In the culture of Jesus’s day, one was forbidden to receive payment for the teaching of God’s Word. Which is why every rabbi had a trade or occupation. Jesus had one, but the term “carpenter” doesn’t nearly do it justice. In fact, Jesus’s occupation is filled with surprises that perfectly explain how his trade prepared him for his ministry. Speaking of which, the Text implies that once Jesus launches his ministry, he devotes himself entirely to his disciples and teachings. If he wasn’t working and rabbis couldn’t receive payment for teaching God’s Word, how did Jesus and the disciples pay the bills? Let’s find out, and in doing so, let’s gain a deeper appreciation for the way God uses the details to bring about His purposes in our lives.