Definition: To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Luke 2:5. It’s a really important part of the story about Jesus’ birth! Here's what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse tells us that Mary, Joseph, and Jesus were taxed (paid taxes) by the Roman government. Let’s unpack that a little further: “To be taxed” : This means to pay money. “with Mary his espoused wife” : This is Mary's husband, Joseph, who was already married to her. “Espoused wife” means he was married to her. “being great with child” : This is the key part! Mary was pregnant – she was carrying Jesus in her belly. It’s a really significant detail because it shows the incredible miracle of God's plan. So, the verse essentially says that Mary and Joseph were required to pay taxes as a result of being pregnant with Jesus. Why is this important? It's a key part of the story of how Jesus was born in Bethlehem. It establishes a historical backdrop for the events that follow – it shows God’s plan at work, and it highlights Mary’s role as a witness to his birth. --- Do you want me to: Explain any other verses from Luke 2? Discuss the significance of this verse in more detail (like its connection to Joseph's role)?

Definition: And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from Luke 2:50: “And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.” Here's what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: The people listening to Jesus were confused and didn’t understand what he was telling them. Let’s unpack it further: “He spoke” : This refers to Jesus, who was about to perform a miracle – he was going to heal someone. “Saying which he spake” : This is the key part. He was about to tell them about something important, likely about forgiveness or redemption. “They understood not” : This means they weren't listening carefully enough. They didn’t grasp the meaning of what he said. What does this tell us? It suggests a few things: Lack of Understanding: The people were perhaps focused on something else – maybe worried, preoccupied, or simply not paying attention. A Powerful Message: Jesus’s words were significant enough to cause confusion and lack understanding. It implies that his message was important and needed to be received with a receptive heart. In short, it's a snapshot of how people reacted when Jesus began to speak – they weren't fully grasping the truth. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you some context about this passage in the Bible? Or perhaps explore why this verse is significant?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Luke 2:51. It’s a really interesting and subtle moment in the story of Jesus’ birth. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus wasn't just born – he was immediately introduced to the people who were living in Nazareth. He went down with them, and he stayed with them for a while. And, crucially, his mother kept these sayings – these important messages – all locked away in her heart. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And he went down with them…” : This tells us Jesus was present at the birth of someone in Nazareth. It's a significant event because Nazareth was a small, quiet town and wasn’t a major center for religious activity. “…and came to Nazareth…” : This establishes the setting – it's Nazareth, which is where Jesus was born. "...and was subject unto them:" : This is a really important part. "Subject" means under control or influence. Jesus wasn’t fully controlled by anyone – he was being guided and led. “but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.” : This is the key! His mother, Mary, didn't just hear the words. She remembered them, thought about them, and held them firmly in her mind. What does this tell us about Jesus? The Bible doesn’t say exactly what those sayings were. However, it suggests that these teachings – perhaps about God's love, the coming of a savior, or the importance of faith – were incredibly significant to Mary. She likely carried them around with her throughout her life and used them as a guide for how to live. Why is this important? This verse shows us that Jesus wasn’t just born ; he was prepared . He had a message, a purpose, and a foundation of wisdom and understanding that began before his birth. It's a powerful image – like a seed planted that grows into something magnificent. --- Do you want to explore any specific aspect of this verse in more detail? For example, we could discuss: The symbolism of being “subject” - what does that mean in the context of Jesus’s coming? What kind of teachings might have been included in these sayings?

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

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Luke 2:52. It's a really beautiful and significant moment in the story of Jesus’ early life. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, this verse describes Jesus growing into a wise and powerful person – both with God and with people. Let’s unpack it a little further: “And Jesus increased…” This means that Jesus was becoming more knowledgeable and skilled. It wasn't just about learning; he was developing his understanding of things. “…and in favour with God…” "Favour" means to be liked or favored by God. This suggests that God was looking favorably on Jesus, recognizing him as worthy of love and attention. “…and man.” This is the key part! "Man" refers to humanity – meaning people like us. It’s not just about being good; it's about being worthy of God’s love and respect. So, putting it all together: Jesus was becoming more wise (knowledgeable) and powerful (capable of doing good things) in the eyes of God and people. What does this tell us about Jesus? This verse is often seen as a sign that Jesus was preparing for his role as Savior – the one who will ultimately redeem humanity from sin and death. It suggests he's destined to be a powerful and benevolent leader, bringing goodness and love to the world. Important Note: It’s important to remember this verse is in a very early part of Jesus’ life! He was still learning and growing, but this passage shows that his path towards greatness was already beginning. --- Do you want me to: Explain any other parts of Luke 2:52? Connect this verse to a specific theme in the Bible (like redemption or love)?