah decries social injustice in Israel and Judah
Introduction to the Book of Isaiah
Prophecies written before the fall of Jerusalem
Isaiah predicts a future golden age
Isaiah reassures King Ahaz of God's support
Troubled times and a glorious future kingdom
Isaiah foresees the return of the exiles
Isaiah warns of six catastrophes
The final years before the fall of Judah
Words of comfort after the fall of Jerusalem
The LORD will help Israel
God chooses Cyrus to save his people
The suffering servant of the LORD
Encouragement for those in exile
Those returning are encouraged to follow the LORD
The LORD's blessing will rest on Jerusalem
Introduction to the Book of Jonah
Jonah is thrown overboard to appease the gods
Jonah arrives at Nineveh
Introduction to the Book of Nahum
Nahum predicts the fall of Nineveh
Introduction to the Book of Jeremiah
Jeremiah says idolatry will bring Judah's fall
Jeremiah prophesies the destruction of Jerusalem
Jeremiah calls for repentance
Plots are hatched against Jeremiah
Jeremiah is beaten and arrested
Jeremiah is charged with treason
Words of hope and consolation
Miscellaneous flashbacks to earlier times
Jeremiah attempts to leave Jerusalem
Jerusalem falls to the Babylonians
Gedeliah is murdered & Jeremiah goes to Egypt
Jeremiah sees disaster in Egypt
Messages to the surrounding nations
Introduction to the Book of Zephaniah
Zephaniah warns of the punishment of Judah
Introduction to the Book of Habakkuk
Habakkuk asks why the cruel Babylonians succeed
Introduction to the Book of Ezekiel
Ezekiel is called to be a prophet
Ezekiel's vision of idolatry in the Temple
Ezekiel speaks through prophesies and parables
Ezekiel's message of impending doom
Further prophecies & the fall of Jerusalem
Hope for the future - New life for Israel
The defeat of Gog and Magog
Ezekiel's vision of the New Jerusalem
Ezekiel sees the glory of the LORD
The restored land of Israel
Introduction to the prophecy of Obadiah
Obadiah prophesies the resurgence of Israel
Introduction to the Book of Haggai
Haggai urges the exiles to re-build the Temple
Introduction to the Book of Zechariah
Zechariah has visions of horses & horns
The vision of the measuring line
Further visions about Jerusalem
The LORD promises to restore Jerusalem
Prophesies about the coming of the Messiah
Prophesies about the Last Days
An Introduction to the Book of Malachi
Malachi announces the Day of the LORD
God promises to send Elijah
Introduction to the Book of Joel
Joel foresees the Day of the LORD
The Names of the God of Israel
Foreign gods
Pharaohs of the Old Testament
The Old Testament & the Jewish Tanakh
Sources of the History of Israel and Judah
The Dead Sea Scrolls
Between the Old and the New Testaments
The Old Covenant & The New Covenant
Who is my neighbour?
Seeking revenge or Offering forgiveness?
The Commandments - Impossible to keep?
Was Jesus the Jewish Messiah?
Was Jesus an outspoken rabbi or was he God?
How to get right with God: Sacrifice or Faith?
How to get right with God: By water or the Spirit?
The power of the Holy Spirit - for everyone?
A new nation? Or eternal life in God's kingdom?
1. From Cain & Abel to the Judges
2. From the Kingdom of Israel to the Exile
3. From the Exile to the Birth of Jesus
4. From the Birth to the Death of Jesus
5. From Acts of the Apostles to John's Revelation
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1 Jan. John 2:1-11
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4 Apr. John 13:1-15
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8 Apr. John 15:1-11
9 Apr. Mark 14:22-25
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11 Apr. Mark 14:32-42
12 Apr. Mark 14:43-52
13 Apr. John 18:12-14,19-24
14 Apr. Mark 14:53-59
15 Apr. Mark 14:60-65
16 Apr. Mark 14:66-72
17 Apr. Luke 23:1-11
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19 Apr. Matthew 27:27-40
20 Apr. Matthew 27:62-66
21 Apr. Matthew 28:1-10
22 Apr. Luke 24:35-43
23 Apr. John 20:24-29
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25 Apr. Matthew 28:16-20
26 Apr. Luke 24:45-53
27 Apr. 1 Corinthians 15:1-9
28 Apr. John 21:20-25
29 Apr. Acts 1:1-5
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13 May. Acts 7:1-60
14 May. Acts 8:1,11:19-21
15 May. Acts 8:5-8
16 May. Acts 8:9-13
17 May. Acts 8:14-25
18 May. Acts 8:26-40
19 May. Acts 2:1-2,3:1-2,5:1-3,8:14-17
20 May. Acts 9:32-43
21 May. Acts 10:1-23
22 May. Acts 10:23-48
23 May. Acts 11:1-18
24 May. Acts 12:1-19
25 May. Acts 7:58-8:3,9:1-9
26 May. Acts 9:10-19
27 May. Galatians 1:11-2:2
28 May. Acts 11:19-26
29 May. Acts 11:27-13:3
30 May. Acts 13:1-5
31 May. Acts 13:4-12
1 June Acts 13:13
2 June. Acts 13:14-52
3 June. Acts 14:1-7
4 June. Acts 14:8-20
5 June. Acts 14:21-28
6 June. Acts 15:1-20
7 June. Acts 15:22-35
8 June. Acts 15:36-16:5
9 June. Acts 16:6-8
10 June. Acts 16:9-10
11 June. Acts 16:13-15
12 June. Acts 16:16-24
13 June. Acts 16:25-34
14 June. Acts 16:35-40
15 June. Acts 17:1
16 June. Acts 17:1-9
17 June. Acts 17:10-15
18 June. Acts 17:16-33
19 June. Acts 18:1-11
20 June. Acts 18:12-17
21 June. Acts 18:18-23
22 June. Acts 18:24-28
23 June. Acts 19:1-7
24 June. Acts 19:8-10
25 June. Acts 19:11-20
26 June. Acts 19:23-20:1
27 June. Acts 20:1-3
28 June. Acts 20:3-6
29 June. Acts 20:7-12
30 June. Acts 20:13-38
1 July Acts 21:1-7
2 July Acts 21:7-15
3 July Acts 21:17-26
4 July Acts 21:27-40
5 July Acts 22:1-29
6 July Acts 22:30-23:11
7 July Acts 23:12-32
8 July Acts 24:1-26
9 July Acts 24:27-25:12
10 July Acts 25:13-27
11 July Acts 26:1-32
12 July Acts 27:1-6
13 July Acts 27:7-20
14 July Acts 27:21-44
15 July Acts 28:1-10
16 July Acts 28:11-31
17 July Colossians 4:2-17
18 July 2 Peter 1:1-2,3:1-16
19 July Galatians 1:1-24
20 July Galatians 2:1-10
21 July Galatians 3:1-14
22 July Galatians 3:19-29
23 July Galatians 4:1-31
24 July Galatians 5:16-25,6:1-18
25 July 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
26 July 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16
27 July 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13
28 July 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12
29 July 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11
30 July 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28
31 July 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12
1 Aug. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-15
2 Aug. 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18
3 Aug. 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
4 Aug. 1 Corinthians 1:10-17
5 Aug. 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
6 Aug. 1 Corinthians 2:1-16
7 Aug. 1 Corinthians 3:1-23
8 Aug. 1 Corinthians 4:1-17
9 Aug. 1 Corinthians 6:1-11
10 Aug. 1 Corinthians 7:1-16
11 Aug. 1 Corinthians 9:1-27
12 Aug. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17,11:20-34
13 Aug. 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
14 Aug. 1 Corinthians 12:12-31
15 Aug. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
16 Aug. 1 Corinthians 14:1-25
17 Aug. 1 Corinthians 14:26-40
18 Aug. 1 Corinthians 15:1-26
19 Aug. 1 Corinthians 15:35-55
20 Aug. 1 Corinthians 16:1-24
21 Aug. 2 Corinthians 1:1-11
22 Aug. 2 Corinthians 2:12-17
23 Aug. 2 Corinthians 3:5-18
24 Aug. 2 Corinthians 4:1-6
25 Aug. 2 Corinthians 4:7-18
26 Aug. 2 Corinthians 5:1-10
27 Aug. 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
28 Aug. 2 Corinthians 6:1-18,7:1
29 Aug. 2 Corinthians 8:1-12
30 Aug. 2 Corinthians 11:16-33
31 Aug. 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
1 Sept. 2 Corinthians 13:5-14
2 Sept. Romans 1:1-7
3 Sept. Romans 1:18-32
4 Sept. Romans 2:1-11
5 Sept. Romans 3:19-31
6 Sept. Romans 4:1-16
7 Sept. Romans 5:1-11
8 Sept. Romans 6:1-14
9 Sept. Romans 7:1-6
10 Sept. Romans 8:5-17
11 Sept. Romans 8:18-30
12 Sept. Romans 8:31-39
13 Sept. Romans 10:1-13
14 Sept. Romans 12:1-21
15 Sept. Romans 13:1-10
16 Sept. Romans 14:1-12
17 Sept. Romans 15:1-33
18 Sept. Romans 16:1-27
19 Sept. Ephesians 1:1-10
20 Sept. Ephesians 1:11-22
21 Sept. Ephesians 2:1-10
22 Sept. Ephesians 2:11-22
23 Sept. Ephesians 3:1-13
24 Sept. Ephesians 3:14-21
25 Sept. Ephesians 4:1-16
26 Sept. Ephesians 4:17-32
27 Sept. Ephesians 5:1-20
28 Sept. Ephesians 5:21-33
29 Sept. Ephesians 6:1-9
30 Sept. Ephesians 6:10-18
1 Oct. Ephesians 6:18-24
2 Oct. Colossians 1:1-14
3 Oct. Colossians 1:15-23
4 Oct. Colossians 2:1-15
5 Oct. Colossians 2:16-23
6 Oct. Colossians 3:1-17
7 Oct. Colossians 3:18-4:6
8 Oct. Colossians 4:7-18
9 Oct. Philemon 1:1-7
10 Oct. Philemon 1:7-25
11 Oct. Philippians 1:1-11
12 Oct. Philippians 1:12-26
13 Oct. Philippians 2:1-18
14 Oct. Philippians 3:1-21
15 Oct. Philippians 4:1-23
16 Oct. 1 Timothy 1:1-7
17 Oct. 1 Timothy 1:12-20
18 Oct. 1 Timothy 2:1-15
19 Oct. 1 Timothy 3:1-13
20 Oct. 1 Timothy 4:1-16
21 Oct. 1 Timothy 5:1-22
22 Oct. 1 Timothy 6:3-21
23 Oct. Titus 1:1-14
24 Oct. Titus 2:1-15
25 Oct. Titus 3:1-15
26 Oct. 2 Timothy 1:1-18
27 Oct. 2 Timothy 2:1-26
28 Oct. 2 Timothy 3:1-17
29 Oct. 2 Timothy 4:6-22
30 Oct. James 1:1-21
31 Oct. James 2:14-19,4:11-12
1 Nov. Jude 1:1-24
2 Nov. 1 Peter 1:1-11
3 Nov. 1 Peter 2:1-10
4 Nov. 2 Peter 1:1-19
5 Nov. 2 Peter 3:1-16
6 Nov. 1 John 1:5-9
7 Nov. 1 John 1:1-4
8 Nov. 1 John 2:7-17
9 Nov. 1 John 2:18-19
10 Nov. 1 John 2:20-29
11 Nov. 1 John 3:11-24
12 Nov. 1 John 4:7-20
13 Nov. 2 John 1:1-13
14 Nov. 3 John 1:1-15
15 Nov. Revelation 1:1-11
16 Nov. Revelation 2:1-7
17 Nov. Revelation 2:8-11
18 Nov. Revelation 2:12-17
19 Nov. Revelation 2:18-27
20 Nov. Revelation 3:1-6
21 Nov. Revelation 3:7-13
22 Nov. Revelation 3:14-22
23 Nov. Revelation 4:1-11
24 Nov. Revelation 5:1-14
25 Nov. Revelation 6:1-17
26 Nov. Revelation 7:1-17
27 Nov. Revelation 12:1-9
28 Nov. Revelation 17:1-18:19
29 Nov. Revelation 20:1-15
30 Nov. Revelation 21:1-27
1 Dec. Luke 1:5-20
2 Dec. Luke 1:26,39-56
3 Dec. Luke 1:57-80
4 Dec. Luke 3:1-16
5 Dec. Luke 3:15-20
6 Dec. Mark 1:1-8
7 Dec. Matt 3:13-17, John 1:28-34
8 Dec. Mark 6:14-29
9 Dec. Matthew 11:2-15
10 Dec. Luke 1:26-38
11 Dec. Luke 2:1-5
12 Dec. Luke 2:6-7
13 Dec. Matthew 1:1-17,22-23
14 Dec. Luke 2:8-14
15 Dec. Luke 2:15-20
16 Dec. Luke 2:21-24
17 Dec. Luke 2:25-35
18 Dec. Matthew 2:1-6
19 Dec. Matthew 2:7-9
20 Dec. Matthew 2:10-12
21 Dec. Matthew 2:13-14
