Luke 3:23-38
The Messiah was prophesied to come from the family of David in many passages. Isaiah 9:6-7 is a familiar example. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.”
Besides being the descendent of David, the messiah was also to be a descendant of Abraham, as we see from Genesis 22;16-18. “And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the LORD, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son: That in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; And in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.”
Genesis 3:15 prophesied that Messiah would be a descendant of Adam and Eve, a given, but also that he would be the descendant of the woman, referring to the virgin birth. “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel." To be the Messiah, Jesus had to fulfill each of these prophesies.
While they seem a tedious to read, The genealogies in Luke and Matthew Make it clear that Jesus fulfilled these prophesies. Some have been troubled by differences in the genealogies, not realizing that Luke gives the genealogy of Mary. The word son used specifies an immediate relationship, not necessarily a son, and can be used to refer to a son in law as well as a son. The word begat, on the other hand, used in Matthew, refers to being physically the descendant of. Thus we see that Jesus was qualified to be the Messiah on both sides of the family. Though he was not Joseph’s son, His lineage would not be subject to attack, while as Mary’s son he was still qualified. The genealogies are critical to verifying that Jesus is the Messiah.
"And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli, Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Janna, which was the son of Joseph, Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge, Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Juda, Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri,
Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er, Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Juda, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim,
Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David, Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson, Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda,
Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor, Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala, Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech, Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan, Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God.” (Luke 3:23-38)
The genealogies diverge at the time of David, with Joseph being descended from Solomon, while Mary descended from David’s son Nathan. While Luke works backward from Mary to Adam, Matthew starts with Abraham and works his way to Joseph.
“The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; And Judas begat Phares and Zara of Thamar; and Phares begat Esrom; and Esrom begat Aram; And Aram begat Aminadab; and Aminadab begat Naasson; and Naasson begat Salmon; And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse;
And Jesse begat David the king; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had been the wife of Urias; And Solomon begat Roboam; and Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa; And Asa begat Josaphat; and Josaphat begat Joram; and Joram begat Ozias; And Ozias begat Joatham; and Joatham begat Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; And Ezekias begat Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon; and Amon begat Josias;
And Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon: And after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel; and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; And Zorobabel begat Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor; And Azor begat Sadoc; and Sadoc begat Achim; and Achim begat Eliud; And Eliud begat Eleazar; and Eleazar begat Matthan; and Matthan begat Jacob; And Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations; and from David until the carrying away into Babylon are fourteen generations; and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations.” (Matthew 1:1-17)
It is interesting to note that Israel took fourteen generations from Abraham to David, gradually drifting away from God, was restored under David and spent fourteen generations before they had to be restarted under the Babylonian rule. Fourteen generations later it happens again with the ministry of Jesus.
I wonder if mankind can only do stay focused about fourteen generations before forgetting God so completely he has to restart them? Each time after being restarted, the first generation served God but interest in obeying him declined as time went by and people were farther from their roots, until finally only starting over got them refocused.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Introducing Jesus to the Public
Luke 3:21-23
While Jesus’ birth was announced to a number of people, the general public had no realization of who he was. John spent most of his ministry as the advance man. Calling people to repentance and telling them that Messiah was coming. When John baptized him, God introduced him publicly to the world as his own son. Each of the gospels identify this as the real beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
“Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased. And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age,” (Luke 3:21-23)
John was a distant cousin of Jesus. He had heard the prophecies by his father as well as the Old testament prophecies. When he saw Jesus, he had no question as to who he was. Even before the baptism, he identified him as the Messiah, and the reason for his own ministry, in John 1:29-31.
“The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water.”
Knowing who Jesus was, and that he had done nothing to repent of, John felt that he needed to baptized by Jesus, rather than to baptize him. Jesus asked him to do it anyway because it was fitting that he do everything others did in obedience. Others were baptized as a sign of repentance and their commitment to do right, somewhat like someone taking an oath of office or signing a pledge, and it was proper that Jesus should set the example. When he did so, God clearly identified him as his own son.
“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:13-17)
This is almost the only time we find God the father, the son, and the Holy Spirit simultaneously present, making it cleat that while they are all God, they function as separate beings. That the observers took special notice is apparent from the fact that while the writers obtained their reports different ways, all of them record the same event, with only a few differences in minor detail.
