Summary
In Luke chapter 2, we discover the testimony of Simeon, a righteous witness to the arrival of the Messiah. What makes this narrative particularly compelling is how it demonstrates that Jesus came for everyone—from society’s outcasts like the shepherds to the devout and righteous like Simeon. We learn three transformative truths: First, Jesus enters our place, submitting Himself under the very law He created, fulfilling every requirement of righteousness so that we might be freed from our bondage to sin. The purification ceremony described isn’t about Jesus needing purification, but about Him fulfilling all righteousness on our behalf. Second, Jesus fulfills God’s promises completely. Every detail of His arrival was divinely orchestrated, reminding us that we can trust God’s promises—whether fulfilled in Christ’s first coming or awaiting His return. Third, and perhaps most challenging, Jesus divides all people. There is no neutral ground with Christ; we must either receive Him or reject Him. This division can touch our most intimate relationships, even our families, requiring us to choose between comfort and truth. Yet in that choice, like Simeon holding the infant Savior, we find a peace so profound that nothing else in this world compares.
Key Scripture
Luke 2:21-35
Discussion Questions
- Why do you think Luke included both the shepherds (society’s outcasts) and Simeon (a righteous, devout man) as witnesses to Jesus? What does this tell us about who can approach Jesus?
- The sermon mentioned that Simeon was “actively waiting” for the Messiah, not passively waiting. What’s the difference? How can we actively wait for God’s promises in our lives?
- Andy explained that even baby Jesus went through the purification process, not because He needed it, but to fulfill all righteousness. Why is it significant that Jesus submitted Himself to every aspect of the law?
- Read Galatians 4:4-5. How does understanding that we’re all born with a sin nature (including from conception) help us appreciate what Jesus did by entering our world?
- When Simeon held Jesus, he said he could now “be dismissed in peace” (verse 29). What does this reveal about the peace that comes from encountering Jesus? Have you experienced this kind of deep peace? Can you imagine holding baby Jesus in your arms, what must that have been like to have held the great I AM?
- Simeon was described as righteous, devout, and Spirit-led. Which of these characteristics do you most want to grow in? What practical steps could help you develop that quality?
- Read Luke 12:51-53. Jesus warned that following Him might bring division even in families. Why do you think faith in Christ can be so divisive? Have you or someone you know experienced this?
Scripture Reference
- Luke 2:21-24 – The circumcision and presentation of Jesus at the temple
- Luke 2:25-35 – Simeon’s encounter with Jesus and his prophecy
- Leviticus 12 – Laws regarding purification after childbirth (referenced multiple times)
- Psalm 51:5 – “Indeed, I was guilty when I was born; I was sinful when my mother conceived me”
- Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”
- Galatians 4:4-5 – “When the time came to completion, God sent his son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law”
- John 1:1, 14 – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us”
- Genesis 15:6 – Abraham believed God and it was accounted to him as righteousness (alluded to)
- Luke 12:51 – “Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, but division”
- Luke 12:53 – Division in families (father against son, mother against daughter, etc.)
- John 7:43 – “So the crowd was divided because of him”
- John 10:19 – “Again the Jews were divided because of these words” (paraphrased)
- Acts 14:4 – “The people of the city were divided, some siding with the Jews and others with the apostles”
- James 4:6 – “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (alluded to)