Luke Chapter 2
Jesus’ Birth and Boyhood
A. The World Jesus Was Born Into
Luke 2:1 – A Decree from Rome Reaches the Whole Mediterranean World
“And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.” (Luke 2:1, NKJV)
Historical Setting and Context
Luke presents this account not as legend or myth, but as true history. His words, “it came to pass in those days,” anchor the narrative in time and reality. This is not “once upon a time” storytelling of gods on Olympus, but verifiable events in human history. Luke’s gospel is the most historically detailed of all the gospel accounts, consistently tying Christ’s life to datable figures and real political circumstances.
The decree from Caesar Augustus reveals God’s sovereign hand in history. Though Augustus believed he was exercising his imperial power to enforce taxation and military control, in reality he was an instrument in the fulfillment of Micah 5:2, which declared that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.
Caesar Augustus: The Man Behind the Decree
Octavian, later known as Caesar Augustus, was born the grand-nephew of Julius Caesar. His father gave him the name Octavian, but Julius Caesar later adopted him as his son and heir. In 44 B.C., Julius was assassinated, and Octavian joined forces with Mark Antony and Lepidus to rule Rome in a Triumvirate.
Lepidus was soon pushed aside.
Octavian and Antony coexisted uneasily for over a decade.
In 31 B.C., Octavian defeated Antony and Cleopatra at the naval battle of Actium with superior strategy and more maneuverable ships.
With this decisive victory, Octavian became the undisputed master of Rome. In 27 B.C. the Senate awarded him the title Augustus, meaning “exalted” or “sacred.” This was more than a political title; it cloaked him in religious overtones, as the term had previously been reserved for gods and holy places.
From this moment, Rome transitioned from a republic ruled by law to an empire ruled by an emperor. The Republic’s centuries-old tradition that no man was above the law collapsed, and Augustus consolidated absolute power. His other title, imperator, meaning commander of the armed forces, evolved into the very word “emperor.”
The Pax Romana
Caesar Augustus was remarkable not only for his rise but also for what followed. His reign ushered in the Pax Romana (Roman Peace), an era of relative stability, unity, and prosperity across the Mediterranean world.
Peace – The brutal civil wars that had plagued Rome for generations were ended. The gates of the Temple of Janus in Rome, traditionally left open in times of war, were closed during his reign.
Political skill – Augustus organized the empire with remarkable administrative ability. He reformed taxation, established a standing army and guard, and rebuilt Rome’s infrastructure.
Wealth – He brought vast treasure from Egypt, paying soldiers and stabilizing the economy.
Historians such as Latourette note that never before had the entire Mediterranean basin been united under one rule, nor enjoyed such security and prosperity. This facilitated the spread of culture, trade, and, most importantly, the gospel. The stable empire, with its road system, common coinage, and Greek language as lingua franca, provided the perfect conditions for the later expansion of Christianity.
The Moral and Social Climate
Yet beneath the veneer of peace and prosperity, Rome’s moral decay was evident. As historian Will Durant observed, the prior decades of civil war had devastated the land and corroded morality:
Farms were neglected, cities were plundered, and trade had collapsed.
Crime was rampant, with robbers in the streets and kidnappers on the highways.
Economic instability left many impoverished, while others indulged in unchecked luxury.
Divorce, abortion, and immorality were common among women dizzy with newfound freedoms.
Disillusioned soldiers, accustomed to violence, roamed without direction.
Thus, while Augustus brought external peace, he could not cure the deeper sickness of the human heart. Political order masked a spiritual emptiness.
The Significance for Christ’s Birth
Jesus was born into this paradox: a world united politically but fractured spiritually, enjoying outward peace yet plagued by inward turmoil. The Roman Empire prided itself on Augustus as a kind of “savior” who had brought peace. But this was a shallow peace, purchased at the cost of liberty and propped up by military force.
Luke intentionally contrasts Augustus with the true Savior. While Augustus issued decrees from a throne in Rome, God was quietly bringing forth His Son in a humble manger in Bethlehem. The empire’s hope rested on the shoulders of one man claiming divinity, but the true Son of God had come to bear the sins of the world.
As Latourette summarized, Augustus and his successors had not solved the basic problems of mankind. They had only obscured them with more government. The world still longed for a true Redeemer, not merely an emperor. The timing of Christ’s birth was perfect:
Politically, the Roman Empire provided unity.
Culturally, the Greek language gave the gospel a bridge across nations.
Spiritually, the corruption and emptiness of Rome had prepared hearts for the true Savior.
Luke 2:2 – The Governor of the Roman Administrative Region Near Galilee
“This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria.” (Luke 2:2, NKJV)
The Nature of the Census
The census mentioned here was not conducted merely for record-keeping or statistical purposes. Rome had little interest in idle demographic studies. The census was designed as an efficient mechanism to impose taxation on the entire population. Every household and individual was registered, assessed, and placed under the tax burdens of the empire.
Leon Morris notes that Justin Martyr, writing in the mid-second century, claimed that in his own day the very records of this census could still be examined in the Roman archives. His statement indicates that Luke’s reference is not myth but tethered to verifiable documentation known even a century later. Luke consistently demonstrates this kind of precision, grounding the gospel in historical fact.
“The First Enrollment”
Luke emphasizes that this was the first enrollment. The Greek phrasing makes it clear that Luke distinguished this census from later, better-known enrollments. The census under Quirinius in A.D. 6 is specifically mentioned in Acts 5:37:
“After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census, and drew away many people after him. He also perished, and all who obeyed him were dispersed.” (Acts 5:37, NKJV)
That later enrollment sparked unrest and revolt, particularly among Jews who resented Rome’s control. To avoid confusion, Luke calls the registration at the time of Jesus’ birth “the first enrollment.” He carefully separates it from the turbulent events of A.D. 6, showing his knowledge of Roman practices and his intent to write with precision.
Quirinius the Governor
The mention of Quirinius anchors the event in history. His full name was Publius Sulpicius Quirinius, a notable Roman soldier and administrator.
He served as consul in 12 B.C. and had a distinguished military career.
Historical investigations show that Quirinius was active in governing areas adjacent to Syria as early as 4 B.C., when Cilicia was annexed to Syria. Because Cilicia fell under the Syrian jurisdiction, Quirinius was considered de jure governor of Syria during this time.