“And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Mark 1:9-11)
John 1:32-34 records John the Baptist’s statements about what he had seen, and some of what the holy Spirit had revealed to him as proof of Jesus being the Messiah. He declares that that is exactly what he saw.
“And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.” (John 1:32-34)
John then records an event which none of the other writers mention. While we know the identity of one of the two mentioned, there is no identification of the other. It is possible that it was the apostle, John, who never speaks of himself in his writing, but is clearly identified by other writers in other situations.
“Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.” (John 1:35-37)
That it was John seems to be indicated as well by Johns statements in I John 1:1-4. “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. "
While Jesus’ birth was announced to a number of people, the general public had no realization of who he was. John spent most of his ministry as the advance man. Calling people to repentance and telling them that Messiah was coming. When John baptized him, God introduced him publicly to the world as his own son. Each of the gospels identify this as the real beginning of Jesus’ earthly ministry.
“Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased. And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age,” (Luke 3:21-23)
John was a distant cousin of Jesus. He had heard the prophecies by his father as well as the Old testament prophecies. When he saw Jesus, he had no question as to who he was. Even before the baptism, he identified him as the Messiah, and the reason for his own ministry, in John 1:29-31.
“The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water.”
Knowing who Jesus was, and that he had done nothing to repent of, John felt that he needed to baptized by Jesus, rather than to baptize him. Jesus asked him to do it anyway because it was fitting that he do everything others did in obedience. Others were baptized as a sign of repentance and their commitment to do right, somewhat like someone taking an oath of office or signing a pledge, and it was proper that Jesus should set the example. When he did so, God clearly identified him as his own son.
“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:13-17)
This is almost the only time we find God the father, the son, and the Holy Spirit simultaneously present, making it cleat that while they are all God, they function as separate beings. That the observers took special notice is apparent from the fact that while the writers obtained their reports different ways, all of them record the same event, with only a few differences in minor detail.
“And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Mark 1:9-11)
John 1:32-34 records John the Baptist’s statements about what he had seen, and some of what the holy Spirit had revealed to him as proof of Jesus being the Messiah. He declares that that is exactly what he saw.
“And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost. And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.” (John 1:32-34)
John then records an event which none of the other writers mention. While we know the identity of one of the two mentioned, there is no identification of the other. It is possible that it was the apostle, John, who never speaks of himself in his writing, but is clearly identified by other writers in other situations.
“Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples; And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.” (John 1:35-37)
That it was John seems to be indicated as well by Johns statements in I John 1:1-4. “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. "
Monday, October 18, 2010
John’s Imprisonment
Luke 3:19-20
Modern events are often set up by a promoter who rents the facility, arranges for the necessary staff and services, sells tickets and does the advertising. The speaker, or music group, or teams can devote their entire effort to preparing for and performing. If the event goes well, the promoter will hardly be remembered. John recognized that his responsibility was as promoter of Jesus ministry. Once Christ took the stage, John’s ministry would largely end. John describes his position in John 3:27-31.
“John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease. He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.”
Not long after Jesus began his ministry, John was imprisoned, and later beheaded because of his teaching about divorce and remarriage. Herod had an affair with his brother’s wife and she left Philip to marry Herod. John insisted that by marrying her, Herod would be sinning, and the woman, Herodias, was angry about it. Luke describes the bare essentials.
“But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done, Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.” (Luke 3:19-20)
Both Matthew and Mark refer to the events, but Mark gives greater detail in Mark 6:17-20. “For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her. For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife. Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him; but she could not: For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.”
Herodias hated John and demanded his death because of her sin. Herod, on the other hand, refused to kill him because he still had a respect for God despite his wickedness. As a result, he was curious about John’s teaching. In addition, though he was appointed by Rome, he was still swayed by public opinion to a degree. Executing John could well cause a rebellion. Matthew 14:5 tells us, “And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.”
