This morning we take a look at Jesus’ personal growth journey…the perfect and ultimate example for believers as we continue to examine our church theme of “A Year of Growth!”
Jesus had a posture of growth…
Luke 2:40 says, “And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was on him.
Jesus prioritized his areas of growth...
Luke 2:52 says, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”
These scriptures illustrate key areas of growth in Jesus. He grew mentally in Wisdom, physically in stature, spiritually in favor with God, and socially in favor with others!
This is a great reminder that our growth must reach into the critical areas of life.
Jesus embraced practices for growth…
Luke 2:46-47 says, “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.”
They were surprised and impressed that a 12-year-old boy could have such deep understanding and could answer questions with such wisdom. Through these scriptures we see that…
- Jesus had a place to grow (the temple)
- Jesus had people to grow (the religious teachers)
- Jesus had a process to grow (questions and listening)
Sometimes we fail to grow because we haven’t placed ourselves in a growth environment.
Jesus knew the purpose of His growth…
Luke 2:48 says, When his parents saw him, they were astonished. His mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.”
The entire passage of Scripture in Luke 2:40-52 is a picture of Jesus’ growth. But verse 49 is where Jesus truly leans into His purpose. It reads… “And he said to them why do you seek me?” “Did you not know that I must be about my Father’s business?”
To God Be The Glory, Jesus knew that his growth was ultimately preparation for the fulfillment of His mission. And at the core of Jesus’s growth was an understanding of His purpose in life.
Sister Cathy Black
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