How does Luke 2:39 demonstrate obedience to God's law by Jesus' family? “When Jesus’ parents had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.” Setting the Scene: What Had Just Taken Place • Verses 21–38 record three distinct acts of obedience—circumcision (v. 21), Mary’s purification (vv. 22–24), and Jesus’ presentation to the Lord (vv. 22–24). • Luke 2:39 closes the section by testifying that “everything required by the Law” had been fulfilled before the family left Jerusalem. Specific Laws They Kept 1. Circumcision on the eighth day – Genesis 17:10–12; Leviticus 12:3; Luke 2:21. 2. Redemption of the firstborn – Exodus 13:2, 12; Numbers 3:13; Luke 2:22–23. 3. Mary’s purification offering – Leviticus 12:6–8; Luke 2:24. 4. Ongoing observance of appointed festivals – implied by their trip from Nazareth to Jerusalem (Deuteronomy 16:16). Why Luke 2:39 Demonstrates Obedience • “Had done everything required” highlights thorough, wholehearted compliance, not mere tokenism. • Luke intentionally uses the phrase “Law of the Lord” (vv. 22, 23, 24, 39) to stress that what happened was driven by Scripture, not cultural habit. • The family did not consider distance, expense, or inconvenience an excuse to neglect any part of God’s command. • Their return to Nazareth occurs only after obedience is complete—suggesting a priority: God’s law first, home and livelihood second. A Pattern of Submission Established for Jesus • From His infancy, Jesus is placed under the authority of God’s Law, fulfilling Galatians 4:4 (“born under the Law”). • This early submission foreshadows His lifelong obedience culminating at the cross (Philippians 2:8; Hebrews 5:8). • Mary and Joseph model Deuteronomy 6:6–7, teaching the commands diligently to their child by practice as well as word. What This Reveals About Mary and Joseph • They trusted God’s Word as entirely accurate, binding, and good. • Their worship involved both heart and action—faith expressed through obedience (James 2:18). • They embraced God-given roles: Joseph leads, Mary follows, and together they raise Jesus in righteousness. Implications for Believers Today • Obedience is comprehensive; partial compliance is not the standard. • Love for God shows itself in practical, even sacrificial, adherence to His Word (John 14:15). • Parents have a calling to shape their homes around Scripture, displaying it before their children from the very start. Supporting Scriptures to Explore • Exodus 13:2, 12 – Consecration of the firstborn • Leviticus 12:1–8 – Purification after childbirth • Deuteronomy 6:4–9 – Teaching children diligently • Galatians 4:4 – Jesus born under the Law • Matthew 5:17 – Jesus came to fulfill the Law • Hebrews 4:15 – Jesus without sin, fully obedient |
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