22 Dec. Matthew 2:14-15
23 Dec. Matthew 2:16-18
24 Dec. Matthew 2:19-23
25 Dec. John 1:1-14
26 Dec. Luke 2:40-43
27 Dec. Luke 2:43-52
28 Dec. Hebrews 1:1-4
29 Dec. Hebrews 3:1-4:1
30 Dec. Hebrews 4:14-5:6
31 Dec. Hebrews 9:1-5,11-15
1 Jan. Genesis 1:1 - 2:3
2 Jan. Genesis 2:4-24
3 Jan. Genesis 2:8-17
4 Jan. Genesis 3:1-23
5 Jan. Genesis 4:1-16
6 Jan. Genesis 4:17-26
7 Jan. Genesis 6:5-22
8 Jan. Genesis 7:11-24
9 Jan. Genesis 8:1-17
10 Jan. Genesis 9:1-16
11 Jan. Genesis 10:11-12,32
12 Jan. Genesis 11:1-9
13 Jan. Genesis 11:27&37,12:1-7
14 Jan. Genesis 12:6,8-20
15 Jan. Genesis 13:1-18
16 Jan. Genesis 14:8-20
17 Jan. Genesis 15:1-11,17-21
18 Jan. Genesis 16:1-16
19 Jan. Genesis 17:1-16
20 Jan. Genesis 18:1-16
21 Jan. Genesis 19:1-26
22 Jan. Genesis 21:1-21
23 Jan. Genesis 22:1-18
24 Jan. Genesis 23:1-19
25 Jan. Genesis 24:1-61
26 Jan. Genesis 24:61-67
27 Jan. Genesis 25:1-11
28 Jan. Genesis 25:19-21,24-34
29 Jan. Genesis 26:1-9,12-15,23-25
30 Jan. Genesis 27:1-23,30-33,42-45
31 Jan. Genesis 28:10-22
1 Feb. Genesis 29:1-30
2 Feb. Genesis 29:31-35,30:1-12,17-24
3 Feb. Genesis 30:25-43
4 Feb. Genesis 31:1-21
5 Feb. Genesis 31:25-55
6 Feb. Genesis 32:1-8,13,22-30
7 Feb. Genesis 33:1-11
8 Feb. Genesis 33:12-20
9 Feb. Genesis 35:1-7
10 Feb. Genesis 35:9-15
11 Feb. Genesis 35:16-21,27-29
12 Feb. Genesis 37:1-11
13 Feb. Genesis 37:12-24
14 Feb. Genesis 37:25-34
15 Feb. Genesis 39:1-6
16 Feb. Genesis 39:6-22
17 Feb. Genesis 40:1-23
18 Feb. Genesis 41:1-14
19 Feb. Genesis 41:15-37
20 Feb. Genesis 41:39-57
21 Feb. Genesis 42:1-38
22 Feb. Genesis 43:1-33
23 Feb. Genesis 45:1-28
24 Feb. Genesis 46:1-7,28-30
25 Feb. Genesis 47:1-7,11-12,27-31
26 Feb. Genesis 50:1-26
27 Feb. Exodus 1:1-14
28 Feb. Exodus 1:15-22
1 Mar. Exodus 2:1-10
2 Mar. Exodus 2:11-15
3 Mar. Exodus 2:16-22
4 Mar. Exodus 3:1-10
5 Mar. Exodus 3:11-20
6 Mar. Exodus 4:1-17
7 Mar. Exodus 4:18-31
8 Mar. Exodus 5:1-21
9 Mar. Exodus 5:22-6:9
10 Mar. Exodus 7:14-21
11 Mar. Exodus 11:1-10
12 Mar. Exodus 12:1-17
13 Mar. Exodus 12:21-30
14 Mar. Exodus 12:29-40
15 Mar. Exodus 13:17-14:4
16 Mar. Exodus 14:5-31
17 Mar. Exodus 15:1-27
18 Mar. Exodus 16:1-18,31
19 Mar. Exodus 17:1-7
20 Mar. Exodus 17:8-16
21 Mar. Exodus 18:1-27
22 Mar. Exodus 19:1-11,14-19
23 Mar. Exodus 20:1-20
24 Mar. Exodus 21:1-23:17
25 Mar. Exodus 24:12-18
26 Mar. Exodus 25:1-26,33
27 Mar. Exodus 32:1-20
28 Mar. Exodus 32:21-35
29 Mar. Exodus 34:1-22,27-29
30 Mar. Exodus 40:1-21,33-36
31 Mar. Leviticus 1;1-14:4
1 Apr. Numbers 1:1-2:34
2 Apr. Numbers 10:11-11:35
3 Apr. Numbers 12:1-16
4 Apr. Numbers 13:1-33
5 Apr. Numbers 14:1-38
6 Apr. Numbers 14:41-45
7 Apr. Numbers 16:1-40
8 Apr. Numbers 16:41-17:11
9 Apr. Numbers 20:1-13
10 Apr. Numbers 20:14-21:4
11 Apr. Numbers 21:4-9
12 Apr. Numbers 21:10-20
13 Apr. Numbers 21:21-35
14 Apr. Numbers 22:1-24:25
15 Apr. Numbers 25:1-18
16 Apr. Numbers 26:1-65
17 Apr. Numbers 27:12-23
18 Apr. Numbers 31:1-16,25-31
19 Apr. Numbers 32:1-38
20 Apr. Numbers 34:1-18,35:1-12
21 Apr. Deuteronomy 8:1-11
22 Apr. Deuteronomy 34:1-12
23 Apr. Joshua 1:1-18
24 Apr. Joshua 2:1-24
25 Apr. Joshua 3:1-17
26 Apr. Joshua 4:1-24,5:1
27 Apr. Joshua 6:1-27
28 Apr. Joshua 7:1-26
29 Apr. Joshua 8:1-29
30 Apr. Joshua 8:30-35
1 May. Joshua 9:1-27
2 May. Joshua 10:1-28
3 May. Joshua 10:29-43
4 May. Joshua 11:1-14
5 May. Joshua 13:1-8,14:1-4,18:1
6 May. Joshua 20:1-9
7 May. Joshua 22:1-16,21,28,30-34
8 May. Joshua 23:1-16,24:14-16,22-27
9 May. Joshua 24:29-33
10 May. Judges 1:1-11,17-19
11 May. Judges 2:1-5,10-15
12 May. Judges 2:16-23
13 May. Judges 3:5-11
14 May. Judges 3:12-30
15 May. Judges 4:1-24,5:31
16 May. Judges 6:1-27
17 May. Judges 6:33-40
18 May. Judges 7:1-25
19 May. Judges 8:4-28
20 May. Judges 8:29-9:21
21 May. Judges 9:22-49
22 May. Judges 9:50-57
23 May. Judges 10:1-16
24 May. Judges 10:17-11:33
25 May. Judges 11:30-31,34-40
26 May. Judges 12:1-6
27 May. Judges 12:7-15,13:1
28 May. Judges 13:2-25
29 May. Judges 14:1-11
30 May. Judges 14:12-20
31 May. Judges 15:1-8
1 June Judges 15:9-20
2 June Judges 16:1-3
3 June Judges 16:4-15
4 June Judges 16:16-31
5 June Judges 17:1-13
6 June Judges 18:1-31
7 June Judges 19:1-30
8 June Judges 20:1-48
9 June Judges 21:1-23
10 June Job 1:1-22
11 June Job 2:1-13
12 June Job 3:11-13:8
13 June Job 38:1-42:17
14 June Ruth 1:1-22
15 June Ruth 2:1-23
16 June Ruth 3:1-18
17 June Ruth 4:1-17
18 June 1 Samuel 1:1-20
19 June 1 Samuel 1:21-2:2
20 June 1 Samuel 2:11-12,18-26
21 June 1 Samuel 3:1-21
22 June 1 Samuel 4:1-18
23 June 1 Samuel 5:1-12
24 June 1 Samuel 6:1-21,7:1
25 June 1 Samuel 7:2-17
26 June 1 Samuel 8:1-22
27 June 1 Samuel 9:1-27,10:1
28 June 1 Samuel 10:1-11
29 June 1 Samuel 10:13-25
30 June 1 Samuel 11:1-15
1 July 1 Samuel 12:1-25
2 July 1 Samuel 13:2-7
3 July 1 Samuel 13:8-15
4 July 1 Samuel 14:1-23
5 July 1 Samuel 14:24-46
6 July 1 Samuel 14:47-15:9
7 July 1 Samuel 15:10-31
8 July 1 Samuel 16:1-13
9 July 1 Samuel 16:14-23
10 July 1 Samuel 17:1-52
11 July 1 Samuel 17:57-58,18:1-16
12 July 1 Samuel 18:17-29
13 July 1 Samuel 19:1-18
14 July 1 Samuel 20:1-47
15 July 1 Samuel 21:1-9
16 July 1 Samuel 21:10-11,22:1-5
17 July 1 Samuel 22:6-19
18 July 1 Samuel 23:1-13
19 July 1 Samuel 24:1-22
20 July 1 Samuel 25:1-44
21 July 1 Samuel 26:1-25
22 July 1 Samuel 27:1-12
23 July 1 Samuel 28:1-20
24 July 1 Samuel 29:1-11
25 July 1 Samuel 30:1-31
26 July 1 Samuel 31:1-13
27 July 2 Samuel 1:1-16
28 July 2 Samuel 2:1-7
29 July 2 Samuel 2:8-17
30 July 2 Samuel 3:1,6-21
31 July 2 Samuel 3:22-32
1 Aug. 2 Samuel 4:1-12
2 Aug. 2 Samuel 5:1-12
3 Aug. 2 Samuel 5:17-25
4 Aug. 2 Samuel 6:1-23
5 Aug. 2 Samuel 7:1-17
6 Aug. 2 Samuel 8:1-14
7 Aug. 2 Samuel 9:1-13
8 Aug. 2 Samuel 10:1-14
9 Aug. 2 Samuel 11:1-17,26-27
10 Aug. 2 Samuel 12:1-18
11 Aug. 2 Samuel 12:24-31
12 Aug. 2 Samuel 13:1-39
13 Aug. 2 Samuel 14:21-33
14 Aug. 2 Samuel 15:1-12
15 Aug. 2 Samuel 15:13-37
16 Aug. 2 Samuel 16:1-22
17 Aug. 2 Samuel 17:1-29
18 Aug. 2 Samuel 18:1-33
19 Aug. 2 Samuel 19:1-18
20 Aug. 1 Kings 1:5-27
21 Aug. 1 Kings 1:28-53
22 Aug. 1 Kings 2:1-12
23 Aug. 1 Kings 2:13-46
24 Aug. 1 Kings 3:1-15
25 Aug. 1 Kings 3:16-28
26 Aug. 1 Kings 4:7,20-34
27 Aug. 1 Kings 5:1-18
28 Aug. 1 Kings 6:1-22,38
29 Aug. 1 Kings 7:1-12
30 Aug. 1 Kings 7:13-30,37-38,45-46
31 Aug. 1 Kings 8:1-11
1 Sept. 1 Kings 8:22-34,54-57,62-63
2 Sept. 1 Kings 9:1-9
3 Sept. 1 Kings 10:1-10,13
4 Sept. 1 Kings 11:1-13
5 Sept. 1 Kings 11:14-40
6 Sept. 1 Kings 11:42-12:20
7 Sept. 1 Kings 12:25-33
8 Sept. 1 Kings 14:1-20
9 Sept. 1 Kings 14:21-31
10 Sept. 1 Kings 15:1-16
11 Sept. 1 Kings 15:25-29,17-24
12 Sept. 1 Kings 16:1-22
13 Sept. 1 Kings 16:23-28
14 Sept. 1 Kings 16:29-33
15 Sept. 1 Kings 17:1-16
16 Sept. 1 Kings 17:17-24
17 Sept. 1 Kings 18:1-9,15-21
18 Sept. 1 Kings 18:22-40
19 Sept. 1 Kings 18:41-46
20 Sept. 1 Kings 19:1-18
21 Sept. 1 Kings 19:19-21
22 Sept. 1 Kings 20:1-22
23 Sept. 1 Kings 21:1-16
24 Sept. 1 Kings 21:17-29
25 Sept. 1 Kings 22:1-40
26 Sept. 2 Kings 1:1-18
27 Sept. 2 Kings 2:1-15
28 Sept. 2 Kings 3:1-27
29 Sept. 2 Kings 2:19-22,4:1-7
30 Sept. 2 Kings 4:8-37
1 Oct. 2 Kings 4:38-44
2 Oct. 2 Kings 5:1-15
3 Oct. 2 Kings 6:8-23
4 Oct. 2 Kings 8:7-15
5 Oct. 2 Kings 9:1-25
6 Oct. 2 Kings 9:30-37
7 Oct. 2 Kings 12:1-12
8 Oct. 2 Kings 13:1-9
9 Oct. 2 Kings 13:14-21
10 Oct. 2 Kings 14:23-29
11 Oct. 2 Kings 15:19-20,16:15-18
12 Oct. 2 Kings 17:1-18
13 Oct. 2 Kings 17:24-34
14 Oct. 2 Kings 18:1-8
15 Oct. 2 Kings 18:13-21,28-31,36
16 Oct. 2 Kings 19:1-10,19-20,32-36
17 Oct. 2 Kings 20:1-11
18 Oct. 2 Kings 20:12-21
19 Oct. 2 Kings 22:1-13
20 Oct. 2 Kings 23:1-4,8-11,21-25
21 Oct. 2 Kings 23:29-37
22 Oct. 2 Kings 24:1-7
23 Oct. 2 Kings 24:8-18
24 Oct. 2 Kings 25:1-21
25 Oct. Daniel 1:1-17
26 Oct. Daniel 3:9-15,19-20,24-30
27 Oct. Daniel 5:1-13,16-18,20-31
28 Oct. Daniel 6:1-11,16-17,19-23
29 Oct. Daniel 7:1-9,11-14,16-18
30 Oct. Daniel 11:1-9
31 Oct. Daniel 12:1-13
1 Nov. Ezra 1:1-11
2 Nov. Ezra 2:1-70
3 Nov. Ezra 3:1-13
4 Nov. Ezra 4:1-13,19-21
5 Nov. Ezra 5:1-9,6:1-4.13-22
6 Nov. Ezra 7:1-6,11-23,8:31-36
7 Nov. Nehemiah 1:1-4,2:1-10
8 Nov. Nehemiah 2:11-20
9 Nov. Nehemiah 4:1-23
10 Nov. Nehemiah 5:1-16,6:1-3,15-16
11 Nov. Nehemiah 8:1-12
12 Nov. Nehemiah 12:27-43
13 Nov. Esther 2:1-18
14 Nov. Esther 2:19-23
15 Nov. Esther 3:1-13
16 Nov. Esther 4:1-16
17 Nov. Esther 5:1-14
18 Nov. Esther 6:1-14
19 Nov. Esther 7:1-10
20 Nov. Esther 8:1-14
21 Nov. Esther 9:1-17,24-28
22 Nov. Amos 1:1-15,2:1-2
23 Nov. Amos 5:1-7,10-15
24 Nov. Hosea 1:1-11
25 Nov. Hosea 9:1-9
26 Nov. Micah 1:1-9
27 Nov. Micah 4:1-5,5:1-5
28 Nov. Isaiah 1:1-7,11-20
29 Nov. Isaiah 7:1-17,8:3-4
30 Nov. Isaiah 9:1-7
1 Dec. Isaiah 10:28-34,11:1-10
2 Dec. Isaiah 40:1-11
3 Dec. Isaiah 44:1-11
4 Dec. Isaiah 45:1-7,13-17
5 Dec. Isaiah 52:13-15,53:1-12
6 Dec. Isaiah 60:1-14
7 Dec. Nahum 2:1-13
8 Dec. Jeremiah 6:1-8,13-23
9 Dec. Jeremiah 7:1-11
10 Dec. Jeremiah 18:1-12
11 Dec. Jeremiah 19:1-13
12 Dec. Jeremiah 23:1-8
13 Dec. Jeremiah 26:1-15
14 Dec. Jeremiah 29:1-12
15 Dec. Zephaniah 1:1-13
16 Dec. Habakkuk 1:1-13
17 Dec. Ezekiel 1:1-17,22-28
18 Dec. Ezekiel 10:1-19,11:22-24
19 Dec. Ezekiel 17:1-10
20 Dec. Ezekiel 33:21-26,34:1-24
21 Dec. Ezekiel 37:1-14
22 Dec. Ezekiel 40:1-31
23 Dec. Ezekiel 43:1-12
24 Dec. Obadiah 1:1-11
25 Dec. Haggai 1:1-15
26 Dec. Zechariah 1:1-6
27 Dec. Zechariah 9:9-17
28 Dec. Zechariah 14:1-11
29 Dec. Malachi 3:1-5,4:1-6
30 Dec. Joel 2:1-11
31 Dec. Joel 2:25-32
Bible Journey 1
1. The World of the New Testament Journeys
2. John the Baptist's Journeys
3. Jesus's Childhood Journeys
4. Jesus's Journeys around Galilee
5. Jesus's Journeys beyond Galilee
6. Jesus's Last Journey to Jerusalem
7. Journeys of Jesus's Followers
8. Paul's Journey to Damascus
9. Paul's Journey to Cyprus, Pamphylia & Galatia
10. Paul's Journey to Phrygia, Macedonia & Archaia
11. Paul's Journey to Ephesus, Philippi & Corinth
12. Paul's Journey to Rome
13. Paul's Letters to Galatia & Thessalonica
14. Paul's Letters to Corinth & Rome
15. Paul's Letters to Ephesus, Colossae & Philippi
16. Paul's Letters to Timothy & Titus
17. The Letter to the Jewish believers in Antioch
18. Letters from James, Jude & Peter
19. John's Letters to the believers in Asia Minor
20. John's Revelation to the 7 Churches of Asia
21. The Romano-Jewish world of the New Testament