Later, from A.D. 6 to 9, he was again formally appointed as legate of Syria. It was during this later tenure that the infamous census caused the uprising mentioned in Acts 5:37.
Thus, Luke’s reference to Quirinius governing Syria at the time of Jesus’ birth is not inaccurate but fits the historical record when properly understood. He points to an earlier administrative role held by Quirinius before his formal legateship in A.D. 6
Luke 2:3 – The World Responds to the Command of Caesar Augustus
“So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.” (Luke 2:3, NKJV)
The Global Reach of a Single Decree
Luke records that the entire Roman world obeyed the decree of Caesar Augustus. The phrase “so all went to be registered” captures the remarkable scope of imperial authority. From Spain to Judea, from Gaul to Egypt, the emperor’s command was carried out. It is difficult to overstate the unprecedented power that Augustus wielded; likely no man before him had exercised such control over so many lives.
Augustus was, by historical measure, a capable and even good ruler in many respects. He expanded Rome’s borders, secured its finances, and ushered in a golden age of stability. Yet, behind the grandeur of empire, his private life was marked by sorrow. His only daughter, Julia, was scandalous and rebellious, his sons died young, and his family line was fractured. Like many ambitious men who believe themselves invincible, Augustus surely took pride in issuing a decree that the whole world obeyed. From the palace in Rome, he must have felt the weight of his authority as he taxed his empire into order.
But as Scripture reminds us, true power does not lie in human rulers. When Jesus later stood before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor boasted of his authority, saying:
“Are You not speaking to me? Do You not know that I have power to crucify You, and power to release You?” (John 19:10, NKJV).
Jesus replied:
“You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above. Therefore the one who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.” (John 19:11, NKJV).
The same truth applied to Caesar Augustus. His authority was real, but it was permitted authority, granted by God to fulfill His sovereign plan.
God’s Hand Behind Caesar’s Decree
As Augustus sat in Rome and flexed what he thought was the supreme exercise of his will, he was in fact only a pawn in the hand of Almighty God. God had promised centuries earlier through the prophet Micah:
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,
Though you are little among the thousands of Judah,
Yet out of you shall come forth to Me
The One to be Ruler in Israel,
Whose goings forth are from of old,
From everlasting.” (Micah 5:2, NKJV)
The Messiah had to be born in Bethlehem. Yet Joseph and Mary lived in Nazareth, nearly ninety miles to the north. Humanly speaking, there was little reason for a young couple, with Mary near the end of her pregnancy, to make such a difficult journey. But by moving the heart of the emperor to decree a registration, God orchestrated circumstances that ensured His Word would be fulfilled.
What Augustus thought was an act of his supreme will was actually God’s sovereign orchestration. As Proverbs 21:1 reminds us:
“The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord,
Like the rivers of water;
He turns it wherever He wishes.” (Proverbs 21:1, NKJV)
The Limits of Augustus’ Legacy
Though Augustus was celebrated as the “savior” of the Roman world and honored with divine titles, his legacy pales in comparison to the Child born in Bethlehem under his decree. Augustus’ achievements were temporal; Jesus’ reign is eternal. History remembers Augustus as one of Rome’s greatest emperors, but today the name of Jesus Christ is known and worshiped across the world in a way Caesar’s name never could be. As the psalmist wrote:
“The Lord has established His throne in heaven,
And His kingdom rules over all.” (Psalm 103:19, NKJV)
Augustus was in some ways like a Roman John the Baptist, preparing the world for the true King. His reign of external peace and political order set the stage for the coming of Christ, but he could never be the answer to mankind’s deepest needs. Only the eternal Son of God, born in Bethlehem, could bring true peace and salvation.
Everyone to His Own City
Luke further notes that “everyone went to his own city.” There is no secular record of this exact decree of Augustus commanding individuals to return to their ancestral homes, yet it aligns with Roman practice and is historically credible. Augustus was a shrewd administrator and sensitive to the customs of his subjects. Requiring people to register in their ancestral towns was consistent with Jewish custom and avoided unnecessary unrest.
Ancient edicts from Egypt show that during census enrollments, individuals were indeed required to return to their own city of origin. This practice gave legitimacy and order to the process, ensuring accurate registration by family and lineage. For Jews, whose identity was tied to tribe and ancestry, this requirement was especially meaningful.
Though burdensome, this system had an unintended grace. Families who may not have seen one another for years were gathered together in their hometowns. The census, while ultimately an instrument of Roman taxation, also served as a providential means of family reunion and reconnection.
B. The Birth of Jesus
Luke 2:4–7 – Joseph and Mary Come to Bethlehem; Jesus Is Born
“Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.” (Luke 2:4–7, NKJV)
Joseph’s Journey to Bethlehem
Luke emphasizes that Joseph “went up from Galilee.” The journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem was about 80–90 miles, a formidable trip on foot or by donkey in the first century. It required several days of travel, and for Mary, who was pregnant, it would have been exhausting. Yet Joseph obeyed the decree of Caesar Augustus, showing his faithfulness to civil authority and, without realizing it, participating in the fulfillment of prophecy.
Bethlehem, called the “city of David,” was Joseph’s ancestral home. As a descendant of David, Joseph returned there to register. This detail reinforces that Jesus, though legally Joseph’s son, was connected to David’s royal line, fulfilling the covenant promises given in 2 Samuel 7:12–13:
“When your days are fulfilled and you rest with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.” (2 Samuel 7:12–13, NKJV)
Mary, His Betrothed Wife
Luke describes Mary as Joseph’s “betrothed wife.” Though Matthew 1:24 tells us Joseph had taken her as his wife in obedience to the angel’s command, Luke still reflects the reality that the marriage was not yet consummated. Mary’s pregnancy, apart from Joseph, was well-known in Nazareth and no doubt the subject of scandal and gossip. Joseph may have taken Mary with him not only out of love and protection but also to remove her from that environment of suspicion.
Roman law did not require Mary to accompany Joseph for registration, but in God’s providence she went, ensuring that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem exactly as Micah 5:2 had foretold.
The Simplicity of the Birth Narrative
Luke records the birth of Christ with remarkable simplicity: “she brought forth her firstborn Son.” No embellishment, no exalted description of the physical process, just the plain statement of a young woman giving birth. In our modern world, trivial events are inflated with grandeur, but here the greatest event in history—the Incarnation of the Son of God—is described with reverent understatement.
