Gospel Accounts of the Nativity
The birth of Jesus is described in detail in only two of the four canonical Gospels: Matthew (chapters 1–2) and Luke (chapters 1–2). The Gospel of Mark begins with Jesus’ adult ministry, while the Gospel of John presents a theological prologue centered on the incarnation of the Word (Logos), rather than a narrative of birth.
The Gospel of Matthew
Matthew’s account emphasizes Jesus’ royal and messianic identity, linking him directly to Jewish prophecy and the Davidic lineage. The genealogy at the beginning of Matthew traces Jesus’ ancestry through Joseph to King David, establishing his legitimacy as the promised Messiah. Matthew recounts the visit of the Magi—wise men from the East—who are guided by a star to Bethlehem. Their arrival provokes fear in King Herod the Great, leading to the massacre of the innocents and the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt.
Matthew’s Nativity narrative is deeply rooted in Hebrew Scripture. Events surrounding Jesus’ birth are repeatedly described as fulfillments of prophecy, particularly from Isaiah and Micah. Bethlehem is identified as the birthplace of the ruler of Israel, and Jesus’ early life parallels that of Moses, reinforcing his role as a deliverer.