Lk. 2:1-5 Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem in Judaea , where Joseph’s family live (see 1 on Map 4 ). The journey takes four or five days as Nazareth is 65 miles / 105 km north of Jerusalem (in a straight line), while Bethlehem is a hilltop town situated on a ridge near the edge of the Judaean desert , 5 miles / 8km south of Jerusalem .

Map 4 The Birth of Jesus

The Roman Census

Luke, writing his gospel in 60-62AD for a Roman audience (see Luke 1:3), gives the census ordered by Augustus Caesar (who was emperor from 27BC to 14AD) as the reason why Mary and Joseph travelled from Nazareth to Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus (see Luke 2:1-3 and 1 on Map 4 ). He explains that, as men had to register at their home town (so they could be taxed by the Romans), Mary and Joseph went to Bethlehem because Joseph was a descendent of King David and Joseph’s family came from Bethlehem (see Matthew 1:1 & 1 Samuel 16:1&13). Luke states that the census took place when Quirinius was the Roman governor of Syria .

The Jewish historian Josephus confirms that a general taxation was indeed overseen by Cyrenius (Quirinius). He notes, however, that Cyrenius was appointed as Governor of the province of Syria when the Romans deposed Archelaus (Herod the Great’s son) as ruler of Judaea in 6AD. Judaea was then taken under direct Roman rule and incorporated into the Roman province of Syria . This resulted in a revolt led by Judas of Gamala (‘Judas the Galilean’), a Jewish zealot (see Acts 5:37).

As Jesus was born in 6 or 5BC, this Roman census occurred eleven or twelve years after his birth. As Jesus was born while Herod the Great was King of Judaea , no Roman governor of Syria would have had the jurisdiction to organise a census and general taxation in Judaea at the time of Jesus’s birth.

It appears, therefore, that Luke was mistaken when giving this Roman census as the cause of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem . Whatever the reason, Joseph made the decision to return to his family home in Bethlehem in time for his newly betrothed wife to give birth amongst his close relatives.

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Several years ago I preached a series of sermons inspired by a line from Andrew Peterson’s song “Labor of Love,” in which he sang, “It was not a silent night.” This was not a silent night. Our Christmas carols sometimes miss the reality of what Mary was experiencing that night. We sing, “All is calm, all is bright round yon virgin, mother and child. Holy infant, so tender and mild,” but it was not like that. It was disappointing and depressing and hard. Life can be that way. And the long-awaited Messiah’s birth came in the midst of the messiness and disappointment and pain. He was born, not in a hospital, not even in a guest room, but in a stable, among the animals, with a feeding trough for his first bed.

