Luke is the only Gospel that records this event. When His family went up to Jerusalem for the Passover, Luke writes:
“When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it.” (Luke 2:43)
After searching for Him anxiously, they found Him in the temple:
“Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers.” (Luke 2:46–47)
When Mary asked why He had caused them such distress, His reply revealed His awareness of His mission:
“And He said to them, ‘Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?’” (Luke 2:49)
This account highlights that even as a boy, Jesus knew His mission. Luke also notes His humility and submission:
“Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart.” (Luke 2:51)
The other Gospels do not mention this event, but Luke includes it to bridge the hidden years of Jesus’ childhood with the beginning of His ministry. It shows that His divine identity and mission were already clear, yet He lived in obedience as He waited for the appointed time.
