Luke 2:39-40 is about how Mary and Joseph returned to Nazareth with the child Jesus after presenting him at the temple in Jerusalem, highlighting the growth of Jesus in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man.
39 And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.
40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.
Setting the Scene for Luke 2:39-40
In Luke chapter 2, we find Mary and Joseph, devout Jews, bringing their newborn son Jesus to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord according to the law of Moses. The scene is set in the bustling city of Jerusalem, with its narrow streets filled with merchants, travelers, and locals going about their daily activities. The air is filled with the sounds of animals, vendors hawking their wares, and the chatter of people from all walks of life.
Mary, dressed in a simple robe, holds baby Jesus close to her chest, while Joseph, a carpenter by trade, walks beside her, carrying a small basket of offerings. They make their way through the crowded streets towards the temple, guided by the warm glow of the afternoon sun. As they enter the temple courts, they are met by Simeon, a devout and righteous man who had been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Messiah. Simeon takes the baby Jesus in his arms and praises God, recognizing the child as the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation to all people.
The atmosphere is filled with a sense of awe and reverence as Simeon blesses the family and prophesies about the future of Jesus. Mary and Joseph are filled with wonder and gratitude as they witness the unfolding of God’s plan for their son. The scene is a poignant reminder of the faithfulness of God and the miraculous events surrounding the birth of Jesus, the long-awaited Savior of the world.
What is Luke 2:39-40 about?
This verse from the Bible depicts a crucial aspect of Jesus’ life, emphasizing His growth and development as a human being. It shows that even though Jesus was the Son of God, He underwent a process of maturation and learning just like any other human being. This period of growth in wisdom and favor with God highlights Jesus as a role model for believers, showcasing the importance of continuous learning and spiritual development in one’s life.
Have you ever reflected on the idea that even Jesus, who is divine, had to grow and mature, just like we do? How does this verse challenge our understanding of Jesus’ humanity and his divine nature at the same time? Jesus sets an example for us to follow by growing in wisdom and favor with God, encouraging us to seek knowledge and deepen our relationship with God through our own experiences and journeys in life. Let’s ponder how we, too, can strive to grow in wisdom and favor with God in our lives as we meditate on this verse. How can we emulate Jesus’ example of continuous learning and development, nurturing our relationship with God along the way? Let’s take inspiration from Jesus’ journey in Nazareth and commit ourselves to spiritual growth and seeking favor with God in all that we do.
Understanding what Luke 2:39-40 really means
The verses in Luke 2:39-40 provide a glimpse into the early life of Jesus, following His presentation at the temple. They showcase His growth and development in a godly environment, underlining the significance of both spiritual and physical maturation. These verses also highlight the favor of God upon Jesus, indicating divine approval and guidance in His upbringing.
Drawing parallels from other biblical passages, such as 1 Samuel 2:26 and Proverbs 3:1-4, we see a consistent theme of godly individuals growing in wisdom and favor with God and people. This pattern underscores the importance of nurturing spiritual growth alongside physical development, as emphasized in Luke 2:39-40. It serves as a timeless reminder for us to prioritize our relationship with God and seek wisdom in our daily lives.
In today’s fast-paced society, where busyness often overshadows spiritual well-being, these verses prompt us to reevaluate our priorities. Just as Jesus grew in wisdom and favor, we are encouraged to cultivate a balanced approach to our growth, ensuring that we nurture our spiritual lives alongside our physical well-being.
Imagine a child raised in a loving, faith-filled home, where values and wisdom are imparted alongside physical care. This child, like Jesus, grows not only in stature but also in wisdom, preparing them for life’s challenges with a strong foundation. Jesus’ early life serves as a model for us, illustrating the importance of holistic growth encompassing physical, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions.
“The child grew and became strong,” highlighting the significance of physical health, while being “filled with wisdom” signifies intellectual and spiritual development. The mention of “the grace of God was on him” indicates divine favor and blessing, showcasing that Jesus was not only growing in human terms but also under God’s special care and guidance.
Reflecting on these verses reminds us of the holistic nature of growth, encompassing physical, intellectual, and spiritual aspects, all under the grace and favor of God. This balanced growth is essential for leading a fulfilling and godly life, echoing the timeless wisdom found in Luke 2:39-40.
How can we ensure that God’s favor is upon us?
To ensure that God’s favor is upon us, we must strive to walk in obedience to His commandments and seek to live a life that is pleasing to Him. We open ourselves up to receiving God’s favor by following the teachings of Jesus and embodying characteristics such as love, humility, and righteousness. Additionally, maintaining a strong and consistent relationship with God through prayer, worship, and studying His Word can help us stay connected to Him and aligned with His will.
Furthermore, demonstrating faith and trust in God during times of difficulty or uncertainty can also attract His favor towards us. When we choose to lean on Him for strength and guidance, rather than relying solely on our own understanding, we show that we have faith in His plans and believe in His sovereignty. We position ourselves to receive His favor and blessings in abundance by acknowledging our dependence on God and seeking His will above our own.
Application
Just as Mary and Joseph guided Jesus towards a strong faith, let us also nurture the spiritual growth of our loved ones. It is our duty to sow the seeds of faith in the fertile hearts of our children and ourselves. Embrace this sacred responsibility to cultivate a deep connection with God in our families and communities. How will you answer this heavenly call to lead those around you towards a steadfast faith in the modern world?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.