Joseph and Mary travel to Bethlehem (Luke 2:4-5)

Many have questioned the December-January time for Jesus’ birth because they believe that the shepherds would not be out in the cold winter weather with their sheep. Those who live in the north part of our planet sometimes forget that Israel is nearer the equator and the temperatures in December normally range from 60 to 80 deg. Fahrenheit. That is comfortable weather for sheep and humans. Therefore it is reasonable to conclude that men could have been shepherding sheep in December. This also agrees with the statements of the early church fathers who lived closer in time to Jesus’ birth. However, we cannot know for sure the month and day Jesus was born, but there is evidence to believe He was born in 3-2 B.C.

Born In Bethlehem. Joseph and Mary left their home town of Nazareth, which was located in lower Galilee, and traveled to the city of Bethlehem in the south part of Judah. Their purpose was to register for the census in order to satisfy the Roman decree.

Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child. (NASB) Luke 2:4-5