Luke 2:1 Made Simple

KJV ORIGINAL

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

Close to the original. Clear modern English.

✦ MADE SIMPLE

So here's what happened: Caesar Augustus (basically the Roman emperor at the time) decided everyone in his empire needed to get counted for taxes.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Even Jesus's birth story starts with taxes — some things never change.

📜 Historical Context — Why was this verse written?

The Gospel of Luke was written by an anonymous author, traditionally identified as Luke, a physician, for a Gentile audience, likely around 70-90 CE. It was written to provide an orderly and accurate historical account of Jesus' life and teachings for the instruction and assurance of early Christian communities.

NextLuke 2:2

→

Explore Similar Verses

Acts 25:25

But when I looked into it, I realized he hadn't done anything that deserved the death penalty. Plus, he asked to take his case directly to Caesar, so I've decided to send him there.

Acts 19:23

Around that same time, there was major drama going down because of this new Jesus movement.

Acts 25:21

But when Paul asked to have his case heard by the Emperor himself, I ordered that he be kept in custody until I could send him to Caesar.

Ask the AI Assistant

Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.

Share or Save

Explore Similar Verses

Ask the AI Assistant

Translation & Methodology Sources