Final Answer:
The supernatural elements in the stories of Jesus' conception and birth include the divine conception by the Holy Spirit, angelic visitations announcing the birth, prophetic fulfillment, and the miraculous circumstances surrounding Jesus' birth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The accounts of Jesus' conception and birth, as found in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke in the Bible, contain several supernatural elements. Firstly, the conception of Jesus is described as miraculous, occurring through the Holy Spirit overshadowing Mary, resulting in a divine conception without human intervention. This supernatural occurrence transcends natural laws, emphasizing Jesus' unique and divine nature.
Additionally, angelic visitations play a significant role in these narratives. An angel appears to Mary, foretelling the miraculous conception and reassuring her of God's plan. Similarly, an angel appears to Joseph in a dream, guiding him to accept Mary and the divine nature of her pregnancy. These angelic interventions serve as divine messengers, conveying God's will and ensuring the fulfillment of prophecies concerning the Messiah's birth.
Moreover, the events surrounding Jesus' birth itself are marked by supernatural occurrences. The Star of Bethlehem, mentioned in Matthew's Gospel, guides the Magi to Jesus' birthplace, signifying a celestial phenomenon indicating the birth of a significant figure. This extraordinary star is interpreted as a supernatural sign guiding the wise men to the newborn Messiah.
Overall, the supernatural elements in Jesus' conception and birth narratives, including the divine conception by the Holy Spirit, angelic visitations foretelling the birth, fulfillment of prophecies, and extraordinary signs like the guiding star, collectively emphasize the divine nature and significance of Jesus' arrival on Earth. These supernatural occurrences underscore the belief in Jesus as the promised Savior and Son of God.