Divine Encounters, Part 1 - Feb. 4th, 2024

Luke 2:21–39 KJV

And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb. And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

Introduction

We will learn from these verses of the dedication of Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem.

In the first century, Jerusalem was a town of roughly 100,000 people. Jerusalem is the place that God appointed to be the center of worship for the entire nation. Life in the city was centered around the Temple, which had been rebuilt and expanded by Herod. According to John's Gospel, it took forty-six years to rebuild the Temple.

Step back in time to the first-century Jerusalem, where a magnificent structure stood tall at the center of the city, beckoning worshippers from far and wide. This grand edifice was no ordinary building; it was the Temple, a place of divine encounter and spiritual rejuvenation. Herod the Great had meticulously rebuilt and expanded it, turning it into a stunning architectural masterpiece.

The Temple held a special place in Jewish life, symbolizing the covenant between God and Israel. It was here that God had promised to dwell among His people, as evidenced throughout the Old Testament. Not just a place of worship, the Temple was the ultimate destination for sacrificial offerings and atonement.

Understanding the role of the Temple is key to grasping the profound significance of Jesus' presentation within Jewish society and God's redemptive history. So, let's take a moment to appreciate the Temple's awe-inspiring grandeur and its significance in the spiritual lives of the people of ancient Jerusalem.

The Temple was designed with the following three purposes in mind:

The Temple: The Intersection of God’s Presence and Humanity

The Temple was the place where God dwelt among His people. At the dedication of the Temple, as at the dedication of the tabernacle, the glory of God filled the building.

2 Chronicles 7:1–3 KJV

Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, the fire came down from heaven, and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the LORD filled the house. And the priests could not enter into the house of the LORD, because the glory of the LORD had filled the LORD’S house. And when all the children of Israel saw how the fire came down, and the glory of the LORD upon the house, they bowed themselves with their faces to the ground upon the pavement, and worshipped, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.

The Temple: Grace and Law Unified in Sacrifice

This was the place where the sins of the people were atoned for once a year by the high priest on the Day of Atonement.

Hebrews 9:24–28 KJV

For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

The Temple: The Centerpiece of Faith and Devotion

The Temple was to function as the center of life and worship. God intended it to be the focal point of Israel's life and festivities. At least three times a year all males were required to journey to Jerusalem: Passover, Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles.

Exodus 23:14–19 KJV

Three times thou shalt keep a feast unto me in the year. Thou shalt keep the feast of unleavened bread: (thou shalt eat unleavened bread seven days, as I commanded thee, in the time appointed of the month Abib; for in it thou camest out from Egypt: and none shall appear before me empty:) And the feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours, which thou hast sown in the field: and the feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out of the field. Three times in the year all thy males shall appear before the Lord GOD. Thou shalt not offer the blood of my sacrifice with leavened bread; neither shall the fat of my sacrifice remain until the morning. The first of the firstfruits of thy land thou shalt bring into the house of the LORD thy God. Thou shalt not seethe a kid in his mother’s milk.

Main Thought: The dedication of the Christ Child at the Temple reveals the intersection of promise, obedience, and revelation. The examples of Joseph, Mary, Simeon, and Anna each inspires us to encounter Christ, amend our understanding of salvation, and actively share the good news of His redemption. Let us embrace their faithfulness, obediently anticipate His promises, and proclaim the hope of Jesus Christ and His salvation to all.

Sub-intro:

Beneath the shadow of the Temple's grandeur, where ancient stones echoed with prayers and praises, unfolds a narrative that bridges heaven and earth. This story, rooted deeply in the fabric of our faith, invites us into the heart of Jerusalem—a city pulsing with the anticipation of God's promises. Here, in this sacred space designated for divine encounters, we witness a convergence of prophecy, obedience, and the dawning of salvation.

As we step into the narrative of Luke 2:21-39, we are not merely observers of historical events; we are participants in a living testament to God's unfolding plan of redemption. The dedication of Jesus at the Temple is not just a ritualistic compliance with the Law; it is a profound revelation of God's grace and a call to a responsive faith. Through the lives of Simeon and Anna, we are offered a glimpse into the heart of true worship—waiting on God's promises with expectation and proclaiming His salvation with relentless joy.

In this divine drama, every act of obedience, every moment of revelation, and every response of faith echoes through time to challenge and inspire us. Let us, therefore, open our hearts as we explore these divine encounters, seeking to understand how they reveal God's character, fulfill His promises, and invite us into a deeper, more vibrant faith.

In obedience to the commandments of God, Joseph and Mary brought Jesus from Bethlehem to the Temple in Jerusalem for the ceremonies of dedication and purification.

I. The Initiation of Redemption at the Temple (Luke 2:21-24)

God commanded in Genesis 17 that all Jewish males would be circumcised the eighth day, symbolizing God's covenant with Abraham. Jesus was presented at the Temple where these ceremonies would be performed.

