Luke 2:6 (KJV)

What does Luke 2:6 mean?

Luke 2:6 tells us that while Mary and Joseph were staying in Bethlehem, the time arrived for Mary to give birth. This verse marks the moment when the long-expected birth of Jesus was about to happen, setting the stage for the nativity story.

Luke, the writer, is narrating what happened to Mary and Joseph after they traveled to Bethlehem for the census. The verse quietly signals that all the waiting and journeying has led to this key moment in their lives. It highlights that the timing of Jesus’ birth happened while they were away from home, in a place chosen by circumstances beyond their control.

The Greek behind Luke 2:6

• The word "accomplished" is from the Greek ἐπλήσθησαν (eplēsthēsan), which often means "fulfilled" or "completed." Here, it emphasizes that the time for Mary’s delivery was not random but had reached its full term, suggesting a sense of purpose or fulfillment.
• The Greek word for "delivered" is τεκεῖν (tekein), meaning "to give birth." This word focuses on the actual event of childbirth, making it clear that the verse is about the physical arrival of the baby.

Why Luke 2:6 matters

• Luke 2:6 clarifies that Jesus’ birth happened in Bethlehem, not Nazareth, which fulfills prophecies about the Messiah’s birthplace and connects to the wider story of God’s plan.
• The verse quietly emphasizes that the timing of Jesus’ birth was not accidental but happened at a significant moment, hinting at a sense of divine timing.
• By describing the setting and timing so plainly, Luke sets up the humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth, which becomes important in the verses that follow.