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Why the Nativity?: 25 Compelling Reasons We Celebrate the Birth of Jesus
Every year, millions of people around the globe celebrate Christmas. But what does it all mean? Drawing from both the Old and New Testaments, noted pastor and theologian David Jeremiah provides answers to 25 of the most thought-provoking questions surrounding the most pivotal moment in human history―the birth of Jesus Christ.
155 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2009
207 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
David Jeremiah
801 books874 followersDr. David Jeremiah, founder of Turning Point Radio and Television Ministries and senior pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church, felt God’s calling on his life at a very early age. Born February 13, 1941 in Toledo, Ohio, Dr. Jeremiah was raised in a family deeply committed to ministry. At the age of eleven, Dr. Jeremiah and his family moved to Dayton, Ohio where his father, Dr. James T. Jeremiah, was the Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church, and in 1953 became the President of Cedarville College in Cedarville, Ohio.
As Dr. Jeremiah was sensitive to God’s leading in his life, he followed in his father’s footsteps. In 1963, Dr. Jeremiah received a Bachelor of Arts from Cedarville College. In that same year, Dr. Jeremiah married his college sweetheart, Donna Thompson who also was attending Cedarville College as a business major. He went on to earn a Masters degree in Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1967. He completed additional graduate work at Grace University and was granted the Doctor of Divinity degree from Cedarville College in 1981.
In 1969, Dr. Jeremiah began Blackhawk Baptist Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and developed a Christian school grades K through 12. In the 12 years he served as pastor, Blackhawk Baptist Church grew from 7 families to 1300 members. He also launched The Bible Hour television program.
Dr. Jeremiah heeded God’s call, and in 1981 he and his family moved to California where he became the senior pastor of Scott Memorial Baptist Church, now Shadow Mountain Community Church.
Shadow Mountain Community Church is one of the largest churches in San Diego County. It is also the home of Southern California Seminary and Christian Unified Schools.
As Dr. Jeremiah began his ministry at Shadow Mountain, he felt God’s calling to continue the broadcast ministry he started in Fort Wayne. In 1982, Turning Point Ministries became a reality.
Today, Turning Point's 30-minute radio program is heard nationally and internationally on over 1800 stations and translator/satellators. In recognition of Dr. Jeremiah’s commitment to teaching the Word of God, he received the Broadcaster of the Year Award in 1999 from the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), in August 2002, received the Award of Merit from the Western Chapter of National Religious Broadcasters for Excellence in Broadcasting and Faithfulness in Service, and in 2006 Turning Point received the Best Radio Teaching Program Award. Dr. Jeremiah has served on the Board of Directors for the NRB since 1996.
Turning Point launched a television program in 1982 in San Diego and went nationwide in 2000. Now seen around the world through cable and satellite technology, as well as on terrestrial stations all across the United States, conservative estimates suggest that close to 200 million homes around the world have access to Dr. Jeremiah's Bible teaching each week. Turning Point Television offers a half-hour Bible study message and a full hour worship service with the same great preaching. Carried on several national and international networks such as TBN, ION, and INSP, Turning Point Television has most recently been added to Middle East TV Network and BET, the Black Entertainment Network.
Dr. Jeremiah is a sought-after conference speaker for organizations around the country. He frequently speaks at Cedarville College, Dallas Theological Seminary, Moody Bible Institute, Billy Graham Training Center, Phil Waldrep’s Senior Adult Celebrations and numerous NFL, NBA and Baseball chapels.
Along with his speaking schedule around the country, Dr. Jeremiah also finds time to fulfill another passion in his life, writing. His books are always gripping and right to the point. Some of his books include Escape the Coming Night, The Power of Encouragement, What the Bible Says About Angels, Prayer The Great Adventure, which brought him The Gold Medallion Award in 1998, God In You, Gifts from God
As Dr. Jeremiah was sensitive to God’s leading in his life, he followed in his father’s footsteps. In 1963, Dr. Jeremiah received a Bachelor of Arts from Cedarville College. In that same year, Dr. Jeremiah married his college sweetheart, Donna Thompson who also was attending Cedarville College as a business major. He went on to earn a Masters degree in Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1967. He completed additional graduate work at Grace University and was granted the Doctor of Divinity degree from Cedarville College in 1981.
In 1969, Dr. Jeremiah began Blackhawk Baptist Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and developed a Christian school grades K through 12. In the 12 years he served as pastor, Blackhawk Baptist Church grew from 7 families to 1300 members. He also launched The Bible Hour television program.
