Book of Luke - Chapter 2 - Verse 15
Meaning
After the angels departed into heaven, the shepherds were filled with awe and wonder at the message they had received. The shepherds, realizing the magnitude of the announcement they had just heard, decided to go to Bethlehem to witness the fulfillment of the prophecy. Recognizing the importance of the event that had been revealed to them by the Lord, they were eager to see for themselves the miraculous birth of the Messiah. The shepherds' response to the heavenly message was one of faith and obedience, showing their willingness to act upon the revelation they had received. Their decision to seek out the newborn Savior in Bethlehem demonstrates their desire to witness the fulfillment of God's plan and to be a part of the extraordinary event that was unfolding before them. Ultimately, the shepherds' journey to Bethlehem symbolizes the call to all believers to seek and encounter the presence of God in their lives, responding with faith and anticipation to His divine interventions.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the shepherds are responding to the angels' message about the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. The phrase "Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass" demonstrates the shepherds' immediate and eager decision to follow through on the angels' announcement. The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the shepherds' faith and obedience to God's message. Despite their humble profession and low societal status, the shepherds are chosen to be among the first witnesses of Jesus' birth. The phrase "which the Lord hath made known unto us" underscores the divine revelation that the shepherds have received. Through this verse, we see the importance of responding to God's calling and being open to the unexpected ways in which God chooses to reveal Himself. The shepherds' journey to Bethlehem symbolizes their willingness to seek out and witness the fulfillment of God's promises in the arrival of the Messiah. By studying the word choices in this verse, we can glean insights into the shepherds' faith and God's sovereign plan for salvation.