The phrase “she brought forth” suggests a lonely birth. No mention is made of midwives, family, or friends. Mary may have delivered Jesus with only Joseph present, cut off from her relatives in Nazareth. The Church Fathers even inferred from the text that her birth may have been painless, a unique sign of the miracle of the virgin conception. At the very least, the picture is of humility and isolation.
The Place of His Birth
Mary laid Jesus in a manger—a feeding trough for animals—because there was “no room for them in the inn.” Early Christian writers, such as Justin Martyr (A.D. 150), testified that Jesus was born in a cave near Bethlehem. By the time of Constantine (A.D. 330), a church was built over that site, which many still revere as the birthplace of Christ. Whether stable or cave, the reality remains: the eternal Son of God entered human history in the humblest of settings.
The Firstborn Son
Luke identifies Jesus as Mary’s “firstborn Son.” This not only affirms His preeminence as the first child but also implies that Mary bore other children later (cf. Matthew 13:55–56, Mark 6:3). Roman Catholic teaching on Mary’s perpetual virginity is inconsistent with the plain reading of Scripture. Jesus had half-brothers and half-sisters, children of Mary and Joseph after His birth.
Swaddling Cloths and the Manger
Mary wrapped Jesus in “swaddling cloths”—long strips of torn cloth used to secure an infant’s limbs. The detail emphasizes both care and humility. These were not royal garments, but common wrappings. More striking still is that she laid Him in a manger, a feeding trough. The Creator of the universe was cradled where animals ate.
John Trapp notes that the Greek word for “swaddling” is related to the idea of “tearing,” suggesting that the cloths were strips torn and wrapped tightly. This vivid imagery reinforces the poverty of Christ’s first moments in the world.
No Room in the Inn
The phrase “no room for them in the inn” carries profound symbolism. Jesus, even at His birth, was excluded and set apart. He came into a world that had no place for Him. As Barclay observes, “the only place where there was room for Him was on a cross.”
This rejection at birth foreshadowed His ministry. John 1:11 says:
“He came to His own, and His own did not receive Him.” (John 1:11, NKJV)
And yet, this humiliation is precisely how God chose to reveal His Son. As Paul later wrote:
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” (2 Corinthians 8:9, NKJV)
Luke 2:8 – Shepherds Watch Over Their Flocks
“Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.” (Luke 2:8, NKJV)
The Shepherds of Bethlehem
Luke shifts the scene from the manger in Bethlehem to the fields nearby, where shepherds were keeping their watch by night. Bethlehem’s shepherds were not ordinary herdsmen. Many scholars believe these men tended the temple flocks, raising lambs destined for sacrifice in Jerusalem, just a few miles away. If this is true, the symbolism is profound: the very men who cared for sacrificial lambs would be the first to hear the announcement of the birth of the Lamb of God.
John the Baptist later declared of Jesus:
“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!’” (John 1:29, NKJV)
Thus, God chose to reveal the birth of His Son not to kings or priests but to humble shepherds, perhaps those most acquainted with the imagery of sacrifice.
Living Out in the Fields
Luke notes that these shepherds were “living out in the fields,” a phrase that indicates they were not simply visiting their flocks but dwelling with them in the open. This detail is important for historical context.
Some argue that shepherds would not have been outside in late December, which has led to doubts about December 25 as the date of Jesus’ birth. Bethlehem’s climate, however, is similar to Southern California—generally mild, though sometimes cold. On some years, winter nights would have been tolerable for sheep and shepherds alike. While December 25 is unlikely to be the true date, it is not strictly impossible.
Regardless of the exact timing, Luke’s focus is theological, not calendrical. What matters is that God’s announcement came to men in the fields at night, when they were faithfully watching over their flocks.
The Humility of God’s Choice
It is striking that the first public announcement of the Messiah’s birth did not go to Caesar Augustus in Rome, to the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem, or even to the priests in the temple. It went instead to shepherds—men considered socially insignificant, often viewed as ceremonially unclean, and living on the margins of respectable society.
Paul later captures this divine pattern in 1 Corinthians 1:27–29:
“But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.” (1 Corinthians 1:27–29, NKJV)
God delights in exalting the lowly and humbling the proud. By choosing shepherds, He revealed the nature of His kingdom: it is not for the self-exalted but for the meek, not for the powerful but for the poor in spirit.
Luke 2:9–14 – The Angelic Announcement
**“And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
‘Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!’”** (Luke 2:9–14, NKJV)
The Glory of the Lord Breaks the Silence
In the stillness of the Judean night, heaven touched earth. Luke records that “an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them.” The shepherds, who were accustomed to danger in the darkness, had never encountered anything like this. The sudden brilliance of divine glory—light brighter than day—terrified them.
This pattern of fear followed by reassurance is consistent throughout Scripture. When humans encounter angels, their first response is dread (cf. Luke 1:12–13, Luke 1:30). The angel calmed them with the familiar words: “Do not be afraid.” Fear is displaced by joy when God’s message is received.
The Recipients: Humble Shepherds
The announcement of the Messiah’s birth was not given in the temple courts, nor proclaimed first to kings or priests, but entrusted to shepherds—men considered socially and religiously insignificant. As Morris notes, shepherds were viewed with suspicion in Jewish culture, considered dishonest, and barred from giving testimony in courts of law. Yet it was to them that God entrusted the first proclamation of the gospel.
This highlights the humility of the gospel itself. God chooses the weak and despised things of the world to shame the wise and powerful (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:27–29). Just as Jesus would later dine with tax collectors and sinners, His birth was first celebrated by those considered unworthy.
John Trapp observes that the first preacher of the gospel was an angel, but now God has entrusted that sacred honor to men. Revelation 2:1 shows ministers symbolically called “angels” (messengers), continuing this divine mission.
The Message: A Savior, Christ the Lord
The angel’s announcement is striking in its clarity and fullness:
“Born to you this day” – This was no distant promise but a present reality. The Savior was born that very night.
“In the city of David” – Bethlehem, as prophesied in Micah 5:2, was the birthplace of the Messiah, the Son of David.
“A Savior” – Not merely a teacher, advisor, or reformer. Humanity’s greatest need is not information or improvement but redemption. We need rescue from sin and death, and that comes only through a Savior.