To silence John’s condemnation and appease Herodias, Herod had him imprisoned, but John was able to continue his ministry on a limited scale for a time. Becoming discouraged, he would later contact Jesus for reassurance. Jesus himself said There had never been a greater prophet than John, in Luke 7:28. "For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist:” Even such a great prophet and man of God had moments of doubt, as we see from Luke 7:19. “And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?” Occasional moments of doubt are normal in trials, but they will not be prolonged if the Holy Spirit is allowed to work freely.
Modern events are often set up by a promoter who rents the facility, arranges for the necessary staff and services, sells tickets and does the advertising. The speaker, or music group, or teams can devote their entire effort to preparing for and performing. If the event goes well, the promoter will hardly be remembered. John recognized that his responsibility was as promoter of Jesus ministry. Once Christ took the stage, John’s ministry would largely end. John describes his position in John 3:27-31.
“John answered and said, A man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the Christ, but that I am sent before him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled. He must increase, but I must decrease. He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.”
Not long after Jesus began his ministry, John was imprisoned, and later beheaded because of his teaching about divorce and remarriage. Herod had an affair with his brother’s wife and she left Philip to marry Herod. John insisted that by marrying her, Herod would be sinning, and the woman, Herodias, was angry about it. Luke describes the bare essentials.
“But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done, Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.” (Luke 3:19-20)
Both Matthew and Mark refer to the events, but Mark gives greater detail in Mark 6:17-20. “For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for he had married her. For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife. Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him; but she could not: For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.”
Herodias hated John and demanded his death because of her sin. Herod, on the other hand, refused to kill him because he still had a respect for God despite his wickedness. As a result, he was curious about John’s teaching. In addition, though he was appointed by Rome, he was still swayed by public opinion to a degree. Executing John could well cause a rebellion. Matthew 14:5 tells us, “And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.”
To silence John’s condemnation and appease Herodias, Herod had him imprisoned, but John was able to continue his ministry on a limited scale for a time. Becoming discouraged, he would later contact Jesus for reassurance. Jesus himself said There had never been a greater prophet than John, in Luke 7:28. "For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist:” Even such a great prophet and man of God had moments of doubt, as we see from Luke 7:19. “And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come? or look we for another?” Occasional moments of doubt are normal in trials, but they will not be prolonged if the Holy Spirit is allowed to work freely.
Friday, October 15, 2010
John’s Ministry Begins
Luke 3:1-18
Herod died about three years after Jesus’ birth and was succeeded by Archelaus. When John begins his ministry about twenty five years later, Archelaus had been succeeded by Pontius Pilate as governor, and Archelaus’ sons shared the throne of the surrounding areas, with each being responsible for a particular region. Only people of the time were aware of the agreement to split the responsibility, again validating Luke’s authenticity, as does his identification of the high priests, which would not have been known outside Israel.
“Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.” (Luke 3:1-2)
While we are never told that John was a Nazarite, he definitely lived a lifestyle similar to that of the Nazarite. Mark 1:6 describes it. “And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;”. From Matthew 11:18 we learn that many people took offense because he refused to eat and drink like they did. For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil.”
Mark 1:6 describes his lifestye, “And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;”.
While camel’s hair and a leather belt was appropriate for sheepherders and farm laborers, it wasn’t suitable for polite society, and the priests would not have recommended it. As Jesus told the crowd later, it didn’t stop people who wanted to hear God’s word, although others were offended. “But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet.” (Matthew 11:8-9).
John starts by preaching what Isaiah had said about preparing the way for Messiah, which was a familiar and pleasant message, some what like the message of the Second Coming is to many “Christians” today. He stressed getting themselves prepared for the event by the baptism of repentance.
“And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” (Luke 3:3-6)
Hebrews 9:22 states, “And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.” John in no way stated that baptism would take away sin. Unfortunately, the Jews had fallen into the habit of offering the sacrifices with no sense of real repentance, but simply going through the ritual. John said that was not acceptable, setting baptism as an evidence of their sincerity. Ritual and tradition would not suffice.
“Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.” (Luke 3:7-9)
Matthew 3:11-12 points out that John’s baptism was only a statement of repentance. Jesus Christ would baptize or immerse initially in the Holy Spirit and later, at the judgement with fire. “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
While the common people came confessing their sin, the most religious groups were not, according to Matthew 3:5-8. “Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:” Merely being baptized meant nothing without action on. The people asked what actions would indicate their repentance.
