This text says that Jesus began his public ministry at about 30 years of age. The reason seems to be based on the Levitical age for starting priestly service (1 Chron 23:2; Num 4:3, passim). Should this be an example for us to follow? Should young brethren begin public ministry at 30? This would allow the years prior to the age of 30 to be devoted to growing in knowledge and in maturity. Is this the reason why the Levitical age was set at 30? It would avoid the temptation of seeking vainglory through speaking at Bible schools and conferences—occasions at which there are large numbers of people listening to your every word. Does greater maturity or taking the time to deepen the knowledge of Christ help someone avoid succumbing to the temptation of vainglory? It seems intuitive to suppose that it might help. Perhaps it takes time to develop the content to go with the speaking skills. If this is so, why was the Levitical priesthood ‘retirement’ set at 50?
Reflections on the Potter and the Clay