Luke 2:11

KJV

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G3754} unto you {G5213} is born {G5088} this day {G4594} in {G1722} the city {G4172} of David {G1138} a Saviour {G4990}, which {G3739} is {G2076} Christ {G5547} the Lord {G2962}.

Complete Jewish Bible

This very day, in the town of David, there was born for you a Deliverer who is the Messiah, the Lord.

Berean Standard Bible

Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!

American Standard Version

for there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 2:11 stands as the pivotal declaration within the angelic announcement to the shepherds, unveiling the identity and mission of the newborn child. It proclaims that on that very day, in Bethlehem, the ancestral home of King David, a deliverer has been born, identified unequivocally as the Messiah and the sovereign Lord. This concise yet profound verse encapsulates the essence of the Christmas message, revealing God's redemptive plan set in motion through the Incarnation of Jesus Christ, who comes to save humanity and establish His divine reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Luke 2:11 is the climax of the angelic pronouncement to the shepherds, immediately following the angel's appearance and the declaration of "good news of great joy for all the people" in [Luke 2:10](/luke/2-10 "Luke 2:10 - Good News of Great Joy"). The preceding verses set the stage with the decree from Caesar Augustus, Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem, and Jesus' humble birth in a manger due to no room in the inn ([Luke 2:1-7](/luke/2-1-7 "Luke 2:1-7 - The Birth of Jesus")). After this verse, the angel provides a sign for the shepherds—a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger ([Luke 2:12](/luke/2-12 "Luke 2:12 - A Sign for the Shepherds"))—which is then followed by a multitude of the heavenly host praising God ([Luke 2:13-14](/luke/2-13-14 "Luke 2:13-14 - The Heavenly Host Praises God")). The entire narrative in [Luke 2](/luke/2 "Luke 2 - The Birth of Jesus and Visit of the Shepherds") is carefully constructed to highlight the miraculous nature of Jesus' birth and its universal significance.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The mention of "the city of David" immediately identifies Bethlehem, a small town with immense historical and prophetic significance. It was the birthplace of King David ([1 Samuel 17:12](/1-samuel/17-12 "1 Samuel 17:12 - David's Family in Bethlehem")) and, more importantly, the prophesied birthplace of the Messiah, as foretold in [Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Prophecy of Bethlehem"). The angel's announcement to shepherds is also culturally significant; shepherds were often marginalized in Jewish society, yet they are the first recipients of this divine revelation, underscoring God's heart for the humble and outcast. This event occurs within the broader context of Roman occupation, where a census had brought Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, fulfilling God's sovereign plan despite human decrees. The titles "Saviour, Christ, Lord" would resonate deeply within a Jewish context, where messianic expectations for a deliverer king were fervent, while also challenging preconceived notions about the nature of that deliverance.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Luke's Gospel and biblical theology. Foremost is the theme of **Salvation**, as Jesus is explicitly named "a Saviour," highlighting humanity's dire need for deliverance from sin and its consequences, a theme woven throughout Scripture from [Genesis 3](/genesis/3 "Genesis 3 - The Fall of Humanity") to [Revelation 22](/revelation/22 "Revelation 22 - The New Jerusalem"). The designation "Christ" (Messiah) underscores the theme of **Fulfillment of Prophecy**, as Jesus is presented as the long-awaited Anointed One who fulfills the promises made to Israel, particularly those concerning the Davidic covenant found in [2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2-samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant"). Finally, the title "the Lord" speaks to Jesus' **Divine Authority and Sovereignty**, affirming His unique relationship with God and His supreme position, a truth that becomes central to the early Christian proclamation, as seen in [Acts 2:36](/acts/2-36 "Acts 2:36 - God Has Made Him Both Lord and Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Saviour (Greek, _sōtḗr'_):** From the verb meaning "to save" or "deliver," this noun denotes a deliverer or preserver. In the ancient world, _sōtḗr_ was often applied to deities, rulers, or heroes who rescued people from danger, illness, or oppression. Its application to Jesus here signifies His ultimate spiritual deliverance, not merely from physical or political bondage, but from sin and its eternal consequences, providing salvation for all humanity.
* **Christ (Greek, _Christós'_):** This word is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Messiah," meaning "Anointed One." In the Old Testament, kings, priests, and prophets were anointed with oil as a sign of their divine appointment. By calling Jesus "Christ," the angel declares Him to be the divinely appointed, long-prophesied Messiah of Israel, the one who would fulfill all the messianic expectations and bring about God's kingdom.
* **Lord (Greek, _kýrios'_):** This term signifies supreme authority, a master or controller. While it can be a respectful title like "Sir," in a theological context, especially in the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament), _kýrios_ was frequently used to translate the divine name YHWH. Its application to Jesus in this angelic announcement elevates His status beyond that of a mere human king or prophet, affirming His divine nature and supreme authority as God Himself, worthy of worship and obedience.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For unto you is born this day":** This opening phrase emphasizes the immediate and personal nature of the announcement. "Unto you" (plural) highlights that this good news is for the shepherds, and by extension, for all people. "This day" stresses the present reality and historical specificity of the event, marking it as a definitive moment in time, not a future hope or a past legend. The passive voice "is born" underscores God's active role in bringing about this birth; it is a divine initiative.
* **"in the city of David":** This geographical detail is crucial, identifying Bethlehem as the birthplace. By calling it "the city of David," the angel explicitly links Jesus' birth to the lineage and prophecy concerning King David, thereby affirming Jesus' messianic credentials as the rightful heir to David's throne and the fulfillment of ancient prophecies.
* **"a Saviour":** This is the first and foundational title given to the newborn. It declares Jesus' primary purpose: to deliver and rescue humanity. This salvation is comprehensive, encompassing deliverance from sin, death, and the power of evil, offering reconciliation with God.
* **"which is Christ the Lord":** This climactic phrase reveals the full identity and authority of the "Saviour." "Which is" serves as an explanatory link, clarifying who this Saviour is. "Christ" identifies Him as the promised Messiah, the Anointed One of God. "The Lord" elevates Him to the highest possible status, signifying His divine sovereignty and authority, aligning Him with God Himself. This combination of titles—Saviour, Christ, and Lord—presents a profound and complete theological statement about Jesus' person and mission.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 2:11 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The primary device is **Annunciation**, as the verse is part of a divine message delivered by an angel, marking a significant, divinely ordained event. The angel's words also demonstrate **Fulfillment of Prophecy**, specifically by identifying Bethlehem as "the city of David," directly referencing Old Testament prophecies like [Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Prophecy of Bethlehem") concerning the Messiah's birthplace. The use of a series of escalating titles—"Saviour," "Christ," and "the Lord"—is a form of **Title Accumulation** or **Climax**, building from a functional role (Saviour) to a messianic identity (Christ) and culminating in a declaration of divine sovereignty (Lord). This progression emphasizes the comprehensive nature of Jesus' identity and authority. Furthermore, the phrase "unto you" employs **Direct Address** and **Emphasis**, making the message intensely personal and highlighting that this divine gift is for the benefit of the hearers, and by extension, for all humanity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 2:11 is a theological cornerstone, articulating the very essence of the Incarnation and God's redemptive plan. It reveals God's profound initiative in sending His Son, not as a conquering king in earthly splendor, but as a humble baby born to save. The combination of "Saviour, Christ, Lord" encapsulates Jesus' threefold office as Prophet (revealing God), Priest (offering Himself for sin), and King (ruling over all creation). This verse affirms that Jesus is the long-awaited answer to humanity's spiritual plight, the fulfillment of divine promises, and the sovereign ruler over all things. It underscores that salvation is a divine gift, freely given to a humanity incapable of saving itself, and that this gift is embodied in the person of Jesus, whose identity is both fully human and fully divine.

