What does Luke 2:18 mean?

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. Luke 2:18

Explanation

Luke 2:18 describes the reaction of people to the message shared by the shepherds regarding the birth of Jesus Christ. Prior to this verse, the shepherds had been visited by an angel who announced the birth of the Savior. They were instructed to find the baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. After witnessing the newborn Christ, the shepherds shared the news with others. The verse highlights the astonishment of those who heard the shepherds’ account of the angelic announcement and their subsequent finding of Jesus in Bethlehem. The deeper meaning reflects the extraordinary nature of the birth of Jesus and the impact of the divine revelation on ordinary people.

Historical Context

The verse is set within the historical context of Judean society under the rule of the Roman Empire. Typically, shepherds were considered to be on the lower end of the social spectrum; their testimonies might not always be held in high regard. The fact that they were chosen to receive the angel’s message is significant in itself. The time is during the census of Quirinius, a Roman administrative measure, and the city of Bethlehem is significant as the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah (Micah 5:2). The historical backdrop is one of expectation among the Jewish people for a Messiah to deliver them from Roman oppression.

Theological Insights

This verse invites theological reflection on several points. From a Christian perspective, it demonstrates that God’s revelations and saving acts can come to and through those who are of lowly status, like the shepherds. It also signifies the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the Messiah. The wonder expressed by the hearers can be seen to foreshadow the widespread impact Jesus’ teachings and actions would have on the world. Theologically, the passage conveys that the good news of Jesus Christ is surprising and transformational, eliciting wonder and reflection.

Practical Applications

“Luke 2:18” encourages the believer to be receptive to messages from unexpected places and people. It reminds Christians to be open to the divine movements in their lives and to share their experiences of faith with others. Additionally, it demonstrates the value of witnessing and attesting to faith-based experiences, noting that these testimonies can inspire awe and contemplation among others.

Cross-References

• Luke 2:7 – “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.”
• 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.”
• Luke 2:17 – “And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word for “wondered” is “θαυμάζω” (thaumazō), which means to marvel, be amazed, or be astonished. It implies a reaction of both surprise and admiration. The verb carries with it connotations of deep contemplation or pondering over something extraordinary. Understanding this word enhances the sense that the message about Jesus’ birth truly left a significant impression on the listeners.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this account to other cultural and religious narratives, one might find parallels in stories where individuals of humbler origin are granted divine insight or intervention, as seen in Hindu or Greek myths. A common theme in many religious traditions is the use of unlikely messengers or signs to communicate divine truth, but the Christian narrative uniquely emphasizes the incarnation of deity in the person of Jesus. Moreover, the Christian tradition frequently affirms the importance of personal testimony in sharing religious truth, something which has parallels in but is distinct from other religious practices.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives are less directly relevant to this verse, as it largely deals with a historical event and the response of individuals to purported divine revelation. However, a scientific examination might explore the psychological aspects of wonder and belief, understanding what motivates humans to react with astonishment and the role of such experiences in shaping religious and cultural narratives.

Commentaries

Various commentators have offered insights on this verse from different angles:

• Traditional commentaries often focus on the humility and faithfulness of the shepherds, and the significance of their social status in being the first to spread the news of Jesus’ birth.
• Modern theological commentaries may highlight the theme of unexpected divine revelation, emphasizing that God often chooses the marginalized and outcast to be bearers of profound truths.
• Some scholars note the role of oral tradition in ancient culture and how the spreading of the shepherds’ message conforms to this cultural practice, emphasizing the process of testimony in establishing the historical narrative of Jesus’ birth.

Each approach to Luke 2:18 offers a different facet to understanding the complex layers of meaning within the text and its implications.