Consolation of Humanity

Luke 2:22–40 NKJV

22 Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”), 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.” 25 And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said: 29 “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; 30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation 31 Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, 32 A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of Your people Israel.” 33 And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against 35 (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” 36 Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; 37 and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. 39 So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. 40 And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.

Luke continues his account with the birth of the Messiah. When news is announced that the “near impossible” or the “incredible” prophecy had been fulfilled, there must has been an element of confirmation that folks desired to share. “Is this really the Messiah? I must go see for myself”. These words speak of wonders and doubt. Tonight we will take a look at two people who primarily made it their goal to confirm the true identity of the Messiah.

It was custom as stated in Leviticus 12 that when a the mother was considered to have completed the days of her purification the child would be presented before the Lord. During this time of purification she could not partake in any religious services. At this time she was to offer up dove or pigeon to amend her uncleanliness and a lamb as a burnt offering of general worship. Since they had been in Jerusalem Mary performed these rites personally in the temple.

Now, Simeon was going to conduct this ceremony. The Bible tells us he was a “just” and “devout” man who was consistently and fervently waiting for the “consolation of Israel”.

Because of his eagerness to die and seeing the Salvation of the Lord prior, indicates Simeon was an older man. Once he had seen the salvation (the Messiah) he felt ready to die.

Because of the salvation and consolation, the death of a Christian means to release a prisoner, to untie a ship or set sail. or to unyoke a burden”-

God’s People are not afraid of death because it only frees us from the burden of this life and leads into the blessings of the next life-Weirsbe

During this prayer of prophecy, the concept of a suffering Messiah first appears in Luke’s story.

Israel was considered to be in a desperate need at this time.

1) Slavery in Egypt

2) Exile

3) Under the Rule of Rome

Isaiah 40:1–2 NKJV

1 “Comfort, yes, comfort My people!” Says your God. 2 “Speak comfort to Jerusalem, and cry out to her, That her warfare is ended, That her iniquity is pardoned; For she has received from the Lord’s hand Double for all her sins.”

Israel was in need. Many N.T. writers continued to write about the Jewish nation being reinstated and many still do today. In fact, throughout much eschatology mentions the hopeful redemption of Israel. There has been much debate over the years arguing over the question-”Did the church become Israel”? This is to say that some do believe that anytime “Israel” is mentioned in the NT, they are actually talking about the church. We simply do not believe that.

Consolation= “Alleviate Grief / Remove loss or trouble”

The consolation of Israel means the messianic hope.

Simeon recognizes that the consolation of Israel is the Messiah! Not only Israel but all men. (Luke 2:30-32 ).

Luke 3:6 NKJV

6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’ ”

The Messiah was the instrument of Israel’s glory . Jesus will be attacked, for the kind of redemption He represents will not be welcomed by all. This will bring anguish to Mary, but through the opposition men will be brought to decision. Thus their real selves will be uncovered.

This hope, consolation, and deliverance through the Messiah is meant for all men. If not, then why glad tidings towards all men in Luke 2:10-11?

“This man (Simeon) who was limited to one geographic location and was limited on his outlook on life, saw the One who was to be the Saviour of the World” -Mcgee

Although given to a certain people, it is certainly directed to the World. No other religion points this way. Most other religions are directed to one single people group, race or nation.Christianity has been from the outset for all people everywhere.

Simeon continues as Mary and Joseph were astonished at his sayings. Simeon confirms his divine destiny and declares a prophecy. This Messiah was not only going to change the condition of Israel, affect his mothers heart on the cross, but also change many hearts!

The way that people speak about Jesus is evidence of what is in their hearts.

Mary not only brings the pigeon or dove, she bring the Lamb!

To think of the depravity of Man and the need for a Saviour is quite something.

As Tozer describes there was purpose lost and purpose regained.

In Closing:

Testimony of the plane crash with roaring fire.

How are we telling others about Christ? Like it is urgent, real and impactful? Let us consider these things this week.