* [Isaiah 9:6](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6 - A Child Is Born, A Son Is Given")
* [Matthew 1:21](/matthew/1-21 "Matthew 1:21 - Jesus Will Save His People")
* [Acts 2:36](/acts/2-36 "Acts 2:36 - God Has Made Him Both Lord and Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Luke 2:11 is far more than a historical announcement; it is a timeless declaration of hope, joy, and profound truth that continues to resonate with believers today. The angelic proclamation "unto you" reminds us that the birth of Jesus is intensely personal. It is a gift offered to each individual, inviting us to receive the salvation He brings. Understanding Jesus as "Saviour" compels us to acknowledge our need for redemption, recognizing that He alone can deliver us from the bondage of sin and death. His identity as "Christ" calls us to place our faith in Him as the promised Messiah, the Anointed One who fulfills all God's purposes. And His designation as "the Lord" demands our worship, obedience, and submission to His divine authority in every area of our lives. This verse challenges us to move beyond a sentimental view of Christmas and embrace the radical implications of God becoming man—a humble birth that ushers in cosmic redemption. It invites us to respond with the same awe and wonder as the shepherds, spreading the good news of this glorious birth to a world desperately in need of a Saviour, Christ the Lord.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the angelic declaration "unto you" personalize the message of Jesus' birth for you today?**
* **What does it mean for your daily life that Jesus is not only "Saviour" but also "Christ the Lord"?**
* **In what ways does recognizing Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy (born in the "city of David") deepen your trust in God's faithfulness?**
* **How can you share the "good news of great joy" (Luke 2:10) of Jesus as Saviour, Christ, and Lord with others in your sphere of influence?**

