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

LUKE 2:52KJV
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Luke 2:52 (KJV)

What does Luke 2:52 mean?

Luke 2:52 describes how Jesus grew not only physically but also in wisdom and in the favor of both God and other people. This verse highlights that Jesus developed in every area of life as he matured from childhood into adulthood.

In the setting of Luke’s Gospel, this statement comes after the story of Jesus as a twelve-year-old in the temple. Luke is summarizing Jesus’ growth during the years before his public ministry, showing that he was recognized as wise and well-regarded by those around him, as well as by God.

The Greek behind Luke 2:52

  • "Increased" (προέκοπτε, proekopten) means to make progress or advance, often with the sense of moving forward despite obstacles. This word suggests that Jesus’ growth was active and ongoing, not just a passive process.
  • "Stature" (ἡλικία, hēlikia) can mean age or physical growth. Here, it points to Jesus growing up physically, not just intellectually or spiritually.
  • "Favour" (χάρις, charis) is often understood as grace or goodwill. In this context, it means that Jesus was well-liked and respected, enjoying positive relationships with both God and people.

Why Luke 2:52 matters

  • Luke 2:52 clears up any idea that Jesus skipped the normal process of human growth; he matured in the same ways other people do, both outwardly and inwardly.
  • The verse emphasizes that Jesus’ wisdom and favor were noticed by both God and people, showing a balanced and complete development.
  • This summary connects the story of Jesus’ youth to the rest of Luke’s Gospel, bridging the gap between his childhood and the start of his ministry.

Where else these words appear

“increased” Greek G4298 · used in 6 verses

  • Romans 13:12 The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
  • Galatians 1:14 And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.
  • 2 Timothy 3:9 But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as theirs also was.

“stature” Greek G2244 · used in 8 verses

  • Matthew 6:27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
  • Luke 19:3 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.
  • John 9:23 Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.

“wisdom” Greek G4678 · used in 49 verses

  • Matthew 11:19 The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
  • Ephesians 3:10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,

“favour” Greek G5485 · used in 147 verses

  • Luke 1:30 And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.
  • 1 Corinthians 1:4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;
  • Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.