JESUS WASN’T BORN IN BETHLEHEM.

And it doesn’t matter.

Wait a minute, Jesus wasn’t born in Bethlehem?

Probably not. In fact, it’s doubtful that his being born in Bethlehem would have been even remotely possible, if possible at all.

Consider the facts for a moment. The bible presents Mary and Joseph as having traveled on a donkey. With Mary about to give birth? Why would they travel on a donkey with Mary’s being so pregnant? To pay taxes??? I mean, if that’s true, those Romans must have really wanted those taxes paid!!!

Let’s take a look at the facts. Today, it is 70 miles (112km). Realistically, the winding roads would have made it well over 100 miles, a four-to-five-day journey at best. AT BEST.

And there were other realities: The roads were littered with robbers and highwaymen. Travelers were not safe without an accompanying Roman legion. But Joseph traveled with a pregnant lady? On a donkey??? JUST TO PAY TAXES?

And consider this: Why does the bible even bother to say that Jesus was born in Bethlehem?

Because, in those days, they wrote in parables. The idea was to convey a message. To tell a story. To convey an idea. And they had an important message to convey.

The writers of Luke’s Gospel were specifically writing to Jewish people. And what was important to…