Christmas Story Bible Study: The Birth of Jesus in Scripture

Updated for Advent 2026, which begins Sunday, November 29.

The Christmas story in the Bible is found mainly in Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2, with John 1:1-14 explaining who the baby is. The angel announced, “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people” (Luke 2:10, ESV). Follow this study through Advent 2026, November 29 to December 24.

Updated for Advent 2026, which begins Sunday, November 29.

The Christmas story in the Bible is found mainly in Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2, with John 1:1-14 explaining who the baby is. The angel announced joyful news meant for everyone (Luke 2:10). Follow this study through Advent 2026, November 29 to December 24.

“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” (Luke 2:10, ESV)

Each Gospel tells the Christmas story differently. Matthew traces the King’s family line, Luke gives us the manger and the shepherds, and John goes back before creation to the eternal Word. This study follows all three through Advent.

Advent and Christmas studies

  1. The Birth of Jesus: Luke 2 Bible Study (Nov 23, 2026)
  2. Matthew 1 Genealogy Explained (Nov 27, 2026)
  3. John 1:1-14 Meaning: The Word Became Flesh (Nov 30, 2026)
  4. Christmas Bible Study on John 1:14: God With Us (Dec 25, 2026)

Christmas devotionals

A simple Advent reading plan

Week 1: Isaiah 9:6-7 · Week 2: Matthew 1:18-25 · Week 3: Luke 1:26-56 · Week 4: Luke 2:1-20 · Christmas: John 1:1-14

Related

Gospel of John Bible Study · Gospel Studies hub · Join Narrow Gate

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Christmas story in the Bible?

Mainly Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2. John 1:1-14 explains the meaning of the incarnation.

What does Immanuel mean?

It means God is with us (Matthew 1:23).

Why does Matthew begin with a genealogy?

It shows that Jesus is the promised son of Abraham and son of David, the rightful King.

Is this study good for families?

Yes. Each study has discussion questions, and the reading plan works for an Advent family devotion.

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Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway. Used by permission. All rights reserved.