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The Child Jesus in the Temple at Age Twelve

Introduction: Read Luke 2:46-47

1. At age twelve Jesus had the opportunity to visit Jerusalem and the Temple at Passover.

2. He took this opportunity to spend three days at the Temple hearing the teachers and asking questions.

3. The text reveals that his hearers were astonished, which may reveal the reason why Jesus was there, to implant an institutional memory into the priesthood. Many would remember the prodigy from Nazareth and listen when Jesus next spoke. He may have had some thinking, “Messiah?”

4. This was not the last time Jesus left others “astonished at his understanding and answers.”

DISCUSSION:

I.   SERMON ON THE MOUNT

1. Matt. 7:28-29

2. “astonished at his doctrine.” “Taught them as one having authority.”

II.  FEAST OF TABERNACLES

1. Pharisees and Chief Priests sent officers to take him, John 7:32.

2. Officers came back empty-handed, 7:45.

3. Officers answered, “Never man spake like this man,” v. 46.

4. Officers would be Levites. Perhaps some remembered Jesus 18-20 years earlier. Levites would have heard MUCH teaching from the Pharisees, doctors, and Chief Priests. Their declaration was an indictment.

III. IN CAPERNAUM

Luke 4:31-32, They were astonished at his doctrine. His word was with power.

IV.  AGAIN IN CAPERNAUM

John 6:68, “thou has the words of eternal life.”

V.   THE PRIESTS

Acts 6:7, “A great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.”

CONCLUSION:

1. Jesus was recognized in His day, not as a powerful speaker, but as a speaker of powerful words.

1) Words of truth in a world of lies.

2) Words of calm in a world of turmoil.

3) Words of hope in a world of hopelessness.

2. We should believe His words, obey His words, trust His words.

Brief notes for a Wednesday night devotional