Dr. Jeremiah heeded God’s call, and in 1981 he and his family moved to California where he became the senior pastor of Scott Memorial Baptist Church, now Shadow Mountain Community Church.
Shadow Mountain Community Church is one of the largest churches in San Diego County. It is also the home of Southern California Seminary and Christian Unified Schools.
As Dr. Jeremiah began his ministry at Shadow Mountain, he felt God’s calling to continue the broadcast ministry he started in Fort Wayne. In 1982, Turning Point Ministries became a reality.
Today, Turning Point's 30-minute radio program is heard nationally and internationally on over 1800 stations and translator/satellators. In recognition of Dr. Jeremiah’s commitment to teaching the Word of God, he received the Broadcaster of the Year Award in 1999 from the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), in August 2002, received the Award of Merit from the Western Chapter of National Religious Broadcasters for Excellence in Broadcasting and Faithfulness in Service, and in 2006 Turning Point received the Best Radio Teaching Program Award. Dr. Jeremiah has served on the Board of Directors for the NRB since 1996.
Turning Point launched a television program in 1982 in San Diego and went nationwide in 2000. Now seen around the world through cable and satellite technology, as well as on terrestrial stations all across the United States, conservative estimates suggest that close to 200 million homes around the world have access to Dr. Jeremiah's Bible teaching each week. Turning Point Television offers a half-hour Bible study message and a full hour worship service with the same great preaching. Carried on several national and international networks such as TBN, ION, and INSP, Turning Point Television has most recently been added to Middle East TV Network and BET, the Black Entertainment Network.
Dr. Jeremiah is a sought-after conference speaker for organizations around the country. He frequently speaks at Cedarville College, Dallas Theological Seminary, Moody Bible Institute, Billy Graham Training Center, Phil Waldrep’s Senior Adult Celebrations and numerous NFL, NBA and Baseball chapels.
Along with his speaking schedule around the country, Dr. Jeremiah also finds time to fulfill another passion in his life, writing. His books are always gripping and right to the point. Some of his books include Escape the Coming Night, The Power of Encouragement, What the Bible Says About Angels, Prayer The Great Adventure, which brought him The Gold Medallion Award in 1998, God In You, Gifts from God
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 19, 2010
We've all heard and read the Nativity story. The author, David Jeremiah, forces me to look deeper into the meaning of the 25 questions he poses to us (and answers he provides) surrounding Jesus's birth. "Why the Nativity?" will deepen your knowledge and faith in this incredible story! There are additional scripture readings throughout the book, and at the end of each chapter; additionally, there are a couple of discussion questions at the end of each chapter. Christian or non- Christian, I urge you to get a copy of this book and read it. I highly recommend it!
September 30, 2018
Although I do not agree with everything the author had to say I did find it well written and made me stop and think about what he had to say. Gave me another way to look at why we celebrate Christmas and the Nativity.
December 9, 2024
The price is right, and a good little approachable book I read in one sitting. It was well researched but not academic, meant to answer questions for the seeker and/or perhaps the skeptic. Doesn't go too deeply into anything, but covers basically all aspects of the Christmas story, which I liked.
I appreciated a few insights on Mary, Bethlehem, the virgin birth, the wise men's gifts, and the dating of Christmas.
Not really one I'll be passing out, but a good little research tool.
I appreciated a few insights on Mary, Bethlehem, the virgin birth, the wise men's gifts, and the dating of Christmas.
Not really one I'll be passing out, but a good little research tool.
December 6, 2023
A short and quick little book back packed full of the basic truths and necessary theology regarding the First Christmas. Plus, scripture at the end of each chapter to further your reading and understanding. A great evangelistic tool as well as a great book for churches to have to give out during the advent season.
January 25, 2010
Thought-provoking, spiritually uplifting book. I won this through the first reads program and I'm so glad I did. The book is set up as 25 questions based around its title, "Why the Nativity?" It touches on everything from Why Mary? to Why a Manger? to Why the Wise Men? and Why did Jesus come as an Infant? Wonderful read. Exceptionally well written. I definitely learned more about Jesus' birth and am happier for it. I would recommend this book to all Christians.
December 28, 2021
He presents in detail the big question as to why God would choose to come to earth to be born in a humble manger and not as a king in a palace. I was unaware of the many prophets that foretold us every aspect of his birthplace, his parents, even the star and the gifts from the wisemen.
It was a pleasure to think deeply about the scriptures that we only visit once a year and brought the miracle of the birth of Jesus to a place of importance it should have in our lives.
It was a pleasure to think deeply about the scriptures that we only visit once a year and brought the miracle of the birth of Jesus to a place of importance it should have in our lives.
