Commentary on Luke 2
Chuck Smith explores the historical and spiritual significance of Luke 2, revealing how the humble birth of Jesus fulfills prophecy and marks the arrival of the Savior.
In this expository sermon, Chuck Smith delves into Luke chapter 2, unpacking the historical and spiritual significance of Jesus’ birth. He highlights the fulfillment of prophecy through the political decrees of Caesar Augustus and the humble circumstances surrounding the Savior’s arrival. Listeners are invited to see God’s sovereign hand at work in history and in their own lives through this foundational passage.
Text
Now it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And the taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syra.) And all went to be taxed, every one to his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, and unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, (because he was of the house and the lineage of David,) to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, who at this point was great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should deliver her child. And she brought forth her first born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn (Luk 2:1-7).
"And it came to pass in those days..." Those were the days when the Roman Empire was being formed. Originally the Roman Empire was ruled by several generals, but gradually the power began more and more to be invested into one man, until finally Gaius Octavius gained control. He took the name Caesar from his uncle by adoption. And the name Augustus was given to him by the Roman senate when he gained power. When finally he was able to gain control and one man began to rule over Rome, the senate determined to give him some title, and they first suggested that they call him the king of Rome. And he rejected that title. Then they said, "We\
Sermon Outline
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I
- Historical context of Caesar Augustus’ decree
- Political background of the Roman Empire
- Significance of the census for Jesus’ birth
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II
- Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem
- The fulfillment of prophecy regarding the birthplace
- The humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth
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III
- The spiritual meaning of Jesus wrapped in swaddling clothes
- The significance of no room in the inn
- God’s sovereignty in the timing and place of Christ’s birth
Key Quotes
“And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should deliver her child.” — Chuck Smith
“The name Augustus was given to him by the Roman senate when he gained power.” — Chuck Smith
“Because there was no room for them in the inn, she laid him in a manger.” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- Trust God’s sovereign plan even when circumstances seem difficult or humble.
- Recognize that God often works through ordinary events to accomplish His purposes.
- Embrace humility as modeled by the birth of Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the decree of Caesar Augustus important in Luke 2?
It provides the historical setting that fulfills prophecy and causes Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem.
What does the manger symbolize in Jesus’ birth?
It symbolizes humility and God’s identification with the lowly and marginalized.
How does Luke 2 demonstrate God’s sovereignty?
God orchestrates political events and personal circumstances to fulfill His divine plan.
Why was Jesus born in Bethlehem?
Because Joseph was of the lineage of David, fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would be born in David’s city.