Genesis 17:10–12 KJV

This is my covenant, which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised. And ye shall circumcise the flesh of your foreskin; and it shall be a token of the covenant betwixt me and you. And he that is eight days old shall be circumcised among you, every man child in your generations, he that is born in the house, or bought with money of any stranger, which is not of thy seed.

A. Revelation of the Messiah: The Saviour Appears in Jerusalem (Lk. 2:21)

Luke 2:21 KJV

And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Definition: Jesus - Jehovah is salvation. This name is essential in understanding salvation. Jesus was presented as Saviour merely by His name. When Joseph and Mary named the baby "Jesus; they proved their obedience to God and their faith in Him.

Mary and Joseph heard the good news separately.

1. The Announcement to Joseph

Matthew 1:21 KJV

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

2. The Blessed Tidings to Mary

Luke 1:31 KJV

And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.

B. Testament of Obedience Through Sacrifice (Lk. 2:22-24)

Luke 2:22–24 KJV

And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

Following the circumcision, forty days after the birth Mary and Joseph would go up to the Temple again for another ceremony and a sacrifice of dedication.

1. Mary's Observance of Purification

Only after Mary was declared clean could she participate in the dedication ceremony of her son. She could not dedicate the baby until she had first waited forty days for her own purification.

Leviticus 12:6–7 KJV

And when the days of her purifying are fulfilled, for a son, or for a daughter, she shall bring a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon, or a turtledove, for a sin offering, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest: Who shall offer it before the LORD, and make an atonement for her; and she shall be cleansed from the issue of her blood. This is the law for her that hath born a male or a female.

2. The Consecration of Jesus

For the redemption of the firstborn, five shekels (about $50.00 in 2024) was paid along with the turtledoves.

The redemption ceremony took place in the following method:

The child was initially presented to the priest in recognition of God's ownership. After the presentation of the child, the payment of five shekels and two turtledoves was made. Upon receiving the child, the priest would give two blessings: one in thanksgiving for the law of redemption, and the second for the gift of the firstborn son.

The fact that Joseph and Mary were from a poor home is seen in the sacrifice they offered as part of the purification rites: two turtle doves rather than a lamb.

Leviticus 12:8 KJV

And if she be not able to bring a lamb, then she shall bring two turtles, or two young pigeons; the one for the burnt offering, and the other for a sin offering: and the priest shall make an atonement for her, and she shall be clean.

They could not afford a lamb, but they brought the Lamb of God.

John 1:29 KJV

The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

Application: Reflect on Joseph and Mary's obedience to God. Where is God calling you to obey, even if it requires sacrifice? Take one step this week to align yourself with God's directives.

Joseph and Mary did not have many material possessions, but they had Jesus, and He is all that a person needs.

II. The Revelation of Redemption Through Simeon (Luke 2:25-35)

While at Jerusalem, Joseph and Mary met two Israelites whose faith was ardent.

Both of these were older people, but they were devout to the Lord. The first was a man named Simeon. This man was at great peace after seeing the salvation of God, Jesus Christ.

A. The Anticipation of the Messiah: Simeon's Patient Vigil (Lk. 2:25)

Luke 2:25 KJV

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.

He was not waiting for frivolous things; but he was waiting for the "consolation of Israel," the Messiah.

Definition: Waiting in verse 25, from Greek prosdechomai - to expect the fulfillment of a promise.

Definition: Simeon - hearkening; he was waiting to hear of the Messiah's coming.

Just as Simeon was waiting for the first coming of the Messiah, so we today are waiting for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

Titus 2:13 KJV

Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Definition: Revealed in verse 26 - to give a divine command or admonition, to teach from Heaven.

Luke 2:26 KJV

And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

Simeon was faithfully waiting to see the Messiah because the Holy Spirit revealed to him that he would see the Christ before his death.

B. The Spirituality of Simeon: Guided by the Holy Spirit (Lk. 2:25-27)

Luke 2:25–27 KJV

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. 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,

In verse 25, it is revealed that the Holy Ghost was upon Simeon, indicating that he was a spiritual man. Simeon was a man who resisted the wicked culture around him, and served God from a pure heart.

Galatians 5:16–17 KJV

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

C. The Prophetic Insight of Simeon (Lk. 2:28-35)

1. Embracing the Messiah (Lk. 2:28-31)

Luke 2:28–31 KJV

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;

Simeon understood that, since he had seen the salvation of God in Jesus Christ, he was now ready for death. No one is ready to die until they meet Jesus.

2. Simeon’s Prophecy (Lk. 2:32-33)

Luke 2:32–33 KJV

A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

a. The Universal Salvation Proclaimed

Each person is in need of a personal Saviour. Jesus came to save all people from their sins, if they will just believe on Him.

