What Happened to Joseph and Mary After Jesus’ Birth?

The story of Joseph and Mary often focuses on the miraculous birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. But what happened to them afterward? Let’s explore their journey and the key events that followed.

To the Temple

Forty days after Jesus’ birth (Leviticus 12:1-4), Mary and Joseph took Him to the Temple in Jerusalem to fulfill their biblical obligations:

Mary offered two turtle doves as a purification offering (Leviticus 12:8).
Joseph paid the redemption price for his first-born son (Exodus 13:11-13).

This recorded act of obedience reflects their devotion to God’s law.

The Visit of the Magi

Joseph and Mary stayed in Bethlehem for some time after Jesus’ birth. During this period, the Magi arrived from the East, bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:1-12).

Their visit recognized Jesus as King of the Jews and gave the family resources they would later need.

The Flight to Egypt

After the Magi departed, an angel warned Joseph in a dream of King Herod’s plan to kill Jesus. Acting quickly, he fled with Mary and Jesus to Egypt (Matthew 2:13-15).

This journey fulfilled the prophecy, “Out of Egypt I called my son” (Hosea 11:1). Egypt became their safe refuge until Herod’s death.

Returning to Nazareth

Once Herod died, an angel instructed Joseph to return to Israel. Learning that Herod’s son Archelaus ruled Judea, Joseph settled in Nazareth (Matthew 2:19-23), fulfilling the prophecy that Jesus would be called a Nazarene.

Life in Nazareth

In Nazareth, Joseph and Mary raised Jesus in a devout Jewish home. Joseph likely worked as a carpenter, while Mary cared for their family.

Luke 2:40 says:

“And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” (NKJV)

Their home life provided stability for Jesus to grow into adulthood.

The Trip to Jerusalem

At age twelve, Jesus traveled with Joseph and Mary to Jerusalem for the annual Passover. On the way home, they realized He was missing and found Him three days later in the Temple, discussing Scripture.

Mary’s concern is recorded in Luke 2:48:

“Son, why have you treated us like this?”

This moment showed Jesus’ growing awareness of His mission.

Joseph’s Disappearance from the Narrative

Joseph was a godly man who guided Jesus to love God (Matthew 1:19). After the Temple event, he is no longer mentioned. Scholars believe he likely passed away before Jesus’ public ministry.

Mary continued to play a significant role, present at the crucifixion and among the disciples after the resurrection (John 19:25-27; Acts 1:14).

Mary’s Legacy

Mary witnessed Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection. Her faith and trust in God, from the annunciation to the cross, remain an enduring example of devotion and obedience.

Church history records that Mary continued to be active among the Christian community throughout her life time.