Our Journeys

In the midst of the hardship that went with Mary and Joseph’s journey, amid the deferred dreams and dashed hopes, God was working to redeem the world. God forces every circumstance, including the oppression of the Roman government, to serve his purpose.

This was not a journey Mary wanted to take. It was not the way she imagined it would be. And of course this was not to be the last of Mary’s unwanted journeys. A short time after Jesus’ birth, Herod would try to kill the child, and she and Joseph would take the infant Jesus and flee to Egypt as refugees. Thirty-three years later, there would be another journey she would take with her son, this time down the Via Dolorosa as she followed him to Calvary.

We will each take unwanted journeys in life. I think of those I know who have been laid off work; those who are battling cancer; a family whose child has struggled with drug addiction; people I see each week whose spouses have left; parents who have lost children. You know plenty of others, I’m sure. Life will have its moments of disappointment, its times of overwhelming sorrow and intense pain. But the good news of Scripture is that God not only walks with us on these journeys; God redeems them and brings good from them. The Bible is filled with such stories.

Jacob’s son Joseph was sold as a slave by his brothers, then wound up in Egypt, falsely accused and thrown into prison. But that was not the end of Joseph’s story.

David fled into the wilderness when King Saul tried to kill him. He stayed among the Philistines for a couple of years, writing psalms that asked God, “Why do you allow my enemies to prosper? When are you going to save me?” He did not want to take this journey. But that was not the end of David’s story.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were told to bow down and worship the Babylonian king’s image; if they refused they would be thrown into the fiery furnace. Surely they did not wish to take this journey to the fiery furnace. But that was not the end of their story.

The people of Judah were taken captive and marched to Babylon, where they would live in exile for fifty years. But that was not the end of their story. And the child who would be born in a stable in Bethlehem would walk to Calvary. But that would not be the end of his story.

All of us take unwanted journeys, but God always walks with us on these journeys. God works through them and redeems them, and these difficult journeys will never be the end of our story!

In hindsight, we can see what Mary couldn’t as she entered that stable, her contractions getting closer and closer together. She couldn’t yet hear the angels singing, couldn’t see the shepherds running to the stable, couldn’t know that the magi were already on their way with their gifts to pay homage to the little king. And she certainly couldn’t see that you would be reading her story two thousand years later, reflecting upon its meaning for your life.

Zechariah the prophet spoke to the people of his day who were themselves discouraged with how hard their journey had been. They were ready to give up hope. But he reminded them that one day God would send a king who would deliver his people. Then he called God’s people something interesting. He called them “prisoners of hope”:

As for you also, because of the blood of my covenant with you, I will set your prisoners free from the waterless pit. Return to your stronghold, O prisoners of hope; today I declare that I will restore to you double. (9:11-12)

I love this line. We are all called to be prisoners of hope—captured by hope, bound by it, unable to let go of it.

Hope is a decision we make, a choice to believe that God can take the adversity, the disappointment, the heartache, and the pain of our journeys and use these to accomplish his purposes. This is precisely what we see happening in Mary’s story—in the journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem and in giving birth in a stable among the animals—where we see hope born in the midst of disappointment. We want to whisper to Mary, “Don’t cry. God is here, even among the animals, and people will draw hope from your story until the end of time.”

I invite you, regardless of the journey you are on, to trust, to have faith, and to hope that your difficult journeys will never be the end of your story, because God is by your side. Invite God to use your disappointments to accomplish God’s purposes. It was just such hope, I believe, that kept Mary going on that long, difficult journey to Bethlehem.

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Journeys of Mary and Joseph Map

Nazareth is the hometown of Mary and Joseph. In 5 B.C., just before the birth of Christ, the Romans require them to travel to their ancestral home (they were both of the lineage of King David) of Bethlehem. The couple travels the roughly 80 miles (about 129 kilometers) to the city, where Christ will be ultimately born in a stable and laid in a manger (Luke 2:1 - 20).

Jesus Is Circumcised

Jesus' birth, which occurs on or around the Feast of Trumpets (September 2 in 5 B.C.) fulfills the prophecy found in Micah 5:2. Joseph, on the eighth day after Mary gives birth, takes the family to Jerusalem so that the Lord can be circumcised according to the law of God (Luke 2:21).

Presented to God

Forty days after Jesus is born, fulfilling the purification requirement of Leviticus 12, Mary and Joseph travel to Jerusalem's temple to present him before God. The trip is only 6 miles (9.6 kilometers) long. His parents make an offering to the temple of two young birds. It is during their visit that a priest named Simeon prophesied about Jesus' mission in life and blessed his parents.

Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary, His mother, "Behold, this Child is set for the fall and rising up of many in Israel, and for a sign that shall be spoken against, "(And you also, a sword shall go through your own soul) in order that the imaginations of many hearts may be revealed." (Luke 2:34 - 35, HBFV).

Before Mary and Joseph leave the temple to return home a woman named Anna, a widowed prophetess who lived in Jerusalem, praises the Lord when she learns of Jesus' birth.

Now there was Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about eighty-four years . . . And at the same time she came up, giving praise to the Lord; and she spoke concerning Him to all those in Jerusalem who were waiting for redemption (Luke 2:36 - 38, HBFV).

The family then makes the short trip back to Bethlehem.

Back to Bethlehem

In Bethlehem, Jesus' family is living in a home and not a stable (Matthew 2:11). The wise men (Magi) from the East, guided by a star (an angel), arrive to worship the King of Kings with Mary in attendance.

And when they had come into the house, they found the little Child with Mary His mother, and they bowed down and worshiped Him; then they opened their treasures and presented their gifts to Him - gold and frankincense and myrrh (Matthew 2:22, HBFV).

After the wise men leave, Joseph is told (in a dream) to flee to Egypt (verse 13). He is informed of this because Herod the Great will soon issue a command that all male children two years old and younger, in and around Bethlehem, are to be put to death (Matthew 2:16).

Now after they (the Magi) had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, "Arise and take the little Child and His mother, and escape into Egypt, and remain there until I shall tell you; for Herod is about to seek the little Child to destroy Him." (Matthew 2:13, HBFV).

Mass Murder

Herod's cruel actions fulfill a prophecy regarding the slaughter of innocent children (Jeremiah 31:15). Their journey from Bethlehem to what is Egyptian-controlled territory (which was outside the jurisdiction of Herod) was at least 65 kilometers (40 miles).

After Herod dies in early 4 B.C., Joseph has a dream where an angel tells him it is safe to return to Israel. Mary and the family's trip to and from Egypt is a fulfillment of Bible prophecy (Hosea 11:1). They soon begin their travel back to Judea and Bethlehem.

Return to Bethlehem?

However, as Mary and Joseph approach Judea, it is discovered that Herod Archelaus, the eldest surviving son of Herod the Great, is the new ruler of the area. Like his father, Archelaus rules with tyranny and cruelty. John Gills' Exposition of the Bible states that one time he sent his entire army into Jerusalem's temple, at Passover, in order to kill 3,000 men suspected of sedition.

Joseph's fears about living within Judea are confirmed when God sends him a warning in a dream.

. . . an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in Egypt in a dream, saying, "Arise and take the little Child and His mother, and go into the land of Israel; for those who were seeking the life of the little Child have died." And he arose and took the little Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning over Judea instead of Herod his father, he was afraid to go there; and after being divinely instructed in a dream, he went into the parts of Galilee (Matthew 2:19 - 22, HBFV).

The family, instead of going back to Bethlehem, continue their journey and go northward to their hometown of Nazareth (Matthew 2:22 - 23). The city is part of Galilee, which is ruled by a another son of Herod the Great named Herod Antipas. This son had a slightly less violent disposition than Archelaus.

A Long Journey

The travels of Mary and Joseph from Egyptian territory all the way north to Nazareth is a journey of more than 140 miles (225 kilometers, see Luke 2:39 - 40)! Jesus spends his childhood and young adult years living in Nazareth (which fulfills the prophecy stated in Matthew 2:23).

After the death of his step-father sometime between his 12th and 30th birthday, Jesus continues to live in Nazareth until he journeys to Capernaum to begin his public ministry.

Map References Holy Bible, a Faithful Version John Gills' Exposition of the Bible

“Journey to Bethlehem” – Now Available on YouVersion

3 Lessons We Can Learn from Mary and Joseph’s Journey to Bethlehem

The setting of Bethlehem and the reason for the couple’s journey are significant. God was working even when outsiders seemed to be in charge or when the circumstances made Mary and Joseph’s mission more challenging.

In recent years, film adaptations of the biblical Christmas story have been popular. The Star (2017) presented the story from the perspective of a donkey and other animals, while Journey to Bethlehem (2023) is a musical retelling of the events surrounding Jesus’ birth.

Using creativity and new perspectives, these movies present the story that so many of us are familiar with in a fresh way.

Central to these films is Mary and Joseph’s trip to Bethlehem. When reading Luke’s Gospel , we might assume that the journey to the small city was insignificant because it happened so quickly in the narrative.

However, the setting of Bethlehem and the reason for the couple’s journey are significant. God was working even when outsiders seemed to be in charge or when the circumstances made Mary and Joseph’s mission more challenging.

Let’s explore three lessons we can learn from the couple’s journey to Bethlehem.

1. The Lord Is in Control of Events

Caesar Augustus made a decree that required everyone to return to their hometown to register for the census ( Luke 2:1-3 ). This decree applied to all those in the Roman world, including the Jewish people.

When Joseph heard about the decree, he knew that he would be required to return to his hometown of Bethlehem to register.

We can easily read about the census and wonder why a Roman emperor would suddenly decide to calculate a census. Augustus probably thought he was acting on his own, but he was not. God was working and used this instance to move Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem.

Mary could not have stayed in Nazareth because the Old Testament prophecy stated that the Messiah would be born in the small town of Bethlehem ( Micah 5:2 ). Although the couple likely knew about the prophecy, the census forced Joseph to make the journey and take Mary with him.

Although Caesar Augustus seemed to be in control of the census, the Lord was the One who was working in the events to fulfill His purpose and promise. God used the political situation to ensure that Jesus was born in Bethlehem and to show that He was a descendant of David ( Luke 2:3 ).

We can learn from this lesson, recognizing that God is ultimately in control. Sometimes, it may seem like the government or a ruler is in charge of circumstances.

However, Scripture teaches that God “controls the course of world events” ( Daniel 2:21 , NLT). The Lord has been and forever will be Sovereign over all ( 1 Chronicles 29:11-12 ).

2. God Can Use Unexpected and Inconvenient Circumstances for His Purposes

The circumstances surrounding Mary and Joseph’s trip to Bethlehem were unexpected and inconvenient.

No one knew in advance that Caesar Augustus was going to require a census from the Roman world. People had jobs to complete and lives to lead. Joseph and Mary were no different.

Mary also would not have enjoyed traveling the distance between Nazareth and Bethlehem. Nativity sets and some Christmas movies depict Mary riding on a donkey to Bethlehem, but Luke does not give us any details about how the couple traveled or if they had the assistance of an animal.

The trip was likely not a welcome or pleasant one, especially for a woman in the latter stages of pregnancy.

Traveling to Bethlehem was difficult enough, but their troubles increased. Once they arrived and stayed in the town, Mary went into labor.

The couple would have appreciated a room, but none could be found. Due to the registration for the census, the small town was overcrowded. The only spare place they could stay, and where Mary could give birth, was where the animals were kept.

