Trusting Christ makes us God's children. Like the prodigal son, when we confess, "Father, I've sinned against heaven and against you," He will receive us with rejoicing.
Scripture:Luke 2:40-52
Sermon Notes:
- Contrary to mythical “gospel” accounts, Jesus’ early life did not involve tyrannical displays of power or disrespect to his parents.
- Jesus was a model child growing into manhood and wisdom.
- Joseph and Mary were godly and conscientious parents, who were responsible and competent to trust Jesus.
- Only men were required to go to the feast, but pious women like Mary made the effort to travel to Jerusalem for worship.
- Jesus wanted to stay in Jerusalem because He loved to receive more teaching. He had been well taught in the Scriptures, and He knew them well.
- All we know of Jesus for the next 18 years is that He was submissive to His parents. Children, we must likewise be submissive to our parents.
- Jesus is the Word and Wisdom of God.
- Though Jesus was God, He had to learn God's Word like us (Phil. 2:5-8).
- Shouldn't we also be eager to hear and understand God's Word.
- It is the Word of God by which we grow in wisdom and grace.
- If there is a difficult passage, seek out a teacher and listen.
- Mary did not understand everything, and like her we may also treasure up and ponder the things of God.
- Like a seed, memorization of God's Word may germinate in our hearts, take root, and bear fruit in our lives.
- Jesus responds to His parents, reminding them that He needs to be in His Father's house (v49).
- The business of Jesus was our redemption.
- Jesus is the Saviour that came into the world; by His wounds we are healed.
- Trusting Christ makes us God's children; like the prodigal son, when we confess, “Father, I've sinned against heaven and against you,” He will receive us with rejoicing.
Application Questions:
- Describe Jesus' humanity as it was reflected in His childhood.
- What lessons can children learn from Jesus' example?
- Do our children mirror our own poor attitudes toward the Word and Worship of God?
- What efforts are we making to instill a love for the Word and prayer in our children?
- Do we put God's Word into practice? What is the practical importance of God's things in our lives?
- Are we bored with reading the Bible? Or do we desire the pure spiritual milk that we may grow thereby? (1Pet 2:2).
- How should we handle difficult passages in our Bible study?
- Why are we looking for Christ?