Topical Encyclopedia The term "Gospels of the Childhood" refers to a collection of apocryphal writings that focus on the early years of Jesus Christ, from His birth to His youth. These texts are not included in the canonical New Testament and are considered non-canonical by mainstream Christianity. They are often categorized under the broader genre of "Infancy Gospels."Canonical Context The canonical Gospels of Matthew and Luke provide the primary biblical accounts of Jesus' birth and early life. Matthew 1:18-25 and Luke 2:1-20 detail the nativity account, including the angelic announcement to Mary, the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, and the visit of the shepherds. Luke 2:41-52 further describes an event from Jesus' childhood, where He is found in the temple, astonishing the teachers with His understanding. Apocryphal Texts The most well-known apocryphal infancy gospels are the "Protoevangelium of James" and the "Infancy Gospel of Thomas." These texts, written in the second century, provide additional narratives about the early life of Jesus and His family, though they are not considered authoritative or inspired by the Church. 1. Protoevangelium of James: This text focuses on the life of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the miraculous events surrounding Jesus' birth. It elaborates on the nativity account, including the presentation of Mary in the temple and the birth of Jesus in a cave. 2. Infancy Gospel of Thomas: This gospel provides accounts about Jesus' childhood, depicting Him as a child with extraordinary powers. It includes accounts of Jesus performing miracles, such as creating birds from clay and raising a playmate from the dead. Theological Considerations From a conservative Christian perspective, the Gospels of the Childhood are viewed with caution. They are not considered part of the divinely inspired Scripture and are not used for doctrinal teaching. The canonical Gospels are deemed sufficient for understanding the life and mission of Jesus Christ, as they are believed to be inspired by the Holy Spirit and authoritative for faith and practice. The apocryphal infancy gospels, while historically interesting, are often seen as embellishments that reflect the early Christian community's curiosity about the hidden years of Jesus' life. They are not used in liturgical settings or for theological instruction within the Church. Scriptural Emphasis The canonical Gospels emphasize the divine nature and mission of Jesus Christ, focusing on His teachings, death, and resurrection. The infancy narratives in Matthew and Luke highlight the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the divine intervention in the birth of the Messiah. As stated in Luke 2:11 , "Today in the City of David a Savior has been born to you. He is Christ the Lord!" In summary, while the Gospels of the Childhood provide additional narratives about Jesus' early years, they are not considered part of the biblical canon. The Church relies on the canonical Gospels for authoritative accounts of Jesus' life and teachings. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Gospels of the ChildhoodGOSPELS OF THE CHILDHOOD child'-hood. Library His Childhood and Youth. Sources and Literature. The Christ of the Gospels. By Rev. Professor Schaff. The Historical Books of the New Testament, Meaning Thereby the ... Christ's Boyhood On the Position Given to the Preaching of John the Baptist in all ... Character of the Gospel. Causes of Corruption Chiefly Intentional. The Youth of Count Zinzendorf, 1700-1722. The Early Years of Jesus Resources What are the Infancy Gospels? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God give us four Gospels? | GotQuestions.org When were the Gospels written? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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