What does Luke 2:11 mean?

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:11

Explanation

Luke 2:11 is among the most celebrated verses in the Christian New Testament, as it proclaims the birth of Jesus Christ. The verse is a key element of the Nativity story and is cherished particularly during the Christmas season. It is packed with significant theological terms: “Saviour,” “Christ,” and “Lord.” Literally, the verse delivers the message that a child has been born in Bethlehem (the city of David), who is the long-awaited Messiah and deliverer, and this child is identified as the sovereign ruler with divine authority.

Historical Context

This verse is set in the historical context of first-century Palestine under Roman rule. Bethlehem was known as the city of David because it was the birthplace of King David, an important figure in Jewish history. The mention of “the city of David” would resonate with Jewish readers who were familiar with the Old Testament prophecies concerning the lineage of the Messiah descending from David (cf. 2 Samuel 7:12-16; Isaiah 9:6-7). Moreover, the cultural expectation of the time was for a savior or messiah to deliver the Jewish people from political oppression and restore the kingdom of Israel.

Theological Insights

Theologically, the verse brings together three critical concepts of Christian doctrine:

• Saviour: Refers to the role of Jesus in saving humanity from sin. This title resonates with the Jewish concept of salvation from oppression, but in Christian theology, it extends to spiritual salvation.
• Christ: Is the Greek term for “Messiah,” meaning “anointed one.” This underlines the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
• Lord: Indicates divine authority, implying Jesus’s deity and his ultimate sovereignty over all.

Different theological perspectives might emphasize various aspects of these titles. For example, traditional orthodox Christianity sees this verse as foundational to the belief in the incarnation of God in Jesus. Meanwhile, liberation theologians might focus on the sociopolitical implications of a “Saviour” for the oppressed.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Luke 2:11 can inspire acts of compassion and service, as it marks the arrival of hope in the form of a servant leader. Believers are encouraged to model their lives after Christ, uplifting the downtrodden, and working towards justice. The verse also serves as a reminder of the origins of Christian faith and the importance of humility — a messiah born not in a palace, but in a humble setting.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 9:6: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”
• Matthew 1:21: “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.”
• John 1:41: “He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key terms include:

• Saviour (σωτήρ): This word implies deliverance or preservation.
• Christ (Χριστός): Greek translation of the Hebrew word “Messiah,” meaning anointed.
• Lord (κύριος): Suggests supreme authority, often used in the Greek Septuagint to translate the name of God (YHWH).

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Cultural and religious parallels can be drawn between this verse and other ancient myths of god-kings and deliverers. For instance, figures such as the Egyptian Horus or the Roman Caesars were often portrayed as having divine attributes or roles as saviors. However, the Christian narrative uniquely focuses on the humility and servant nature of its savior, contrasting with more triumphalist ancient myths.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the verse does not directly address natural phenomena but rather theological and historical claims. Contemporary discussions might engage with the historicity of Jesus’s birth, considering archaeological evidence for first-century Bethlehem or assessments of the census mentioned earlier in Luke 2 as it relates to timing and historical records.

Commentaries

Exegetes have long explored Luke 2:11, noting its significance in the Christmas narrative and Christian theology. Matthew Henry’s commentary emphasizes the joy and universality of the announcement, addressing all people. Modern scholars like N.T. Wright and others often discuss the subversive nature of this announcement, as it contrasts the power structures of the world with the coming of Jesus in lowly circumstances. And still, other commentators like William Barclay focus on the verse’s fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy, connecting Jewish expectations with the advent of Jesus.