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Chapter 9—Christ’s Problems as a Child
Under synagogue teachers, Jewish youth were instructed in the
countless regulations which as orthodox Israelites they were ex-
pected to observe. But Jesus did not interest Himself in these. From
childhood He acted independently of rabbinical laws. The Scriptures
were His constant study, and the words, “Thus saith the Lord,” were
ever on His lips.
He saw that men were departing from the Word of God, and
exacting rites that possessed no virtue. In their faithless services
they found no peace. They did not know the freedom of spirit that
comes by serving God in truth. Though Jesus could not sanction
the mingling of human requirements with divine precepts, He did
not attack the precepts or practices of the learned teachers. When
reproved for His own simple habits, He presented the Word of God
in justification of His conduct.
Jesus tried to please those with whom He came in contact. Be-
cause He was so gentle and unobtrusive, the scribes and elders
supposed He would be easily influenced by their teaching. But He
asked for their authority in Holy Writ. He would hear every word
that proceeds from the mouth of God, but could not obey the inven-
tions of men. Jesus seemed to know the Scriptures from beginning
to end, and He presented them in their true import. The rabbis
claimed it was their office to explain them and His place to accept
their interpretation.
They knew that no authority could be found in Scripture for their
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traditions. Yet they were angry because Jesus did not obey their
dictates. Failing to convince Him, they sought Joseph and Mary and
set before them His noncompliance. Thus He suffered rebuke and
censure.
At a very early age, Jesus began to act for Himself in the for-
mation of character. Not even love for His parents could turn Him
from obedience to God’s Word. But the influence of the rabbis made
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