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The Desire of Ages
DA 43.1–47.5 • Luke 2:1, 4–16, 19–20

“Unto You a Saviour”

The Good Tidings of Great Joy

Before reading, pause to quiet your heart. In this chapter, we behold the King of glory veiling His majesty to be born in a humble cattle shed, while heavenly angels bypass the self-sufficient palaces of Jerusalem to sing the glad tidings to watching shepherds on the hills of Bethlehem.

pp. 43–47 · 9 paragraphs

Holy Scripture

KJV
Luke 2:1
1

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

Luke 2:4
4

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

Luke 2:5
5

To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

Luke 2:6
6

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

Luke 2:7
7

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

Luke 2:8
8

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

Luke 2:9
9

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

Luke 2:10
10

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

Luke 2:11
11

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Luke 2:12
12

And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

Luke 2:13
13

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

Luke 2:14
14

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Luke 2:15
15

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

Luke 2:16
16

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

Luke 2:19
19

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

Luke 2:20
20

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

The Desire of Ages

• Chapter 4
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DA 43.1
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DA 43.2
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DA 44.1
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DA 44.2
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DA 47.1
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DA 47.2
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DA 47.3
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DA 47.4
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DA 47.5
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End of Day 1(DA 43.1–47.5)

Take a quiet moment to pause, pray, and meditate on these living truths.

You may engage with 3 gentle devotional review questions, record insights in your journal, or advance when ready.

Heart Reflection (Optional)

“Why did Christ shun outward display, riches, and worldly greatness when entering our world? Why were the religious leaders in Jerusalem passed by when the heavenly embassy was sent?”

Observation: The Veiled King and Jerusalem’s Indifference
Prayer & Practice (Optional)
Prayer Focus

“Lord Jesus, thank You for exchanging the adoration of heaven for the humble manger of Bethlehem. Cleanse my heart of worldly pride and grant me the humility of a true disciple.”

Practical Action

Reach out to someone in a humble or overlooked station today with genuine appreciation and encouragement, mirroring Christ’s love.

Personal prayer intention

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