Luke 2:11

Commentary on Luke 2:11

1. The Text

Luke 2:11 (King James Version):
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”

This single verse is one of the most concentrated declarations of the gospel in the entire New Testament. It is the angelic announcement to the shepherds, but it is also God’s announcement to the world.

2. Exegetical Commentary

2.1. “For unto you…” — The Personal Nature of the Gospel

The angel does not speak in abstract terms. The message is not merely, “A child is born,” but “unto you.”
This echoes the personal nature of God’s saving work throughout Scripture.

The shepherds were ordinary men, socially insignificant, and ceremonially unclean due to their work. Yet God’s first public announcement of the Messiah’s birth is directed to them. This anticipates the gospel’s pattern: God draws near to the lowly, the overlooked, and the undeserving.

This aligns with the broader context of Luke 2, where Mary sings:

Luke 1:52–53 (King James Version):
“He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.
He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.”

The gospel is deeply personal and profoundly gracious.

2.2. “Is born this day…” — The Historical Reality of the Incarnation

Christian faith is grounded in real history. Luke emphasises dates, rulers, and locations:

Luke 2:1 (King James Version):
“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.”

The birth of Jesus is not myth or legend. It happened “this day,” in real time, in a real place, under real political circumstances. The incarnation is God entering human history, not hovering above it.

Christian theology rightly insists that the gospel is rooted in objective, historical events. Our faith rests not on feelings but on God’s actions in time and space.

2.3. “In the city of David…” — The Fulfilment of God’s Promises

The “city of David” is Bethlehem, fulfilling prophecy:

Micah 5:2 (King James Version):
“But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah… out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel.”

Luke has already emphasised Joseph’s Davidic lineage:

Luke 2:4 (King James Version):
“And Joseph also went up from Galilee… unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David).”

Jesus is the promised Son of David, the rightful King. God keeps His promises, even when centuries have passed. The birth of Jesus is the climax of the Old Testament story.

2.4. “A Saviour…” — The Mission of Jesus

The angel does not call Jesus a teacher, example, or moral guide, though He is all of these. The first title given is “Saviour.”

This implies:

• Humanity needs saving.
• We cannot save ourselves.
• God has provided the Saviour we need.

Later in Luke, Jesus Himself states His mission:

Luke 19:10 (King James Version):
“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

The gospel is not self‑improvement. It is rescue.

2.5. “Which is Christ…” — The Anointed One

“Christ” is not a surname but a title meaning “Anointed One,” the Messiah promised in the Old Testament. He is the fulfilment of the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms.

The angel is declaring:
The long‑awaited Messiah has finally come.

2.6. “The Lord.” — The Divinity of Jesus

This is the most astonishing part of the announcement.

“Lord” (Kyrios) is the Greek word used in the Septuagint to translate the divine name of God (YHWH). The angel is not merely saying Jesus is important. He is declaring that the baby in the manger is God Himself.

This aligns with the earlier statement to Mary:

Luke 1:35 (King James Version):
“The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee… therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.”

The incarnation is the eternal Son taking on human flesh without ceasing to be God.

3. Theological Themes

3.1. The Incarnation

God becomes man without losing His divinity. This is central to Christian Christology.

3.2. Grace to the Lowly

God reveals Himself first to shepherds, not kings. Salvation is by grace, not merit.

3.3. The Faithfulness of God

The birth of Jesus fulfils centuries of prophecy. God keeps His promises.

3.4. The Exclusivity of Christ

He is the Saviour, not one among many. Salvation is found in Him alone.

4. Meditation Guide

Use these steps for personal reflection or group devotion.

4.1. Read the Verse Slowly

Read Luke 2:11 aloud several times. Emphasise different words each time:
“Unto you…”
“Born this day…”
“A Saviour…”
“Christ the Lord.”

4.2. Reflect on God’s Nearness

Ask:

• What does it mean that God came “unto you”?
• Where do I feel insignificant or overlooked?
• How does the incarnation speak into that?

4.3. Consider Your Need for a Saviour

Reflect honestly:

• What do I need saving from today?
• Where am I tempted to rely on myself rather than Christ?

4.4. Worship Christ as Lord

Meditate on the wonder that the baby in the manger is God Himself.
Pray:
“Lord Jesus, help me bow before You as my Saviour and my God.”

4.5. Respond with Joy and Obedience

Like the shepherds, who “made known abroad” what they had seen (Luke 2:17), consider:

• Who might God be calling me to encourage with this good news?
• How can I live today in light of Christ’s kingship?

5. Practical Application for Modern Christian Living

• Embrace the personal nature of the gospel.
  Christ came for you. This combats shame, fear, and spiritual apathy.
• Rest in the historical reality of the faith.
  Christianity is not a philosophy but a divine intervention in history. This strengthens assurance.
• Trust God’s promises.
  Bethlehem reminds us that God fulfils His word, even when His timing feels slow.
• Live as someone who needs a Saviour.
  Reject self-reliance. Embrace repentance and faith daily.
• Bow to Christ as Lord.
  His authority shapes our ethics, relationships, work, and worship.
• Share the good news.
  The shepherds did not keep silent. Neither should we.