Luke 2:18
And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῶν
those things which
G3588
τῶν
those things which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
περὶ
at
G4012
περὶ
at
Strong's:
G4012
Word #:
6 of 13
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
τῶν
those things which
G3588
τῶν
those things which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὑπὸ
by
G5259
ὑπὸ
by
Strong's:
G5259
Word #:
9 of 13
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
τῶν
those things which
G3588
τῶν
those things which
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Luke 2:47And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.Luke 4:36And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.Luke 2:33And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
Historical Context
Bethlehem's residents hearing shepherds report angelic announcements would naturally wonder at such claims. Yet most who heard this testimony didn't become Jesus's followers, showing that proximity to revelation doesn't guarantee faith. Wonder must progress to worship and obedience.
Questions for Reflection
- What is the difference between wondering at Jesus and worshiping Him?
- Why doesn't hearing testimony about Christ automatically produce saving faith?
- How can initial amazement at Christ's birth develop into genuine faith?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Those who heard the shepherds 'wondered at those things which were told them.' The Greek 'ethaumasan' indicates amazement or marveling, but not necessarily saving faith. Wonder is appropriate initial response to Christ's birth but insufficient for salvation. The shepherds' testimony created curiosity and astonishment, preparing hearts but not guaranteeing conversion. This demonstrates that proclamation of truth doesn't automatically produce faith—God must grant understanding and belief (John 6:44). The hearers' amazement shows that the testimony was compelling and unusual, yet many who wondered at Jesus's birth would later reject Him. Hearing truth creates responsibility but not necessarily transformation.