Postlude to the Adoration - Luke 2:39-40

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

     After the adoration in the Temple, Joseph and Mary took the Christ child and “returned” (Luke 2:39) to Nazareth (via Egypt) where they had not been since leaving for the registration in Bethlehem some time earlier.
     The duties in the postlude. “When they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord” (Luke 2:39). Joseph and Mary were faithful. They did “all things according to the law of the Lord” even though that meant a great inconvenience and cost. God-assigned duties are not always easy to do. They will require much effort and sacrifice. But if they are duties God has given us, we must do them if we are to be pleasing to God.
     The dwelling in the postlude. “They returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth” (Luke 2:39). This return had to be preceded by the visit of the wise men and the sojourn in Egypt (Matthew 2) of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus. With Christ being six weeks old at most when Joseph and Mary came to the Temple to fulfill the law regarding her purification and His presentation, it meant that they came from Bethlehem to Jerusalem, not from Nazareth to Jerusalem. Before their return to Nazareth would be their trip back to Bethlehem and while there the visit of the wise men in Bethlehem and then the sojourn of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus in Egypt at God’s command (Matthew 2:13). Thus adoration in the Temple was followed by the animosity of the throne (Herod). Persecution often follows praise; trials often follow triumph. This keeps us humble and focused on God and not on circumstances.
     Only one incident during the childhood of Christ is reported in the Scriptures. It had to do with the absence of Christ from Joseph and Mary and His astounding of the religious teachers in the Temple during that absence. Many other stories of His childhood have been written, but they are all unscriptural.

The Development Before the Absence (Luke 2:40)

40 And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.

     The development of Christ in His childhood reflected the goodness of the home in which He was raised.
     Physical development. “The child grew” (Luke 2:40). Taking upon Himself the form of a human, Christ had to develop physically just as did other humans. So from a small babe, He began to grow into manhood.
     Spiritual development. “Waxed strong in spirit … grace of God was upon him” (Luke 2:40). Spiritual growth is the most important growth of all, yet too many folk are strong physically but a weakling spiritually. However, Christ certainly did well spiritually. This growth was the main factor in the astonishment He brought in the Temple when He was but twelve years old. Christ knew more than the religious teachers knew.
     Mental development. “Filled with wisdom” (Luke 2:40). Christ was an intelligent person. In the Temple experience, in our text, He demonstrated that He was far above His years in intelligence and spiritual growth.
     Ability development. “Filled with wisdom” (Luke 2:40). The word “wisdom” here not only involves mental excellence but also skill and ability. Therefore, if Christ worked in Joseph’s carpenter shop (and there would be no reason why He would not) “wisdom” meant He would be a skilled carpenter.

Settling in Nazareth

1. The Fear About the Settling (Matthew 2:22, 23)

     Joseph did not hear good news when he got back to Palestine. The joy of leaving Egypt was dampened by the alarming news which he heard when he reached the land of Palestine.
     The sureness of the fear. “When he heard” (Matthew 2:22). Though Joseph had obeyed the command of God to move from Egypt, yet he ran into a severe trial when he got to Israel. The path of obedience is not exempt trials. In fact, you can count on them; for “many are the afflictions of the righteous” (Psalm 34:19) and “all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (II Timothy 3:12).
     The situation for the fear. “Archelaus did reign in Judea in the room of his father Herod” (Matthew 2:22). Archelaus was also evil like his father, so Joseph’s fear was justified, and the angel did not rebuke him for the fear.
     The seeking in the fear. “Being warned of God” (Matthew 2:22). The word translated “being warned of God” here is the same word which is translated, “being warned of God” in Matthew 2:12. As we noted in our comments on that text, the meaning of the word is “to give a response to one who asks or consults; hence, in the passive … to receive an answer” (Vincent). Here, as in the case of the magi, it implies that Joseph wisely sought counsel of God concerning the peril.
     The solace for the fear. “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” (Matthew 2:22, 23). God answered Joseph and warned Joseph not to go into Judea (back to Bethlehem) because of Archelaus. The will of God is often learned a step at a time. Seeking to know the will of God (as Joseph did) and obeying what you already know is the will of God (as Joseph did) are both vital to learning more about the will of God.

