3 B.C.E.

Jerusalem, temple

Angel Gabriel foretells the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah

1:5-25

c. 2 B.C.E.

Nazareth; Judea

Angel Gabriel foretells the birth of Jesus to Mary; she visits her relative Elizabeth

1:26-56

2 B.C.E.

Judean hill country

John the Baptist born and named; Zechariah prophesies; John to be in desert

1:57-80

2 B.C.E., c. Oct. 1

Bethlehem

Jesus born; “the Word became flesh”

1:1-25

2:1-7

1:1-5, 9-14

Near Bethlehem; Bethlehem

Angel announces good news to shepherds; angels praise God; shepherds visit infant

2:8-20

Bethlehem; Jerusalem

Jesus circumcised (8th day); presented in temple by parents (after 40th day)

2:21-38

1 B.C.E. or 1 C.E.

Jerusalem; Bethlehem; Egypt; Nazareth

Astrologers visit; family flees to Egypt; Herod kills young boys; family returns from Egypt and settles in Nazareth

2:1-23

2:39, 40

12 C.E., Passover

Jerusalem

Twelve-year-old Jesus at the temple questions teachers

2:41-50

Nazareth

Returns to Nazareth; continues subject to parents; learns carpentry; Mary has four more sons, as well as daughters (Mt 13:55, 56; Mr 6:3)

2:51, 52

29, spring

Wilderness, Jordan River

John the Baptist begins his ministry

3:1-12

1:1-8

3:1-18

1:6-8, 15-28