MPV Commentary

First Conscious Visit to Jerusalem.

This event marks a significant milestone in Jesus' life, emerging from thirty years of quiet growth and development. The narrative is intentionally structured to highlight this moment, which occurs precisely at the age of twelve (42). At this stage, every Jewish boy was considered a "son of the law," undergoing instruction, fasting, and worship attendance, as well as learning a trade.

Jesus' first visit to Jerusalem took place during the Passover season, the most important of the three annual festivals. It is likely that Jesus had long been drawn to the Temple, having "loved the habitation of God's house and the place where His honor dwelt" (Ps 26:8). This love was nurtured by the "word hid in His heart," which He would later demonstrate with perfect familiarity.

As the time for His first visit approached, Jesus' young soul may have been whispering Psalms like "As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God" (Ps 42:1). Upon catching his first glimpse of Jerusalem and its Temple, He might have exclaimed, "Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth is Mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King" (Ps 48:2).

During the eight days of the feast, Jesus would have participated in the services with his parents, keeping His thoughts to Himself. It's possible that He reflected on the experience later, saying, "He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste" (So 2:3-4).

42. Jesus went up to Jerusalem with His parents when He was twelve years old. Although only males were required to attend the three annual festivals in Jerusalem, devout women like Hannah (1Sa 1:7) also participated when family duties allowed.

43. As they returned from Jerusalem, Jesus stayed behind with some of their acquaintances. His parents didn't realize He wasn't with them until later. They searched for Him among their relatives and friends who had traveled together to Jerusalem.

44. After three sorrowing days, Mary and Joseph found Jesus still in Jerusalem, not admiring the city's architecture or observing its busy life, but in the Temple, listening to the rabbis teach their students.

45-46. The method of question-and-answer was a common form of rabbinical teaching, allowing for a full exchange of ideas between teacher and learner. Jesus' questions would have been more insightful than those of His teachers, as He was still learning from them. Although He didn't yet assume the role of a teacher, His understanding and answers astonished those who heard Him.

49. When asked about His delay in returning with His parents, Jesus replied that He had been "about My Father's business." This phrase suggests that He felt at home in the Temple, where He was engaged in His Father's affairs. Jesus' words convey a gentle rebuke to His parents for not understanding His actions.

50-51. Mary and Joseph didn't fully comprehend Jesus' explanation, but it was likely that they had seen and heard hints of this truth from Him before. To clarify the matter, it is added that Jesus "went down with them, and was subject unto them." This condescension is remarkable, given His earlier assertion of His higher Sonship.

52. The next eighteen years of Jesus' life are not recorded in detail. It's likely that He spent this time in tranquil meditation, fellowship with His Father, and growth in understanding and love.