III. At Twelve Years of Age He Accompanies his Parents to Jerusalem and Returns

The Life and Morals of Jesus of Nazareth (the Jefferson Bible), by Thomas Jefferson, [1902], at sacred-texts.com

p. 21

III.

At Twelve Years of Age He Accompanies his Parents to Jerusalem and Returns.

AND the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

2 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.

3 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.

4 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.

5 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.

6 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.

p. 22

7 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

8 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.

9 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

10 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.