^{1 Ref} And it came to pass in those days, there went forth a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world be enrolled --

^{2 Ref} this enrollment first came to pass when Cyrenius was governor of Syria --

³ and all were going to be enrolled, each to his proper city,

^{4 Ref} and Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, that is called Bethlehem, because of his being of the house and family of David,

^{5 Ref} to enroll himself with Mary his betrothed wife, being with child.

^{6 Ref} And it came to pass, in their being there, the days were fulfilled for her bringing forth,

^{7 Ref} and she brought forth her son -- the first-born, and wrapped him up, and laid him down in the manger, because there was not for them a place in the guest-chamber.

^{8 Ref} And there were shepherds in the same region, lodging in the field, and keeping the night-watches over their flock,

^{9 Ref} and lo, a messenger of the Lord stood over them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they feared a great fear.

^{10 Ref} And the messenger said to them, `Fear not, for lo, I bring you good news of great joy, that shall be to all the people --

^{11 Ref} because there was born to you to-day a Saviour -- who is Christ the Lord -- in the city of David,

^{12 Ref} and this `is' to you the sign: Ye shall find a babe wrapped up, lying in the manger.'

^{13 Ref} And suddenly there came with the messenger a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying,

^{14 Ref} `Glory in the highest to God, and upon earth peace, among men -- good will.'