“Who is Christ the Lord” – The titles are profound. Christ (Greek Christos, Hebrew Mashiach) means “Anointed One,” the Messiah. Lord (Kurios) was a divine title used of God Himself. The angel declared that the Child in Bethlehem was both Messiah and God incarnate.
The Sign: A Babe in a Manger
The shepherds were given a sign: “You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” The wonder of heaven’s glory was to be found in the most unexpected place—a newborn lying in an animal’s feeding trough.
This contrast is deliberate. The majesty of the angelic announcement directs them not to a palace or temple but to a stable. As Paul would later write:
“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7, NKJV)
God delights to reveal His glory in humble vessels, so that His greatness, not human grandeur, is magnified.
The Heavenly Host
After the angel’s declaration, the heavens erupted in praise. “Suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God.” The term “host” is a military word, referring to an army of angels. Yet this army did not come to wage war but to proclaim peace.
Their song was simple yet profound:
“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (Luke 2:14, NKJV)
“Glory to God in the highest” – Salvation begins and ends with God’s glory. His plan of redemption magnifies His grace, wisdom, and love.
“On earth peace” – Not political peace or temporary ceasefires like the Pax Romana, but true peace between God and man through Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1).
“Goodwill toward men” – God’s favor rests on those who receive His Son. The better rendering is “peace to men on whom His favor rests,” showing that peace is not automatic but given to those who embrace Christ.
Peace That the World Cannot Give
Even the pagans of the first century longed for peace. The philosopher Epictetus observed that while an emperor could end wars on land and sea, he could not give peace of heart. Only Christ brings peace that transcends outward circumstances. Jesus would later say:
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27, NKJV)
This is the peace heralded that night—the reconciliation of sinners with God, leading to peace of conscience and heart.
Luke 2:15–16 – The Shepherds Come and See the Child Jesus
“So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.’ And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:15–16, NKJV)
Immediate Obedience to the Word of God
The shepherds’ response was urgent and immediate. They said, “Let us now go to Bethlehem.” There was no hesitation, no debate, and no delay. Once the angels had departed into heaven, they acted upon the revelation God had given them. This is a pattern of faith throughout Scripture: when God speaks, His people respond promptly (cf. Genesis 12:1–4, Matthew 4:19–20). Their urgency reveals genuine belief.
The angels were gone, but the Word of God remained with them. They trusted the message enough to leave their flocks and go in search of the Child. Their faith was not based on the continual presence of angels, but on the Word of God declared to them.
The Specificity of the Sign
The shepherds declared their intention to “see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.” They were not pursuing vague speculation; they were seeking the very sign the angel had given:
“And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:12, NKJV)
Babies wrapped in swaddling cloths were common, but a baby lying in a manger—a feeding trough—was extraordinary. Without this specific detail, the shepherds might have doubted the angel’s word or dismissed it as imagination. Instead, they had a clear sign to confirm the truth of God’s message.
This reminds us that God often gives His people unmistakable markers of His promises. Just as Gideon received the sign of the fleece (Judges 6:36–40), the shepherds were given a sign so unique that it could not be mistaken.
Encounter with Jesus
Luke records simply that “they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.” This was the climax of their journey. They no longer saw or heard angels; instead, they beheld the Savior Himself. The supernatural vision was replaced with a humble, ordinary scene—yet it was in that humility that God’s greatest glory was revealed.
Angels may depart, but Christ abides. Experiences of spiritual exhilaration may fade, but the enduring presence of Christ remains the believer’s anchor.
John Calvin noted the difficulty of this sign:
“This was a revolting sight, and was sufficient of itself to produce an aversion to Christ. For what could be more improbable than to believe that He was the King of the whole people, who was deemed unworthy to be ranked with the lowest of the multitude?”
Indeed, from a human perspective, the King of kings lying in an animal trough defies expectation. Yet, as Paul reminds us, God chooses what seems foolish and weak in the world to shame the strong (1 Corinthians 1:27).
The First Witnesses of the Lamb of God
It is a beautiful providence that the shepherds—possibly those who tended the temple flocks destined for sacrifice—were the first to behold the true Lamb of God. As Barclay reflects, “It is a lovely thought that the shepherds who looked after the Temple lambs were the first to see the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”
John the Baptist would later declare this same truth:
“The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, ‘Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!’” (John 1:29, NKJV)
The shepherds’ testimony reinforces the foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrificial mission. The Lamb who lay in the manger would one day lay down His life as the perfect sacrifice for sin.
Luke 2:17–20 – The Shepherds Spread the News of Jesus’ Birth
“Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.” (Luke 2:17–20, NKJV)
The Shepherds as the First Evangelists
Luke tells us that after seeing the Christ Child, the shepherds “made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child.” The combination of the angelic message and the confirming sign of the manger compelled them to testify. Though they were considered social outcasts, they became the first proclaimers of the gospel, spreading the news of the Savior’s birth to anyone who would listen.
This shows that evangelism is the natural outflow of encountering Christ. When someone truly sees the Savior, they cannot remain silent. Just as Peter and John later declared, “For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20, NKJV), the shepherds bore witness to what God had revealed.
The Marvel of the People
“And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds.” The news amazed everyone who heard it. Even if they could not fully understand, they recognized that something extraordinary had taken place.
John Trapp insightfully observes that God revealed this mystery to both shepherds and wise men—poor and rich, unlearned and learned, Jews and Gentiles, those near and those far off—demonstrating that the gospel is for all. Christ’s birth levels social and cultural distinctions, offering salvation to every class of people.
The response of marvel, however, was not necessarily faith. Many in the gospels marveled at Jesus’ words and works but stopped short of surrendering to Him. Wonder can be fleeting unless it leads to faith.
Mary’s Quiet Meditation
Luke contrasts the shepherds’ bold proclamation with Mary’s inward reflection: “But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.” While others were caught in temporary amazement, Mary stored these moments deeply, carefully meditating on their meaning.
Bruce notes the distinction: the wonder of the crowd was a momentary reaction, but Mary’s pondering was an abiding practice. She continually reflected on how God’s promises were unfolding before her eyes.
Mary’s example shows the importance of meditation in the life of faith. While zeal and proclamation have their place, believers must also take time to treasure and reflect upon the works of God, allowing His Word to shape the heart.
The Shepherds Return with Joyful Praise
“Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.” They returned to their ordinary duties, but they were transformed. Their encounter with Christ filled them with joy, and they praised God for the fulfillment of His Word.
