And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
English Standard Version (ESV)
The verse highlights that Jesus’ growth was remarkably balanced. It wasn't just physical or intellectual development; it was a holistic progression encompassing wisdom, physical stature, and social favor with both God and people. This indicates that Christ's humanity developed normally and fully, mirroring the ideal for human flourishing.
And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse concludes the account of Jesus' childhood, following the pivotal event where a young Jesus stayed behind in the temple, astonishing the elders with his understanding. It summarizes his development from that point until he began his public ministry, highlighting a complete and balanced growth that touched every aspect of his humanity. The narrative moves from his unique childhood encounter with religious leaders to a period of quiet, steady growth, setting the stage for his future public mission.
How could Jesus, fully God, 'increase' in wisdom and stature? This verse shows us the incredible balance of his humanity and divinity.
Luke tells us Jesus "increased in wisdom and in stature." This isn't about God becoming 'more God,' but about Jesus, as a human being, growing and developing. His divine nature was perfect from the start, but his human nature unfolded over time.
This verse emphasizes that Jesus's journey was a genuine human one, marked by the same kind of growth we experience, yet perfected by God's presence within Him.
It's easy to focus on Jesus's divine power, but this verse highlights a crucial aspect: His growth in favor with both God and people.
The verse continues, stating Jesus grew "in favor with God and man." This isn't just about being liked; it's about demonstrating a life that was increasingly pleasing and harmonious.
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This dual favor shows that Jesus's life was a holistic model, pleasing to God while also engaging authentically and gracefully with the human world around Him.
Understand the original words
sophia · Greek Noun
The quality of having insight, discernment, and practical understanding of God’s will and the realities of life. It is rooted in the "fear of the Lord" and involves applying divine truth to daily existence.
hēlikia · Greek Noun
Refers to the physical state or bodily development of a person. In this context, it signifies that Jesus truly experienced a human childhood and physical maturation.
chariti · Greek Noun
A broad concept referring to grace, acceptance, approval, or beauty. In the context of divine favor, it denotes God’s good pleasure and the enjoyment of His presence and blessing.
This passage speaks of Jesus 'emptying himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men,' which highlights the humility and humanity of his earthly development, aligning with his growth in stature and favor.
1 Samuel 2:26This verse describes the young Samuel growing 'in stature and in favor with the Lord, and also with all the people of Israel,' providing a strong parallel to Jesus' own developmental trajectory.
Hebrews 4:15This verse states Jesus was 'tempted by the ways in which he is like us, every respect except for sin,' emphasizing his genuine human experience and growth, including in wisdom and favor.
Colossians 1:10Paul prays that believers might 'live lives worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God,' echoing the principles of Jesus' own balanced growth in favor with God and humanity.
Proverbs 3:1-2This passage advises 'My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity,' showing that obedience and wisdom lead to favor, just as they did for Jesus.
clarkeLuke 2:52: "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man."
Jesus increased in wisdom - See on Luke 2:40 (note). The following remarks, taken chiefly from Mr. Claude, on the foregoing subject, are well worth the reader's attention. I. The birth of Christ is announced to the shepherds. 1. God causes his grace to descend not only on the great and powerful of the world, but also upon the most simple and inconsiderable; just as the heavens diffuse their influence not onl…
pulpitLuke 2:52: "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man."
Verse 52. - And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. Another of these little word-paintings of St. Luke in which the work and progress of long years is depicted. The purpose of this brief statement is clear. The evangelist would teach us that, with Jesus, bodily development proceeded in the same orderly fashion as it does with other men, while wisdom - deepening with the year…
The verse highlights that Jesus’ growth was remarkably balanced. It wasn't just physical or intellectual development; it was a holistic progression encompassing wisdom, physical stature, and social favor with both God and people. This indicates that Christ's humanity developed normally and fully, mirroring the ideal for human flourishing.
This verse concludes the account of Jesus' childhood, following the pivotal event where a young Jesus stayed behind in the temple, astonishing the elders with his understanding. It summarizes his development from that point until he began his public ministry, highlighting a complete and balanced growth that touched every aspect of his humanity. The narrative moves from his unique childhood encounter with religious leaders to a period of quiet, steady growth, setting the stage for his future public mission.
This verse concludes the account of Jesus' childhood, following the pivotal event where a young Jesus stayed behind in the temple, astonishing the elders with his understanding. It summarizes his development from that point until he began his public ministry, highlighting a complete and balanced growth that touched every aspect of his humanity. The narrative moves from his unique childhood encounter with religious leaders to a period of quiet, steady growth, setting the stage for his future public mission.
"And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man." — The verse highlights that Jesus’ growth was remarkably balanced. It wasn't just physical or intellectual development; it was a holistic progression encompassing wisdom, physical stature, and social f…
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Last reviewed October 2026