THE BOY JESUS AT THE TEMPLE

Luke 2:41-52
Key Verse: 2:49

"'Why were you searching for me?' he asked. 'Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?'"

1. Read verses 41-42. What did the Passover Feast celebrate? Why is it important to remember and celebrate what God has done? Remember God's purpose in redeeming his people from slavery (Ex 19:4-6).

2. How often did Jesus' parents celebrate the Passover in Jerusalem? What does this show about this family? When did they take Jesus? What is special about his being twelve years old?

3. Read verses 43-47. When did Jesus' parents miss him? How did they find him? How must they have felt? Where was he and what was he doing? Why were the people amazed at him?

4. Read verses 48-50. Why were his parents astonished? How and why did his mother rebuke him? How did the boy Jesus respond to his mother? What does this answer mean? (Mt 6:9) Why do we need two fathers?

5. Describe Jesus attitude in Bible study (46,47). What does his attitude show about his inner desires? (See Dt 6:5) What does it show about him that he "had to be" in his Father's house? (KJV says "...about my Father's business....")

6. Read verses 51-52. How was Jesus different from many rebellious teenagers? Why is it important for young people to learn obedience? What can we learn here about Jesus' boyhood and youth? In what ways is he an example for young people?