The Prophecy of Simeon

Luke 2:25-35

To fulfill the law regarding purification after giving birth, Mary and Joseph went down to the temple in Jerusalem about six weeks after Jesus’ birth. Since people came to the temple daily, their coming attracted little attention. Like church members today, the majority were so caught up in their own lives that they didn’t hear the still small voice of God. In fact, the only ones who took any real notice were a few people who were listening to God.

“And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.” (Luke 2:25-26)

Throughout the Old testament we find men like Abraham, Moses, David, Elijah, and Daniel, who placed God above everything, and as a result the Holy Spirit came on them in power. Most of them are even less well known than Caleb, just trusting God whatever happens. Simeon was such a man, but God used him to reinforce what the angels had told Joseph and Mary.

“And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.” (Luke 2:27-32)

Simeon’s prayer got both Joseph and Mary’s attention, in that it prophesied of his reaching both to the Jews and the Gentiles. They would not forget the event, and his statements to Mary would call the Angel’s message back to their minds, reminding them of who the baby was, and warning that there’d be some distress as a result.

“And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” (Luke 2:33-35)

As Simeon stressed, Jesus would be a light to both Jews and Gentiles, revealing what was really in their hearts. As Ephesians 5:13 declares, “But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light.” Those who have something to hide resent having their wrong revealed. John 3:20-21 explains the conflict that would result. “For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.”

It is important that we understand that Jesus did not come to bring what the world thinks of as peace. In Matthew 10:34 Jesus said, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” The peace he promised was personal peace for the individual, not for the whole world. John 14:27 describes it. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Far too many Christians are trying for the wrong kind of peace.