Born To Save Mankind: New Insights on the Events Surrounding the Birth of Christ

by Duane S. Crowther

The sweet story of the birth of the Christ has been treasured and retold for more than 2,000 ears. Yet many new insights have come to light in recent decades, as the sciences of archaeology and historical research have expanded and matured. Archaeological digs in Palestine were prohibited by the country's Turkish rulers until their overthrow in World War I. The science didn't really blossom until Israel became a nation following World War II. In a similar fashion, it has only been within the past half century that scientific study of Book of Mormon history, geography and archaeology has led to the locating of many key sites in Guatemala and southern Mexico. Born to Save Mankind is a retelling of the beloved account of the birth of Christ, with the inclusion of many of these recently discovered insights. But it covers a much broader spectrum than the events which transpired in the meridian of time. It begins prior to the creation of this earth, laying the groundwork for the divine mission the Savior was to perform by concisely explaining our Heavenly Father's glorious plan for the salvation of mankind. Many prophets foretold events in the life of Jesus; this study focuses on those prophecies which speak specifically of His birth. Famous prophecies such as Isaiah 7:14 and 9:6-7 are often quoted at Christmastime, but few understand the full implications of their messages because they have no grasp of their context. For that reason, the scriptural prophecies of the birth of the Redeemer are explained in the light of their historical settings, both in the Middle East and in Middle America. And then the Christmas story is retold from the gospels of Matthew and Luke, but with the addition of many insights from both history and scripture. It continues through the family life, youth, and preparation of the Savior. There is no doubt that even the most erudite reader will find new insights to ponder and assimilate on almost every page as he reads Born to Save Mankind - New Insights on Events Surrounding the Birth of Christ.

80 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2002