Question
Why did the angels go to the shepherds? What was the reason?
Larry
Answer
Larry,
These shepherds may have been tending sheep specifically raised as temple sacrifices (see Elder McConkie’s The Mortal Messiah vol 1, page 347). The angel gave them a sign so they would be able to properly identify the baby. From there, they spread the first nativity gospel to neighboring cities, including the hub of Jerusalem. Even if their sheep were not exclusively reserved for temple rites, some of their sheep would undoubtedly have to be included, drawing them toward their cultural center with their important message. Edersheim, in The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah (heavily referenced in Jesus the Christ) ties the events of Luke 2:8-20 with verses 22-39. “Having seen it for themselves, the shepherds told what had been spoken to them about this Child, to all around – in the ‘stable’, in the fields, probably also in the Temple, to which they would bring their flocks, thereby preparing the minds of a Simeon, of an Anna, and of all them that looked for salvation in Israel” (page 133). The Lord knew a well-connected group of believers who could be trusted with voicing the angelic hymn “good will to men” in key locations around the area of Bethlehem.