New Testament
Luke 2:6
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would be born in this city.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
While they were in Bethlehem, the time came for her baby to be born.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy that the Messiah would be born in this city. The phrase "the time came for her baby to be born" indicates that the moment God had planned for the birth of Jesus had arrived. This moment is significant not only for Mary and Joseph but for all of humanity, as it marks the beginning of the fulfillment of God's promise of salvation. The use of the word "accomplished" in the KJV emphasizes that this event was part of a divine plan that was set in motion long before. The birth of Jesus is a pivotal moment in the Christian faith, symbolizing hope, love, and the incarnation of God in human form. This verse sets the stage for the miraculous events that follow, highlighting the importance of Jesus' birth in the context of God's overarching narrative of redemption.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 2:6 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of God's timing in our lives. Just as Mary and Joseph were in the right place at the right time for Jesus' birth, we can trust that God has a plan for us. We should remain patient and faithful, knowing that God is working in our lives even when we cannot see it.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 2:6 mean?
Luke 2:6 describes the moment when Mary and Joseph were in Bethlehem, and it was time for Jesus to be born. This signifies the fulfillment of God's plan for the birth of the Messiah.
What is the significance of Bethlehem in Luke 2:6?
Bethlehem is significant in Luke 2:6 because it fulfills the prophecy that the Messiah would be born there, highlighting God's divine plan for salvation.
What does 'the days were accomplished' mean in Luke 2:6?
The phrase 'the days were accomplished' in Luke 2:6 indicates that the time God had set for Jesus' birth had arrived, emphasizing the importance of divine timing.
How does Luke 2:6 relate to God's timing?
Luke 2:6 illustrates God's perfect timing, showing that just as Mary and Joseph were in the right place for Jesus' birth, we can trust that God has a plan for our lives.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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