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Jesus' Tenth Year
Jesus began to grasp the significance of his unique life mission. He stirred controversy with his insightful inquiries, he refused to defend himself physically, and he preferred the company of older people.
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Summary
In this, his tenth year (4 CE), Jesus evidenced his divine nature through his developing personality, most of which was occurring within Jesus’ mind. He began to recognize his true nature and hints of his mission on Earth. He contemplated various careers and decided on becoming a religious teacher.
One of his hallmarks at this age was asking many profound questions that no one seemed able to answer. His curiosity stirred up conversations throughout Nazareth. His seeking of answers may have also been why he preferred the company of older persons.
Although a strong lad, he had an unusual trait of not willing to fight for his rights. Jesus, nevertheless, became the accepted leader of the Nazareth youths, at least for those with higher ideals. His associates grew to love him. Not only was he fair, but he showed an understanding and sympathy imbued with love and real compassion.
Jesus was a born teacher, and with his brothers’ and sisters’ playmates about the house, he proceeded to direct their play.
Jesus Shows a Divine Nature
On the fifth of July, 4 CE, as Jesus strolled through the countryside with his father, he shared feelings that revealed he was becoming self-conscious of the unusual nature of his mission. Joseph listened attentively to his words, but said only a few passing remarks. The next day, Jesus and his mother had a longer conversation. She listened to his words but didn't say anything. It was almost two years before Jesus again spoke to his parents about his growing awareness of his personality and mission on earth.
Jesus went through the usual influences of career choices. When he observed the fishing industry, he thought of becoming a fisherman. Watching his father perform his craft, he decided to become a carpenter. And still other influences convinced him of the final choice of becoming a religious teacher of a new order.
Unusual Qualities
In August, Jesus entered the advanced school of the synagogue. He was constantly asking questions, all challenging and a bit embarrassing since they lacked easy answers. All of Nazareth became aroused, and shared lively discussions. His parents did not wish to dampen his intellectual curiosity. His chief teacher was captivated by the youngster's curiosity, insight, and thirst for knowledge.
His friends saw him as a fellow classmate, albeit one who asked a lot of questions. They saw nothing supernatural in his behavior. He was one of them. Jesus also possessed a rare and understanding sympathy that earned him the adoration of his young friends.
Jesus surprisingly refused to stand up for his rights. He would not defend himself against bullies or even from injustice. It seemed an anomaly because he was physically strong. Fortunately, thanks to his friend Jacob who was a year older, and who made it his business to make sure no one hassled Jesus, he had protection. When others attacked Jesus, knowing of his aversion to fighting, Jacob took care of them and made sure they would never bother Jesus again.
Personal Preferences
Jesus began to associate with older people, where he could discuss a wealth of topics answered with seasoned experience. The elderly enjoyed talking with one so young who seriously contemplated such subjects and exhibited a remarkable depth of reasoning along with keen observations. His parents preferred that he played with his peers rather than seek out those who were older, although admittedly better-informed.
Expertise
Later this year Jesus spent two months fishing with his uncle on the Sea of Galilee, He became very proficient, and in a few years became an expert fisherman.
Jesus developed physically. He was an honors pupil at school. He surpassed by age his oldest sibling by three and one-half years, and got along fairly well with them. His reputation in Nazareth was good, except among some parents who criticized him for being too pert and lacking humility and reserve. Jesus was a born teacher, a gift he could not suppress. Even when the children were at play he would direct their activities into more serious and mentally challenging channels.