Tradition teaches that Jesus was born in a cave, though some scholars have offered other views. During that time, houses had a section for livestock, which is possibly where Joseph and Mary stayed when there was no room at the inn or spare rooms in other houses.

Regardless of the exact location, Mary did not have the luxury of a room when she gave birth to Christ.

These circumstances were difficult and involved discomfort, but God worked out the events according to His purposes. Jesus was born in Bethlehem, as the prophecy foretold.

Why Does a Good God Allow Evil Things to Happen?

Also, being placed in a manger after birth, though not the ideal place for a baby, showed Christ’s humble beginning on the earth. This humbleness would mark His earthly ministry.

At times, we, too, can experience events that we did not expect or plan. These events may come at inconvenient moments when we are in pain or struggling.

However, we can trust that “God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” ( Romans 8:28 ). The Lord can use anything, including inconveniences and interruptions, to accomplish His plan.

3. Following God Requires Trust and Perseverance

When reading the Bible, it can be challenging to remember that the individuals who went through the events did not know what was going to happen to them.

Mary knew that she was pregnant through the power of the Holy Spirit and would give birth to a son ( Luke 1:35 ).

However, no one had told her she would have to travel while pregnant and give birth in a place meant for livestock.

Likewise, Joseph did not expect to have to travel with Mary to Bethlehem for a royal census. But what could he do? He could not ignore the decree or postpone the trip.

Surely, Joseph and Mary would have had questions about why there were obstacles in their way, or at least what they perceived as obstacles.

Regardless of the events, they continued to trust in the Lord and the message He had given them. Mary faithfully followed the Lord, even when the pregnancy made traveling a burden.

Joseph, too, obeyed God’s instructions, taking Mary as his wife and caring for her. They persevered in the challenges, trusting in the Lord’s plan. He gave them strength for their important journey.

We may struggle with the circumstances in our lives, feeling like Mary and Joseph as they trekked to Bethlehem, not knowing what would happen. At times, our lives can feel uncertain.

Problem after problem arises, and we feel overwhelmed by a flood of doubts and questions. However, in these moments, we need to persevere in our faith, remembering that God is good and trustworthy. He will give us strength for the various journeys of life.

Why Does This Matter?

Mary and Joseph’s trip to Bethlehem to register in the census seems like a small detail in Luke’s Gospel, but it is significant. God was working even when the governing authorities seemed to be in control, or interruptions arose. He was accomplishing His plans and fulfilling His promises.

We can learn from these biblical events, knowing that God is Sovereign and that He can use anything to accomplish his will, including disruptions and inconveniences. In times of struggle and difficulty, we must continue persevering in faith and trusting the Lord’s faithfulness.

We may not understand immediately how the situations in our lives fit God’s plan, but we can rest in the knowledge that the Lord is good and trustworthy.

For further reading:

How Old Was Joseph When He Married Mary?

How Old Was Joseph When Jesus Was Born?

Did Mary and Joseph Really Stay in a Cave?

Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/gldcreations

Sophia Bricker is a freelance writer who enjoys researching and writing articles on biblical and theological topics. In addition to contributing articles about biblical questions as a contract writer, she has also written for Unlocked devotional. She holds a BA in Ministry, a MA in Ministry, and is currently pursuing an MFA in Creative Writing to develop her writing craft. As someone who is passionate about the Bible and faith in Jesus, her mission is to help others learn about Christ and glorify Him in her writing. When she isn’t busy studying or writing, Sophia enjoys spending time with family, reading, drawing, and gardening.

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Joy In Truth

Living the Catholic life, always and everywhere for God

What Was Mary and Joseph’s Journey to Bethlehem Like?

December 23, 2023 by Deacon Frederick Bartels 8 Comments

Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem was no easy trip. After such a long, dangerous and grueling journey, Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, a name which means “house of bread.” It is fitting that the Christ-Child born there is the bread of life who gives himself—his flesh and blood—as food for eternal life.

By Deacon Frederick Bartels 12 January 2019

When we think of Christmas, we often think of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, the city of David in which Jesus was born. The pregnant and delicate Mary riding on a donkey, Joseph confidently leading the way as her husband and protector with staff in hand, the demanding and dangerous trip to Bethlehem, finding no room available at the inn upon their arrival and thus giving birth to Jesus in a cave that served as a stable. But what would the trip to Bethlehem have been like for Mary and Joseph and the Child in her womb?

To answer that question, we have to begin by considering what Mary was like. When we think of her, we often think of pious images of a delicate, light-skinned woman adorned in unblemished, ornate robes whose hands never saw a day of laundry. As wonderful as these sacred images are, they cannot possibly convey accurately the real Mary as a poor first-century Palestinian Jewish girl—albeit a singularly extraordinary one.

Read: A Christmas Reflection on Trust in Providence.

There’s no reason to think Mary was anything but intimately familiar with long days of hard work, as were other Jewish women of her place and time whose daily lives entailed various challenges far removed from technologically advanced, modern-day lives in first world nations. Mary likely began her day at sunrise by preparing a meal, perhaps of bread and olive oil with dried fish. Water needed to be carried and stored for drinking, cleaning, bathing and washing clothes. Food, such as ground wheat-flour, had to be collected and prepared; firewood gathered for cooking and providing warmth in winter; clothes laundered. Consequently, Mary’s work-day was perhaps ten hours long. To keep up, she had to be strong and efficient.

Joseph would be no less familiar with tough times and demanding labor. His days as a tradesman—a carpenter—began at sunup and continued until the light had gone or nearly so. He was strong and resilient, with rough, calloused hands.

It’s likely neither Mary nor Joseph were literate, as was typical of the majority of people in their day. They would have spoke Aramaic and had a familiarity with Latin and Greek. Some historical scholars believe that, in Nazareth, Mary and Joseph lived in what might be described as a small housing complex, as was often typical. It consisted of perhaps four small, one-room houses made of stone with dirt floors, connected by a central courtyard used for cooking and gathering. It was often the case that family members or kin shared these complexes, which helped them—especially the women—to share the heavy load of daily tasks.

Mary and Joseph, of course, lived under the burden of Roman judicial and military rule. They were taxed by both Temple and Rome; they had firsthand experience with the painful gap of inequality between rich and poor, and the oppressive economic and social policies of the Roman Empire:

The social and economic policy of the Roman Empire could well be summarised in a phrase: “the Roman system of inequality.” Governing the entire Mediterranean world, Rome maintained its domination through judicial institutions developing legislation concerning property ownership and labour control – and through the use of brutal force. The whole system was based heavily on the inequality of people, which was thought to be either natural or at least inevitable, in order to secure peace and stability in the society. Häkkinen, Sakari. (2016). Poverty in the first-century Galilee. HTS Theological Studies, 72(4), 1-9.

Yet the society in which Mary and Joseph lived was not at all stable, let alone peaceful. All of this serves as a backdrop for the 90 mile journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem—initiated by Joseph’s requirement to participate in a Roman census. Mary and Joseph were familiar with hardship, which means the journey, as difficult and grueling as it was, would not have greatly intimidated the Holy Family.

But what was it like? Do we really have any idea? Probably not. It was difficult, strenuous and highly dangerous. The gospels fail to convey just how challenging it was. James Strange , a New Testament and biblical archeology professor, had this to say: Writers of the gospels of Matthew and Luke “are so laconic about the [Nativity] event because they assume the reader would know what it was like. [W]e have no idea how difficult it was.”

How long would it have taken to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem? People could perhaps travel about twenty miles a day. However, given Mary’s late stage of pregnancy, that number would have been much less, perhaps around ten miles a day. This means their journey likely took place over a ten-day period.

The hazards were many. Wild animals, bandits, desert robbers—all these and more factored into the nature of the trip. The valley of the Jordan river was a forested refuge for lions, bears and wild boar. Archeologists have uncovered signs warning travelers of these kinds of dangers ( ibid .).

Assuming the Holy Family traveled in winter and Jesus was born in December (there’s no hard evidence indicating he was not), it’s possible the Holy Family may have encountered cold temperatures. The record low for Bethlehem is 25° (since these records have been maintained, which is only recently). However, severe weather in the area of Nazareth and Bethlehem is rare. Normally in December and January, lows are around 41° with highs into the upper 40s and above (temperatures can reach into the 70s). Nevertheless, their travel experience was far different than it is today, lacking, as it did, modern-day conveniences made possible by a broad network of paved roads and automobiles. Consequently, warm clothing would be required for nighttime temperatures and a fire would need to be lit for warmth and to help stave off hungry predators. Additionally, rain is possible in the wet season, which runs from October through April.

For provisions, Mary and Joseph would have relied on bread, herbs and oil, with perhaps some dried fish as an extra protein-boosting treat. Water would need to be carried, perhaps in wineskins.

After such a long, dangerous and grueling trip, Mary and Joseph arrived in Bethlehem, a name which means “house of bread.” It is fitting that the Christ-Child born there is the bread of life who gives himself—his flesh and blood—as food for eternal life. But, due to the census, Bethlehem is overcrowded. There is no room in the inn. There is no room for Mary and Joseph anywhere, except in a cave—likely on the lower level of the inn—used as a stable to house animals, probably the very animals travelers had relied upon to get to Bethlehem, travelers who perhaps had arrived earlier and were staying at the inn.

The omnipotent Creator of the universe assumes human flesh and is born of a poor, young Jewish virgin named Mary, birthed in a stable and laid in a manger of poverty. Heaven comes down to earth. The light of humanity enters the world through the womb of Mary, the Mother of God, where men shun and reject him. God becomes man and takes the form of a slave in service to all. And, all the while, the cross stands erect on the horizon of his earthly life as Jesus of Nazareth.

All of this takes place in order to restore humankind to communion with God. What mystery. What love!

Merry Christmas.

Photo Credit: Pixabay, free use photo.

This post was updated on 14 January 2019 to better reflect temperature conditions in the areas of Nazareth and Bethlehem.

Deacon Frederick Bartels is a member of the Catholic clergy who serves the Church in the diocese of Pueblo. He holds an MA in Theology and Educational Ministry and is a Catholic educator, public speaker, and evangelist who strives to infuse culture with the saving principles of the gospel. For more, visit YouTube , iTunes and Twitter .

Reader Interactions

November 1, 2020 at 03:38

thank you for your writing I have been doing an independent study of Jesus Birth I always figure that there travel would have been a long tough road so to speak. I wonder if they traveled alone or with a group. the Bible does not seem to say. I would think they did because of the dangers. Luke talks about the travel and that when they were in Bethlehem and when it was time for her to give birth there was no room in the Inn. My understanding from what I read was the Inns had no separate room just drape or rug separating floor space and that giving birth would be a difficult and she gave birth in the stable below the inn using a manger as a crib. I am of the understanding the stables were below the inn so that the heart of the animals would rise and warm the Inn. I would love to read more and if available please forward info, Thank you

November 9, 2020 at 19:02

Thank you for this information. It gives a wonderful realistic view of our Lord’s birth. I will be putting some of this information to use this holiday season. I’m trying something new with my family and we will be camping several days over Christmas. Christmas Eve, we will fast and pray and discuss as a family the reality of what Mary and Joseph went through. Christmas day we will celebrate using foods that would have been eaten by the Holy Family. We will sing happy birthday to Jesus and rather than exchange gifts we will have have a treasure hunt for our children. They will be given clues on gold stars and a small baby doll (Jesus) will be hidden. They will search for baby Jesus and the one who finds him will place him in a manger we will set up. A very different Christmas than what my family is used to!