December 20, 2017
This is a definite read again. It goes beside my other favorite yearly read, Heaven, by Randy Alcorn. Dr. Jeremiah has been one of my favorite pastors and authors for many years. His love for God shines through in this book. It is a great book to remind of the reason we celebrate Christmas. This book makes you feel the joy of Heaven.
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December 25, 2022Why The Nativity
This is my second Christmas reading this wonderful little book & I plan to read it every December. It is one of the, if not THE, best reminders of the true meaning of Christmas that I have found. In this world of secular "Christmas", I hope you will read this book with a humble heart. Merry Christmas & have a Blessed New Year!
This is my second Christmas reading this wonderful little book & I plan to read it every December. It is one of the, if not THE, best reminders of the true meaning of Christmas that I have found. In this world of secular "Christmas", I hope you will read this book with a humble heart. Merry Christmas & have a Blessed New Year!
December 9, 2012
Not much basis in biblical history. Lots of conjecture.
December 23, 2025
I received Why the Nativity as a Christmas gift at a women's ministry event. Now, full disclosure: I always mean to read books like this but don't necessarily get around to it, considering the height of my TBR pile. This year though, I've been working on my mental and spiritual health and thought, what better way to counteract the fact that Christmas is fabulous but can be stressful, than meditating on the Nativity?
David Jeremiah read my mail. His chapters are short; I usually read them about three at a time. However, he packs a ton of insight and inspiration into each of his 25 "Why the Nativity" questions. Some of this information, I was aware of, such as the fact that Jesus exists outside of time. That's kind of basic when you think about it. But the way Dr. Jeremiah unites that fact with what it means for Christians, and how much it shows God wanted friendship and love with us, not only gave me a fresh perspective, but left me truly touched.
I had similar responses to Dr. Jeremiah's analysis of facets like Mary's song, the shepherds, the role of John the Baptist, and so forth. For instance, I took his advice and compared the song of Mary (the Magnificat) with Hannah's prayer. I not only found similarities, but was struck by how much Hannah may have meant to Mary, even if they were a century apart. Similarly, I was struck by how even though she never met Mary, Hannah's story reached across so many generations to encourage another woman in a precarious cultural position.
I reached the chapter on the shepherds, on a night when I was feeling a bit blue thanks to tough memories and the desire to do and be more than people tend to see in me. The idea of Jesus choosing the shepherds, not "in spite of" their status, not to make them feel special for one night and then send them home, but to show how vital they were to His Kingdom, rattled me in the best way.
I could go on and on. In truth, I'm cheating a little because I haven't finished the book yet. But this is one of those rare cases where I'm calling it early. Why the Nativity is a tiny book that makes a huge impact, and if you haven't read it yet, don't let the size or simplicity fool you. This book will bless your socks off.
David Jeremiah read my mail. His chapters are short; I usually read them about three at a time. However, he packs a ton of insight and inspiration into each of his 25 "Why the Nativity" questions. Some of this information, I was aware of, such as the fact that Jesus exists outside of time. That's kind of basic when you think about it. But the way Dr. Jeremiah unites that fact with what it means for Christians, and how much it shows God wanted friendship and love with us, not only gave me a fresh perspective, but left me truly touched.
I had similar responses to Dr. Jeremiah's analysis of facets like Mary's song, the shepherds, the role of John the Baptist, and so forth. For instance, I took his advice and compared the song of Mary (the Magnificat) with Hannah's prayer. I not only found similarities, but was struck by how much Hannah may have meant to Mary, even if they were a century apart. Similarly, I was struck by how even though she never met Mary, Hannah's story reached across so many generations to encourage another woman in a precarious cultural position.
I reached the chapter on the shepherds, on a night when I was feeling a bit blue thanks to tough memories and the desire to do and be more than people tend to see in me. The idea of Jesus choosing the shepherds, not "in spite of" their status, not to make them feel special for one night and then send them home, but to show how vital they were to His Kingdom, rattled me in the best way.
I could go on and on. In truth, I'm cheating a little because I haven't finished the book yet. But this is one of those rare cases where I'm calling it early. Why the Nativity is a tiny book that makes a huge impact, and if you haven't read it yet, don't let the size or simplicity fool you. This book will bless your socks off.
December 31, 2024
A good solid book by a good solid author. My favorite chapter was "Question 22 - Why Do We Celebrate Christmas on December 25th?". Jeremiah answers the pat answers of uniformed people when they claim it could NOT have been in December ["It's too cold for sheep" - it's not in Israel, "They just adopted a heathen holiday" - they didn't] but it misses the opportunity to show Biblically why December is actually likely [perhaps he hasn't seen it - I've only seen it in print 3 times myself but it checks out Scripturally and I have preached it for decades]. But it is a well written chapter and I appreciate him including it instead of shying away from it like so many].
