A second glorious text about “gospel” in the Lukan infancy stories is found in Luke 2, but this one concerns Yeshua (Jesus) and not Yohanan (John). It is found in Luke 2:8-14.
8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, ?Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.? 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
14 ?Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.?
1. This is a gospel for “all the people” — maybe Gentiles, but probably a reference to Israelites.
2. This gospel is a cause for great joy.
3. This gospel is something declared.
4. This gospel’s content is that Jesus is Savior — that Jesus is Messiah — that Jesus is Lord. Hence, the gospel involves the declaration that Jesus is Savior, Messiah, and Lord.
5. This Savior, Messiah, Lord is at the time of the angelic declaration a baby.
6. This gospel is cosmically significant.
7. This gospel involves “peace on earth for those upon whom God’s favor rests.” (Hence, an implicit ecclesial body is at work.)