“ 41 His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. 43 When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it; 44 but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. 45 So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. 46 Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers.48. So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.” 49 And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” 50 But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them. 51 Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”
Luke 2:41-52 (NKJV)
Discussion Questions:
- From a human point of view, Jesus’ response to His mother may appear quite direct and even somewhat unexpected. Why do you think Jesus chose to respond in this way? Why is “being about the Father’s business” such a vital part of spiritual growth and maturity in a believer’s life? (Romans 12:1–2; 1 Corinthians 3:1–4)
- In everyday life, head-level knowledge is often used to highlight a person’s background, status, or authority. Yet Paul reminds us that knowledge, when separated from love, can lead to pride, while love is what truly builds others up. How do you understand the different roles that knowledge and love play in our spiritual lives? In practical situations, when there is a tension between “I know I am free to do this” and “Is this pleasing to God?”, how can we choose to submit to God’s will and respond to others with love? (1 Corinthians 8:1–3) (1 Corinthians 8:1–3)
- How would you describe the difference between the true wisdom that comes from God and the false wisdom promoted by the enemy, in terms of motivation, attitude, and the fruit they produce? What helps us continue growing in God’s wisdom, rather than repeatedly encountering the same spiritual lessons? (James 3:13–17)