The reference, Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night (Luke 2:8) leads many biblical and historical scholars to believe that born to you this day had to be in the spring time, the spring lambing season, which would explain why the shepherds were keeping watch over their flock by night. It's very unlikely that the shepherds would be doing that during the cold winter months. But even that can not be proven beyond doubt.
The Jews remained in capitivity by the Romans for several centuries after Christ's death and resurrection. It's widely believed that the Christian Jews in Rome decided to have a day to celebrate the birth of Christ, and they chose a date during the same time of the year that the Roman society had various celebrations for all of their pagan diety. The Jews wanted to have a celebration during the same time that would draw attention to the True God. For more historical detail, read "How December 25 Became Christmas".
As we've studied in a previous lesson, One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. (Romans 14:5, see THE GOSPEL: Any Day is A Good Day). That same truth applies here. Jesus' actual birthdate is not recorded in the scriptures, and we have to accept that as part of the perfect will of God. However, Jesus was born, and that is worth acknowledging, just like we acknowledge our own birthdates. This December 25th, lets make sure to do as the wisemen, who ...fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: (Matthew 2:11) ...that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. (Romans 12:1, see The Perfect Gift, A Body).
MERRY CHRISTMAS, and HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS, THE CHRIST!
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