How does Jesus' submission in Luke 2:51 inform our understanding of humility? Setting the Scene • Luke 2:51: “Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and He was submissive to them. But His mother treasured up all these things in her heart.” • Twelve-year-old Jesus, freshly found in the temple, deliberately places Himself under the authority of Joseph and Mary. Observing Jesus’ Submission • Voluntary choice: the eternal Son “went down with them” and “was submissive,” showing obedience that He did not owe by rank. • Continuous posture: the verb tense indicates an ongoing attitude, not a single act. • Domestic arena: humility begins at home, in ordinary relationships and routines. What This Reveals About True Humility • Humility embraces God-given structures. Jesus honors the Fifth Commandment, validating parental authority. • Humility is not weakness. The One who taught elders at the temple accepts a carpenter’s roof without resentment. • Humility values timing. Though destined for public ministry, Jesus waits in Nazareth until the Father’s appointed hour. Supporting Scriptures • Philippians 2:5-8: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus… He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross.” • Matthew 20:28: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” • John 13:14-15: “I… have washed your feet… you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” • 1 Peter 5:5: “Clothe yourselves with humility toward one another.” Practical Takeaways • Submit where God has placed you—family, church, workplace—without grumbling. • Serve quietly in unseen tasks; Jesus’ Nazareth years outweighed His public ones in duration. • Wait faithfully for God’s timing; hidden seasons refine character for future service. The Lasting Impression Jesus’ quiet journey back to Nazareth preaches that genuine greatness starts with willing submission. Embracing His pattern molds hearts into humble servants whom God, in due time, will exalt (James 4:10). |
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