The Boy Jesus at the Temple

Every year His parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when He was twelve years [old], they went up to Jerusalem[fn] according to the custom of the Feast.

43 

[When] those days were over [and] they were returning [home], the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but Joseph and His mother[fn] vvv were unaware [He had stayed]. 44 Assuming He was in their company, vvv they traveled on for a day [before] they began to look for Him among [their] relatives and friends.

45 

When vvv they could not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for Him. 46 Finally after three days they found Him in the temple [courts], sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions 47 And all who heard Him were astounded at His understanding and [His] answers.

48 

When [His parents] saw Him, they were astonished.“Child, why have You done this to us?” His mother asked. Your father and I have been anxiously searching for You.”

49 

“Why were you looking for Me?” He asked“vvv Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s [ house ][fn]?” 50 But they vvv did not understand the statement He was making to them.

51 

Then He went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But His mother treasured up all these things in her heart.

52 

And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. 3