The text emphasizes that everything happened “as it was told them.” God’s promises were confirmed with perfect accuracy, strengthening their faith. Their zeal in glorifying God rebukes the apathy of many believers today. As Calvin noted:
“Their zeal in glorifying and praising God is an implied reproof of our indolence, or rather of our ingratitude. If the cradle of Christ had such an effect upon them, as to make them rise from the stable and the manger to heaven, how much more powerful ought the death and resurrection of Christ to be in raising us to God?”
The shepherds began the night keeping watch over their flocks in obscurity. They ended it rejoicing as witnesses of the Savior. Their story illustrates the transformation that comes from encountering Christ: ordinary people made extraordinary by the gospel.
C. Jesus’ Presentation in the Temple
Luke 2:21–24 – The Circumcision and Presentation of Jesus
“And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb. Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, ‘Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the LORD’), and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, ‘A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.’” (Luke 2:21–24, NKJV)
The Circumcision of Jesus
Luke notes that “when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child,” Joseph and Mary obeyed the law of Moses. This fulfilled the command of Leviticus 12:2–3, which required circumcision on the eighth day. Circumcision was the covenant sign given to Abraham and his descendants, marking them as God’s chosen people (Genesis 17:10–14).
Jesus, though sinless, submitted to this law to fulfill all righteousness. This demonstrates not only His identification with His people but also His role as the One who perfectly kept the law in every aspect. Paul later explained the spiritual meaning of circumcision in Romans 2:28–29, showing that true circumcision is of the heart. Yet Christ’s circumcision ensured He fulfilled the requirements of the old covenant before inaugurating the new.
At this ceremony, the Child was officially named JESUS, as the angel had commanded both Mary and Joseph before His birth (Luke 1:31; Matthew 1:21). His name means “Yahweh is salvation,” pointing to His mission from the very beginning.
The Purification and Presentation
Luke continues: “Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord.”
According to Leviticus 12, a woman was ceremonially unclean for forty days after giving birth to a male child. At the end of this period, she was required to bring an offering to the temple for purification. Luke’s wording is significant. The more precise reading is “when the days of their purification” were completed, which suggests that Jesus was included in the purification rite, even though He was without sin.
This reveals Christ’s identification with sinners from the very beginning of His earthly life. As Paul later wrote:
“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:21, NKJV)
Whyte comments beautifully:
“For He who knew no sin, and who never was to know sin, was already in His circumcision made sin for us. He was not so much as eight days in this world till He began to be numbered with the transgressors. Mary’s firstborn Son was a lamb without blemish and without spot, but before He was a week old, He began to bear the sins of many… From His first wounding He bore in His body the marks of our redemption.”
Furthermore, the presentation fulfilled Exodus 13:2:
“Consecrate to Me all the firstborn, whatever opens the womb among the children of Israel, both of man and beast; it is Mine.” (Exodus 13:2, NKJV)
Every firstborn male belonged to the Lord as a reminder of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt. Jesus, the ultimate Firstborn, was thus consecrated to God in obedience to the law.
The Offering of the Poor
Luke tells us that Joseph and Mary offered “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.” According to Leviticus 12:6–8, the standard offering was a lamb and a bird. However, if the family could not afford a lamb, they could bring two birds instead. This was called “the offering of the poor.”
This detail reveals both the poverty and humility of the Holy Family. The King of kings, whose birth had been heralded by angels, was raised in an ordinary, poor household. Paul later captured the spiritual meaning of this humility:
“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich.” (2 Corinthians 8:9, NKJV)
This timing also indicates that the presentation in the temple occurred before the visit of the wise men (Matthew 2:1–12). After the Magi’s gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, Joseph and Mary would not have offered the lesser sacrifice of birds. Nor would they have returned to Jerusalem once warned by the angel to flee to Egypt (Matthew 2:13).
Thus, Luke’s account not only highlights their faithfulness but also confirms the chronology of the nativity events.
Luke 2:25–32 – A Promise Fulfilled to Simeon
**“And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
‘Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace,
According to Your word;
For my eyes have seen Your salvation
Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples,
A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles,
And the glory of Your people Israel.’”** (Luke 2:25–32, NKJV)
Simeon: A Man of Character and Expectation
Luke introduces Simeon as “just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel.” He was righteous before men and reverent before God. His life was marked by expectancy, looking for the Consolation of Israel, a messianic hope rooted in passages like Isaiah 40:1–2:
“Comfort, yes, comfort My people!
Says your God.
Speak comfort to Jerusalem, and cry out to her,
That her warfare is ended,
That her iniquity is pardoned.” (Isaiah 40:1–2, NKJV)
The term Consolation (Greek paraklēsis) reflects the messianic hope of comfort and deliverance. Simeon longed for the Messiah to come and bring redemption to God’s people.
There were likely many rumors about the coming of Messiah during this time. The miraculous birth of John the Baptist had been widely reported (Luke 1:65), and shepherds from Bethlehem may have spoken of the angelic announcement they witnessed. Yet Simeon’s confidence was not in rumors but in revelation.
Led by the Holy Spirit
Luke emphasizes three times that the Holy Spirit was at work in Simeon’s life:
“The Holy Spirit was upon him” (v. 25).
“It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit” (v. 26).
“So he came by the Spirit into the temple” (v. 27).
Simeon’s presence in the temple that day was no accident. He was led by the Spirit to encounter Christ at exactly the right time. This illustrates what it means to walk in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:25). The Spirit not only assures believers of God’s promises but also directs their steps so that those promises are fulfilled.
Simeon’s Embrace of Christ
When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus into the temple, Simeon took Him up in his arms. This act is profoundly personal—an old man cradling the infant Savior. Though Simeon knew little of Jesus’ future ministry, his love for the Redeemer was evident. If Simeon so loved Christ with such limited knowledge, how much more should we love Him who know His cross, resurrection, and glory.
Peace Through Fulfilled Promise
Simeon declared: “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word; for my eyes have seen Your salvation.” The word translated “depart” carries the idea of being released from a duty, like a soldier dismissed from his post. Simeon had stood his watch faithfully, waiting for the dawn of God’s salvation. Now, seeing Christ, he was released in peace.
This peace was grounded in God’s Word: “according to Your word.” Simeon’s hope was not wishful thinking but anchored in divine promise. His eyes had seen salvation—not an abstract idea, but a Person. Jesus Himself is salvation incarnate.
