Competent and trustworthy scholars have translated original writings into both the New King James Version and the New International Version of the Bible. Each version reads slightly differently, although each group strove to be true to the original meaning. An interesting parallel can be made from these two translations regarding Jesus’ word in Luke 2:49. Didn’t you know I had to be about my Father’s business? (NKJV) is the same question as: Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house? (NIV)
Twelve-year-old Jesus asked this question in the Temple in Jerusalem after being found by his parents listening to his elders, asking questions, and giving answers. Communication is a part of the Father’s business, but as we examine the life of Jesus, we know there is much more than words. The magnificent Temple was known as God’s house, but Jesus understood there is much more than a structure.
The secret of Jesus’ life on earth was that He continually lived in God’s house. He did not live in the Temple; He lived in his Father. “I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’” (Psalm 91:2) Jesus, always about his Father’s business, lived with a deep understanding: “Father, you are my dwelling place and I choose to live in You.” As Jesus lived in his Father, his Father lived in Him.
Where do we choose to live? This world continually tempts us to call it home, but this world is not our home. We are to live in Christ… and when we do, He lives in us. And when Christ lives in us, the Father’s work is done. Notice what Jesus said about Himself and us. Let’s choose to live in Him!
“Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father… Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father living in me who is doing his work.” John 14:9-10
“I am the vine and you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing… As the Father has loved me so I have loved you. Now remain in my love.” John 15:5,9
“Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:6