ASTONISHED AT HIS UNDERSTANDING

 ASTONISHED AT HIS UNDERSTANDING

“And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.” Luke 2:46-47. The parents of Jesus find him in the temple in discussion with the teachers. Jesus at the age of twelve was discussing matters of the law and the prophets. Such an interest in religious concerns would do all of us much good in our daily lives. There appears to be a respect on the part of Christ for these teachers, and certainly, for the law which God had given. Too many of us “entangle ourselves with the affairs of this life” (II Timothy 2:4) without very much, if any, consideration for the life to come. Jesus was engaged, even at age twelve, in questions and answers of eternal matters and the teaching that God had delivered for these issues. Those who are listening are amazed at the understanding and wisdom which Jesus possesses in regard to the law of God. The words of Christ continue to be amazing. We can only marvel at the wonderful teachings which Christ has spoken. As Christ would embark upon his public ministry, “All bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son?” Luke 4:22. The words which Christ has spoken to us are life changing. We need to be amazed at his words. When Christ had finished the marvelous sermon which he taught on the mountain, “The people were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.” Matthew 7:28-29. What surely must amaze us is that the words of Christ are not mere human words. Jesus spoke with authority. We are to listen and do what he teaches. The majestic revelation which he delivered teaches us, “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” Revelation 1:3. We are to read, hear, and keep his words. The words of Christ reveal to us the very questions of our existence and our future. In the words of Christ, we have everything that we need to know so that we can have everlasting life. The twelve year old boy in the temple became the teacher of eternal truth. Peter’s time with Jesus convinced him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.” John 6:68-69.