“And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.” (Luke 3:10-14)
Many wanted to believe John was the Messiah, but he was very explicit that he was not, and reminded them that the baptism of fire would separate those who believed in Christ and those who did not. Baptism in water would not save them.
“And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable. And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.” (Luke 3:15-18)
Herod died about three years after Jesus’ birth and was succeeded by Archelaus. When John begins his ministry about twenty five years later, Archelaus had been succeeded by Pontius Pilate as governor, and Archelaus’ sons shared the throne of the surrounding areas, with each being responsible for a particular region. Only people of the time were aware of the agreement to split the responsibility, again validating Luke’s authenticity, as does his identification of the high priests, which would not have been known outside Israel.
“Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.” (Luke 3:1-2)
While we are never told that John was a Nazarite, he definitely lived a lifestyle similar to that of the Nazarite. Mark 1:6 describes it. “And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;”. From Matthew 11:18 we learn that many people took offense because he refused to eat and drink like they did. For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil.”
Mark 1:6 describes his lifestye, “And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;”.
While camel’s hair and a leather belt was appropriate for sheepherders and farm laborers, it wasn’t suitable for polite society, and the priests would not have recommended it. As Jesus told the crowd later, it didn’t stop people who wanted to hear God’s word, although others were offended. “But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet.” (Matthew 11:8-9).
John starts by preaching what Isaiah had said about preparing the way for Messiah, which was a familiar and pleasant message, some what like the message of the Second Coming is to many “Christians” today. He stressed getting themselves prepared for the event by the baptism of repentance.
“And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins; As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth; And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” (Luke 3:3-6)
Hebrews 9:22 states, “And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.” John in no way stated that baptism would take away sin. Unfortunately, the Jews had fallen into the habit of offering the sacrifices with no sense of real repentance, but simply going through the ritual. John said that was not acceptable, setting baptism as an evidence of their sincerity. Ritual and tradition would not suffice.
“Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.” (Luke 3:7-9)
Matthew 3:11-12 points out that John’s baptism was only a statement of repentance. Jesus Christ would baptize or immerse initially in the Holy Spirit and later, at the judgement with fire. “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.”
While the common people came confessing their sin, the most religious groups were not, according to Matthew 3:5-8. “Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan, And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:” Merely being baptized meant nothing without action on. The people asked what actions would indicate their repentance.
“And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then? He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.” (Luke 3:10-14)
Many wanted to believe John was the Messiah, but he was very explicit that he was not, and reminded them that the baptism of fire would separate those who believed in Christ and those who did not. Baptism in water would not save them.
“And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not; John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable. And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.” (Luke 3:15-18)
Thursday, October 14, 2010
The Childhood of Jesus
Luke 2:40-52
Some would deny that Jesus had siblings, but according to Matthew 12:46-47, he definitely did. “While he yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him. Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee.” Matthew 13:55-56 makes it clear they were Mary’s children. “Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things?”
Other than the brief stay in Egypt, we know little about jesus childhood. The incident related here is the kind of incident the family would have noted and remembered in later years. While we can’t be sure, Luke’s comments imply that it was Mary who related the story. From the story we get a profound impression of Jesus as a child, and of a sincere and Godly family life.
“And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.” (Luke 2;40-41)
Jesus grew in a normal manner, deeply religious, but thinking things through logically and carefully. Nevertheless, he was still very much a child, and like any young man, could forget about everything else when absorbed in something that held his interest.
“And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.” (Luke 2:42-43)
Jesus obviously was not a trouble maker and his parents trusted him, expecting him to be with the other kids in the group they traveled with. They had no reason for concern until he didn’t show up for supper. When a boy misses a meal, something is wrong, and it got his parent’s attention.
“But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.” (Luke 2:44-47)
Having traveled a days journey from Jerusalem, Jesus’ parents were another day getting back and didn’t find him until the third day after they had gone. They were surprised to find him in the temple, listening to the most educated men of the land, and asking questions. Everyone there was amazed that such a young man could have such a depth of understanding as his questions and responses.
