The life of Jesus up to the age of 12

PER009 Mary's return to Nazareth

The article examines Mary's return to Nazareth after visiting Elizabeth. Familiar with the prophecies, Mary witnesses John's birth, confirming his future role in God's plan. She returns with her family after the Passover pilgrimage.

Luke 1.56 (King James Version) :

And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER012 The journey to Bethlehem

Joseph and Mary travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem for a census, foretold to coincide with the Messiah's birth. Despite Mary's advanced pregnancy, the couple cover 137 km, with the journey planned for the Feast of Tabernacles. Luke is the only biblical author to document this journey. After the arduous trip, Mary goes into labour, bringing their arrival into line with the prophecies.

Luke 2.3-5 (King James Version) :

And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER014 The genealogy or genealogies

The article examines Jesus' genealogies in Matthew and Luke, reflecting both his royal lineage through Joseph and his humanity through Mary. These complementary accounts emphasise Jesus' divine and human duality, reinforcing his messianic legitimacy.

Matthew 1.1-17 (King James Version) :

The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren;And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram;And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon;And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse;And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias;And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa;And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias;And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias;And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias;And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon:And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel;And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor;And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud;And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob;And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER015 The visit of the shepherds

Recounted only by Luke (Luke 2:8-20), this episode describes the Bethlehem shepherds' visit to the infant Jesus, guided by a radiant angelic apparition on the night of 13 October -2 BC. The sole witnesses of this heavenly revelation, they leave their flocks to behold the Messiah. Their visit comforts Mary and Joseph, far from their families. In a first act of evangelisation, the shepherds return glorifying God and testifying to what they have seen.

Luke 2.8-20 (King James Version) :

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER016 The circumcision of the infant Jesus

Luke 2.21 recounts the circumcision of the infant Jesus, eight days after his birth in Bethlehem. In accordance with Mosaic law, Joseph and Mary have the child circumcised and name him Jesus, as announced by the angel Gabriel. This Hebrew name (Yehoshua) means ‘the Eternal is salvation’. Luke alone recounts this episode, emphasising the Messiah's humanity and his roots in Jewish tradition.

Leviticus 12.3 (King James Version) :

And in the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER017 The purification of Mary

The article discusses Mary's purification after Jesus' birth, a Jewish ritual observed by Joseph and Mary at the Temple of Jerusalem. This act of devotion and humility, recounted in Luke 2:22-24, demonstrates their faithfulness to the law of Moses despite their modest financial circumstances.

Luke 2.22-24 (King James Version) :

And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;(As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER018 The encounter with Simeon

The meeting between the Holy Family and Simeon at the Temple of Jerusalem, according to the Gospel of Luke, deepens Mary and Joseph's awareness of Jesus' divine mission.

Luke 2.25-35 (King James Version) :

And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER019 The encounter with Anna

The article explores the encounter between the prophetess Anna and Jesus at the Temple, emphasising her recognition of the Messiah and the spiritual impact of her testimony on Temple visitors, in connection with Jewish messianic expectations.

Luke 2.36-38 (King James Version) :

And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER020 The Magi from the East meet Herod

This article examines the Magi's meeting with Herod, recounted in the Gospel of Matthew, highlighting its importance in affirming Jesus' kingship. It places the visit in its historical context, exploring the Magi's motives and Herod's intentions while discussing Jesus' birth and its historical and theological implications.

Matthew 2.1-8 (King James Version) :

Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER021 The infant Jesus worshipped by the Magi

The article discusses the worship of Jesus by the Magi, foreign sages guided by a star to Bethlehem. They recognise Jesus' divine kingship and offer gifts despite the modest conditions of his birthplace. This account highlights the universality of recognising Jesus as king and the spiritual awakening of the Magi, warned in a dream not to return to Herod.

Matthew 2.9-12 (King James Version) :

When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER022 Joseph's second dream

The article discusses Joseph's second dream, recounted in Matthew (Mt 2:13-15), in which an angel orders him to flee to Egypt with Mary and Jesus. It highlights divine protection and Joseph's crucial role, examining differences between Matthew and Luke and offering historical and theological insights.

Matthew 2.13-15 (King James Version) :

And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER023 The stay in Egypt

The article explores the Holy Family's stay in Egypt, highlighting their biblical flight from Herod. Warned in a dream, Joseph leads a difficult journey of approximately 400–500 kilometres. The analysis covers practical matters, the Magi's contribution and the political context, although precise details of the stay remain uncertain.

Matthew 2.14-15 (King James Version) :

When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER025 Joseph's third dream

The article ‘PER025 - Joseph's third dream’ recounts a divine revelation in Matthew 2.13-15. Joseph receives the message that he may return from Egypt to Israel after Herod's death, highlighting the family and political dynamics of the return.

Matthew 2.13-15 (King James Version) :

And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt:And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER027 The return to Nazareth

The article analyses Jesus' return to Nazareth, contrasting Matthew's and Luke's accounts and their distinct aims. Matthew, addressing Jews, mentions the stay in Egypt to highlight a prophecy, whereas Luke omits it, aiming instead at a non-Jewish audience.

Hosea 11.1 (King James Version) :

When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt.^{aNotetake off: Heb. lift up}

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER028 The twelve-year-old Jesus in the Temple

This article discusses the event in Luke's Gospel in which twelve-year-old Jesus teaches in the Temple. It highlights the coexistence of his divine knowledge and human life, explaining his spiritual and physical growth. Luke and the Gospels omit his adolescent years, a choice intended to emphasise his ordinary divine journey.

Luke 2.41-52 (King James Version) :

Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

PER024 The massacre of the children in Bethlehem

The article explores Herod's massacre of the children in Bethlehem following the visit of the Magi, as described in Matthew 2:16–18. This account raises questions about the ignorance of the religious leaders and the impact of Herod’s decisions. It also addresses the tense political context of the time.

Matthew 2.16-18 (King James Version) :

Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men.Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying,In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.

King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org

Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

The life of Jesus up to the age of 12

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