The Witness of Simeon: Luke 2:25-35
“25) And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26) And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.” Luke 2:25-26
God’s will and leading are often confirmed with unique circumstances and godly people. Such was the case of Simeon. He had the reputation of being a righteous and devout man. The Holy Spirit was upon him and he was looking for the consultation of Israel.
The Holy Spirit had confirmed to him that he would not see death until he had first seen the Lord’s Christ. Supernatural timing is one of God’s signs and wonders.
Just as Mary and Joseph entered the temple to carry out for the baby the full custom of the Law, Simeon came into the temple full of the Holy Spirit.
He quickly took baby Jesus into his arms and blessed God and said; ““29) Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace, According to Your word; 30) For my eyes have seen Your salvation, 31) Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32) A Light of revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”” This was a huge sign confirming the identity and mission of this baby.
The earthly mission of Simeon was complete. He was now “free to depart in peace!” That small verse contains a message all of its own. Are you fulfilling Gods calling and mission for your life?
I take those words of Simeon seriously! Our first obligation is to obey God and accomplish His call. Don’t let anyone or anything stand in your way.
His father and mother were amazed at the things being said by Simeon. His words were packed with revelation. This child was indeed the Christ, the promised Messiah.
Then he pronounced a blessing on Mary; 34) … “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed— 35) and a sword will pierce even your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”” It would not be a smooth road for Mary. Her own heart would be pierced because of this baby.
When I read those words, my mind rushes to the scenes of Jesus being scrounged and crucified. All Mary could do was watch as her innocent son suffered and died an horrific death. Certainly her heart was pierced more than any other.
Simeon became a crucial actor in the nativity story. He served as an independent witness through the Holy Spirit of the identity and destiny of this baby.
This incident was added to the story of the shepherds and the visitation of the magi. Every fact was being confirmed by multiple witnesses. Such are the ways of God! He usually works openly! Mysterious He is; cruel He is not! His ways are open to all with ears to hear and eyes to see!
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
Sent from my iPhone
“25) And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26) And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.” Luke 2:25-26
God’s will and leading are often confirmed with unique circumstances and godly people. Such was the case of Simeon. He had the reputation of being a righteous and devout man. The Holy Spirit was upon him and he was looking for the consultation of Israel.
The Holy Spirit had confirmed to him that he would not see death until he had first seen the Lord’s Christ. Supernatural timing is one of God’s signs and wonders.
Just as Mary and Joseph entered the temple to carry out for the baby the full custom of the Law, Simeon came into the temple full of the Holy Spirit.
He quickly took baby Jesus into his arms and blessed God and said; ““29) Now Lord, You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace, According to Your word; 30) For my eyes have seen Your salvation, 31) Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples, 32) A Light of revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.”” This was a huge sign confirming the identity and mission of this baby.
The earthly mission of Simeon was complete. He was now “free to depart in peace!” That small verse contains a message all of its own. Are you fulfilling Gods calling and mission for your life?
I take those words of Simeon seriously! Our first obligation is to obey God and accomplish His call. Don’t let anyone or anything stand in your way.
His father and mother were amazed at the things being said by Simeon. His words were packed with revelation. This child was indeed the Christ, the promised Messiah.
Then he pronounced a blessing on Mary; 34) … “Behold, this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and for a sign to be opposed— 35) and a sword will pierce even your own soul—to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”” It would not be a smooth road for Mary. Her own heart would be pierced because of this baby.
When I read those words, my mind rushes to the scenes of Jesus being scrounged and crucified. All Mary could do was watch as her innocent son suffered and died an horrific death. Certainly her heart was pierced more than any other.
Simeon became a crucial actor in the nativity story. He served as an independent witness through the Holy Spirit of the identity and destiny of this baby.
This incident was added to the story of the shepherds and the visitation of the magi. Every fact was being confirmed by multiple witnesses. Such are the ways of God! He usually works openly! Mysterious He is; cruel He is not! His ways are open to all with ears to hear and eyes to see!
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
Sent from my iPhone
