Each Christmas we seem to be bombarded with scepticism about the Church, faith, and the events surrounding Jesus’ birth. Christian-themed Christmas carols and nativity scenes are often rejected, too, especially by people taking offence on behalf of those who are not even offended. Angry minority voices often squeeze out the opinions of people of faith unsure of how to respond. When specific attacks emerge, the confidence of Christians to discuss such matters will often fall away.
One of the perennial objections relates to Luke 2:2, a thorny verse about the census that triggered the trip that Mary and Joseph took to Bethlehem. Most Bible translations appear to indicate that the census was the one implemented during the governorship of Quirinius, known to have commenced in A.D. 6. Jesus was probably born, though, in 5 B.C. (as per last December’s ‘Think Spot’), so there appears to be an error here.
However, noted New Testament scholar, Craig Blomberg, observes that the word ‘governor’ could refer to various administrative roles, possibly including ones taken up some time earlier. Also, the text can be translated as, “this was the census that took place before Quirinius was governor of Syria,” based on similar usage in John 15:18. Prominent Lukan scholar, Darrell Bock, surveys the problem in detail and accepts that a census could have been administered in Palestine by Quirinius during Herod’s reign.
The real problem is that we don’t have sufficient evidence on which to build a watertight case either way. Of course, many biblical texts have been verified by archaeological findings, but this is not always the case. Much that is in the Bible needs to be accepted by faith, where the narratives and teaching we do have are part of the overall story that is nevertheless clear in its messaging about how we, God’s people, should live and serve.
Such faith is based on the overall biblical package that offers evidence beyond reasonable doubt without needing to supply evidence beyond all doubt. This Christmas, we have many opportunities to proudly assert our faith, one which is underscored by its change in our own lives. May its message resonate with clarity and boldness, touching many more lives with God’s love and grace, as we choose to proclaim a living Jesus and personal Saviour as the reason for the season.