His parents were amazed that he seemed to have totally forgotten about them in his absorption with learning about God. He was surprised that they would be concerned, because he saw it as his purpose in life. To him it just seemed so obvious what he would be doing.
“And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.” (Luke 2;48-50)
Despite the angel’s messages to both Mary and Joseph, and the events surrounding his birth, Jesus was so completely normal that they had difficulty understanding how he could be so different from other children in some ways. Though they knew he was God’s son, they still thought of him in human terms. Nevertheless, they, and Mary especially, were aware of the differences.
“And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” (Luke 2:51-52)
Though he was God, Jesus submitted himself to his parents as a normal child, learning to obey like any other child. As a result, he behaved in such a manner as to please both God and the people who knew him, unlike many kids today, who have far less reason to think they have the right to do as they please.
Some would deny that Jesus had siblings, but according to Matthew 12:46-47, he definitely did. “While he yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him. Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee.” Matthew 13:55-56 makes it clear they were Mary’s children. “Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things?”
Other than the brief stay in Egypt, we know little about jesus childhood. The incident related here is the kind of incident the family would have noted and remembered in later years. While we can’t be sure, Luke’s comments imply that it was Mary who related the story. From the story we get a profound impression of Jesus as a child, and of a sincere and Godly family life.
“And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.” (Luke 2;40-41)
Jesus grew in a normal manner, deeply religious, but thinking things through logically and carefully. Nevertheless, he was still very much a child, and like any young man, could forget about everything else when absorbed in something that held his interest.
“And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.” (Luke 2:42-43)
Jesus obviously was not a trouble maker and his parents trusted him, expecting him to be with the other kids in the group they traveled with. They had no reason for concern until he didn’t show up for supper. When a boy misses a meal, something is wrong, and it got his parent’s attention.
“But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.” (Luke 2:44-47)
Having traveled a days journey from Jerusalem, Jesus’ parents were another day getting back and didn’t find him until the third day after they had gone. They were surprised to find him in the temple, listening to the most educated men of the land, and asking questions. Everyone there was amazed that such a young man could have such a depth of understanding as his questions and responses.
His parents were amazed that he seemed to have totally forgotten about them in his absorption with learning about God. He was surprised that they would be concerned, because he saw it as his purpose in life. To him it just seemed so obvious what he would be doing.
“And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.” (Luke 2;48-50)
Despite the angel’s messages to both Mary and Joseph, and the events surrounding his birth, Jesus was so completely normal that they had difficulty understanding how he could be so different from other children in some ways. Though they knew he was God’s son, they still thought of him in human terms. Nevertheless, they, and Mary especially, were aware of the differences.
“And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” (Luke 2:51-52)
Though he was God, Jesus submitted himself to his parents as a normal child, learning to obey like any other child. As a result, he behaved in such a manner as to please both God and the people who knew him, unlike many kids today, who have far less reason to think they have the right to do as they please.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Those Who Seek, Find
Luke 2:36-39
While most of Jerusalem, including the priests took no notice of Jesus’ birth, there were two who were very aware of what it portended. Like Simeon, Anna was older, and did not get so caught up in the things around her that she neglected God. She was about eighty four years old. She had been married for seven years, but after her husband’s death, she did not remarry, but devoted herself to serving God, spending a lot of time in fasting and prayer. She is of the little known Jewish tribe of Assher, or as it is in Greek, Aser.
“And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.” (Luke 2:36-36)
Like Simeon, Anna is led by the Lord to come to the temple at the time Mary and Joseph have Jesus there, and God revealed who he is to her. She Also thanked the Lord for having seen the one she had waited for, and told all those who were looking for the coming of the Messiah who he was. Unfortunately, as we see later, most of the people paid no attention.
“And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:38)
They then returned to Bethlehem, apparently for some time before moving to Nazareth, during which the wise men came to see Jesus, as described in Matthew 2:1-12. It is significant that although Jesus’ had been presented and recognized at the temple after his birth only a very few were aware of his birth. Even the priests and scribes were not aware of it’s occurrence, though they clearly knew the scripture about it. The wise men, probably as a result of Daniel’s teaching and writing in Babylon, were more attentive to God’s word than the most religious of the Jews.
