The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible is considered one of the most accurate and influential translations of the Christian scriptures. It is also a popular source for Christmas readings and sermons, particularly the story of the birth of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.
The Annunciation
The KJV version of the annunciation, when the angel Gabriel visits Mary to announce that she will conceive and bear a son who will be the Messiah, is found in Luke 1:26-38. The passage begins with the famous greeting, "Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women."
Mary is understandably perplexed and asks how this will be possible, since she is a virgin. The angel assures her that the Holy Ghost will come upon her, and the child will be called the Son of God. Mary responds with humble acceptance, "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word."
The Birth of Jesus
The KJV version of the birth of Jesus is found in Luke 2:1-20. The passage describes how Joseph and Mary traveled to Bethlehem for the census, but could find no room in the inn. They ended up staying in a stable, where Mary gave birth to Jesus and laid him in a manger.
That same night, shepherds in the nearby fields were visited by an angel who announced the good news of the Savior's birth. They hurried to see the baby and found him just as the angel had said. They returned to their fields, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard.
The Wise Men
The KJV version of the wise men, or Magi, who came from the east to worship the newborn king is found in Matthew 2:1-12. The passage describes how they followed a star to Jerusalem, where they asked King Herod where the Christ was to be born.
Herod was troubled by this news and consulted with the chief priests and scribes, who told him that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem. Herod told the wise men to go and find the child, and to report back to him so that he could come and worship as well.
The wise men found Jesus and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. However, they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod, so they went home by another way.
The Significance of the KJV Christmas Story
The KJV Christmas story is significant for many reasons. First and foremost, it is the story of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. It reminds us of God's love and grace, and the incredible gift of salvation that he has given us.
Secondly, the KJV version of the Christmas story is a beautiful and poetic rendering of the original Greek and Hebrew texts. Its language and imagery have inspired countless artists, musicians, and writers over the centuries.
Finally, the KJV Christmas story is a powerful reminder of the importance of tradition and continuity in the Christian faith. For generations, Christians have read and celebrated this story at Christmas time, passing it down from parents to children, from pastors to congregations, and from one generation to the next.
Conclusion
The KJV Christmas story is a timeless and cherished part of the Christian tradition. Its message of hope, love, and redemption continues to inspire and comfort millions of people around the world, year after year.
As we celebrate this Christmas season, let us remember the significance of this story, and the incredible gift that it represents. Let us also remember to share this story with others, so that they too may know the joy and peace that comes from knowing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.