Luke Chapter 2 (continued)

2:21-40 – The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple
As in the story of John, Jesus’ family waits the 8 days for the circumcision to happen as according to the law, and he is named at this point in the same manner. There is no problem with the naming as was the case with John. No one needed correction at this point. All is going according to what the angel told Mary, God’s Word is being fulfilled! We hear that Joseph and Mary also do everything according to the law for purification offering sacrifices. The consecration of the first-born is a reminder of the EXODUS. Jesus’ presentation at the temple has close similarities to the presentation of Samuel (1 Sam 1:24-28; 2:20-22). There were two different task to be obedient to the law, first redeem the first born (Ex 34:19-20; Num 18:16), 5 shekels required. Second, Mary’s purification (Lev 12:1-8). The sacrifice given was for a relatively poor family. Everything happens here according to the law, Mary & Joseph are faithful, devout, with no problems or excitement of any kind, yet.

Simeon, devout, righteous, counterpart to Zechariah, told by God, through the Holy Spirit “resting” on him, that he would see the Messiah before he died. Here we have a fulfillment of the prophetic word to Simeon, who then is God’s prophet about who this child is, and what this child will become. Simeon is introduced in typical biblical pattern. Simeon represents the exemplary response to Jesus that we and the world should have. This child is the fulfillment of all God has said and done in the past!

The meeting in the temple is no accident, but a carefully choreographed meeting by the Holy Spirit! This is the 3rd mention of the HS in this scene, and thus it is clear that God’s hand is carefully making all of these things happen!! Upon meeting Simeon takes the child in his arms, and breaks into song praising God. Simeon’s job is done, he can leave his post, he is witnessing what God told him to witness. He is now going in peace. He sees God’s plan unfolding in this child for salvation, revealed to the Gentiles and Israel alike. The Gentiles who were in darkness will be able to see this light, and Israel will be filled with Glory!!

Joseph & Mary are amazed, and Simeon continues with a rather strange blessing to Jesus’ parents, and specifically to Mary. Jesus will cause the great reversal in the world. He will be opposed, the inner thoughts of many will be revealed, and a sword will pierce Mary’s soul. Jesus’ words will not be comfortable for many to hear. It will be judgment upon their actions, their lives, etc. Mary will share in the pain that Jesus will bear when many will not listen to his words.

Anna, old, constantly in the temple worshiping God, fasting & prayer, counterpart to Elizabeth, and as Zechariah & Elizabeth are paired, so to Anna & Simeon. Anna exemplifies the pious widow in both Old & New Testaments. Widows are mentioned 9 times in the Gospel. We are not given Anna’s words, but it sounds like she confirms Simeon’s earlier statements.

The scene at the temple concludes with the statement that they finished everything required by the law, and then return to their hometown of Nazareth. We hear the similar words said of John, grew, became strong, additionally Jesus grew in wisdom, and the favor of God was on him. (wisdom – Sophia; grace – Charis.

2:41-52 – The Boy Jesus in the Temple
This is the only story of Jesus’ childhood in scripture. This serves as a bridge between the birth stories and the ministry of Jesus. This story shows the wisdom he is growing into. This isn’t a miracle story, and so does not really show forth Jesus’ power. It is rather restrained in that. Rather, Luke seems to be focusing upon Jesus’ connection with God, the Father, and it being a conscious connection that Jesus chooses, but he is also feeling the necessity of this choice.

Jesus’ parents are devout Jews, and go to the temple every year. If they travelled at 15 miles/day it would have taken 4-5 days to make the trip. Since Jesus was 12 he was still considered a child, at age 13 he would become man. Jesus’ parents don’t seem to be blamed for him being left behind, as we might think today. It seems that Jesus’ is blamed, certainly by Mary, but also at the end, when we are told he was obedient from that point on, with the little connotation that he wasn’t really too obedient in this story. However, the point is the Jesus is going to be doing his father’s business, and its not woodworking!! Jesus is found in the temple listening to the teachers and asking questions. Mary’s response is our response. Then Jesus provides his first words. Even as a child Jesus is perceiving an imperative in his life. He “MUST” be doing God’s will, God’s business, in God’s house. The point of this story is that Jesus’ life is going to be divinely inspired, as has been everything in his life up until now.

Jesus goes back with his parents, is obedient, and again Mary has things to “ponder” in her heart. V52 is similar to v40 in telling us he is increasing in wisdom, and grace both divine & human.