December 20, 2024
Dr. David Jeremiah outlines answers to 25 of the most thought-provoking questions surrounding the most pivotal moment in human history, the birth of Jesus Christ. The book dives deep by providing meaning and understanding to all the elements of this beautiful story. We learn no detail is too small or insignificant. Dr. Jeremiah uses the old and New Testament along with historical context to speak truth of the story that changed history. This story does not have an ending as it ultimately points to God’s redemptive plan for us with life in eternity with him.
December 7, 2025
A good perspective of why the Nativity is so important. Mr. Jeremiah gives the Bible quotes that support his claims on God, Jesus Christ, Mary, Joseph, the angels, and of course, the Holy Spirit, how they are all tied together. This is a great book for someone that questions the existence of God. For me, it grounded me more in my faith, gave me scriptures to support my beliefs, and ways to help others in their faith journey. This was a great time of year to read it, to remind myself of the true meaning/spirit of Christmas.
December 25, 2024
Merry Christmas everyone!! Got this book as a gift from a friend and if anyone is looking to get a little deeper into the Christmas story, it’s a lovely short read that explains every aspect of the Christmas story from the shepherds to manger to Herod. It’s 25 chapters you can read like an advent calendar, and each chapter is only a couple of pages. As someone who is not that spiritual, this got me more in the Christmas mindset :)
December 22, 2020
A 25-day devotional to read during Advent about the various aspects of the Christmas story including the wise men, Bethlehem, Mary, and King Herod. Each chapter had discussion questions at the end along with verses for further reading. I learned some new things about the culture and story which I always enjoy.
December 30, 2021
I really super-enjoyed this little book. Wish I would have discovered it earlier in the Christmas season. But that's okay. I'll tuck it in with my Christmas stuff and rediscover it next year and read it again.
Contains 25 in-depth chapter-devotions on Christmas from the wonderful writer Dr. David Jeremiah.
My copy already has lots of underlines! Highly recommended.
Contains 25 in-depth chapter-devotions on Christmas from the wonderful writer Dr. David Jeremiah.
My copy already has lots of underlines! Highly recommended.
March 20, 2022
Dr. Jeremiah presents reader with questions many ask regarding the birth of Jesus. His answers provide biblical, historical, geographical and cultural on-site to the events described in the Gospel narrative of The Son of God born in Bethlehem. Easy to to read written as devotional short chapters.
December 23, 2022
David Jeremiah ...
... did it again! Such profound words sharing such a simple message. This book examines in detail some of the events, people and places surrounding the birth of Christ. And yes, the reasons are in fact, compelling.
... did it again! Such profound words sharing such a simple message. This book examines in detail some of the events, people and places surrounding the birth of Christ. And yes, the reasons are in fact, compelling.
March 11, 2023
In the introduction, Dr. Jeremiah says, "There is so much more to this story than just the birth of the Child in Bethlehem." And there is. Prophesy fulfilled, salvation made possible, and more fill the pages to explain in detail why we celebrate Jesus' birth.
February 13, 2024
I enjoyed this book leading up to Christmas. It brought a deeper understanding and a different perspective regarding the birth of Christ. I liked that the messages were short, so I was able to read them as a daily devotion. Recommend ✔️
March 16, 2025
An emotive style of writing that espouses the orthodox view of the facts and circumstances surrounding the birth of Christ. This is a good book for new Christians or young people fresh in the faith, but it is certainly NOT a scholarly work of any merit.
January 5, 2019
Great book to read during December. Really makes you focus on every part of Jesus birth.
December 27, 2019
I enjoyed the format of each chapter answering questions about a character in the Nativity and their importance even today.
April 28, 2022
Valuable little book that includes questions and scriptures for further study.
April 9, 2023
incredible
December 9, 2023
I'm not sure why I read this. It was exactly what the title said it would be. It was fine, but not especially unique or memorable.
December 11, 2023
Time of the year to continue to search our Lord.
December 26, 2023
Great read
I enjoyed this book studing and
learning all about the different characters of the nativity.
Easy and a great read!
I enjoyed this book studing and
learning all about the different characters of the nativity.
Easy and a great read!
December 27, 2023
Excellently written and easily understood. What a perfect book to read at this time of year.
January 8, 2024
Loved revisiting all the aspects of nativity and learning more about Christmas.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews