Jesus: Name Above All Names — Young Child

Go and search diligently for the young child” (Matt. 2:8)

Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt (Matthew 2:13)

The references to Jesus as the “young child” reveal how early in life He was persecuted. There was no room for Him in the inn, and shortly after none for Him in Bethlehem, or Judea. Hearing of his birth, Herod was troubled and though he pretended to want to worship Him, murder was in his heart.

Luke is the only historian of Christ’s childhood and boyhood. There are only two verses that give us insight into the growth and character of “the young child.” (Luke 2:40, 52).

1.         The child grew

Evidently there was a quiet development of Jesus. The Incarnation, there was a true acceptance of humanity. Jesus had normal growth and development without the limitations of sin.

He was a real child with a normal childhood. He thought like a child. He spoke as a child. He played as a child.

2.         Waxed strong in spirit

His whole being – body and soul – gathered strength.

3.         Filled with wisdom

He learned to read. He learned to write. He learned to work.

As His mind unfolded, wisdom increased.

4.         Grace of God was upon Him

He was favored by God. What a testimony!

Questions:

1.         When did Jesus begin to receive persecution?

2.         What does it mean that Christ grew?

3.         What does it mean that Jesus waxed strong in spirit?

4.         What does it mean that He was filled with wisdom?

5.         What is the significance of Christ being favored by God?

Prayer:

Thank you Heavenly Father, for revealing that Jesus was a young child. He didn’t come as a fully grown man but he has the same beginning as us. The Bible says that He understands us, he even understands what it means to be a child. Thank you for sending Jesus the perfect Man – as a child and as an adult. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Hymn:

What Child Is This
William C. Dix

1 What Child is this, who, laid to rest,
On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?

Chorus:

This, this is Christ, the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary!

2 Why lies He in such mean estate,
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear: for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.

3 So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh,
Come, peasant, king to own Him.
The King of kings salvation brings;
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.