Luke 2:43

When those days were over and they were returning home, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but His parents were unaware He had stayed.

Study Bible

After the feast was over
This phrase refers to the conclusion of the Feast of Passover, a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. The Greek word for "feast" here is "ἑορτή" (heortē), which denotes a festival or holy day. Historically, Passover was one of the three pilgrimage feasts where Jews traveled to Jerusalem. This context highlights the devoutness of Jesus' family, adhering to Jewish law and tradition. The phrase sets the stage for the unfolding events, emphasizing the importance of religious observance in Jesus' upbringing.

while His parents were returning home
The phrase indicates the journey back to Nazareth, undertaken by Mary and Joseph. The Greek word for "returning" is "ὑποστρέφω" (hypostrephō), meaning to turn back or return. This journey was a common practice for Jewish families after the feast, reflecting the rhythm of life centered around religious observance. The mention of "His parents" underscores the familial context and the human aspect of Jesus' life, emphasizing His upbringing in a devout Jewish household.

the boy Jesus
This phrase highlights Jesus at the age of twelve, on the cusp of Jewish manhood, which traditionally begins at thirteen with the Bar Mitzvah. The Greek word for "boy" is "παῖς" (pais), indicating a young person or child. This stage in Jesus' life is significant as it marks a period of transition and growth. The use of "boy" emphasizes His humanity and the normalcy of His development, while also foreshadowing His divine wisdom and mission.

stayed behind in Jerusalem
The phrase suggests a deliberate action by Jesus, choosing to remain in the holy city. The Greek word "ὑπομένω" (hypomenō) implies staying or remaining behind. Jerusalem, being the spiritual center of Judaism, is significant as the place where Jesus begins to reveal His understanding of His divine mission. This action foreshadows His future ministry and the centrality of Jerusalem in His life and work.

but they were unaware of it
This phrase indicates that Mary and Joseph did not realize Jesus was not with them. The Greek word "οὐκ" (ouk) means "not," and "γινώσκω" (ginōskō) means "to know" or "to perceive." This lack of awareness highlights the human limitations of Jesus' earthly parents and sets the stage for the unfolding narrative. It also underscores the beginning of Jesus' independent identity and mission, separate from His earthly family.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
At this point in the account, Jesus is a twelve-year-old boy. This event marks an important moment in His early life, showcasing His awareness of His divine mission.

2. Mary and Joseph
The earthly parents of Jesus, who are returning home from Jerusalem after the Passover festival, unaware that Jesus has stayed behind.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the Passover festival was held, a significant location in Jewish religious life and the setting for this event.

4. Passover Festival
An important Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, which Jesus and His family attended annually.

5. The Journey Home
The return trip to Nazareth, during which Mary and Joseph realize Jesus is not with them.

Teaching Points

Awareness of God's Presence
Just as Mary and Joseph were unaware of Jesus' physical absence, we must be vigilant in our spiritual lives to ensure we are not moving forward without God's presence.

Spiritual Priorities
Jesus' decision to stay in Jerusalem highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth and understanding over routine or tradition.

Parental Responsibility
Mary and Joseph's experience reminds us of the importance of being attentive and responsible in our roles as parents or mentors in guiding the young in faith.

Divine Purpose
Even at a young age, Jesus was aware of His divine mission. This encourages us to seek and understand God's purpose for our lives, regardless of our age.

Community and Worship
The annual pilgrimage to Jerusalem for Passover underscores the importance of community worship and participation in religious traditions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we ensure that we are not moving forward in life without being aware of God's presence, as Mary and Joseph were unaware of Jesus' absence?

2. In what ways can we prioritize spiritual growth and understanding in our daily lives, following Jesus' example of staying in the temple?

3. How does the account of Jesus staying behind in Jerusalem challenge us to be more attentive and responsible in our roles as parents or mentors?

4. What steps can we take to better understand and pursue God's purpose for our lives, as Jesus did even at a young age?

5. How can participating in community worship and religious traditions strengthen our faith and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 2:41-52
This passage provides the full context of the event, including Jesus' interaction with the teachers in the temple and His profound understanding of spiritual matters.

Exodus 12
Describes the institution of the Passover, connecting Jesus' presence in Jerusalem to the historical and religious significance of the festival.

Proverbs 22:6
Relates to the upbringing of children in the faith, as Mary and Joseph were doing by bringing Jesus to the Passover.

John 2:13-22
Jesus' later visit to the temple during Passover, where He cleanses the temple, showing His zeal for His Father's house.