Salvation for All Peoples
Simeon’s prophecy expands the scope of salvation beyond Israel. He declares that this salvation is “prepared before the face of all peoples, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.”
This is astonishing for a Jew in the temple courts. Simeon recognized that Messiah’s mission was universal. Israel’s Messiah would also be the Redeemer of the nations. Isaiah foresaw this:
“Indeed He says,
‘It is too small a thing that You should be My Servant
To raise up the tribes of Jacob,
And to restore the preserved ones of Israel;
I will also give You as a light to the Gentiles,
That You should be My salvation to the ends of the earth.’” (Isaiah 49:6, NKJV)
Thus, Simeon was one of the first to proclaim the global mission of Christ. The Child he held would one day draw both Jew and Gentile into one body through the cross (Ephesians 2:14–16).
Simeon’s Song of Departure
John Trapp cites a poetic summary of Simeon’s heart:
“I fear no sin, I dread no death;
I have lived long enough, I have my life;
I have longed enough, I have my love;
I have seen long enough, I have my light;
I have served enough, I have my saint;
I have sorrowed enough, I have my joy;
Sweet babe, let this psalm serve as a lullaby to thee, and for a funeral for me. Oh, sleep in my arms, and let me sleep in thy peace.”
This expresses the contentment of a believer who, having seen Christ, has no further fear of death. To see Jesus is to be prepared to die in peace.
Luke 2:33–35 – A Promise and a Warning from Simeon
“And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, ‘Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.’” (Luke 2:33–35, NKJV)
Joseph and Mary’s Marvel
Luke records that “Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him.” Even though they had already received angelic announcements (Matthew 1:20–23; Luke 1:26–35) and witnessed shepherds proclaiming the angelic vision (Luke 2:17–18), their wonder was continually renewed as others, like Simeon, recognized the identity and mission of their Son.
This marvel was a mix of joy and holy awe. Every new testimony confirmed that God’s promises were unfolding before their eyes. For believers today, there remains a similar joy in seeing others come to know Christ. No matter how deeply one knows Him, there is a fresh wonder in watching His grace revealed in another life.
The Fall and Rising of Many
Simeon prophesied: “This Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel.” Christ’s coming would not leave anyone neutral. He would become a dividing line:
Peter would fall in denial, but rise again in repentance (Luke 22:62; John 21:15–19).
Judas would fall in despair and never rise (Matthew 27:3–5).
One thief on the cross blasphemed and perished, while the other believed and entered paradise (Luke 23:39–43).
Jesus is the stone described in Isaiah 8:14:
“He will be as a sanctuary, but a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to both the houses of Israel, as a trap and a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.” (Isaiah 8:14, NKJV)
To some, Christ is the cornerstone of salvation; to others, He is the stumbling stone of judgment (Romans 9:33; 1 Peter 2:6–8). His presence exposes the heart and demands a response, leading either to salvation or rejection.
A Sign Spoken Against
Simeon continues: “and for a sign which will be spoken against.” The word “sign” refers to a visible marker, and Simeon’s description paints it as a target at which arrows are aimed. From His earliest ministry, Jesus would be opposed, slandered, and resisted.
Isaiah had prophesied this rejection:
“He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him.” (Isaiah 53:3, NKJV)
The hostility toward Jesus would culminate in the cross, where He bore the hatred of sinful man even while providing their salvation. Christ’s opposition was not a detour in God’s plan—it was part of the mission by which He would redeem the world.
A Sword Through Mary’s Soul
Simeon then directs his prophecy personally to Mary: “(yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also).” Mothering the Messiah would bring both great privilege and deep pain. Mary would experience the joy of raising the Son of God, but also the anguish of watching Him misunderstood, rejected, and crucified.
At the cross, this prophecy was fulfilled. Mary stood near Jesus as He suffered (John 19:25–27). No one else would have felt the agony of His rejection as she did, not only as His disciple but as His mother. The rejection of her Son was, in a sense, her rejection too. Yet, when He was vindicated in resurrection and ascension, her joy was also magnified.
The Revealer of Hearts
Simeon concludes that all of this will happen “that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” Jesus is the ultimate test of the human heart. He exposes whether people truly trust God or cling to pride and unbelief. His presence forces a decision, revealing loyalty or hostility, humility or rebellion.
Hebrews 4:12 echoes this truth:
“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12, NKJV)
Christ, the Living Word, divides the hearts of men, revealing their true condition before God.
Luke 2:36–38 – Anna’s Testimony to the Redeemer
“Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:36–38, NKJV)
Anna the Prophetess
Luke introduces another witness to the Messiah: Anna, called “a prophetess.” Scripture does not explain the exact nature of her prophetic role. It may have been through words of encouragement, prayers, or inspired testimony. In this case, her prophetic ministry is evident in her recognition of Jesus as the Redeemer and her bold proclamation to others.
Her lineage is also noted: “the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher.” The tribe of Asher, one of the ten northern tribes, had been largely carried away in the Assyrian captivity (2 Kings 17:6). Yet Anna’s presence shows that remnants of all Israelite tribes were preserved and represented in the faithful remnant awaiting redemption. God had not forgotten His covenant people.
A Life of Devotion
Anna is described as “of a great age.” She had been married for only seven years before becoming a widow, and she had remained a widow for about eighty-four years. This means she may have been over one hundred years old at the time of her encounter with Jesus.
Despite decades of widowhood, Anna’s life was not marked by bitterness or despair. Instead, she turned her grief into devotion. Luke tells us she “did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.”
Her service was not defined by public recognition, but by constant prayer and fasting before God. She embodied the truth of Psalm 92:14:
“They shall still bear fruit in old age;
They shall be fresh and flourishing.” (Psalm 92:14, NKJV)
Even in extreme age, Anna was fruitful in faith, demonstrating that no season of life is exempt from usefulness in God’s kingdom.
A Woman of Worship and Hope
Anna entered the scene “in that instant” when Simeon was blessing the Child. By divine providence, she too encountered the Savior at the appointed time. Her immediate response was worship: “she gave thanks to the Lord.” Out of her life of prayer flowed spontaneous praise.
She then “spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Anna became a faithful evangelist, sharing the news of the Redeemer with all who, like her, longed for God’s salvation. Her testimony demonstrates that a heart filled with worship naturally overflows into witness.
