Luke 2:41-52

Luke 2:41-52

1. A lesson for all married people.
2. An example for all young people.
3. An example for all true Christians.

"Marriage is a state of life which has the greatest effect on the souls of those who enter into it. It helps them upwards or downwards. It leads them nearer to heaven or nearer to hell. We all depend much on the company we keep."

"So ought it to be with the younger members of Christian families. They ought to be steady and trustworthy behind the backs of their parents, as well as before their faces. They ought to seek the company of the wise and prudent, and to use every opportunity of getting spiritual knowledge, before the cares of life come on them, and while their memories are fresh and strong."

"The expression is one that ought to sink down deeply into the hearts of all Christ's people. It should supply them with a mark at which they should aim in daily life, and a test by which they should try their habits and conversation. It should quicken them when they begin to be slothful. It should check them when they feel inclined to go back to the world. "Are we about our Father's business?"

Questions:

1. For those who are married, do we follow the example of Joseph and Mary in stirring one another on toward good works? Can our spouse say that they are more godly because of us? For those who are single and desiring to be married, is their godliness at the top of the list of qualities you are looking for? Are you tempted to compromise in this area?

2. For any 12 year old's, or any child who listens, do you act one way when your parents are watching and then do something else when they are not? Do you seek learn wisdom from your parents and other adults, or do you think you know better? Do you follow the example of Jesus when he was young?

3. What benefit would we gain if we started asking ourselves and aiming to say in all we do, “I must be about my Father’s business?” Would that change anything you have done today? This week?