The Nathan Jacobs Podcast How the Devil Tried to Steal Christmas | The True Story of the Nativity
Dec 18, 2025
Delve into the hidden narratives surrounding the Nativity, where supernatural events unfold beyond the familiar manger scene. Discover the dramatic backstory of Mary’s lineage and Joseph’s reluctant acceptance of his role. Explore the Church Fathers’ insights on the devil’s attempts to sabotage the Christ Child’s arrival and the cosmic battle between good and evil. Learn about Mary’s devotion, the significance of the census, and how these ancient traditions unveil a richer Christmas story, intertwining glory and peril.
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Nativity Has A Rich Traditional Backstory
- Early Christian tradition fills out the nativity with long-standing stories beyond the Gospel snapshots.
- Nathan Jacobs emphasizes these traditions shape how the Church understood Mary, Joseph, and the birth narrative.
Joachim And Anna’s Miracle And Temple Dedication
- Jacobs recounts Joachim and Anna praying and being visited by Gabriel before Mary's birth.
- He describes Mary being devoted to the temple as a child and set upon the third step, filled with grace.
Joseph As Protector, Not Typical Husband
- Tradition presents Joseph as an older widower chosen to betroth Mary to provide protective cover.
- The betrothal functions as a ruse to hide Mary from demonic surveillance, not as a typical romantic marriage.