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.” (Matthew 2:1-12)
By the time the wise men arrived, Joseph and Mary had moved into a house in Bethlehem where the wise men found them. When the wise men didn’t return as he’d asked, Herod ordered the death of all the babies in the area around Bethlehem as described in Matthew 2:16-18, fulfilling another prophecy relating to Messiah’s birth. “Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.”
That the time in Bethlehem was fairly extended is obvious from the fact that Herod had been so careful to find out when the star appeared, then killed all the babies up to two years old just to be sure. God warned the wise men, then awoke Joseph in the middle of the night to enable them to escape Herod. “And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.” (Matthew 2:13-15)
The stay in Egypt fulfilled another Prophecy about the Messiah. History tells us Herod died about three years after Christ’s birth making the stay in Egypt only about a year or two. Because of the danger from Herod’s son, Joseph did not go back to Jerusalem, but to Nazareth.
“But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.
But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.” (Matthew 2:19-23)
It is at this point Luke picks up the story again, with Joseph and Mary moving to Nazareth, and fulfilling the prophecy that Jesus would be called a Nazarene, or citizen of Nazareth.
“And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.” (Luke 2:39)
A Nazarite is one who has taken the Nazarite vow of purity, to not cut his hair or beard, not to touch any dead body, or to eat or drink anything made of grapes, besides all the other laws. Jesus was a Nazarene, but not a Nazarite, eating and drinking regular Jewish food and living like most of the people around him.
While most of Jerusalem, including the priests took no notice of Jesus’ birth, there were two who were very aware of what it portended. Like Simeon, Anna was older, and did not get so caught up in the things around her that she neglected God. She was about eighty four years old. She had been married for seven years, but after her husband’s death, she did not remarry, but devoted herself to serving God, spending a lot of time in fasting and prayer. She is of the little known Jewish tribe of Assher, or as it is in Greek, Aser.
“And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.” (Luke 2:36-36)
Like Simeon, Anna is led by the Lord to come to the temple at the time Mary and Joseph have Jesus there, and God revealed who he is to her. She Also thanked the Lord for having seen the one she had waited for, and told all those who were looking for the coming of the Messiah who he was. Unfortunately, as we see later, most of the people paid no attention.
“And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:38)
They then returned to Bethlehem, apparently for some time before moving to Nazareth, during which the wise men came to see Jesus, as described in Matthew 2:1-12. It is significant that although Jesus’ had been presented and recognized at the temple after his birth only a very few were aware of his birth. Even the priests and scribes were not aware of it’s occurrence, though they clearly knew the scripture about it. The wise men, probably as a result of Daniel’s teaching and writing in Babylon, were more attentive to God’s word than the most religious of the Jews.
“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet, And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.” (Matthew 2:1-12)
By the time the wise men arrived, Joseph and Mary had moved into a house in Bethlehem where the wise men found them. When the wise men didn’t return as he’d asked, Herod ordered the death of all the babies in the area around Bethlehem as described in Matthew 2:16-18, fulfilling another prophecy relating to Messiah’s birth. “Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.”
That the time in Bethlehem was fairly extended is obvious from the fact that Herod had been so careful to find out when the star appeared, then killed all the babies up to two years old just to be sure. God warned the wise men, then awoke Joseph in the middle of the night to enable them to escape Herod. “And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called my son.” (Matthew 2:13-15)
The stay in Egypt fulfilled another Prophecy about the Messiah. History tells us Herod died about three years after Christ’s birth making the stay in Egypt only about a year or two. Because of the danger from Herod’s son, Joseph did not go back to Jerusalem, but to Nazareth.
“But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.
But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.” (Matthew 2:19-23)
It is at this point Luke picks up the story again, with Joseph and Mary moving to Nazareth, and fulfilling the prophecy that Jesus would be called a Nazarene, or citizen of Nazareth.
“And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.” (Luke 2:39)
A Nazarite is one who has taken the Nazarite vow of purity, to not cut his hair or beard, not to touch any dead body, or to eat or drink anything made of grapes, besides all the other laws. Jesus was a Nazarene, but not a Nazarite, eating and drinking regular Jewish food and living like most of the people around him.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
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.
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.
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