Jesus at the Temple: 3 Lessons for Young People

In preparation for a recent Bible study, I read through Luke 2, sometimes known as the Christmas story. However, this time I paid more attention to Jesus as a twelve-year-old adolescent, and what I saw surprised me.

After the Passover festival, Mary and Joseph return home, while unbeknownst to them, Jesus stays behind. Suddenly realizing He is not in their company, they return to Jerusalem and search frantically for three days. They eventually find Him in the temple, where He questions them. “Why were you searching for me?” He asks. “Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?” (Lk. 2:49).

After three days they found him in the temple courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers. Luke 2:47-48

At twelve, Jesus knew His purpose. He knew the will of God for His life. He knew His and His Father’s business—at twelve! Importantly, these are Jesus’ first recorded words. So many today of all ages, but especially youth, are confused about their identity. They lack vision and the truth that would anchor them in who they are in Christ. While Jesus is perfect, He proves that even young people can be about their “Father’s business.”

Jesus’ example in the temple teaches us three things that, oddly enough, go against everything young people are known for today.

1. Listen

In James 1, we are instructed to be slow to speak and quick to listen. We have two ears and one mouth for a reason, yet in our culture we have a shortage of listeners. In Luke 2, we see Jesus sitting among the teachers, even though He was God. He showed deference and respect and interest. Jesus listened—as He still does today. How many young people are doing the same? Healthy peer friendships certainly have their place, but would we be found listening among the teachers?

2. Ask Questions

Jesus not only asked questions; He asked the right people. Listening is good, but we should not be afraid to ask good questions to those who can properly lead and advise us. As we see with Jesus, asking questions is not a sign of weakness but of humility, and with humility comes wisdom (Prov. 11:2). Our generation is known for talking too much and listening too little. Let us be courageous enough to ask the difficult questions—and not be afraid to seek out the answers.

3. Give Answers

Everyone who heard Jesus was amazed at His understanding and His answers. The key here for us is being equipped. Let us be prepared to give an answer for our hope. All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that every man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 2:16-17). God’s Word is a timeless resource, and we can reap the benefits of others’ wisdom and walk with God. Of course we shouldn’t speak when we don’t know the answer, and the prudent hold their tongues (Prov. 10:19), but we shouldn’t let our age deceive us into thinking we are unqualified to speak the truth.

What was the result of these choices? Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man (Lk. 2:52). Listening, asking the right people the right questions, and equipping ourselves to answer appropriately is how we grow in wisdom. Jesus was able to communicate humbly and respectfully. He didn’t start a quarrel. He knew what He was meant to do and went about His Father’s business.