What Was the Angel’s Message to the Shepherds at Jesus’ Birth?

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, Scripture tells us that an angel appeared to shepherds keeping watch over their flocks at night. This moment is recorded only in the Gospel of Luke, yet it remains one of the most meaningful scenes in the Christmas story. The angel did not merely announce a birth. Instead, the message revealed who Jesus is, why He came, and what His coming means for the world.

Luke records the angel’s message clearly:

“Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10–11).

The message begins with the words “Do not be afraid.” This is a common phrase in Scripture whenever God reveals His presence. The shepherds were frightened because the glory of the Lord surrounded them (Luke 2:9). The angel reassured them that this encounter was not one of judgment, but of blessing.

Next, the angel described the announcement as “good news of great joy.” The word “Gospel” itself means “good news.” The birth of Jesus is not merely a historical event. It is the joyful news that God has come to save His people.

The angel also made it clear who the message was for: “for all people.” This includes the poor and rich, the educated and uneducated, the powerful and the forgotten. By speaking first to shepherds, God demonstrated that His love is universal.

Then comes the heart of the message:

“A Savior has been born to you.”

Jesus is not introduced first as a teacher, healer, or leader, but as Savior—the One who will rescue humanity from sin and restore the relationship between God and His people.

The angel adds two important titles: Christ and Lord.

Christ means the Anointed One—the promised Messiah foretold in the Old Testament.

Lord indicates divinity. Jesus is not simply a holy man. He is God in the flesh.

Finally, the angel gave the shepherds a sign:

“You will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger” (Luke 2:12).

This humble setting would help them recognize the newborn Messiah.

After the message was delivered, a multitude of angels appeared, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased” (Luke 2:14). This reveals that Jesus’ birth brings glory to God and peace to humanity.

If we reflect carefully, the angel’s message is not only historical—it is deeply personal. It tells us that God has come close, that salvation is real, and that joy is offered to every heart willing to receive it.

For more questions explained in plain language, visit our Christmas Questions page.