Another misconception about Jesus that is He was born on Christmas day.
I could be wrong, but I think most church goers know this is not true.
What is interesting, however, is His possible conception date.
In Luke 2 it tells the story of Jesus’ birth and their adventure in the stable. In verse 15 it says this:
“In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock.” Luke 2:15 CSB
It is unlikely that the shepherds would have their flocks out at night during the winter. It was far too cold. The sheep were kept outside from the sprint to the autumn, so we can safely place His birth within that window.
But there’s more.
It was common for 1st Century Jews to travel to Jerusalem during the Feast of Tabernacles, which took place in late September to early October. It would seem appropriate for the census to take place during the same time, since people were already traveling, and many people had to return to Jerusalem anyway.
If that is the case, the Baby was born in late September.
Subtract nine months and you get a conception date in…
Late December!
Merry Christmas to all of the Gospel Geeks out there!
10 Misconceptions about Jesus #1: Jesus’ appearance
10 Misconceptions about Jesus #2: Jesus is the same as He was
10 Misconceptions about Jesus #3: Jesus would never judge anyone
10 Misconceptions about Jesus #4: Jesus was a carpenter
10 Misconceptions about Jesus #5: Jesus was pierced though His hands