### FAQ
**Why is Bethlehem called the "city of David" in this verse, and what is its significance?**

Answer: Bethlehem is called the "city of David" because it was the birthplace of King David, Israel's most famous king, as recounted in [1 Samuel 17:12](/1-samuel/17-12 "1 Samuel 17:12 - David's Family in Bethlehem"). This designation is highly significant because Old Testament prophecy, specifically [Micah 5:2](/micah/5-2 "Micah 5:2 - Prophecy of Bethlehem"), foretold that the Messiah, the promised deliverer of Israel, would be born in Bethlehem. By stating that Jesus was born "in the city of David," the angel's announcement directly links Jesus' birth to these ancient prophecies, affirming His identity as the long-awaited Messiah, the rightful heir to David's throne, and the one who would establish an eternal kingdom. It underscores God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises through the lineage of David.

**What is the theological significance of the three titles "Saviour, Christ, the Lord" being used together for Jesus?**

Answer: The combination of "Saviour, Christ, the Lord" in Luke 2:11 provides a comprehensive and profound theological statement about Jesus' identity and mission. "Saviour" (Greek: _sōtḗr_) emphasizes His primary purpose: to deliver humanity from sin, death, and spiritual bondage, offering reconciliation with God, as also seen in [Matthew 1:21](/matthew/1-21 "Matthew 1:21 - Jesus Will Save His People"). "Christ" (Greek: _Christós_) identifies Him as the Messiah, the Anointed One of God, fulfilling all the messianic prophecies and expectations of the Old Testament, particularly those concerning a king from David's line ([2 Samuel 7:12-16](/2-samuel/7-12-16 "2 Samuel 7:12-16 - The Davidic Covenant")). Finally, "the Lord" (Greek: _kýrios_) is the highest title, signifying His divine authority and sovereignty. In the Septuagint, _kýrios_ often translates the divine name YHWH, implying that Jesus possesses the very nature and authority of God. Together, these titles declare that Jesus is not merely a human deliverer or a prophet, but the divinely appointed, sovereign God who has come to save His people, as later affirmed by Peter in [Acts 2:36](/acts/2-36 "Acts 2:36 - God Has Made Him Both Lord and Christ").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 2:11 stands as the initial, profound declaration of Jesus' Christ-centered fulfillment, laying the groundwork for His entire redemptive work. The titles "Saviour, Christ, the Lord" are not merely descriptive but prophetic, pointing to the complete scope of His mission. As "Saviour," Jesus ultimately fulfills this role not just by being born, but by living a sinless life, dying on the cross as the perfect atoning sacrifice for humanity's sins ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - Christ Died for Us")), and triumphing over death through His resurrection ([Romans 4:25](/romans/4-25 "Romans 4:25 - Raised for Our Justification")). His identity as "Christ" (Messiah) is fully realized in His anointing by the Holy Spirit for ministry ([Luke 4:18-19](/luke/4-18-19 "Luke 4:18-19 - Jesus' Nazareth Sermon")), His authoritative teaching, His miraculous deeds, and ultimately His establishment of the new covenant through His blood ([Hebrews 9:15](/hebrews/9-15 "Hebrews 9:15 - Mediator of a New Covenant")). Finally, the declaration "the Lord" finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus' resurrection and ascension, where He is exalted to the right hand of God, receiving "all authority in heaven and on earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - The Great Commission")), and being proclaimed as "Lord of all" ([Acts 10:36](/acts/10-36 "Acts 10:36 - Jesus is Lord of All")). Thus, the angelic announcement in Luke 2:11 is the foundational promise of the One who would accomplish cosmic redemption, reigning eternally as the sovereign King, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 9:6

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.

Matthew 1:21

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

Acts 2:36

Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

Matthew 16:16

And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.

Titus 3:4

But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

Titus 3:7

That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

Luke 1:43

And whence [is] this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?