Luke 2:52
And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
G2424
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
Strong's:
G2424
Word #:
2 of 12
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
προέκοπτεν
increased
G4298
προέκοπτεν
increased
Strong's:
G4298
Word #:
3 of 12
to drive forward (as if by beating), i.e., (figuratively and intransitively) to advance (in amount, to grow; in time, to be well along)
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
χάριτι
in favour
G5485
χάριτι
in favour
Strong's:
G5485
Word #:
8 of 12
graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart
παρὰ
with
G3844
παρὰ
with
Strong's:
G3844
Word #:
9 of 12
properly, near; i.e., (with genitive case) from beside (literally or figuratively), (with dative case) at (or in) the vicinity of (objectively or subj
θεῷ
God
G2316
θεῷ
God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
10 of 12
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
Cross References
Luke 2:40And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.1 Samuel 2:26And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men.Romans 14:18For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.Luke 1:80And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.
Historical Context
Luke uniquely records details of Jesus' childhood, likely received from Mary herself (Luke 2:19, 51). This period of approximately 18 years receives only this one verse of coverage, emphasizing the normalcy of Jesus' upbringing in Nazareth while preparing for His ministry that would begin around age 30.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' pattern of growth in all dimensions challenge you to pursue holistic spiritual development?
- What does Jesus' submission to His earthly parents during these silent years teach about the relationship between obedience and spiritual maturity?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
This summary of Jesus' childhood emphasizes His full humanity and normal development in four dimensions: intellectual (wisdom), physical (stature), spiritual (favor with God), and social (favor with man). The Greek word 'prokoptō' (increased) suggests steady progress and advancement, demonstrating that even in His sinless humanity, Christ experienced genuine human growth and learning. This verse bridges the gap between Jesus' childhood temple visit and His adult ministry, affirming His perfect preparation for His messianic mission while honoring His parents in submission.