Investigating the Nativity Story with Nate Ramsayer

Investigating the Nativity Story: Historical Background of Jesus' Birth

We’ve heard this story all our lives—a carpenter from Nazareth and his pregnant wife travel to Bethlehem to be counted during a census, but are turned away at the inn, leaving them to give birth in a lowly stable. Yet, there are likely many fascinating details about this prodigious event found within the Bible itself that you may not remember! Who was present for the birth of Jesus? In which city do Mary and Joseph actually live? How many wise men are mentioned? What gifts did the shepherds bring to celebrate the baby? It is well known by historians that King Herod died in 4 BCE, so if Herod is an active player in the story, how could Jesus be born at the turn of the millennium?

If you read the narrative in its entirety, you’ll find it is full of contradictions.…