December 8, 2020 at 04:37

Tina, I would love to hear how this different CHristmas goes with your family, I will pray that it will be a meaningful one.

December 19, 2020 at 22:53

Thank you for writing the truth of our Lords birth. And the hardships and Faith Mary and Joseph had. It is easy to commercialize the birth. But as Christian’s, I believe we need to realize the actual hardships they faced. Also to realize the actual commitment of Christianity.

December 21, 2021 at 09:54

I loved this!

November 15, 2022 at 18:32

There is actually ample evidence to prove Jesus was most likely born in September. Do your Berean job and consider when Johns father was told his wife would have a son. Take everything from that moment and add 6 Months for how many Months along Elizabeth was when Mary visited her, and I believe you will agree with me that September is more accurate, and besides, in the Winter, the sheep are not kept out at night in the Winter around Bethlehem, too cold.

November 23, 2022 at 07:51

Chuck Ness,

Did you read the article? Lows in December in and around Bethlehem are normally in the 40s. That’s plenty warm for sheep. The worn out idea that it was too cold for the sheep to be pastured at that time of year has been proven wrong time and time again.

December 28, 2022 at 07:23

Thank you for your article. Re the time of year of Jesus birth – we read in Luke’s gospel that the shepherds were out in the fields keeping watch over their flocks – from this we can know that the shepherds were village rather than nomadic shepherds (the sheep of nomadic shepherds would have grazed the wilderness). Also the time of year – sheep were put out in the fields after the harvest, to graze on whatever was left. This would have bee in the fallow period of approx July – October. So it’s very unlikely that Jesus was born in December as the crops would have been planted.

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Pope st. john paul ii:.

Jesus Christ meets the man of every age, including our own, with the same words: “You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” These words contain both a fundamental requirement and a warning: the requirement of an honest relationship with regard to truth as a condition for authentic freedom, and the warning to avoid every kind of illusory freedom, every superficial unilateral freedom, every freedom that fails to enter into the whole truth about man and the world. ( Redemptor Hominis No. 12)

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Week Three Reflection: Journey to Bethlehem & Birth of Jesus

Verses to memorize.

Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem… (Lk 2:4a)

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. Lk 2:1-7

We know this story. It is the Christmas story. A divine child is born. It is beautiful. But let’s look at it through Joseph’s eyes. There is another side to it. A: How far is it from Nazareth to Bethlehem? A: 90 miles. Q: How did people travel in ancient Israel? A: On foot or by donkey. Q: How long would it have taken? A: At least nine days, considering Mary’s late term pregnancy. Q: How did they eat on a nine day journey? A: They had to bring a skin of water, some bread and maybe dried fish.
Q: What is on Joseph’s mind for nine days? A: What if Mary goes into labor and delivers the child? Where to sleep each night? Would they be attacked by robbers or wild animals? Q: Was a trip like this ever planned by Joseph? A: No, it was a decree of the Roman governor. He did not have a choice.
As they approach Bethlehem, Mary tells Joseph that she is in labor. Q: Reading between the lines of this very brief account, what was the first thing Joseph did? A: He looked for a room in the inn. Q: Did he find any? A: No, the town was packed with travelers registering for the census. Q: Where does Joseph finally take Mary in her distress? A: To a shelter for animals, likely a cave.
Q: What is a manger? A: A wooden stand to hold the feed for the animals. Q: If Mary wrapped Baby Jesus in “swaddling clothes” and laid him in a manger, what does that tell us? A: Answers will vary: Mary had to give birth in a dirty place used by animals. Q: Who assisted her? A: Joseph, and perhaps women he might have summoned—the Gospel gives us few details. For sure, Joseph once again, is called upon to help and protect Mary, and now the newborn Christ Child. Joseph is all they have!

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Mary and Joseph’s Journey to Bethlehem – A Christmas Story

In “Mary and Joseph’s Journey to Bethlehem,” the video by The Beginners Bible, you’ll be taken on a captivating journey back in time to the very first Christmas. This enchanting story follows the events leading up to the birth of Jesus, from Mary’s visit by an angel to the arduous journey she and Joseph undertake to be counted in a census in Bethlehem. As they face numerous challenges along the way, they eventually find themselves in a humble stable where Jesus is born. The story further unfolds as shepherds and wise men visit, bringing gifts and spreading the good news about the newborn king. It’s a tale of joy, faith, and the miracle of Christmas that reminds us of the true meaning behind this beloved holiday.

“The Nativity” is part of The Beginners Bible series, which beautifully brings to life biblical stories for children and adults alike. Through vibrant storytelling and captivating visuals, this video allows you to relive the miraculous events surrounding the first Christmas. From Mary’s encounter with the angel to the shepherds praising and worshiping the newborn king, the story is filled with love, hope, and the profound significance of Jesus’ birth. Join us on this unforgettable journey and discover the magic of the Nativity story once again.

Table of Contents

Background Information

The Nativity is a video by The Beginners Bible that tells the story of the first Christmas. It recounts the events surrounding the birth of Jesus, the Son of God. The story begins with Mary, a young woman visited by an angel. The angel informs her that she has been chosen to be the mother of God’s son. This news comes as a surprise to Mary, but she humbly accepts the role assigned to her.

After learning about her divine pregnancy, Mary and her husband Joseph embark on a journey to Bethlehem. The purpose of their journey is to be counted in the census decreed by Augustus Caesar, the Roman emperor. It is important for them to be registered in order to fulfill their obligations as citizens. The journey from Nazareth, their home town, to Bethlehem is a long and arduous one.

Journey to Bethlehem

Preparations for the journey begin as Mary and Joseph gather their belongings and make sure they have enough provisions for the trip. They pack food, water, and clothing, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the journey ahead. The couple knows they will need to rely on their own resourcefulness and strength to complete the journey.

The road from Nazareth to Bethlehem is challenging, with rough terrain and unpredictable weather conditions. Mary and Joseph navigate through hills, valleys, and forests, taking care not to lose their way. Along the way, they encounter fellow travelers and share stories and provisions. The journey becomes a communal experience as people come together to support one another.

Struggles along the way

The long journey takes a toll on Mary and Joseph, both physically and emotionally. They face many challenges, such as fatigue, hunger, and thirst. The constant walking and exposure to the elements leave them tired and sore. The couple relies on their unwavering faith and determination to push through the struggles they encounter.

Another difficulty they face is finding suitable accommodation along the way. As they arrive in Bethlehem, they discover that many others have also come for the census, and the city is crowded with people seeking shelter. Mary and Joseph search tirelessly for a place to stay, knocking on doors and pleading with innkeepers. However, they are met with disappointment as they are turned away from every establishment.

Arrival in Bethlehem

Despite their struggles, Mary and Joseph do not lose hope. They continue their search for a place to stay, knowing that time is running out. Eventually, they come across a stable on the outskirts of Bethlehem. The stable is not luxurious or comfortable, but it offers a roof over their heads and protection from the elements. Grateful for any form of shelter, Mary and Joseph settle in the stable, preparing to spend the night there.

The Birth of Jesus

In the humble surroundings of the stable, Mary gives birth to Jesus, the Son of God. The birth is an awe-inspiring moment, as the long-awaited Messiah enters the world. The stable, filled with the warmth of love and the presence of God, becomes the birthplace of the savior.

To their astonishment, shepherds from the nearby fields arrive at the stable to witness the miraculous event. They had been visited by an angel who told them about the birth of Jesus and urged them to go and see the baby. Overwhelmed with joy, the shepherds kneel before the newborn king, offering their praises and worship.

Visitors and Gifts

Shortly after the shepherds’ arrival, wise men from the East come to visit Jesus. They have been following a bright star in the sky, which they believe to be a sign of the newborn king. The wise men bring gifts fit for a king: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These precious offerings symbolize Jesus’ royalty, divinity, and future sacrifice.

Their visit further confirms the significance of Jesus’ birth and serves as a reminder of the prophecies foretelling the arrival of the Messiah. The wise men offer their homage to Jesus, recognizing him as the long-awaited King of the Jews.

Worship and Praise

The wise men, shepherds, and Mary and Joseph are filled with gratitude and reverence for the miracle that has occurred. They worship and praise God for fulfilling his promise to send a Savior. The birth of Jesus brings hope, joy, and peace to all who witness it.

The shepherds and wise men join together in praising God and spreading the good news about Jesus. They carry the message of salvation to those they encounter, sharing the story of the birth of the Savior. Through their actions and words, they inspire others to believe in the miracle of Christmas and to embrace the love and grace of God.

Avoiding King Herod

After visiting Jesus, the wise men are warned in a dream not to return to King Herod, who has a sinister plan to harm the newborn king. They heed the warning and choose to go back to their own country by a different route. This decision not only ensures the safety of Jesus but also aligns with God’s plan to protect his son.

By avoiding King Herod, the wise men fulfill their role as messengers of God’s good news. They spread the word about Jesus and his mission, sharing the love and grace that he brings to the world. Their decision reflects their unwavering faith and commitment to honoring God’s will.

Rejoicing and Gratitude

The news of Jesus’ birth spreads, and the people of Bethlehem and beyond rejoice. The birth of the Messiah is a cause for celebration and thanksgiving. The significance of Mary and Joseph’s journey, the hardships they faced, and the humble circumstances in which Jesus was born are not lost on the people.

They express their joy through music, dance, and heartfelt prayers of gratitude. The birth of Jesus represents the fulfillment of prophecies and the beginning of a new era of salvation and redemption. The people are filled with hope and gratitude for God’s great love and mercy.

The journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem holds great significance in the story of Christmas. It symbolizes the faith, resilience, and obedience of these two individuals who were entrusted with the task of raising God’s own Son. Their journey teaches us the importance of unwavering faith, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties.

The birth of Jesus in a humble stable reminds us that God’s love knows no bounds and that he enters the world in the most unexpected ways. It is a story of hope, redemption, and God’s promise of salvation. As we reflect on Mary and Joseph’s journey, may we always be reminded of the true meaning of Christmas: the birth of Jesus, the Son of God, who brings hope, love, and eternal life to all who believe in him.

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4 Things You Should Know about Journey to Bethlehem

Michael Foust ChristianHeadlines.com Contributor
Updated Nov 13, 2023

4 Things You Should Know about <em>Journey to Bethlehem</em>

Mary is a young woman with big dreams. She wants to be a teacher. She wants to wed a man she loves. Most significantly, she wants to do those things in the distant future -- not right now. Her father, though, has different plans for her. He’s already found her a husband -- a kind, young local man in first-century Judea named Joseph. They’ll make the perfect couple, he says.

“I’m securing your future,” he tells her. Mary’s not crazy about the idea, but it’s too late. The wedding is being held in a few days.

Can Mary learn to fall in love with a man she’s never met?

The new faith-based musical Journey to Bethlehem (PG) follows the well-known biblical story of Mary, Joseph, and their newborn, Jesus.

Here are four things you should know:

Photo credit: ©Affirm; used with permission.

