The History Lesson

About this video:

The birth of the Jesus began with a series of miraculous events which ended with his arrival in a humble animal stable. His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph, were simply following God’s direction and made the journey by donkey to the town of Bethlehem where the baby was born.  

Then, in the days that followed, angels appeared and announced the birth to shepherds in nearby fields, who then sought the newborn Messiah foretold by their forefather years ago.  

Based on the story found in Luke 2, this video shows how the shepherds’ lives were changed that night as they became eyewitnesses to the birth of the Messiah.  

Questions to consider:

How do you think the shepherds felt when the angel first appeared to them?


Why do you think God chose the shepherds to announce the birth of his Son in Bethlehem? Why not tell the religious leaders?


How would Joseph and Mary feel having a group of shepherds knocking on the door wanting to see the baby Jesus and telling them about the angel’s visit?

Do you think any of the shepherds became followers of Jesus as he grew up?

Background to the story:

This story of the shepherds is recorded only in the book of Luke (2:8-20).  


Luke records three angelic visits preparing the world for the birth of Jesus. The angels visited Zechariah (John the Baptist’s father), Mary, and the shepherds. 

Luke often includes stories and reactions of common people who meet Jesus and hear his teachings.

Reference - Luke 2:8-20