In Part I of this series, we examined the need to view the
entire Christmas story arc, and in Part II we discussed the
probability of Jesus’ birthday on Sukkot (mid-September to
early-October), and in Part III, we took a closer look at Mary
and Joseph and their outcast status. Today, we will be viewing
the stage upon which much of the Christmas story is set – the
“stable”. First, let us examine the actual scriptural references
(all from Luke 2) to the place where Jesus was born: While they
were [in Bethlehem], the time came for the baby to be born, and
she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in
cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for
them in the inn. [...] The angel said to [the shepherds], “Do
not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be
for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been
born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you:
You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”
[...] When the angels ha