Luke 2:39-52: Jesus’ Early Experience with the Temple

39- And when they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.

40- And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.

41- Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover.

42- And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom;

43- and when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it,

44- but supposing him to be in the company they went a day’s journey, and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintances;

45- and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking him.

46- After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions;

47- and all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers.

48- And when they saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously.”

49- And he said to them, “How is it that you sought me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?”

50- And they did not understand the saying which he spoke to them.

51- And he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them; and his mother kept all these things in her heart.

52- And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature, and in favor with God and man.