1. It’s the First Musical From Faith-Based Affirm Films

You may not know “Affirm Films” by name, but you know its movies . Affirm is the company that helped make faith-based movies such as War Room, Fireproof, Overcomer, Courageous, Risen, Moms’ Night Out, Soul Surfer, The Star, and Big George Foreman . Affirm is a part of Sony.

Although Affirm has more than three dozen movies in its catalog, Journey to Bethlehem is its first musical.

Rich Peluso, head of Affirm Films, says the film is a “joyous and fresh take on Mary and Joseph’s journey” with “infectious music” thanks to an “insanely passionate vision of [director] Adam Anders.”

He said Affirm wanted to “come alongside and help turn this amazing story into a Christmas classic that will resound with young children, families, teens and adults.”

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/FOTOKITA

2. It Features Names You Know

Fans of contemporary Christian music will recognize several names. For King and Country’s Joel Smallbone portrays Herod’s son Antipater, while CCM artist Moriah plays Deborah, a friend of Mary. Grammy winner and Christian hip-hop artist Lecrae portrays the angel Gabriel. All three are impressive.

Meanwhile, Oscar nominee Antonio Banderas (Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny) portrays Herod, while Fiona Palomo (Outer Banks) and Milo Manheim (Thanksgiving) play Mary and Joseph, respectively.

Adam Anders, who received Grammy nominations in 2011 and 2012 for Glee and in 2013 for Rock of Ages, directed it and co-wrote the screenplay and the music. He produced music for such faith -based projects as The Passion (2016) and Son of God (2014).

3. It’s the Nativity Story Set to Pop

Journey to Bethlehem is advertised as a film that “weaves classic Christmas melodies into new pop songs in a music-infused retelling” of the Nativity. Thanks to Anders, the music soars.

The film opens with a catchy, pop-style version of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel." From there, Mary and her friends walk through the city streets as they sing an upbeat tune, "Mary’s Getting Married," even though Mary -- who doesn’t care for the betrothal arrangement and wants to be a teacher -- isn’t herself feeling so upbeat. The third song features Herod singing a dark, techno-infused song, "Good to Be King," which shows him walking confidently through his kingdom as he boasts of his power and land. Later, Herod’s son Antipater (Smallbone) sings the percussion-driven song "In My Blood," which matches the makes-you-want-to-dance style of Smallbone’s group For King and Country.

But not every song is pop. In "Can We Make This Work," Mary and Joseph sing a slow but powerful duet during their wedding ceremony, wondering how they can build a future when they barely know one another. In "We Become We," they join together in a sweet duet featuring playful tones and perfectly blend their voices.

The music, costumes, and sets in Journey to Bethlehem are, in one word, stunning. They’re every bit as good as what you see in more popular musicals.

4. It Can Spark Conversations

The gospel story is at the center of Journey to Bethlehem . In the opening minutes, one of the Wise Men sees the star and asks his fellow Magic, “What mighty queen was chosen for this great honor, giving birth to the Son of God?” Gabriel tells Mary, “You are to be the mother of a Savior and King.” And in the closing minutes, the Wise Men and shepherds bow down to worship the Child who will grow up to save the world. It’s a film that can spark conversations about God, the Bible, and life’s ultimate purpose.

Before the film even begins, we are told it’s “inspired by a true story … the greatest one ever told.” When the film ends, we’re reminded that “while taking some creative license, the filmmakers strived to remain true to the message of the greatest story ever told.”

The creative license could also spark conversations -- among Christians who will debate what is permissible in a Bible-based project. Risen (2016), The Nativity Story (2005), The Prince of Egypt (1998), and The Chosen (2017-) all received high marks from churchgoing viewers despite their inclusion of content that’s not explicitly in Scripture. Making such a film is an art, not a science.

Journey to Bethlehem -- spoilers ahead! -- includes a few scenes of creative license. Mary initially rejects the idea of marriage . (Although, as we learn, she already had eyes for Joseph, even though she didn’t know his name.) Gabriel “practices” his lines. (Even though he quickly gets it together in time to deliver a powerful message to Mary.) Most significantly, Antipater and his soldiers find the stable with Mary, Joseph, and the Christ child -- but Antipater opts not to have them arrested, even when told the baby is “the” one. (Mary also stands up to Antipater.)

Viewers will decide if those few scenes go too far. Overall, though, Journey to Bethlehem delivers soaring music with a powerful, life-changing message the whole world needs to hear. After all, she gave birth to the Son of God.

Rated PG for thematic elements. It includes no violence, sexuality, or coarse language.

Entertaining rating : 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Family-friendly rating : 4.5 out of 4 stars.

RELATED: Hear from the film's producers!

Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today , The Christian Po st , the Leaf-Chronicle , the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel .

Should A Catholic See “Journey To Bethlehem”?

by Fr. Edward Looney Advent and Christmas , Movie Reviews and Recommendations

An Advent pre-game is coming to theaters in November, helping Christians and moviegoers to reflect on the mystery of the incarnation before the Christmas season. Journey to Bethlehem is a unique musical reproduction of the Nativity story, which admits at the end that artistic license was taken while trying to remain faithful to the gospel. There are three parallel stories it follows: the Magi , Herod, and Joseph and Mary. The musical features traditional Christmas melody blended with new music. I found the music catchy and enjoyable, but one line troubled me.

Errors In Mariology

In the discipline of Mariology, one could take a maximalist or minimalist approach to Mary. A saint like St. Bernard of Clairvaux or St. Alphonsus Ligouri would be characteristic of Marian maximalism. In essence, what comprises Marian maximalism is a very high regard for Mary. A minimalistic Mariology presents a bit more of a familiar and relatable Mary. There is nothing wrong with one or the other. Journey to Bethlehem for the most part offers more of a lower Mariology. A person who is a Marian maximalist may not like the Mary presented and even Marian minimalists might question if it is an adequate presentation of the Mother of God. In a nod to maximalism, from the very beginning and throughout the musical there is a reference to Mary as a queen. When the magi notice the star they immediately ask, “What Queen would give birth to the son of God.” While others are aware that the mother will be a queen, in a hint of Marian minimalism, Mary has no awareness of her prevenient grace, is a bit of a temperamental and rebellious child, and at one point says that she wishes she had the faith of her mother (St.) Anne, signifying elements of doubt in her faith.

Church traditions Questioned In Journey To Bethlehem

The gospels make clear that Mary has a knowledge of scripture and Journey to Bethlehem offers that Mary wanted to be a teacher of the scriptures, which might offer a pre-vow of virginity, and congruous with Mary’s presence in the temple as a child. There are some other traditions (small t) of the Church that Journey to Bethlehem seems to put into question. Joachim and Anne are alive. It is believed Joachim passed early in Mary’s life and Anne probably was deceased before her betrothal per mystical revelations of Maria of Agreda. The musical also seems to suggest that she had other siblings, Rebekah and Deborah, who are sharing a bedroom with Mary at the moment of the Annunciation. This is not consonant with the tradition. At the end of the musical, the birthing scene is very minimal, so the question of Mary’s pain in labor becomes irrelevant and not a topic to be dwelt on in defense of or in response to the film. In a powerful Marian maximalism at the end, Mary declares Christ has come to save the lost and she stands up to the threat of evil.

In addition to a different portrayal of Mary, Journey to Bethlehem offers an interesting depiction of St. Joseph. St. Joseph seemed to be promiscuous during a chance encounter while in the marketplace with Mary, who he did not yet know as his future betrothed. As the movie unfolds though, he pursues Mary, believing and defending her, and she believes she can learn to love him too. Mary also points out to Joseph that it was not her alone that was chosen, but he was chosen too.

A Chance To Reflect On The Incarnation

Journey to Bethlehem allows a person to reflect on different aspects of the incarnation. For example, the Annunciation takes place while Mary is sleeping and in her bedroom. Where did the Annunciation take place? At her house? A spring? Somewhere else? Other interesting presentations in the film are the betrothal and the very odd place for the marriage of Joseph and Mary, at a time and place I had previously never considered. After the Annunciation, when did Mary tell Joseph? Right away? After the Visitation? Journey to Bethlehem offers one possibility.

One line in a musical song could be taken as an ignorant assertion by the writers. Joseph, in discerning what to do, sings, “This is no immaculate conception.” The Immaculate Conception in Catholic belief does not refer to the conception of Jesus but rather to Mary’s conception without sin.

A powerful line in a different song spoke to me. It is the doxology of the Our Father recited by Protestants: for thine is the kingdom, the power, and glory. In the beginning of the film, King Herod sings “mine is the kingdom, mine is the power, mine is the glory”, while at the birth of Jesus, the magi sing “thine is the kingdom, thine is the power, thine is the glory.” Hearing the transformation of those words was powerful, reminding us to whom the true power and glory belong.

Journey to Bethlehem is a unique presentation of the nativity story, turning the story we know so well into a musical. It takes creative license that allows for meditation, but also could communicate alternative positions to the tradition of the Church.

Can a Catholic Watch Journey To Bethlehem?

Reflecting on the incarnation and the events surrounding the Word becoming flesh is praiseworthy. Journey to Bethlehem offers a musical meditation on the nativity. Personally, I cannot recommend the movie. If a person does see it, I’d encourage them to notice what might seem off and to investigate it further. Don’t take what the musical conveys as a gospel truth.

Fr. Looney’s Rating of Journey to Bethlehem

5/10- Inadequate portrayal of Mary and bad theology.

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Fr. Edward Looney is a priest of the Diocese of Green Bay and the author of A Heart Like Mary’s (Ave Maria Press), A Rosary Litany (OSV) and A Lenten Journey with Mother Mary (Sophia). He hosts the podcast How They Love Mary.

https://howtheylovemary.fireside.fm/

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The Journey to Bethlehem

The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem surely was uncomfortable, unpleasant, and frightening for Mary and Joseph. In Mary’s time, women died in childbirth with a frequency that led to an average life expectancy of only thirty-five. The trip Joseph and Mary were making was filled with frightening possibilities.

They set out for Bethlehem reminded once more that they were living under Roman occupation. I suspect Mary left in tears, saying goodbye to her family and hometown at the moment she needed them the most. This was a journey that neither Mary nor Joseph wanted to take. It was forced upon them.

The situation that Mary and Joseph faced is emblematic of what often happens in life. At times, all of us find ourselves on journeys we don’t want to take. Sometimes, as with Mary and Joseph, the journeys happen because of someone else’s decisions or actions (in this case, it was the emperor). The journeys may be painful, and we may find ourselves brokenhearted or deeply discouraged along the way. We might even think that God is punishing us or has abandoned us. But God promises to sustain us, even though we may walk through the darkest valleys. God tells us to turn our burdens over to him, and he can make something beautiful of them.

Throughout Scripture we see journeys that people don’t want to take, and much of the Bible is about God using and working through those journeys. There’s Noah on his ark, and Abraham and Sarah uprooted in retirement and sent by God to the Promised Land. There’s Ruth and Naomi grieving the loss of their husbands, and Daniel thrown into the lions’ den.

Most of the really remarkable people I have met, people who are having an impact on the world, have been on journeys they didn’t want to take.

Have you ever been forced on a journey you didn’t want to take? It may have been your parents’ divorce, or your own. Maybe it was an illness or a move or the loss of a job. Maybe it was the death of someone you loved dearly. I’m not suggesting that God caused these things to happen or that they were God’s will. They are simply part of life. But God goes with you on these journeys, and God’s providence has a way of bringing good and beautiful things from the pain, heartache, and disappointments we face in life. That’s what Mary and Joseph discovered.

