Introduction
Welcome dear readers, to Purple Studios Publishing's blog. We are excited to have you join us on this journey of faith as we explore the transformative power of the ancient church's teachings. Our blog, today serves to illuminate the timeless lessons of faith which continue to resonate with believers today. We will start with the birth of Jesus and in future blogs on Thursdays we will continue the journey of the history of Christianity until our present day. Please follow with us on this journey.
The Birth of the Christian Church: A Foundation of Faith
Understanding the roots of our faith can deepen our connection with Christ and enrich our spiritual journey. Through exploring the historical context, early Christian communities, and key figures of the ancient and modern Christian church, we hope to inspire readers to explore more on their own how Christian tradition that has shaped our beliefs.
Herod the Great
At the time of Jesus’ birth, the Jewish people in Judea were ruled by the Roman Empire's King, Herod the Great, who was a vassal king under Roman authority. Herod the Great, also known as Herod I, was a significant figure in the history of Judea during the time of Jesus. He was a Roman client king who ruled the Herodian Kingdom of Judea from 37 to 4 BCE[1]. Herod was known for his ambitious building projects, which included the reconstruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, transforming it into a grand and magnificent structure. The expansion of the Temple Mount, including the construction of the Western Wall, was also attributed to Herod's reign.
Despite his significant contributions to architecture and infrastructure development, Herod's rule was marked by political and family intrigues. He faced challenges from rival factions and encountered conflicts within his own family, including the execution of his wife and three of his sons. Herod's efforts to maintain his power and suppress potential threats led to a reputation for ruthlessness and paranoia.
Although Herod was a Jewish convert, he was not well-liked by many Jews. He was seen as a tyrant who was interested in preserving his own power and wealth. It is in this context that the birth of Jesus took place.
Herod's role in the nativity story is also crucial. According to the Gospel of Matthew, Herod was threatened by the news of the birth of a new king and sought to eliminate the potential rival by ordering the massacre of the innocent children in Bethlehem. This event, known as the Massacre of the Innocents, is seen as a dark stain on Herod's reign.
The historical accounts of Herod the Great come from various sources, including the works of Jewish historian Josephus, who provides valuable insights into his reign and character. The portrayal of Herod in the New Testament further contributes to our understanding of his role in the context of Jesus' birth.
Herod the Great was a complex and influential figure in the history of Judea during the time of Jesus. His architectural achievements left a lasting legacy, but his reign was marred by political turmoil and the tragedy of the Massacre of the Innocents. Understanding Herod's background and actions helps us place the events of Jesus' birth in their historical and political context.
Evidence of the Census during Jesus Birth
There is evidence from historical sources that a census took place during the time that Jesus was born, specifically during the reign of Caesar Augustus and the governorship of Quirinius. This event is recorded in the Gospel of Luke in the New Testament 1.
Contemporary sources also mention this census, including a fragmentary inscription found in Rome in 1764 that refers to census taking during the time of Augustus. Additionally, the Roman historian Suetonius records that Augustus conducted a census three times, the first of which was around 28-27 BCE, which supports the possibility of a census around the time of Jesus' birth.
It is important to note that dating the exact time when the census took place is difficult. Some scholars argue that the census that Luke refers to is actually a later census that occurred in 6 CE, conducted by Quirinius, the governor of Syria. Others contend that there were two censuses, one during the reign of Augustus and the other conducted by Quirinius.
Nevertheless, while there is some debate about the specifics of the census, there is evidence from contemporary sources that some form of census did take place during the time of Jesus' birth. This provides important historical context for the events described in the New Testament.
The social climate was also impacted by religious tensions. The Jewish people were divided over religious beliefs, and the Pharisees and the Sadducees were in the midst of a fierce debate about the nature of the law and how it should be interpreted.
The Birth of Jesus
The birth of Jesus is an event of great significance in both biblical and historical contexts. The New Testament provides primary sources for the biblical facts surrounding Jesus' birth, specifically the Gospel accounts of Matthew and Luke. These accounts highlight several important details.
According to the Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 2:1-18), Jesus was born in Bethlehem during the reign of Herod the Great. The account mentions the visit of the Magi from the East, who followed a star to find the newborn Jesus and presented him with gifts. It also narrates Herod's attempt to eliminate the perceived threat by ordering the massacre of the innocent children in Bethlehem.
The Gospel of Luke (Luke 2:1-20) provides additional biblical facts about Jesus' birth. It mentions the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem due to a census that required them to return to Joseph's ancestral home1. Jesus was then born in Bethlehem and placed in a manger because there was no room for them in the inn1. The account also mentions the visit of the shepherds who were informed by angels about the birth of the Savior.
From a historical perspective, scholars have attempted to determine the approximate date of Jesus' birth. One method used is "BC" and "AD" dating, which was established by a Christian monk named Dionysius Exiguus in the 6th century. Dionysius calculated that Jesus was born around the year 1 BC or AD 12. However, modern scholarship indicates that Jesus was likely born a few years earlier, between 6 and 4 BC, based on historical and astronomical calculations.
The biblical facts surrounding Jesus' birth are primarily found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. These accounts provide details such as the place of birth, the visit of the Magi, the massacre of the innocents, and the visit of the shepherds. Historical analysis suggests that Jesus was likely born a few years earlier than commonly believed. Studying both the biblical and historical aspects of Jesus' birth enhances our understanding of this significant event in Christian history.
Conclusion
As Christians, it is crucial to understand and appreciate the significance of Jesus' birth. It is a reminder that God's plans are not confined to a specific time or place, but are carried out across history. The events surrounding Jesus' birth demonstrate God's sovereignty and His faithfulness to His promises.
We are called to reflect on this event with awe and wonder, and to let it deepen our faith and relationship with God. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus, may we be reminded of the transformative power of the Gospel and the hope that it brings to our lives. Please continue to follow Purple Studios Publishing blog every Thursday on the next chapter of Christian history. Please comment on what Christian historical event you would like more information and detail on and we can including in our Thursday's Blog.
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