Anna was remarkable not simply because of her age, but because of her unwavering hope. She had endured widowhood and loneliness, yet her faith never grew cold. Instead, her devotion made her ready to recognize the Messiah when He appeared.
Lessons from Anna’s Example
Devotion despite hardship – Anna’s widowhood could have left her bitter, but she devoted herself to God. Trials refined rather than ruined her.
Fruitfulness in old age – Anna shows that one never outlives usefulness to God. Her greatest ministry came in her later years.
Prayer as service – Luke describes prayer and fasting as service to God. The unseen ministry of intercession is precious in His sight.
Witness flows from worship – Anna gave thanks and immediately spoke of Christ. Those who worship faithfully will naturally bear witness.
Luke 2:39–40 – The Return to Nazareth
“So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” (Luke 2:39–40, NKJV)
Obedience to the Law
Luke makes it clear that Joseph and Mary “performed all things according to the law of the Lord.” This consistent emphasis shows that the family of Jesus carefully observed the requirements of God’s law. From circumcision to presentation in the temple, every command was obeyed. In this way, even in His infancy, Jesus fulfilled the law on our behalf.
Matthew 5:17 later records Jesus declaring:
“Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.” (Matthew 5:17, NKJV)
His life of obedience began not at adulthood but from the earliest days, with His parents ensuring that every statute of God was observed.
Growth in Nazareth
After their time in Jerusalem, the family returned to Galilee, to Nazareth, their hometown. Nazareth was a small, obscure village, never mentioned in the Old Testament. Yet it became the place where Jesus grew, hidden from the eyes of the world until the time appointed by the Father.
Luke summarizes the years of Jesus’ childhood with the words: “And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” This verse highlights both His humanity and His divine favor.
The Development of Jesus
“The Child grew” – Jesus experienced normal physical growth. Though truly God, He was also truly man, sharing in our human development (Hebrews 2:14).
“Became strong in spirit” – His inner life, character, and moral strength developed in perfect harmony with His age. He was never immature in a sinful sense, but His capacity for understanding expanded with time.
“Filled with wisdom” – At each stage of growth, Jesus possessed the fullness of wisdom appropriate to that age. At five years old, He did not think like a thirty-year-old, yet His wisdom surpassed that of any other five-year-old. His development was natural yet flawless.
“The grace of God was upon Him” – God’s favor rested visibly upon Him. This was not because He needed grace as sinners do, but because His life was marked by divine blessing and approval.
For Christian parents, this verse is deeply encouraging. It models the kind of growth to pray for in children—that they would grow physically, develop strong character, increase in wisdom, and live under the evident favor of God.
Rejecting False Legends
Luke gives us a simple, dignified statement about Jesus’ childhood. We are told nothing more because nothing more is necessary. From the age of about one month to twelve years, Scripture is silent except for this summary.
In later centuries, curiosity gave rise to apocryphal writings known as the “Infancy Gospels.” These tales invented miraculous stories about Jesus as a child—such as speaking from the manger, bringing clay birds to life, or healing with bath water. These fanciful accounts are not only absent from Scripture but contradict the very character of Christ, portraying Him as capricious or mischievous.
John Trapp’s caution is fitting: “Where the Scripture hath no tongue, we must have no ears.” In other words, believers must be content with the revelation God has given. The silence of Scripture on Jesus’ youth reminds us to focus not on speculation but on the truth God has chosen to reveal.
D. Jesus in His Father’s House
Luke 2:41–45 – Jesus Is Lost on a Passover Pilgrimage
“His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. 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; but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him.” (Luke 2:41–45, NKJV)
Faithful Pilgrimage
Luke tells us that Jesus’ parents went “every year at the Feast of the Passover.” This reflects their devotion to God’s commands. Exodus 23:17 and Deuteronomy 16:16 required that all males appear before the Lord three times a year: at Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. For those living far away, attendance at least at Passover was considered essential.
Traveling from Galilee, it was customary for large groups of families and neighbors to make the journey together. The roads were dangerous, so caravans provided protection as well as companionship. Within this setting, it is easy to understand how a twelve-year-old boy could be presumed to be with relatives or friends.
Jesus at Twelve
Luke notes that this particular visit occurred when Jesus was twelve years old. This was a significant age for Jewish boys. At thirteen, they were considered sons of the commandment, obligated to observe the full responsibilities of the law. Thus, this visit to Jerusalem at twelve may have been preparation for Jesus’ entrance into manhood under the law.
The timing is important: this is the only recorded event of Jesus’ boyhood between His infancy and the beginning of His public ministry. Luke, writing under the Spirit’s guidance, chose this moment to reveal the growing awareness of Jesus’ identity and mission.
The Lingering of Jesus
When the feast was over and the family began their return to Nazareth, “the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem.” This was not childish disobedience or carelessness, but an early glimpse into His divine consciousness. Jesus remained in the place where His Father’s presence was especially remembered—the temple.
Joseph and Mary, however, did not realize He had stayed behind. Believing He was traveling with others in the group, they journeyed a full day before discovering He was missing. Their assumption reflects normal parental trust within a communal culture, not neglect. Still, Mary must have been deeply distressed, feeling the weight of losing not only her son but the very Son of God entrusted to her care.
The Diligent Search
When they realized Jesus was not among their relatives and acquaintances, Joseph and Mary immediately returned to Jerusalem to seek Him. Their actions reflect responsible, godly parenthood. They searched diligently, unwilling to rest until their Son was found.
This also foreshadows a spiritual lesson: when believers sense distance from Christ, the proper response is not resignation but earnest seeking until fellowship is restored. Jeremiah 29:13 declares:
“And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13, NKJV)
Luke 2:46–50 – They Find Jesus Teaching and Learning in the Temple
“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. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. 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.’ And He said to them, ‘Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?’ But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.” (Luke 2:46–50, NKJV)
The Boy Among the Teachers
After three days of searching, Joseph and Mary found Jesus “in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions.” At only twelve years old, Jesus demonstrated not arrogance but earnest devotion to the study of God’s Word. He listened carefully, asked thoughtful questions, and gave answers that revealed extraordinary insight.
Barclay notes that during the Passover season, it was customary for the Sanhedrin—the highest Jewish council—to hold open discussions in the temple courts. Rabbis would debate matters of law and theology in public, where anyone might listen. For Jesus to engage these teachers at such a level was extraordinary. To put it in modern terms, it was as though a middle-school student was holding his own in discussion with seasoned professors of theology or world-class scientists.
