The Humble Birth of Christ: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Luke 2

Executive Summary

Luke 2, “The Humble Birth of Christ,” unveils the miraculous birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, a stark contrast to the imperial decree of Caesar Augustus. This chapter, the focal point of our faith, meticulously details the fulfillment of prophecy, the adoration of the shepherds, and the presentation of Jesus in the Temple. The humility and simplicity surrounding Christ’s arrival underscore the radical nature of God’s love for humanity. Simeon and Anna, righteous elders, recognize the Messiah, providing powerful testimonies to His divine identity. This chapter profoundly shapes Coptic Orthodox theology by highlighting the Incarnation, the Theotokos (Mother of God), and the continuity between the Old and New Testaments. Through the birth of Christ, the door to salvation is opened to all who believe, offering a profound message of hope and redemption for every generation. It truly is “The Humble Birth of Christ.”

Introduction

Luke 2 stands as a cornerstone of the Christian faith, chronicling the pivotal events surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ. From the decree of Caesar Augustus to the humble manger in Bethlehem, and onto the joyous pronouncements of angels and recognition by faithful elders, this chapter presents a narrative brimming with both earthly reality and divine significance. This in-depth Coptic Orthodox commentary seeks to unpack the rich theological tapestry woven within each verse, revealing profound insights into the Incarnation, prophecy, and the enduring love of God for His creation.

Commentary on Luke 2:1-7: The Decree, the Journey, and the Manger

Luke 2:1-7 (KJV): And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. 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:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 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.

This passage sets the stage with a seemingly mundane historical event: a census ordered by Caesar Augustus. Yet, God orchestrates even the actions of emperors to fulfill His divine plan. The journey to Bethlehem, the ancestral home of David, fulfills the prophecy of Micah 5:2: “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” The lack of room at the inn is a poignant reminder of the humility and rejection that would characterize Christ’s life. The manger, a feeding trough for animals, becomes the cradle of the King of Kings.

Origen of Alexandria writes, “Οὐκ ἔστιν ἐν τῷ καταλύματι τόπος τῷ Ἰησοῦ, ἀλλ’ ἐν τῇ φάτνῃ.” (“There is no room for Jesus in the inn, but only in the manger.” – Origen, *Homilies on Luke*, Homily 10). This highlights the world’s initial rejection of Christ, choosing comfort and self-interest over welcoming the Messiah. This speaks to our own lives. Do we have room for Christ within our hearts, or are we too preoccupied with worldly pursuits?

Spiritual Application: Examine where you might be prioritizing worldly comforts over making room for Christ in your life. Seek to cultivate humility and simplicity, allowing space for God to work in unexpected ways.

Commentary on Luke 2:8-20: The Angels, the Shepherds, and the Gloria in Excelsis

Luke 2:8-20 (KJV): And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 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. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

The appearance of angels to the shepherds is a breathtaking revelation. God chooses the humble shepherds, not the religious elite, to be the first witnesses to the birth of the Messiah. The “good tidings of great joy” are for “all people,” emphasizing the universality of Christ’s salvation. The “Gloria in Excelsis” – “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” – encapsulates the essence of Christ’s mission: to reconcile humanity with God and to establish peace on earth.

Saint Cyril of Alexandria reflects on the meaning of “peace on earth” stating, “Ἡ γὰρ εἰρήνη Χριστὸς ἐστιν, ὁ τὴν ἀμφότερα ποιήσας ἕν.” (“For Christ is peace, who made both one.” – Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Luke*, Homily 2). This “peace” is not merely the absence of conflict, but the reconciliation between God and humanity, achieved through Christ. This peace extends to our internal lives, bringing harmony and wholeness.

The shepherds’ immediate response – to go to Bethlehem and see the “thing which is come to pass” – is a powerful example of faith in action. They shared the message of the angels with others, becoming evangelists of the Good News. Mary, in contrast, “kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart,” demonstrating a quiet reverence and deep contemplation of the mysteries unfolding.

Spiritual Application: Embrace the joy of the Gospel and share it with others, just as the shepherds did. Cultivate a spirit of contemplation, like Mary, reflecting on the profound truths of the Incarnation.

