People You Should Know: Jesus (March 29)

The Text: Luke 2:21-40 NLT

The Clues:

Vs. 21-24

The law of God required that all Jewish male children be circumcised eight days after birth. Circumcision for the Jew was the outward or physical sign indicating a covenant relationship with God. The name “Jesus” means “The Lord Saves.” Women who gave birth to sons were considered unclean for 40 days. At the end of this time they were to offer a purification offering. The offering was to be a yearling lamb and a pigeon or a dove. If the family was poor they could offer two doves or two pigeons. The law of God required that the firstborn son be dedicated to the Lord. What are you discovering about Joseph and Mary in these verses?

Vs. 25-32

Messiah means “the anointed one.” The Israelites had long waited on the Messiah who would serve as their king. The Messiah would deliver them from Roman rule, establish His kingdom, rule over them, bringing them peace and prosperity. Simeon came to the Temple because God led him. Joseph and Mary came to the Temple to present or dedicate Jesus to God. Simeon described Jesus as God’s salvation, not just to the Jews, but also to all people. He also described Jesus as a light that would reveal God. This literally means that Jesus was going to unveil God to mankind. How could Jesus do that?

Vs. 33-35

Simeon’s words to Mary were prophetical. He was giving Mary insight concerning the future of her son and her future as well. Simeon told Mary that everyone was not going to receive her son well. As a matter of fact, many would oppose him. According to Simeon, people’s deepest thoughts and emotions would be revealed through their treatment of Jesus. Simeon said to Mary, “A sword will pierce your very soul.” What do you think those words mean? How do you think these prophetic words affected Mary?

Vs. 36-38

A prophet spoke for God. Simeon and Anna were righteous, devout, Godly, and proven. Their words were verifying that Jesus was indeed the Son of God, Messiah, and Savior.

Vs. 39-40

Jesus’ parents fulfilled all the requirements of the law. What does that statement tell you about Joseph and Mary? The child grew up. Jesus was God, but he was also human. Use your imagination for a moment and imagine you are Joseph or Mary. How was raising Jesus normal and how was it vastly different from raising any other child?

Okay, you’ve read the text and considered the clues. Now, it’s time to make your discoveries.

1.      What did you learn about Jesus in these verses?

2.   What practical lessons did you learn in this story?

3.  In light of what you’ve learned, what step of action should you take?