December 19, 2024

Luke 2:25-35  (HCSB)
Simeon’s Prophetic Praise
25 There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him. 26 It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah. 27 Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple complex. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for Him what was customary under the law, 28 Simeon took Him up in his arms, praised God, and said: 29 Now, Master, You can dismiss Your slave in peace, as You promised. 30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation. 31 You have prepared it in the presence of all peoples— 32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Your people Israel.
33 His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and told His mother Mary: “Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed— 35 and a sword will pierce your own soul—that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

Sherri Stem
Here we see Simeon, a righteous, elderly man who it had been revealed to by the Holy Spirit that he would not die until he saw the Messiah. The day he entered the Temple and saw the child he took him in his arms, praised God and blessed Him. He then shared some haunting words with Mary in verse 34-35, “Indeed this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed, and a sword will pierce your own soul, to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” Jesus divides the world into two groups: the fall of many-those who miss it and will spend an eternity in hell, and the rise of many-those who came to receive Christ and trust in the One who can save them from sin and eternity in hell. Which group are you in??