Commentary on Luke 2:21-40: Presentation in the Temple, Simeon, and Anna

Luke 2:21-40 (KJV): And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb. And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons. And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed. And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

The presentation of Jesus in the Temple demonstrates Mary and Joseph’s obedience to the Law. Circumcision, on the eighth day, signified Jesus’ inclusion in the covenant with Abraham and His Jewish identity. The offering of “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons” indicates their poverty, yet their devotion is unwavering. The encounters with Simeon and Anna are deeply moving. Simeon, “just and devout,” recognizes Jesus as the Messiah, the “consolation of Israel.” His “Nunc Dimittis” – “Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace” – is a testament to his faith and fulfillment. His prophecy to Mary, that “a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,” foreshadows the immense suffering she would endure at the crucifixion.

Anna, a prophetess and widow devoted to prayer and fasting, also recognizes Jesus as the Redeemer. She represents the faithful remnant within Israel who eagerly awaited the Messiah’s arrival. The convergence of Simeon and Anna, two elderly and righteous individuals, underscores the profound significance of this moment.

As Saint Irenaeus writes, “ὁ Λόγος σὰρξ ἐγένετο, καὶ ἐσκήνωσεν ἐν ἡμῖν” (“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” – Irenaeus, *Against Heresies*, Book 3, Chapter 11, Paragraph 3.) This emphasizes the central dogma of the Incarnation, that the divine Logos took on human flesh, uniting God and humanity in the person of Jesus Christ.

Spiritual Application: Strive for obedience to God’s commandments, even in small ways. Cultivate a life of prayer and fasting, seeking a deeper relationship with the Lord. Be open to recognizing Christ in unexpected places and people.

Theological Significance of Luke 2

Luke 2 offers a wealth of theological insights that are central to the Coptic Orthodox faith. Here are some key reflections:

The Incarnation: The birth of Jesus affirms the divine-human nature of Christ. He is both fully God and fully man, uniting divinity and humanity in one person.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: The events surrounding Jesus’ birth meticulously fulfill Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating the continuity between the Old and New Testaments.
Humility and Simplicity: The humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth underscore the radical nature of God’s love and His willingness to identify with the poor and marginalized.
The Role of Mary: As the Theotokos (Mother of God), Mary plays a unique and essential role in salvation history. Her obedience and faith make her a model for all believers.
Universal Salvation: The angelic message of “good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people” affirms the universality of Christ’s salvation.
The Importance of Faith: The examples of the shepherds, Simeon, and Anna demonstrate the power of faith to recognize and embrace the Messiah.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why is the title Theotokos so important to the Coptic Orthodox Church?
The title “Theotokos,” meaning “God-bearer” or “Mother of God,” affirms the divine nature of Jesus Christ from the moment of conception. It emphasizes that Mary gave birth to God incarnate, not just a human being who later became divine.
Q: What is the significance of the shepherds being the first to hear the Good News?
The shepherds were humble, working-class individuals, often considered outcasts in society. Their selection as the first witnesses highlights God’s preferential option for the poor and marginalized, demonstrating that His love extends to all, regardless of social status.
Q: How does the Coptic Orthodox Church interpret Simeon’s prophecy to Mary?
Simeon’s prophecy foreshadows the immense suffering that Mary would endure at the crucifixion of her Son. It underscores her profound participation in Christ’s redemptive work and her role as a co-suffering Mother.
Q: Why does Luke focus on the historical context of Jesus’ birth, mentioning Caesar Augustus?
By grounding the birth of Jesus in a specific historical context, Luke emphasizes the reality and tangibility of the Incarnation. It demonstrates that God entered into human history at a particular time and place, not in some abstract or mythical realm.

Conclusion

Luke 2, “The Humble Birth of Christ,” paints a vivid portrait of the Incarnation, highlighting the fulfillment of prophecy, the adoration of the shepherds, and the recognition of the Messiah by faithful elders. The humility and simplicity surrounding Christ’s birth, in stark contrast to the imperial grandeur of Caesar Augustus, underscore the transformative power of God’s love. This chapter calls us to examine our own hearts, to make room for Christ, and to embrace the “good tidings of great joy” that are offered to all people. May we, like Mary, ponder these things in our hearts, and like the shepherds, share the Gospel with joy and zeal. Through Christ’s birth, we are offered reconciliation with God and the promise of eternal life, a gift that compels us to live lives of faith, hope, and love, and also explore opportunities to serve through web hosting that spreads God’s word.

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Explore a verse-by-verse Coptic Orthodox commentary on Luke 2: The Humble Birth of Christ, the Incarnation, and the significance of the Nativity.

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Luke 2 – The Birth of Jesus and His Presentation in the Temple