Luke 2:6

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

And {G1161} so it was {G1096}, that, while {G1722} they {G846} were {G1511} there {G1563}, the days {G2250} were accomplished {G4130} that she {G846} should be delivered {G5088}.

While they were there, the time came for her to give birth;

While they were there, the time came for her Child to be born.

And it came to pass, while they were there, the days were fulfilled that she should be delivered.

Luke 2:6 marks a pivotal moment in the Christmas narrative, subtly indicating the imminence of Jesus Christ's birth. The verse states, "And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered." This seemingly simple statement carries profound theological weight, highlighting divine timing and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

Context

This verse immediately follows the account of Caesar Augustus's decree for a worldwide census, which necessitated Joseph and Mary's journey from Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem in Judea, the city of David. As described in Luke 2:4-5, they traveled while Mary was heavily pregnant. Their presence in Bethlehem was not accidental but divinely orchestrated to fulfill ancient prophecies concerning the Messiah's birthplace, particularly Micah 5:2.

Key Themes

  • Divine Timing and Providence: The phrase "the days were accomplished" underscores that Jesus' birth was not a random event but occurred precisely when God intended. This aligns with the biblical truth that God acts according to His perfect schedule, as seen in Galatians 4:4, which speaks of Christ coming "when the fulness of the time was come."
  • Fulfillment of Prophecy: The journey to Bethlehem, compelled by a Roman decree, ensured that the Messiah would be born in the prophesied city, confirming Jesus' identity as the promised King.
  • Humility of Christ's Incarnation: The world-changing event of the Son of God becoming flesh occurred within the ordinary circumstances of a young couple awaiting childbirth, highlighting the humble beginnings of the Savior's earthly ministry.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "accomplished" is ἐπλήσθησαν (*eplēsthēsan*), derived from the verb πιμπλημι (*pimplēmi*), meaning "to fill" or "to complete." It implies that the full measure of time had run its course, or the days had been "filled up." This is stronger than simply 'passed by'; it suggests a divinely appointed completion, emphasizing the precise moment when Mary's pregnancy reached its term, leading directly to the birth of Jesus mentioned in Luke 2:7.

Reflection and Application

Luke 2:6 reminds us of God's meticulous attention to detail and His sovereign control over all circumstances, even those seemingly mundane or inconvenient, like a census journey. For believers today, this verse offers comfort and encouragement: God's plans unfold perfectly, even when we experience delays or detours. We are called to trust in His timing and providence, knowing that He is always working to bring about His good purposes. The birth of Jesus, the central event of history, happened exactly "when the days were accomplished," demonstrating that God's promises are always fulfilled.

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.

  • Psalms 33:11

    The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.

  • Revelation 12:1

    ¶ And there appeared a great wonder in heaven; a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:

  • Revelation 12:5

    And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and [to] his throne.

  • Proverbs 19:21

    ¶ [There are] many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand.

  • Luke 1:57

    ¶ Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.

  • Micah 5:2

    But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, [though] thou be little among the thousands of Judah, [yet] out of thee shall he come forth unto me [that is] to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth [have been] from of old, from everlasting.
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