Did you know that nearly half of Luke’s Gospel is devoted to telling the story of Jesus’ final journey to Jerusalem, where he would be crucified? Where did Jesus learn to walk the journeys he did not want to take, trusting that God was with him? Perhaps it was from hearing Joseph talk about the difficult journey he and Mary took in faith and about what God brought forth from it. Just as Joseph had known somehow that God was with him, Jesus on his final journey knew somehow that God would redeem his suffering and use it to transform the world.

All of us go on journeys we don’t want to take. In the midst of them, if we open ourselves to God, we can see God’s hand leading us. When you find yourself on an unplanned and difficult journey, recall these words from the prophet Isaiah, who was writing to encourage the Jewish people during their own difficult journey in exile:

The Lord is the everlasting God, the creator of the ends of the earth. He doesn’t grow tired or weary. His understanding is beyond human reach, giving power to the tired and reviving the exhausted. Youths will become tired and weary, young men will certainly stumble; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will fly up on wings like eagles; they will run and not be tired; they will walk and not be weary. (Isaiah 40:28-31)

I don’t know what journeys you’ve been on that you did not want to take, or what journey you may be on now. I know that God walks with you. I know that God will strengthen you. I know that God redeems life’s painful journeys.

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BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. — The creative forces behind the Nativity musical “Journey to Bethlehem” have opened up about the spiritual opposition they faced while bringing to life the story of Jesus’ birth and walking the delicate balance between adhering to Scripture and exercising creative liberties.

At the red carpet premiere of “Journey to Bethlehem,” Grammy-nominated director Adam Anders revealed he felt spiritual opposition “every day” of filming — the same kind of opposition he felt in 2016 when creating the musical “The Passion.”

“I think that's just the way it is when you take on a story like this, and you're trying to get something into the dark world, some light and hope and joy and the love of Christ. You're going to have opposition; you’ve just got to expect it,” he said.

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“I have a target on my back. We felt more spiritual attacks on our family this year than I think we've ever experienced. It's been crazy. But we're here. God is good. Got us through, and we're excited to see what He is going to do with this movie.”

But the process of making “Journey to Bethlehem,” which Anders said took him 17 years from the first idea to the final cut, strengthened his faith in ways he never imagined. It necessitated a deep reliance on his faith to navigate the numerous sacrifices, including being away from his family for six months.

“My faith has been really challenged, and I think strengthened through this. It's been really hard,” he said. “I mean, we'll say it's been probably the hardest year of our lives when making this movie, but also the most gratifying. Every day, I had to start on my knees just to get through each day."

“I moved away for six months from my family just to do it; it was a lot of sacrifice,” he added. “And that makes you really have to get closer to God, because there were days I didn't think I was going to get through it without my faith. So that's definitely strengthened my faith and made me appreciate what this story is about.”

Hitting theaters Nov. 10, the Sony-AFFIRM movie stars Antonio Banderas as King Herod, Fiona Palomo (“Outer Banks”) as Mary, Milo Manheim (“Prom Pact”) as Joseph, Lecrae as Gabriel, and husband-and-wife singers Joel and Moriah Smallbone.

The film, a “live-action Christmas musical,” weaves classic Christmas melodies with new pop songs and features elaborate costumes and dance numbers. Anders penned the script along with Peter Barsocchini (“High School Musical”) and wrote the music with his wife, Nikki Anders (“Glee”) and Peer Astrom (“Rock of Ages”).

Producer Alan Powell, who also produced the faith-based hit musical “A Week Away,” told CP the music in "Journey to Bethlehem" was crafted to complement the story without contravening the essence of the scriptural narrative. He noted that while they had to imagine beyond the scriptural verses, their commitment to the truth and reverence for the story was paramount.

“This story means so much to all of us that are involved, and it’s deeply important that we treat that truth and story with reverence and with respect and don't go against anything that we feel like is what Scripture tells us,” Powell said.

“There's a lot of in-betweens; there's one verse about Joseph being a righteous man, deciding to divorce her in secret. That's basically all we know about Joseph. We wanted to tell a whole story about what that might have been like for him to go through when Mary told him that she was pregnant. You're gonna have to read between the lines a little bit."

“It was a constant journey, and one that we went on with reverence for the story and respect for the story, and hopefully told it in a way that introduces it to people who may have never heard the story before,” he added. “We had a lot of fun and a lot of respect for telling it in a way that honors the original Scripture, we hope.”

Anders emphasized that while the movie is inspired by a true story, it is not a documentary — a note filmmakers include in the film. The filmmaker said his approach to the creative process was prayerful, seeking divine guidance on when to stay true to Scripture and when to fill in the gaps with imagination.

“I wanted people to know the filmmaker believes this is true,” he said. “So watching it from that point of view is really important for me. But I look at all the great paintings that the great artists have done throughout the history of the Nativity scene that are not biblically accurate, but we've accepted it as beautiful, and it's their artistic interpretation, it’s symbolism. And I felt like, if they could have that creative license, then at times I could as well.”

Powell added that in faith-based musicals, songs emerge when words are insufficient, using music to delve into profound truths and to provide an emotionally rich experience for the audience.

“When you're dealing with issues, thoughts, truths, or questions that you really want to wrestle with, and you really want to communicate in a way that can be super, super meaningful and emotional and impactful, use music,” he said. “I know that when music and film come together, it's my favorite thing in the world, and it moves me emotionally like nothing else can. So it's a privilege to be able to try to put together movies that do that for other people.”

Looking ahead, Anders said he’s fully aware of the spiritual opposition that comes with tackling faith-based projects, yet he’s resolved to continue telling more stories of this nature.

“I joke that I just want to go make a soccer movie or a movie nobody cares about,” he said with a chuckle. “I just need a break. But absolutely, there are so many more stories like this I want to tell, so I'm going to have to do it. Just suck it up and just go for it.”

Leah M. Klett is a reporter for The Christian Post. She can be reached at: [email protected]

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Matthew 2:1-12 New International Version

The magi visit the messiah.

2 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, ( A ) during the time of King Herod, ( B ) Magi [ a ] from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? ( C ) We saw his star ( D ) when it rose and have come to worship him.”

3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. 4 When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 “In Bethlehem ( E ) in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written:

6 “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’ [ b ] ” ( F )

7 Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. 8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.”

9 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. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. ( G ) Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts ( H ) of gold, frankincense and myrrh. 12 And having been warned ( I ) in a dream ( J ) not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

Matthew 2:1 Traditionally wise men
Matthew 2:6 Micah 5:2,4

Cross references

Matthew 2:1 : Lk 2:4-7
Matthew 2:1 : Lk 1:5
Matthew 2:2 : Jer 23:5; Mt 27:11; Mk 15:2; Lk 23:38; Jn 1:49; 18:33-37
Matthew 2:2 : Nu 24:17
Matthew 2:5 : Jn 7:42
Matthew 2:6 : 2Sa 5:2; Mic 5:2
Matthew 2:11 : Isa 60:3
Matthew 2:11 : Ps 72:10
Matthew 2:12 : Heb 11:7
Matthew 2:12 : ver 13, 19, 22; S Mt 27:19

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Journey to Bethlehem’s Story is Based on Nativity of Jesus

Director Adam Anders of ‘ Glee ’ fame teamed up with ‘ High School Musical ’ screenwriter Peter Barsocchini for creating the musical family adventure film ‘Journey to Bethlehem.’ The Sony Pictures Affirm Film provides a creative twist to the greatest story ever told by recounting the events that led to the birth of Jesus Christ and the origins of Christmas. The movie follows Mary and Joseph in their journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem and their attempts to shelter their divine child from the merciless King Herod.

It stars Milo Manheim and Fiona Palomo as the lead pair, with Antonio Banderas assuming the role of the relentless villain. The musical is also projected as a romantic comedy with love and light and the kind of hurdles Joseph and Mary need to face when the Virgin Mary is impregnated by the Holy Spirit and given the responsibility to give birth to the Son of God. While this Nativity story is widely associated with Christmas and has been depicted in many ways through plays, art forms, and stories told to children, let’s explore how much of the true story of the birth of Jesus has been incorporated in ‘Journey to Bethlehem.’

How True is Journey to Bethlehem?

‘Journey to Bethlehem’ draws inspiration from the popular Christmas stories about the birth of Jesus Christ. The retelling of these stories usually includes three wise kings, shepherds who heard from an angel, a vengeful King Herod who didn’t shy away from killing innocent children to find baby Jesus, and the divine experiences of Joseph and Mary, who were both entrusted with ensuring that baby Jesus was given all the safety and care they could offer.

These stories for children don’t mention that all the information about the birth of Christ that has been gleaned from the Holy Bible is not presented in a linear manner. We can mostly rely on the accounts of two evangelists or witnesses among four who wrote about Jesus’ life about 70 years after his birth – Matthew and Luke – who agree in the New Testament that Mary was a virgin when she gave birth to Jesus in Bethlehem. The other details mentioned by them aren’t exactly contradictory but highlight different instances from the time of Jesus’ birth that have helped shape the stories in popular culture now.

Matthew’s account discusses how an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream at a time when he felt very conflicted about Mary being pregnant with a child. The angel assured Joseph about the presence of the Holy Spirit in her, which made him feel more confident about his relationship with Mary and the child. This is in parts depicted in the movie as well since Joseph initially hesitates about Mary’s child, but without any angel in his dream, Mary asks him to trust her. Matthew also discusses the three wise men or the three kings who approached the king of Judea, Herod, about a new king of Jews born in Judea’s Bethlehem. These wise men also make an appearance in the musical, who, according to the original story, follow a bright star in the sky that leads them to Jesus.

Matthew also mentions Herod’s cruelty, due to which he was willing to massacre innocent children, including his own, in his search for Jesus and to prevent any other king from taking over his throne. This leads to Mary and Joseph fleeing to Egypt for their child’s safety from Bethlehem. Hints of this incident have also been depicted in the film, where it becomes clear that Mary and Joseph are afraid of Herod and what he will do to them and their child if they are found.

None of these details is mentioned in Luke’s account, who focuses more on the incident where an angel appeared in front of shepherds watching their flock at night and informed them about a savior in the city of David who will be found resting in a manger, which is a trough for feeding farm animals. Mary and Joseph did not find any inn or a crib at the time Jesus was conceived. Luke’s account also mentions that Jesus was named after a suggestion from the angel Gabriel, who appeared to the Virgin Mary. This part has also been covered in the film, although giving it a dramatized depiction, moments before Jesus is about to be born.

Therefore, for Matthew, the birth of Jesus is associated more with the coming of a savior, like Moses, to help free the people of Israel by showing how through dreams, Joseph managed to protect Jesus and only came back to Nazareth after the king was dead. But for Luke, this story was about a new David, who was Joseph’s father, with many references to Bethlehem as the city of David. The story of Nativity, as told to the children , on the other hand, seems more of a compilation of these two accounts to present a chronology of everything that happened when Jesus was born. Clearly, while the musical draws heavily from all the accounts in the Bible, it has still taken many liberties to tell the story in a very different way that would appeal more to today’s audiences.

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