Luke 2:10 Meaning and Explanation
“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Context of Luke 2:10
Spoken by the angel of the Lord to shepherds keeping watch over their flocks near Bethlehem on the night of Jesus' birth, just before the heavenly host appears.
What Does Luke 2:10 Mean?
The angel calms the terrified shepherds and announces the most joyful news the world has ever heard: a Saviour has been born. The shepherds, ordinary laborers keeping watch by night, are startled by the sudden glory of heaven. The angel's first words, "Fear not," set the tone: this visitation comes as an invitation to joy rather than a threat.
Three features of the announcement stand out. First, it is "good tidings": the Greek word behind it is the root of our word for gospel, the good news of salvation. Second, it brings "great joy," a gladness proportional to the gift being given. And third, it is "to all people," offered to everyone rather than reserved for the powerful or the privileged, beginning with humble shepherds. That God chose shepherds as the first to hear is itself part of the message: the good news comes first to the lowly. This single sentence captures the heart of the Christmas story and of the gospel itself. The birth of Jesus is far more than a private blessing for one family; it is a turning point for the whole world. The news is meant to be received with joy and shared widely, because its reach is as wide as humanity itself.
Luke 2:10 in the Original Language
The phrase euangelizomai (I bring good tidings) is the verb form behind the word "gospel." The joy announced is chara megale (great joy) for pas ho laos, all the people.
Bible Verses Related to Luke 2:10
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”
- Isaiah 9:6
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”
- Luke 2:11
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace.”
- Isaiah 52:7
How to Apply Luke 2:10 Today
The good news of the Saviour is meant for everyone and for you; receive it with joy and let it dispel fear.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 2:10
What does Luke 2:10 mean?
The angel calms the terrified shepherds and announces the most joyful news the world has ever heard: a Saviour has been born. The shepherds, ordinary laborers keeping watch by night, are startled by the sudden glory of heaven. The angel's first words, "Fear not," set the tone: this visitation comes as an invitation to joy rather than a threat.
What is the context of Luke 2:10?
Spoken by the angel of the Lord to shepherds keeping watch over their flocks near Bethlehem on the night of Jesus' birth, just before the heavenly host appears.
How can I apply Luke 2:10 today?
The good news of the Saviour is meant for everyone and for you; receive it with joy and let it dispel fear.