When Was Jesus Really Born?
Every December we celebrate the birth of Christ, but rarely do we ask a simple question: When was Jesus actually born?
When Was Jesus Really Born?
Every December we celebrate the birth of Christ, but rarely do we ask a simple question: When was Jesus actually born? The answer may surprise us—not because Scripture is unclear, but because tradition has filled in details the Bible never gives.
Matthew tells us plainly:
“Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod…”— Matthew 2:1
That one phrase gives us a firm historical anchor. Herod the Great died in 4 BC, a date confirmed by Jewish historian Josephus and supported by astronomical records. That means Jesus must have been born before 4 BC—not in AD 1, as our calendars suggest. In fact, the calendar itself was miscalculated centuries later.
Luke adds another piece to the puzzle, mentioning a census:
“Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken…” — Luke 2:1
While much discussion surrounds the census and Quirinius, Roman enrollments often occurred over several years and under varying administrative oversight. The historical evidence is consistent with a census in the final years of Herod’s reign.
Matthew also tells us Herod ordered the death of boys two years old and under, based on the arrival of the Magi. That detail suggests Jesus may have been born earlier, likely 5 BC to 6 BC.
As for the time of year, Scripture is silent. Shepherds were watching their flocks at night (Luke 2:8), something possible outside winter months, though not impossible during a mild Judean winter. December 25 is a meaningful church tradition—but it is not a biblical date. We’ll discuss that further tomorrow.
Putting the pieces together, the most responsible conclusion is this:
Jesus was likely born around 5 BC, perhaps in early spring or fall, though the exact day remains known only to God.
And that may be the point.
The Gospels do not preserve a date because we would celebrate the moment, instead of recognizing our King.
“But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah … from you One will go forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. — Micah 5:2
The wonder of Christmas is not when He came—but that He came at all, entering real history, under real rulers, for real sinners like us.
