New Testament
Luke 2:52
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights the growth of Jesus during his early years.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with both God and people.
And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the growth of Jesus during his early years. It emphasizes that he developed not only intellectually and physically but also in his relationships with God and people. The term 'wisdom' suggests a deep understanding and insight, while 'stature' refers to his physical growth. The phrase 'in favor with God and people' indicates that Jesus was well-regarded both spiritually and socially. This holistic development is significant as it shows that Jesus, though divine, experienced life as a human, facing the same growth processes that all children do. His balanced growth serves as a model for how individuals should strive to develop in multiple areas of life, including mental, physical, and spiritual dimensions. This verse encapsulates the essence of Jesus' formative years, setting the stage for his future ministry and the impact he would have on the world.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 2:52 to your life
We can learn from Jesus' example by striving for balanced growth in our own lives. This means pursuing knowledge, taking care of our physical health, and nurturing our relationships with God and others. By doing so, we can develop into well-rounded individuals who positively impact those around us.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 2:52 mean?
Luke 2:52 describes the growth of Jesus during his childhood, highlighting that he developed in wisdom, physical stature, and social favor with God and people. This verse illustrates that Jesus experienced human growth and relationships, setting an example for balanced development in life.
What is the meaning of 'wisdom' in Luke 2:52?
In Luke 2:52, 'wisdom' refers to Jesus' deep understanding and insight, indicating that he was not only knowledgeable but also able to apply that knowledge in meaningful ways. This suggests a maturity beyond his years, reflecting his divine nature.
What does 'stature' mean in Luke 2:52?
The term 'stature' in Luke 2:52 refers to Jesus' physical growth as he matured into adulthood. It emphasizes that Jesus, like any child, experienced normal physical development during his early years.
What does 'favor with God and people' mean in Luke 2:52?
'Favor with God and people' in Luke 2:52 indicates that Jesus was well-regarded both spiritually and socially. This suggests that he had a positive relationship with God and was respected by those around him.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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