Luke 2:40
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 2:40
40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
Chapter Context
Luke 2 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of covenant, obedience, truth. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-52: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 2:40
40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
Analysis
Luke summarizes Jesus' childhood: 'And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him' (τὸ δὲ παιδίον ηὔξανεν καὶ ἐκραταιοῦτο πληρούμενον σοφίᾳ, καὶ χάρις θεοῦ ἦν ἐπ᾽ αὐτό). The verbs 'auxanō' (ηὔξανεν, grew) and 'krataioō' (ἐκραταιοῦτο, waxed strong) describe normal human development—Jesus experienced genuine childhood, not docetic appearance. The present passive participle 'plēroumenon sophia' (πληρούμενον σοφίᾳ, being filled with wisdom) indicates progressive development, while 'charis theou' (χάρις θεοῦ, grace of God) rested upon Him. This demonstrates the hypostatic union—Jesus' full humanity developed normally while His divine nature remained fully present. He learned as humans learn, yet without sin.
Historical Context
Jesus' childhood in Nazareth was unremarkable by outward appearance—He learned carpentry from Joseph (Mark 6:3), studied Torah, participated in synagogue life. The absence of miracle accounts from these years (apocryphal gospels notwithstanding) emphasizes normal development. His humanity was not diminished by deity; rather, deity expressed itself through authentic human experience including growth in wisdom (Luke 2:52). This 18-year 'hidden life' prepared Him for public ministry.
Reflection
- What does Jesus' normal human development teach about the full reality of the incarnation?
- How should Christ's example of steady growth in wisdom encourage our own spiritual formation?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Luke 2:52
- Grace: John 1:14, Acts 4:33
- Spirit: Luke 1:80
- Parallel theme: Luke 2:47, Judges 13:24, 1 Samuel 2:18, 2:26, 3:19, Psalms 22:9