The Jimmy Akin Podcast #065 Does Jesus’ Childhood Make Sense? - Jimmy Akin
Dec 17, 2025
Unravel the mystery of Jesus' childhood as the hosts dissect the nativity narratives from Matthew and Luke. Delve into the differing details—like the visits from shepherds and magi—and explore how these two accounts can coexist harmoniously. Discover whether there are irreconcilable contradictions and learn about the cultural context that shaped these stories. Finally, piece together a coherent timeline of events, from the birth in Bethlehem to the flight into Egypt. Prepare for a fresh perspective on the Christmas story!
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Nativity Image Is A Gospel Amalgam
- The familiar nativity mashup (shepherds + magi + barn) is an artistic fusion, not a single Gospel account.
- Matthew and Luke present different, complementary emphases that were later combined in Christian art.
Compare Gospels Side-By-Side
- Read Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2 side-by-side and list events to compare sequences and differences.
- This exercise reveals which differences are reconcilable and which require explanation.
Different Evangelists, Different Emphases
- Matthew focuses on Joseph and Jesus's royal lineage while Luke centers Mary and humble circumstances.
- These differing emphases explain why each evangelist includes distinct infancy details.