Christmas question

[Obie]

We all know that Christ was not born in December. We know the reasons why this date cannot be correct.

Recently I encountered a young minister from Wyoming. The people around him were talking about the date of Christ's birth. This young man was in total agreement with everyone except on this one point....are you ready? We say things like the shepherds were not in the fields with the flocks during the winter months. Well, Nelson is from Wyoming and his father-in-law is a sheep rancher.

He asked us what we thought ranchers did with the flocks of sheep during the winter? Sheep don't sleep inside unless it's a small flock of 12 or less....they can be bedded in the barn. Also, he pointed out that livestock graze ALL year round.

Got me to thinking....I won't be using the old saying about the shepherds not being the fields anymore.

[light4mypath]

I think it was in September/October--due to the fact of the census/taxation that was taken and the weather was warm enough for the shepherds to sleep outside.


Luke 2:1-7



1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

Luke 2:8-14

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

[mattfivefour]

I think it was in September/October

I agree. We can deduce from various scriptures that Jesus was likely 33-1/2 when He died. Depending on the year, Pesach (Passover) can occur from roughly March 22 to April 25th. Since He was crucified at the start of the Passover, we move half a year from that date to bring us in line with his birth month, and arrive at roughly September 22 to October 25th.

(Of course there are theories that Jesus was as old as 42 when He died. From everything I have read, though, and my understanding of Scripture, I agree with those who say 33-1/2.)

[light4mypath]

:iagree

[Robert]

:iagree: