Why did Jesus stay behind in the temple when His parents were returning home? When Jesus was twelve, He and His parents went to Jerusalem for the Feast of Passover. After the festival, His parents started their journey home, assuming Jesus was with them. But Jesus stayed behind in the temple. When His parents found Him three days later, He was listening to the teachers and asking questions. When questioned by His mother, Jesus said, "Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?”. Jesus was aware of His divine identity and mission. Despite His divine nature, He returned to Nazareth and was obedient to His earthly parents. Jesus’ actions remind us to prioritize our spiritual growth and obedience to God's will.