Bible Society of South Africa
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Verse-a-day 2021
Jesus’ preparation – 13 October 2021

Jesus’ preparation – 13 October 2021

By Carina Francke

Bible text(s)

Hebrews 13

8Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and for ever.

Hebrews 13:8GNBOpen in Bible reader

Luke 2

The Boy Jesus in the Temple

41Every year the parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem for the Passover Festival. 42When Jesus was twelve years old, they went to the festival as usual. 43When the festival was over, they started back home, but the boy Jesus stayed in Jerusalem. His parents did not know this; 44they thought that he was with the group, so they travelled a whole day and then started looking for him among their relatives and friends. 45They did not find him, so they went back to Jerusalem looking for him. 46On the third day they found him in the Temple, sitting with the Jewish teachers, listening to them and asking questions. 47All who heard him were amazed at his intelligent answers. 48His parents were astonished when they saw him, and his mother said to him, “My son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been terribly worried trying to find you.”

49He answered them, “Why did you have to look for me? Didn't you know that I had to be in my Father's house?” 50But they did not understand his answer.

51So Jesus went back with them to Nazareth, where he was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52Jesus grew both in body and in wisdom, gaining favour with God and people.

Luke 2:41-52GNBOpen in Bible reader

What would your reaction be if your twelve-year-old son got lost after celebrating the feast of Easter? I suspect, the same as Jesus’ parents. Anxiously looking for him, they eventually found him three days later in the place where his priority and future were destined to be – in the house of his Father. At the feet of the teachers, he asked questions, listened to them, and apparently had to answer questions himself. Luke 2:47 has this to say: “Everyone who heard him was amazed at his understanding and his answers.” I cannot help but wonder whether the topic of salvation by the Redeemer, Christ the Lord, was on the table for discussion.

Nevertheless, Jesus went back to Nazareth with his parents. He grew in wisdom and stature and in favour with God and men. (Luke 2:52) And take note, Jesus was obedient to them. (Luke 2: 51) What a powerful witness for the Son of God! What an example He set for us!

When the time came, Jesus was empowered for his redemptive work through his baptism in the River Jordan. At this event, the Holy Spirit visibly ordained him, and from heaven, his Father audibly declared: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17)

Directly thereafter, the Spirit led Jesus into the desert to be tempted by the devil. (Matthew 4:1-11). But Jesus resisted and demolished every temptation by citing truths from the Word.

  • Fresh bread from stones had to make way for the words from God’s mouth – it is His words that give life! (verse 4)
  • If you jump from heights in the hope that angels will save you, beware! You put the Lord your God to the test! (verse 7)
  • Worship and service are due to the Lord our God only. (verse 10)
  • With divine authority, Jesus commanded the arrogant deceiver, “Away from me, Satan!”
  • He beat a hasty retreat and left Jesus. And Jesus? Angels came and attended him. (verse 11)

The question to you: How do you respond in these three areas when you are tempted?

Jesus Christ is the Living, is still Jesus, and will be that, always and for ever! “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

Take care not to be one of those people who yields before the devil’s attacks and temptations! Jesus is your inspiration and strength to persevere in your faith in the Saviour of the world.

Prayer: Father, thank you for your living Word and the undefiled life of your Son that gives life and hope to your children. Amen

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