This verse from Luke 2:10 is a pivotal moment in the Christmas story. Let's break down what it means:
"The angel said to them...": This sets the scene. An angel, a divine messenger, is speaking to shepherds, humble and ordinary people watching their flocks at night.
"...“Don’t be afraid...": Angels often appear with dazzling light and overwhelming power, so it's common for people to be afraid. This reassuring phrase is a necessary preface to the message. It's telling the shepherds not to be scared because what's about to be said is positive and beneficial.
"...for behold...": This word draws attention to something very important and remarkable that the angel is about to say.
"...I bring you good news...": The angel is delivering euangelion (εὐαγγέλιον) in Greek, from which we get the word "gospel". It's not just any news, but something positive and beneficial. The angel is bringing a message of hope and salvation.
"...of great joy...": This specifies the nature of the good news. It's not just mild news; it's something that should inspire profound happiness.
"...which will be to all the people.": This is crucial. The good news and great joy are not just for the shepherds, or just for the Jewish people, but for everyone. This message of the birth of the Messiah, is universal. It applies to people of all backgrounds, nations, and times.
In Summary:
This verse means that a divine messenger is announcing to ordinary people that there is amazing, joyful news for everyone. The angel's pronouncement sets the stage for the birth of Jesus Christ, who is seen as the source of that great joy and salvation for all humanity. It's a message of hope, peace, and good will to all.
This verse from Luke 2:10 is a pivotal moment in the Christmas story. Let's break down what it means:
"The angel said to them...": This sets the scene. An angel, a divine messenger, is speaking to shepherds, humble and ordinary people watching their flocks at night.
"...“Don’t be afraid...": Angels often appear with dazzling light and overwhelming power, so it's common for people to be afraid. This reassuring phrase is a necessary preface to the message. It's telling the shepherds not to be scared because what's about to be said is positive and beneficial.
"...for behold...": This word draws attention to something very important and remarkable that the angel is about to say.
"...I bring you good news...": The angel is delivering euangelion (εὐαγγέλιον) in Greek, from which we get the word "gospel". It's not just any news, but something positive and beneficial. The angel is bringing a message of hope and salvation.
"...of great joy...": This specifies the nature of the good news. It's not just mild news; it's something that should inspire profound happiness.
"...which will be to all the people.": This is crucial. The good news and great joy are not just for the shepherds, or just for the Jewish people, but for everyone. This message of the birth of the Messiah, is universal. It applies to people of all backgrounds, nations, and times.
In Summary:
This verse means that a divine messenger is announcing to ordinary people that there is amazing, joyful news for everyone. The angel's pronouncement sets the stage for the birth of Jesus Christ, who is seen as the source of that great joy and salvation for all humanity. It's a message of hope, peace, and good will to all.