The Secret of the Bethlehem Shepherds

by Fr. Dwight Longenecker

St. Luke's story of "shepherds in the fields keeping watch over their flocks by night" echoes in the hearts and minds of millions who have heard the story told and retold year after year.

Like most well-loved tales, the account of the shepherds has grown and developed over the ages. Extra traditions have attached themselves to it. Charming characters and details have become part of the story. Beautiful preaching points have illuminated the tale and unlocked the story's deeper meanings. Many of these "extras," however, were conditioned by later cultural assumptions and colored by devotions removed from historical reality.

What are the true circumstances of the birth of Jesus Christ? What was Bethlehem like at the time of Jesus' birth? How did Joseph and Mary meet, and why did they travel to Bethlehem? Who were the shepherds, and why were they so important?

After completing The Mystery of the Magi—his study of the wise men—Fr. Dwight Longenecker took a sabbatical in Jerusalem to study the ancient texts and the geography, history, politics, and culture. He added his own firsthand visit to present-day Bethlehem shepherds in order to unlock "the secret of the Bethlehem shepherds."

Genres: Catholic, Nonfiction, Religion, Christmas

Audible Audio

Published May 9, 2023

Reviews

[Sandra Cianci]

Amazing!

I can't believe how much I learned !
How many times my jaw dropped!
How many times in total awe!
Awe for what I was learning
and Awe for how much I didn't know- never taught!
I was amazed at his Magi book, thought this was going to be a light read. Wow was I wrong.
I have bought so many of his resources books. From Petra to Shepherds I will be swimming in for a long time and loving every minute. Thank you for taking us on this journey, the Scriptures are so much more alive!

[Yancy Evans]

Wonderful examination of the Nativity account. Fr. Longenecker does a great job laying out the details in the Bible and examines them through the lens of historical documents and archeology along with Church traditions.

Well worth your time. While it is densely packed with details it is an easy read.

[Michael Kuzmicz]

Great read for those interested in the story behind the Christmas story

This book is an inspiring and great read for those interested in the story behind the Christmas story and the factual basis for it.

[Katie Evans]

This book was so thought provoking! It had so many interesting facts and speculation surrounding the story of Jesus miraculous birth. This was my first book I’ve read from Fr. Longenecker. I am excited to read his other ones!

[Howard]

An informative examination of the Nativity of Jesus: sources, individuals, historical context, and modern scholarship. There are many details and connections to consider regarding the original language and some of the later "decorations" added. Well done!

[Jennifer]

This is a short book but well worth the read.

[Allan Ducker]

Wonderful book that tells the Christmas story as you’ve never heard. Highly recommend to all those looking to grow in their faith during this Advent season.

[Gina]

Taking in the Christmas story with new eyes thanks to this book! Especially powerful after having visited the Holy Land myself.

[Sarah]

A well researched book that helps the reader experience Christ's birth in a new way. It is an excellent book for Advent.

[Meghan]

Advent/Christmas read 2025. Nice little book digging into the historical context of the Bethlehem Shepherds. It was a wonderful way to wait and hope for the coming of our Savior.