The modern dating system is centered around ancient conceptions of the timing of Jesus’ birth. Thus, the expectation is, if Jesus died in what we call AD 33, he was about 33 years old at his death. However, Luke 2:1–7 mentions Jesus being born at the time of a census “when Quirinius was governor of Syria.” Historical references to this Quirinius suggest that the census likely took place around AD 6. Meaning Jesus was not born in what we call year 1. We can approximate the timing of Jesus’ death by looking at the timing of Pilate’s governorship, which lasted from approximately AD 26 to AD 36. This would mean Jesus was, at the oldest, 30 when he died.
None of this matters too much in terms of what the Bible reveals. The Bible does not give any specific indications of how old Jesus was. People have surmised he was 33. We have ample evidence to believe Jesus truly lived and died. Nothing in the Gospel accounts gives us reasons to doubt those conclusions.
Even though I’m aware of the challenges we have for arriving at Jesus’ age, the long-held assumption that he was 33 when he died has made me think a little bit more than usual about my life and my accomplishments as I celebrate my 33rd birthday. Jesus’ example challenges me, and I am forced to acknowledge my shortcomings in so many areas as I compare myself to Jesus, the only standard. I think about all that Jesus accomplished: the good that he did for other people, the disciples whom he trained, the ministry that he fulfilled. While it’s certainly possible to place an improper emphasis on work, it’s also possible to fill the time with vain and meaningless activities. Jesus did not allow himself to get distracted from God-honoring activities.
I also think about all that Jesus resisted. For however many years he lived on the earth, he did not commit a single sin. He lived in perfect submission to the Father. I am certain that every single day of my life for which I am accountable, I have fallen short of God’s perfection.
Then I think about this as I celebrate another trip around the sun: Jesus’ days on earth ended for your sake and mine. Without his death, I would not have a life worth living. So often we think about birthdays as special days, opportunities to celebrate “me,” but I’m reminded that today – and everyday – it’s about Him!
Clay Leonard