Romans 10:12–13 KJV

For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

b. Foretelling Opposition (Lk. 2:34)

Luke 2:34 KJV

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;

Jesus would be the cause of much division among men. Some will believe on Him, but many will speak against Him. Even today, the name of Jesus is spoken against. The Pharisees and Sadducees in John 8 spoke against Jesus.

John 8:41 KJV

Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.

c. Foreshadowing of Mary's Sorrow (Lk. 2:35)

Luke 2:35 KJV

(Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

Mary was there at the crucifixion of Jesus, watching Him die for the sins of the world. Certainly, she was pierced with pain watching her son suffer.

John 19:25 KJV

Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.

Application: What promises of God are you waiting on? How can you stay hopeful and peaceful during the wait, trusting in God's timing? Consider Simeon's patient waiting and joy upon seeing God's promise fulfilled.

III. The Testimony of Redemption Voiced by Anna (Luke 2:36-39)

Luke 2:36 KJV

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;

Definition: Anna - meaning grace.

After Simeon had seen Jesus, Anna entered the scene to see the Christ Child.

Anna was a gifted teacher of the Word of God. She was a gracious, contented lady.

A. The Dedication of Anna's Service (Lk. 2:37)

Luke 2:37 KJV

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.

Verse 37 tells us that Anna served God. She was a widow, but she loved her God, and served the Lord in the Temple. When we come to the end of our lives, all that matters is whether we served God with the time that He gave us.

1. Her Enduring Faithfulness

Her husband died a few years after they were married. Ever since his death, Anna had not departed from the Temple.

2. She Remained Anchored in Hope

She endured to the end, never losing hope in God.

B. The Evangelistic Zeal of Anna (Lk. 2:38-39)

Luke 2:38–39 KJV

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. And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

1. Proclaiming the Messiah

Note - “that instant”

Verse 38 tells us that Anna rejoiced and witnessed after seeing Jesus. She told others that she had seen the salvation that God had given to Israel: the Messiah. She told everyone who came in to dedicate their babies about the Lord Jesus.

Proverbs 11:30 KJV

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.

2. A Legacy of Witness

Note - Ripple Effect

Quote: "The life of Jesus is bracketed by two impossibilities: a virgin's womb and an empty tomb. Jesus entered our world through a door marked 'No Entrance' and left through a door marked 'No Exit'." ~ Peter Larson

Acts 5:20 KJV

Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.

Application: Anna's response upon encountering Jesus was to share the news of redemption with everyone. Can you think of one person in your life who needs to hear about the love and salvation found in Jesus? Identify someone this week and share with them the message of hope and redemption.

The divine encounters of Simeon and Anna with the Christ Child are more than just a historical event. It is a moment that holds the key to unleashing a future of hope, peace, and unity. The Temple, a place of dedication and prophecy, signifies the grandeur of the mission of Jesus: to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, bringing to life God's salvation plan for all humanity. Simeon's recognition of Jesus as 'a light to lighten the Gentiles and the glory of thy people Israel' prefigures the inclusive reach of Jesus' ministry, breaking boundaries to extend grace to all. Through Anna's proclamation, we see the early echo of the gospel message, resonating with Jesus' call to witness and serve. These encounters at the Temple not only illuminate the beginnings of Jesus' earthly journey but also highlight the continuity of God's redemptive plan, from prophecy to fulfillment, from the Temple's rituals to the cross, and ultimately, to the resurrection. Let these stories remind us of the profound connection between Jesus' dedication at the Temple and His ultimate dedication on the cross, both acts of divine love and obedience that mark the path of redemption. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be a part of a future where love and compassion reign, where peace and unity are the guiding force. Embrace the message of Simeon and Anna, and let it change the course of your life forever.

Conclusion

Verse 33 declares to us that Joseph and Mary marveled at the things they had seen, and what God was doing in their lives through their Son.

Luke 2:33 KJV

And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

Simeon was ready for death after he had seen Jesus. He believed on Jesus for salvation. If you have not placed your faith in Jesus as Saviour, all you have to do is believe on Him.

Simeon was patiently waiting to see the salvation of God. He was faithful to God for many years, believing that the Messiah would come. Where are those who will choose to remain faithful to God, believing on Him, no matter what?

Anna was an elderly lady who gave much of her life to serving the Lord in the Temple. But after she saw the gift of salvation God had provided through His Son, she told everyone she saw. Will you commit to be a witness for the Lord?

Let yourself be encouraged to engage with Jesus' presence, just like Simeon and Anna did. Embrace a life of faith and dedication, drawing inspiration from these biblical figures who responded to the Messiah with joy and obedience. Challenge yourself to find one specific way to live out your faith more fully in the coming week, whether by sharing your faith story, serving in your community, or dedicating time to prayer and meditation. Embody the gospel in everyday life, reflecting the light of Christ to the world around you. Let us all rise to the challenge and make a personal commitment to live out our faith more fully, spreading the message of Jesus Christ to all those around us.

[Outline adapted from Dr. Paul Chappell, Journey with Jesus (Striving Together Publications)]