As the holiday season approaches, many people will be filled with joy and excitement about the much-awaited Christmas celebration. For Christians, Christmas is more than just merry-making, Santa Claus, and exchanging gifts. This significant holiday marks the birth of Jesus, the Son of God, who entered the world through Bethlehem to bring salvation to mankind. Today, His birth continues to impact our lives, and we should reflect on “Because of Bethlehem” and what it means.
Historical Evidence of Jesus’ Existence
Before we look closer into the significance of Bethlehem and Jesus’ purpose for coming, it’s important to establish historically that Jesus did exist. Many still question if Jesus was a real person, despite the vast historical evidence supporting his existence.
Many early non-Christian writers—some hostile to Christianity—mention Jesus. One is a Jewish historian named Flavius Josephus, who was born in AD 37, lived in Jerusalem, and wrote an extensive history of the Jews called the “Antiquities.” In volume 18, he wrote of Jesus’ existence, calling Him a wise man and a worker of remarkable deeds, and stating that He attracted both Jews and Gentiles.
There are several other non-Christian accounts of Jesus’ life. One of the most significant is found in the writings of Roman historian Tacitus. In his Annals, written around AD 116, he mentions Jesus as the founder of the Christian movement and puts the crucifixion of Jesus during Pontius Pilate’s reign.
Other Roman writers, such as Pliny the Younger and Suetonius, also referenced Christ and early Christian beliefs. Moreover, early Christian writings, including the Gospels and the letters of Paul, are reliable historical documents that speak to Jesus’ existence. For more, see my post on the existence of Jesus.
The Importance of Bethlehem
Now that we’ve established Jesus’ existence, let’s focus on why His birth in Bethlehem is so significant. The first thing to recognize is that Bethlehem was not an accident. It was a deliberate choice by God, who had foretold the birthplace of the Messiah through the prophet Micah 700 years before Jesus was born (Micah 5:2).
Secondly, the birth of Jesus in a manger highlights His humble and servant-like nature. He didn’t come into the world with pomp and circumstance but chose a manger, a feeding trough for animals, as His first bed. This is a stark contrast from worldly expectations of who the Messiah would be, and it shows that Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world.
Lastly, and most importantly, Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem was the beginning of God fulfilling His promise of salvation. The angel who appeared to the shepherds announced that Jesus’ birth was “good news of great joy” because it signaled the arrival of a Savior (Luke 2:10-11). Jesus came to bring forgiveness and reconciliation between God and humanity. He was the means by which we could know God and experience eternal life.
Because of Bethlehem
As we approach Christmas, let’s reflect on the significance of Bethlehem and Jesus’ birth. We can proclaim with confidence that Jesus was a real person who entered this world through Bethlehem to bring salvation to mankind. Christ’s birth represents a turning point in human history, from darkness to light, from death to life.
The phrase “Because of Bethlehem” reminds us that we have hope and peace because of Jesus’ birth. It inspires us to live with purpose, to love selflessly, to forgive generously, and to share the love of Christ with others. It is because of Bethlehem that we can look forward to eternity in the presence of God.
In conclusion, every Christmas, we are reminded of the importance of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. It is a time to reflect on the significance of His coming and what it means for us. As we celebrate this holiday season, let’s keep in mind the phrase “Because of Bethlehem” and rejoice in the good news of the Savior’s arrival. May we live in the light of Jesus’ birth, love, and grace, and share the gospel message with those around us.
For additional insight, visit gotquestions.org.
Have a blessed Christmas.
