Historical Context of Jesus' Birth

Professor Giza Vermesh discusses the debate over the birth date and year of Jesus. The reference to shepherds suggests a non-December birth, with early Christians celebrating in April or May. December 25th was later chosen due to its alignment with a Roman feast. The year of Jesus' birth is debated, with conflicting accounts in Luke's gospel regarding a census and Herod the Great's reign. These discrepancies highlight the challenges in pinpointing Jesus' exact birth date and year.

Why does Professor Giza Vermesh believe December is unlikely to be the birth month of Jesus?

• The Roman calendar did not include December.

• There were no historical records of December births.

• December was too cold for travel.

• Shepherds did not keep sheep in the fields at night during winter.

What was the original reason for choosing December 25th as the date for Jesus' birth?

• It was the date of a significant battle.

• It was the only available date.

• It coincided with a Roman festival.

• It was the warmest day of the year.

What does the term 'Feast of the Unvanquished Sun' refer to?

• A Jewish tradition

• A Christian holiday

• A Roman festival

• A Greek myth

What does BCE stand for in historical dating?

• Before Common Era

• Before Current Era

• Before Christian Era

• Before Christ's Era

According to Luke's Gospel, during whose reign was Jesus born?

• King David

• Caesar Augustus

• Herod the Great

• Pontius Pilate

What year does Luke's Gospel suggest for the census linked to Jesus' birth?

• 4 BCE

• 6 CE

• 1 BCE

• 29 CE

How old was Jesus when he appeared in public according to Luke?

• 33 years old

• 40 years old

• 25 years old

• 30 years old

If Jesus was 30 years old in 29 CE, what is a possible year of his birth?

• 3 CE

• 6 CE

• 4 BCE

• 1 BCE

What is the main issue with the timeline of Jesus' birth in Luke's Gospel?

• It was written much later.

• It conflicts with the reign of Herod the Great.

• It is based on Roman myths.

• It does not mention a specific year.

What discrepancy is highlighted in the accounts of Jesus' birth?

• A decade-long difference in timelines

• A conflict with Roman records

• A misunderstanding of the calendar

• A lack of historical evidence