Matthew and Luke are the two Gospel writers that include narratives of the birth of Christ. The traditional Nativity Story is an amalgamation of the two accounts.

Critics claim the two stories do not match up. Barrister Charles Foster wrote "The Christmas Mystery" to show that Matthew and Luke are different, but reliable accounts of Jesus' birth. Atheist Robert Stovold believes that the stories are a blend of Pagan myth and later invention.

Evangelical scholar Anthony McRoy also joins in the conversation.

They debate issues such as Matthew's use of Old Testament prophecy, the Virgin birth, Bethlehem as the birth place and whether Luke dates the Census correctly.

For Charles Foster see www.charlesfoster.co.uk

To buy "The Christmas Mystery" click here

For Robert Stovold and his booklet "Did Christians Steal Christmas?" click here

Hear more Christian/non Christian discussion at www.premier.org.uk/unbelievable or get the podcast or via Itunes

If you enjoyed this programme you may also enjoy

Unbelievable? 22 Dec 2007 - Did Christians steal Christmas?

Unbelievable? 20 Dec 2008 Virgin Birth: Fact or Fiction? Revd Michael Sayward debates Unitarian Sarah Tinker

Join in the discussion at the "Unbelievable" group on The Premier Community

Release date

Lydbog: 5. juni 2014