1.
Which Gospels include an account of Jesus's infancy?
Correct Answer
C. Matthew & Luke.
Explanation
Mark's Gospel begins with Jesus's baptism by John the Baptist (when Jesus was an adult). John's Gospel begins "in the beginning" (of creation) and then jumps to Jesus's baptism.
2.
In the Bible, what does the innkeeper say to Mary and Joseph?
Correct Answer
D. No innkeeper is mentioned.
Explanation
All that's said about an inn is "because there was no room for them in the inn" (Luke 2:7).
3.
What is a manger?
Correct Answer
B. A feeding trough.
Explanation
I was in my forties when I learned that a manger is not a stable but a feeding trough. My spouse was appalled that I could have been so ignorant. I've been relieved to find that others share my misunderstanding.
4.
In what year was Jesus born?
Correct Answer
D. Probably between 6 and 2 B.C.
Explanation
Our current numbering of years was devised by a 6th-century monk and was supposed, to begin with, Jesus's birth, but historical evidence suggests that Jesus was born earlier. There's no year zero in our calendar.
5.
According to the Bible, how many wise men visited Jesus?
Correct Answer
B. More than one.
Explanation
Matthew doesn't say how many wise men there were; it's simply plural. Presumably, it's traditionally understood to be three because of the three gifts they brought.
6.
What are swaddling clothes?
Correct Answer
A. Strips of cloth wrapped snugly around an infant.
Explanation
Swaddling clothes are strips of cloth that are wrapped tightly around an infant. This practice is believed to provide a sense of security and comfort to the baby by mimicking the feeling of being in the womb. Swaddling can also help to prevent the baby from startling themselves awake and promote better sleep.
7.
What is myrrh?
Correct Answer
B. An aromatic tree resin.
Explanation
(Wassail is hot mulled cider, wine, or beer, usually flavored with roasted apples.)
8.
The Greek word translated "host" in Luke's phrase "a multitude of the heavenly host" is more literally translated . . .
Correct Answer
C. "army."
Explanation
I just learned that this week!
9.
What's a synonym for "nativity"?
Correct Answer
D. "Birth."
Explanation
The word "nativity" refers to the birth of a person or the event of being born. Therefore, the synonym for "nativity" is "birth."
10.
What is frankincense?
Correct Answer
C. An aromatic tree resin.
Explanation
Frankincense is an aromatic tree resin that is obtained from the Boswellia tree. It has been used for centuries in various cultures for its pleasant fragrance and therapeutic properties. The resin is typically burned as incense or used in perfumes, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. It is also commonly used in religious and spiritual practices.
11.
According to Matthew's Gospel, where was Jesus when the wise men visited?
Correct Answer
D. In a house.
Explanation
"On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage" (Matt. 2:11). The manger is only mentioned in Luke.
12.
Why does Luke call Bethlehem "the city of David"?
Correct Answer
C. King David was born in Bethlehem.
Explanation
In the _Old_ Testament, "the city of David" refers to Jerusalem, which King David conquered.