The story of the boy Jesus in the Temple is a fascinating glimpse into the early life of Jesus. It’s about a time when Jesus, as a young boy, stayed behind in the Temple in Jerusalem, amazed everyone with his understanding. This event is described in the Bible in the Book of Luke, chapter 2.
The Family’s Trip to Jerusalem
Bible Verse: Luke 2:41-42
“Every year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the Festival of the Passover. When he was twelve years old, they went up to the festival, according to the custom.”
Jesus, at the age of twelve, traveled with his parents, Mary and Joseph, to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover Festival. This was a special trip they made every year.
Jesus Stays Behind in the Temple
Bible Verse: Luke 2:43-45
“After the festival was over, while his parents were returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. Thinking he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began looking for him among their relatives and friends.”
After the festival, Mary and Joseph started the journey back home. They didn’t realize that Jesus had stayed back in Jerusalem. It wasn’t until a day later that they noticed Jesus was missing.
Finding Jesus in the Temple
Bible Verse: Luke 2:46-47
“After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers.”
Mary and Joseph searched for Jesus and, after three days, found him in the Temple. He was sitting with religious teachers, listening and asking questions. Everyone was amazed by Jesus’ understanding and wisdom.
Jesus’ Understanding of His Purpose
Bible Verse: Luke 2:49
“‘Why were you searching for me?’ he asked. ‘Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?’”
When Mary and Joseph found Jesus, they were upset and worried. But Jesus seemed surprised that they didn’t know where to find him. He said he had to be in his Father’s house, showing his deep understanding of his connection to God.
Return to Nazareth
Bible Verse: Luke 2:51-52
“Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them… And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”
After this incident, Jesus returned to Nazareth with his parents and was obedient to them. The Bible tells us that Jesus continued to grow wiser and stronger, gaining favor with God and people.