Why Did God Announce the Birth of Jesus to Shepherds First?

In the Gospel of Luke, we read that the first people to hear about the birth of Jesus were shepherds watching their flocks in the fields near Bethlehem. An angel appeared to them and announced, “Today in the city of David a Savior has been born to you” (Luke 2:11). This has led many to wonder: Why did God choose shepherds rather than priests, scholars, or rulers to receive the first announcement of the Messiah?

To understand this moment, we must first consider who shepherds were in the time of Jesus. Shepherds lived simple and difficult lives. They worked outdoors, often far from towns and religious centers. Their work made them ritually unclean according to some purity laws, which meant they were often looked down upon socially and religiously. They were not powerful, wealthy, or respected. Yet it was to them—not to kings or religious leaders—that God sent His angels.

The announcement to shepherds reveals something important about the nature of God and His Kingdom. The Messiah did not come only for the influential or educated. He came for everyone. Jesus later declared, “I have come to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10). By choosing shepherds, God showed from the beginning that the message of salvation is especially offered to the humble, the overlooked, and those who may feel far from God.

There is also deep symbolism in God choosing shepherds. Throughout the Old Testament, shepherds play an important role. Abraham, Moses, and David were shepherds before they were called to serve God in greater ways. God Himself is described as a shepherd in Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd.” The prophets also foretold that the Messiah would be a shepherd who cares for His people (Ezekiel 34:23). Jesus later identifies Himself as the “Good Shepherd” who lays down His life for His sheep (John 10:11). By announcing the birth to shepherds, God affirmed that the Messiah would be a shepherd-King, guiding, protecting, and loving His people.

Another reason God announced the birth to shepherds was their readiness to respond. When the angels finished speaking, the shepherds did not delay. They said, “Let us go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened” (Luke 2:15). Their faith was simple, direct, and obedient. They went immediately, found Mary, Joseph, and the child in the manger, and became the first witnesses to share the good news (Luke 2:17–18).

If we reflect carefully, the announcement to shepherds teaches us that God values humility over status. He does not look at outward importance but at the openness of the heart. The birth of Jesus was not made known first to those with influence or prestige, but to those who were ready to hear and believe.

So why did God announce the birth to shepherds first? Because His message is one of grace, humility, and love. The Savior came for ordinary people, and the shepherds remind us that no one is too small for God’s attention or too distant for His love.

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