Luke 2:18

And all they that heard [it] wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

And {G2532} all {G3956} they that heard {G191} it wondered {G2296} at {G4012} those things which {G3588} were told {G2980} them {G4314}{G846} by {G5259} the shepherds {G4166}.

and al who heard were amazed by what the shepherds said to them.

And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.

And all that heard it wondered at the things which were spoken unto them by the shepherds.

Luke 2:18 KJV states, "And all they that heard [it] wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds." This verse captures the immediate human reaction to the extraordinary news of Jesus' birth, as conveyed by the humble shepherds.

Context of Luke 2:18

This verse follows directly from the shepherds making known the angelic message about the newborn Savior. After encountering the angelic host and witnessing the baby Jesus in the manger, the shepherds became the first evangelists, sharing their incredible experience with everyone they met. The "it" refers to the entire account, including the angelic announcement, the heavenly praise, and their discovery of the infant Christ. The people in Bethlehem, likely those gathered around Mary and Joseph or simply those the shepherds encountered in the town, were the recipients of this astonishing testimony.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Wonder and Amazement: The primary theme is the profound reaction of those who heard the shepherds' account. The Greek word for "wondered" is thaumazo, implying a sense of awe, astonishment, and marvel at something truly extraordinary and divine. It was not mere curiosity but a deep impression left upon their hearts.
  • The Power of Testimony: Simple shepherds, who were often marginalized in society, became powerful witnesses to the most significant birth in history. Their firsthand account, though perhaps initially met with skepticism by some, clearly stirred wonder in many. This highlights how God often uses ordinary people to convey His extraordinary truth.
  • Divine Revelation: The news of the Messiah's arrival was not confined to a select few but was openly declared, first by angels and then by humble men, inviting a response of wonder from all who heard. This public declaration underscored the universal significance of Christ's birth.

Linguistic Insights

The term "wondered" (Greek: thaumazo) is significant. It describes a deep sense of astonishment and awe, rather than just mild curiosity. This reaction is fitting for the revelation of God's Son becoming flesh. It is a response that acknowledges the divine hand at work in the humble circumstances of the Messiah's birth.

Practical Application

Luke 2:18 challenges us to consider our own reaction to the good news of Jesus Christ. Do we approach the story of the Incarnation with the same sense of wonder and awe as those who first heard it? The shepherds' testimony prompted amazement, and today, the continued proclamation of the Gospel should likewise evoke a deep sense of marvel at God's love and redemptive plan. It also reminds us that like the shepherds, we are called to share the good news, knowing that our personal testimony can still inspire wonder in others.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Luke 5:9

    For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken:

  • Luke 5:10

    And so [was] also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.

  • Luke 2:47

    And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

  • Luke 2:33

    And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

  • Luke 4:36

    And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word [is] this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.

  • Luke 1:65

    And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.

  • Luke 1:66

    And all they that heard [them] laid [them] up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

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