Luke 2:1 - Now in those days, a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled.
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What does "Luke 2:1" mean?
This verse from Luke 2:1 is a foundational statement setting the historical context for the birth of Jesus. Let's break down what it means:
"Now in those days..." This is a common phrase in biblical narratives used to introduce a specific time period or event. It signals the beginning of a new episode in the story.
"...a decree went out from Caesar Augustus..." Caesar Augustus was the Roman Emperor at the time. The term "decree" (or "edict" in some translations) means an official order or command issued by a person in authority. The fact that the decree came from the Emperor himself highlights its importance and the scope of its reach.
"...that all the world should be enrolled." This is the key part. "All the world" is likely hyperbole (exaggeration) and would more accurately mean "all the Roman world" or "all the Roman Empire." "Enrolled" means to be registered or to have one's name and details officially recorded. This was a census, likely for taxation purposes or to assess the population for military service. The Romans conducted censuses periodically to maintain control and efficiently govern their vast empire.
In Summary:
The verse is saying that during the reign of Caesar Augustus, the Roman Emperor issued an order that everyone throughout the Roman Empire had to register for a census. This census required people to return to their ancestral towns to be counted, which is what prompts Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would be born there.
Significance of the Verse:
Historical Context: It places the birth of Jesus within a specific historical framework, anchoring the event in real-world politics and administration.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: It explains why Joseph and Mary were in Bethlehem at the time of Jesus's birth.
Divine Providence: Some see this census as an example of God's providence, using earthly rulers and their decrees to fulfill His divine plan.
Taxation: Roman censuses were often used to collect taxes. This detail, even though seemingly minor, helps paint a picture of Roman governance and the lives of people within the empire.
Luke 2:1 - Now in those days, a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be enrolled.
What does "Luke 2:1" mean?
This verse from Luke 2:1 is a foundational statement setting the historical context for the birth of Jesus. Let's break down what it means:
"Now in those days..." This is a common phrase in biblical narratives used to introduce a specific time period or event. It signals the beginning of a new episode in the story.
"...a decree went out from Caesar Augustus..." Caesar Augustus was the Roman Emperor at the time. The term "decree" (or "edict" in some translations) means an official order or command issued by a person in authority. The fact that the decree came from the Emperor himself highlights its importance and the scope of its reach.
"...that all the world should be enrolled." This is the key part. "All the world" is likely hyperbole (exaggeration) and would more accurately mean "all the Roman world" or "all the Roman Empire." "Enrolled" means to be registered or to have one's name and details officially recorded. This was a census, likely for taxation purposes or to assess the population for military service. The Romans conducted censuses periodically to maintain control and efficiently govern their vast empire.
In Summary:
The verse is saying that during the reign of Caesar Augustus, the Roman Emperor issued an order that everyone throughout the Roman Empire had to register for a census. This census required people to return to their ancestral towns to be counted, which is what prompts Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would be born there.
Significance of the Verse:
Historical Context: It places the birth of Jesus within a specific historical framework, anchoring the event in real-world politics and administration.
Fulfillment of Prophecy: It explains why Joseph and Mary were in Bethlehem at the time of Jesus's birth.
Divine Providence: Some see this census as an example of God's providence, using earthly rulers and their decrees to fulfill His divine plan.
Taxation: Roman censuses were often used to collect taxes. This detail, even though seemingly minor, helps paint a picture of Roman governance and the lives of people within the empire.