The Fellowship Herald Spring 2026 - Magazine - Page 9
He persuaded his mother to employ positive, rather
than negative modes of teaching as had been
practiced by the older method of ancient Jewish
taboo.
Social Life:
Jesus's love of the harp entertained neighbors, they
listened to his stories, and heard him read from the
Greek scriptures.
He conversed
with travelers
from all parts
of the world
Before he was ten years old, he had become the
leader of a group of seven lads, promoting the
acquirements of manhood—physical, intellectual and
religious. He introduced many new games and various
improved methods of physical recreation 124:1.13
(1368.2) and promoted an interest in vocal music
among his friends.
Jesus had an aversion to physical combat but allowed
his older friend Jacob to be his ever-ready defender
124:2.4 (1368.6).
At age 11 he spent much of his spare time at his father's
shop by the caravan lot where he conversed with
travelers from all parts of the world. He acquired a
store of information about international affairs that
was amazing for his age 124:3.3 (1370.1).
At age 17, against strong persuasion from his extended
family and community, he refused (diplomatically) to
join and lead the revolt against the payment of taxes
to Rome 127:2.2 (1396.7).
Education:
As well as learning to speak and write in three
languages and having a love for mathematics, his skills
included playing the harp, drawing, sculpting, weaving,
gardening, and animal husbandry (yes, he could milk a
cow).
He insisted on the equal education of the girls in the
family and conducted home schooling for those unable
to attend public education.
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