If you’ve ever wondered, “Where is the birth of Jesus found in the Bible?” — you’re not alone. Whether it’s Christmas time or you’re just exploring your faith, this story never stops touching hearts.
Let’s walk through the Bible to uncover where Jesus’ birth is described, what it says about when and where He was born, and why it still matters today.
The Main Bible Chapters That Tell of Jesus’ Birth
There are two main places in the Bible where the birth of Jesus is described:
1. Matthew 1:18–25 and Matthew 2
Matthew’s Gospel opens with Jesus’ genealogy, then tells us how Mary, a virgin, became pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Joseph, her fiancé, was going to leave her quietly — but an angel visited him in a dream and said:
“Do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.” – Matthew 1:20
Matthew also includes the visit of the Wise Men, the star of Bethlehem, and King Herod’s fear of a newborn “king.”
2. Luke 1:26–38 and Luke 2:1–20
Luke gives us the most detailed version of the nativity story. He describes the angel Gabriel visiting Mary, the census under Caesar Augustus, the journey to Bethlehem, and how Jesus was laid in a manger because there was no room in the inn.
“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” – Luke 2:11
Luke also mentions the shepherds, the angels singing “Glory to God in the highest,” and Mary treasuring all these things in her heart.
Does the Bible Say When Jesus Was Born?
Here’s the honest answer: The Bible does not give a specific date for Jesus’ birth.
It doesn’t say December 25.
It doesn’t mention a season, though some think the mention of shepherds watching their flocks at night suggests spring or fall (Luke 2:8).
The idea of celebrating His birth on December 25 came later in Christian history — possibly as a way to replace pagan festivals with Christian meaning.
So if you’re asking, “When was Jesus born?” — the Bible doesn’t give a date, but it gives a powerful reason why His birth matters.
Where Was Jesus Born According to the Bible?
The Bible clearly says Jesus was born in Bethlehem, a small town in Judea, which is in modern-day Israel/Palestine.
“Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod…” – Matthew 2:1
Bethlehem is called the City of David, connecting Jesus to King David’s royal line.
Was he born in a stable? The Bible says Mary laid Him in a manger (a feeding trough), which implies animals were nearby. But it doesn’t directly say the word stable. The manager was likely in a home’s lower level or a cave, where animals were kept.
Simplified summary of the Birth of Jesus
Now, simplify a short version you can easily remember or share with children:
God sent the angel Gabriel to a young woman named Mary. She would give birth to Jesus, God’s Son. Because of a census, Mary and Joseph traveled to Bethlehem. There, Jesus was born and laid in a manger. Angels told shepherds, and they came to worship Him. Wise Men also followed a star to honor the newborn King. Jesus was born to save us.
A Timeline: When Did This Happen?
While the exact year of Jesus’ birth is debated, most scholars agree it was around 4–6 B.C.
That’s right — “Before Christ” chronologically includes His birth because of calendar errors in early history.
As for His death, most believe Jesus was crucified around A.D. 30–33.
| Event | Estimated Year |
|---|---|
| Birth of Jesus | 4–6 B.C. |
| Start of His Ministry | A.D. 27–30 |
| Death & Resurrection | A.D. 30–33 |
Why Was Jesus’ Birth So Important?
The Bible isn’t just giving us history. It’s sharing a miracle with meaning:
Jesus was born to save us from sin (Matthew 1:21).
His birth fulfilled ancient prophecies like Isaiah 7:14: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son…”
He came humbly — not in a palace, but in a manger — to show God’s love isn’t just for the powerful or perfect.
Fulfilled Prophecies About Jesus’ Birth
Here are a few powerful ones:
| Old Testament Prophecy | New Testament Fulfillment |
|---|---|
| Born in Bethlehem – Micah 5:2 | Matthew 2:1, Luke 2:4–7 |
| Born of a virgin – Isaiah 7:14 | Matthew 1:22–23 |
| From the line of David – Jeremiah 23:5 | Luke 1:32 |
| Worshipped by kings – Psalm 72:10 | Matthew 2:11 |
These fulfillments weren’t random — they were God’s promises kept.
Why Do We Celebrate Christmas on December 25?
While December 25 isn’t mentioned in the Bible, it became the official date for celebrating Jesus’ birth around the 4th century. The goal was to focus people’s hearts on Christ, especially during a season that had been used for pagan festivals.
What matters more than the date is the reason:
We celebrate God with us — Emmanuel (Matthew 1:23).
Main Bible Verses About Jesus’ Birth
Find here some meaningful verses to read and memorize:
Luke 2:11 – “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you.”
Matthew 1:23 – “They will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God with us’).”
John 1:14 – “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.”
Isaiah 9:6 – “For to us a child is born… and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Why the Story Still Matters Today
Jesus’ birth wasn’t just a beautiful night long ago. It’s God breaking into our world with hope, peace, and purpose.
Whether you’ve known this story your whole life or just started reading it, the message is clear:
You are loved. You are not alone. God came near — for you.
If you’ve never read it for yourself, try opening the book of Luke, chapter 1 and 2. It’s a powerful and moving story that still brings peace to people today.
Related Questions Answered
Q: Does the Bible ever mention the nativity scene?
A: Not exactly in the way we depict it today (with shepherds and wise men together), but the separate parts come from Luke (shepherds) and Matthew (wise men).
Q: Where was Jesus born country-wise?
A: Jesus was born in Bethlehem, which is in modern-day Palestine/Israel.
Q: When was Jesus born and when did He die?
A: Likely born between 4–6 B.C., and died around A.D. 30–33.
