Luke 2:42 states, "And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast." This verse marks a significant moment in the life of Jesus, emphasizing both His humanity and His divine nature.

**Summary and Interpretation:**

• According to Matthew Henry's Commentary, this passage highlights the importance of family traditions and religious observance in the Jewish culture. Jesus' participation in the Passover feast exemplifies His adherence to the customs of His people, reflecting both obedience and reverence.
• Albert Barnes notes that this event indicates the early maturation of Jesus. At twelve, He was approaching the age of accountability in Jewish society, illustrating a pivotal point where He began to take on more responsibility for His understanding of the Law and His relationship with God.
• Adam Clarke elaborates on how this event foreshadows Jesus’ future ministry. His presence in the Temple, discussing with teachers and scholars, signifies His growing wisdom and understanding, which would later feature prominently in His teachings.

Further insights suggest this passage is not merely historical but serves as a theological commentary on the roles of tradition, family, and faith in the life of a young Jesus.

**Cross-References:**

• Exodus 23:14-17 - Details the festival observances expected of the Israelites, providing context for the Passover feast.
• Deuteronomy 16:16 - Commands that all males must appear before the Lord three times a year, reinforcing the significance of Jesus' journey to Jerusalem.
• Luke 2:46 - Immediately following this verse, it describes Jesus engaging with the teachers in the Temple, revealing His knowledge and divine mission.
• John 5:19 - This verse supports the connection to Jesus being in tune with the Father’s will, indicating His early awareness of His ministry.
• Proverbs 1:8 - Emphasizes the importance of listening to parental guidance, relevant to Jesus' upbringing and background.
• Matthew 3:15 - Highlights Jesus' fulfillment of righteousness, reinforcing His commitment to the Jewish law and customs.
• Luke 4:16 - Chronicles Jesus regularly attending the synagogue, emphasizing His lifelong commitment to worship and teaching.
• Isaiah 11:2 - Prophesies about the wisdom and understanding of the Messiah, linking to the wisdom Christ demonstrates as a boy in the Temple.
• Hebrews 5:8 - This verse remarks on Jesus learning obedience through suffering, albeit referring to His later experiences, it contextualizes His early life.
• Galatians 4:4 - Speaks to the fullness of time when God sent forth His Son, aligning with the notion of Jesus' development in preparation for His mission.

Understanding Luke 2:42 through these cross-references not only enriches one's knowledge of this particular scripture but also enhances the broader thematic connections across the Bible. It fosters an appreciation for the interconnectedness of biblical narratives, establishing a foundation for comprehensive Bible cross-reference materials and study guides.

**Thematic Connections and Insights:**

• Family and Tradition: The adherence to Jewish customs showcased in this verse underscores the significance of cultural and religious identity in the formation of Jesus' life and mission.
• Wisdom and Understanding: Jesus’ profound knowledge at a young age points to His unique position as both fully human and fully divine, a theme prevalent throughout the Gospels.
• Divine Mission: This passage acts as a precursor to Jesus’ later teachings, establishing a dialogue about the intersection of divine purpose and human experience.
• Obedience to the Law: The compliance of Jesus with Jewish law serves as a basis for understanding His role as the Messiah, linking Old Testament prophecies with New Testament fulfillment.

**Application for Study:**

For those engaging in a study of Luke 2:42, utilizing tools such as a Bible concordance or a Bible cross-reference guide can be immensely helpful in navigating connections within the text.

When considering how to find cross-references in the Bible, one can start by examining related passages that resonate with themes of growth, obedience, and familial relationships. Identifying connections between Old and New Testament teachings can provide a deeper understanding and support for the insights drawn from Luke 2:42.

**Conclusion:**

Luke 2:42 serves not just as a historical account but as a rich tapestry interwoven with the themes of obedience, wisdom, and the divine calling of Christ. It stands as a foundational verse that invites thorough examination and reflection, encouraging readers to engage in comparative Bible verse analysis and scripture cross-referencing for a fuller understanding of the biblical narrative.