Yet, Jesus had a unique advantage: He was intimately related to the Author of the Word. His wisdom did not come from formal rabbinical schooling, but from His relationship with His heavenly Father.
Astonishment at His Understanding
Luke says: “And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers.” This astonishment reflects not only the depth of His insight but also the clarity with which He expressed it. The same Greek word for “astonished” (existēmi) is often used in the gospels to describe the reaction of crowds to Jesus’ later miracles and teachings (cf. Mark 1:27). Even at twelve, His wisdom carried divine authority.
Mary’s Rebuke and Jesus’ Reply
When Joseph and Mary found Him, “they were amazed.” Mary, speaking for both parents, expressed her anguish: “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.” Her words reveal both the deep concern of a mother and the tension of not fully grasping His identity. She referred to Joseph as Jesus’ “father,” a natural expression, though Jesus’ reply would gently redirect her to His true Father.
Jesus responded with His first recorded words in Scripture: “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?”
These words are monumental. At twelve years old, Jesus demonstrated clear awareness of His divine Sonship and mission. In Jewish culture, this was the age when a boy began to take up his father’s trade. While others would begin to learn carpentry or farming, Jesus declared that His true calling was to be occupied with His Father’s work—the things of God, His kingdom, and His truth.
Early Awareness of His Identity
Though it is difficult to pinpoint the exact moment when Jesus, in His humanity, became fully conscious of His identity and mission, this passage shows that His awareness was already mature at this young age. These words are not the beginning of His understanding but the flowering of it.
The surprise in His tone—“Did you not know?”—suggests that He expected Mary and Joseph to understand. They had been told of His divine origin by angels (Luke 1:31–35; Matthew 1:20–23). They had seen shepherds and Simeon and Anna testify of Him. Yet, even for them, the weight of His divine identity was difficult to grasp.
Lack of Understanding
Luke concludes: “But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.” Even with all they had experienced, Joseph and Mary could not fully comprehend Jesus’ words. His identity as the unique Son of God was still a mystery unfolding.
This misunderstanding underscores a recurring theme in the gospels: Jesus’ closest followers often struggled to understand His mission until after His resurrection (cf. Luke 18:34; John 12:16). The truth of His divine Sonship was not hidden, but it required faith and revelation to grasp fully.
Spiritual Application
This account highlights several truths:
The centrality of God’s Word – Jesus loved the Scriptures and engaged with them earnestly, even as a child. Believers should likewise be devoted to listening, questioning, and learning.
The priority of God’s work – Jesus placed His Father’s business above all else. Discipleship means aligning one’s life with the Father’s purposes.
The challenge of understanding – Even the most devout may struggle at times to comprehend the full scope of Christ’s mission. Faith requires patience and growth.
Luke 2:51–52 – The Growth and Development of Jesus
“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. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” (Luke 2:51–52, NKJV)
The Return to Nazareth
After the remarkable events in the temple, Luke records that Jesus “went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them.” Nazareth, a small and obscure town, would be the place where the Son of God spent the majority of His earthly years before His public ministry. There, in the simplicity of daily life, He grew from boyhood into manhood.
As the eldest son, He fulfilled the duties expected of Him: learning Joseph’s trade as a carpenter, working with His hands, and helping provide for the family. At some point, Joseph disappears from the gospel record—likely because he passed away before Jesus’ public ministry began. In that case, Jesus assumed the role of head of the household, caring for Mary and His siblings until the appointed time for His ministry.
This reminds us that faithfulness in small, ordinary things is essential preparation for greater callings. As Morrison observed: “A Christian does not always do extraordinary things. He does ordinary things in extraordinary ways.”
Jesus’ Humility and Submission
Luke emphasizes that Jesus “was subject to them.” Though He was the eternal Son of God, He humbly submitted to the authority of His earthly parents. His awareness of His divine identity (Luke 2:49) did not lead to pride or rebellion. Instead, He modeled obedience, honoring His father and mother as commanded in the law (Exodus 20:12).
This submission parallels a later pattern in His ministry. After the glorious vision on the Mount of Transfiguration, He returned to the valley of service and suffering (Luke 9:28–37). Vision and duty were never separated in His life.
For believers, this underscores that true spiritual maturity expresses itself not in grand displays of power but in humble obedience in the ordinary responsibilities of life.
Mary’s Treasuring Heart
Luke notes again that “His mother kept all these things in her heart.” Mary carefully stored and pondered the events surrounding Jesus’ life. From the annunciation to the temple visit, she collected these moments and reflected upon them deeply.
Luke’s inclusion of this detail likely came from personal interviews with Mary herself as he researched his gospel (Luke 1:1–4). Her recollections form a significant portion of Luke’s infancy and boyhood narratives.
Growth in Wisdom, Stature, and Favor
Luke summarizes Jesus’ development with a fourfold description:
“Increased in wisdom” – His intellectual and spiritual understanding matured naturally, yet perfectly, at each stage of His growth. He was never prematurely endowed with adult comprehension, but at every age His wisdom was complete for that stage.
“In stature” – Jesus grew physically like any other child, His body developing in strength and health. His humanity was real and complete.
“In favor with God” – Jesus’ relationship with His heavenly Father deepened with age. Though eternally the Son of God, His human experience of fellowship with the Father grew as He matured. Whyte notes that the phrase could best be rendered: “The good pleasure of God was upon Him.”
“In favor with men” – His relationships with others were marked by goodness, trustworthiness, and grace. Even before His ministry, His character inspired respect and affection.
Geldenhuys wisely comments: “He passed through a natural but perfect spiritual and physical development. At every stage He was perfect for that stage.” Unlike myths that depict Jesus as a superhuman child performing bizarre miracles, Scripture shows Him developing in a real human way—yet without sin, and in perfect harmony with His Father’s will.
Spiritual Application
This passage offers a model for Christian growth. Believers are called to mature in the same dimensions Jesus exemplified:
Wisdom – cultivating knowledge and discernment rooted in God’s Word.
Stature – stewarding the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit.
Favor with God – deepening intimacy with the Father through prayer and obedience.
Favor with men – living with integrity, kindness, and love toward others.
This balanced growth reflects God’s design for His children, echoing the completeness seen in His Son.
