Christ's Birth

Unlike Mark, both Matthew and Luke tell the story of Jesus’ birth. There is a huge difference in the way they each tell it though. Matthew’s description of the birth seems hurried and the focus ends up being on Herod and the political turmoil that surrounds the birth of a Messiah. This is the entirety of Christ's birth story in Matthew:

18 ¶ Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.

19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.

20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.

21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,

23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:

25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.

Luke, on the other hand, is the story traditionally told at Christmas time because of the detail used in the telling. Where Matthew’s entire description is eight verses, Luke’s covers almost two entire chapters. Another aspect of Luke’s story that contrasts with Matthew’s is the introduction of Zacharias and Elisabeth’s involvement. He not only uses it as a prelude to Christ’s story, but it is in a way, a comparison. Mary’s reaction to the angel’s news in contrast to Zacharias’ reaction.