What are the key elements in the New Testament Christmas story?

There are several key elements. First, Mary, a virgin, was told by an angel she'd have a baby. Joseph, her fiancé, was also involved. Their trip to Bethlehem for the census is important. The fact that Jesus was born in a manger, not a fancy place, shows his humble beginnings. The shepherds seeing the angels and then going to see Jesus is a big part. And the wise men coming from afar to bring gifts like gold, frankincense, and myrrh are also key elements in this story.

There is no explicit Christmas story in the Old Testament. But there are themes like God's promise of a redeemer. The Old Testament sets the stage for the New Testament events of Jesus' birth. It's full of stories of God's people waiting for salvation. Prophecies about the Messiah's lineage and characteristics are there. All these are related to the idea of Jesus' birth that we celebrate at Christmas in a way.

Well, the New Testament creation story has some important aspects. It builds on the Old Testament account but also focuses on spiritual renewal. The concept of salvation through Jesus is central. God is portrayed as loving and desiring to redeem humanity. For example, in the new creation, believers are considered new creations in Christ, which means a transformation of their inner selves.

The key elements include the Annunciation to Mary by the angel Gabriel that she would bear a son, Jesus. Then there is the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem for the census. In Bethlehem, since there was no room in the inn, Jesus was born in a manger. Also, the visit of the shepherds who were guided by an angel to see the newborn Messiah.

The Old Testament doesn't have the Christmas story like the New Testament. The New Testament is where we get the story of the miraculous birth of Jesus. In the Old Testament, there are just some prophetic elements. For example, prophecies about a special person who will come and save the people. But it's not the same as the detailed account in the New Testament of the events around Jesus' birth, like the visit of the shepherds and the wise men.

One key element could be new characters. Instead of the usual Santa Claus and elves, there might be characters like a young inventor who uses his skills to make Christmas more special for everyone. Another element could be new settings, such as a space station where astronauts celebrate Christmas in a unique way. And of course, a new message about Christmas, like how environmental protection can be part of the Christmas spirit by having a green Christmas.

The main themes in 'the new testament story' are numerous. For instance, the concept of the kingdom of God. Jesus often talked about this kingdom, which is not just a physical place but also a spiritual state. Redemption is another theme. Through Jesus' death and resurrection, humanity is redeemed from the power of sin. And the theme of prophecy is there too, as there are many prophecies in the new testament that are related to Jesus' life and mission.

In the New Testament Easter story, there are several important aspects. Jesus' passion begins with his prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, where he is in great agony. He is then captured and taken through a series of trials, both religious and political. His crucifixion on Golgotha is a brutal event. But the miracle of his resurrection is what Easter is all about. It gives hope to believers that there is life after death. It also fulfills the prophecies in the Old Testament, and it has been the central focus of Christian theology and celebration ever since.

The Old Testament doesn't really have a Christmas story in the traditional sense. But it does set the stage in many ways. There are passages that talk about the coming of a great savior. For instance, Isaiah has prophecies that are often associated with Jesus' birth. But the specific events like Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem and the birth in a stable are not in the Old Testament. It's mainly the New Testament that details the Christmas story.

The main elements often include a detailed account of the person's assets, instructions for their distribution, and maybe some personal wishes or messages for the beneficiaries.