2. The Fulfillment in the Settling (Matthew 2:22, 23)
     This is the third time in this chapter that a fulfillment of Scripture occurs. The three events following the visit of the magi all end with a reference to a fulfillment of Scripture.
     The city in the fulfillment. “Nazareth” (Matthew 2:23). This was the home city of both Joseph and Mary. They came to Bethlehem because they were of the lineage of David and had to register according to the command of the ruler of Rome (Luke 2:1–5). Now Joseph and Mary end up back in Nazareth where Joseph can once again engage in his carpentry business to provide for the household that is caring for Jesus Christ.
     The cause of the fulfillment. “Archelaus” (Matthew 2:22). Once again God uses the wrath of man to praise Him (Psalm 76:10). He used the cruelty of Archelaus (which created the fear in Joseph) to send Christ and Joseph and Mary to Nazareth where Christ will live until He is thirty. Many times evil thinks it has God cornered and defeated, but it will never happen. God simply uses the evil plans of man to bring about the will of God.
     The character of the fulfillment. “He shall be called a Nazarene” (Matthew 2:23). There is no Old Testament Scripture which literally predicts this. But the fulfillment is not in the literal calling of Christ a “Nazarene,” but in the fact that living in Nazareth resulted in Christ being despised. Those who lived in Nazareth were despised as is attested by Nathaniel’s comment, “Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?” (John 1:46). Part of the despising of Christ is seen in the fact that Christ bore the stigma all His life of being called “Jesus of Nazareth” (John 1:45). Isaiah spoke of Christ being despised when he spoke prophetically about Christ and said, “He was despised” (Isaiah 53:3). No one has ever been more despised than Jesus Christ. This is the fulfillment spoken of in our text. Associating Christ with Nazareth associates Him with being despised.

The Return to Nazareth - Matthew 2:19–21

     Here we learn how and why Christ settled in Nazareth even though He was born in Bethlehem.

1. The Fiat (Command) for the Settling (Matthew 2:19, 20)
     Joseph got some more orders (a fiat) from God, and these were most welcomed orders indeed.              
     The prompting of the fiat. “When Herod was dead” (Matthew 2:19). All God’s enemies will eventually die. Moses got his orders to be Israel’s emancipator after some enemies had died. “The LORD said unto Moses in Midian, Go, return into Egypt; for all the men are dead which sought thy life” (Exodus 4:19). Though His enemies be powerful, God will outlive all His enemies and will ultimately be victorious over them.    
     The promise for the fiat. “An angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt” (Matthew 2:19). Earlier the angel had told Joseph, “Be thou there [Egypt] until I bring thee word” (Matthew 2:13). So God kept His promise. Sometimes we may not have the patience to wait for the Divine promise but wait anyway, for it will be fulfilled. God has not broken a promise yet.
     The place for the fiat. “In Egypt.” (Matthew 2:19). The promise to Joseph was that the angel would speak to him “there.” (Matthew 2:13). Had Joseph not stayed in Egypt, the place for his obedience, he would not have been in the place to hear God’s command. If you want to know God’s will for your life, stay in the place of obedience.
     The perception of the fiat. “Appeareth in a dream” (Matthew 2:19). The same method of revelation was used in this message to Joseph as in the two previous times he had heard from God. As we noted earlier, we can be thankful we have the Word of God and do not have to rely on dreams for Divine direction. The Word of God gives many precepts and principles to adequately guide us in every situation of our lives.
     The person for the fiat. “To Joseph” (Matthew 2:19). Again Joseph was the privileged one to receive Divine revelation. But privilege brings responsibility, and he was responsible to see that the orders were carried out. If Mary was all the Roman Church says she was, how come she did not get the revelation from God?
     The people in the fiat. “Take the young child and his mother” (Matthew 2:20). This was just like the command to go to Egypt. Taking the Christ-child and Mary meant a great deal of work for Joseph. God’s orders are seldom easy to do.
     The province in the fiat. “Go into the land of Israel” (Matthew 2:20). Israel was a mere province of the nation of Rome so far had it fallen in status. But Christ will make it the nation of nations someday. He is the One Who makes Israel important.
     The protection in the fiat. “They are dead which sought the young child’s life” (Matthew 2:20). This was good news for it meant safety for the Christ-child. Also this news was an encouragement to obey the command. Look for these encouragements in every command God gives you.

2. The Faithfulness in the Settling (Matthew 2:21)
     Joseph has an excellent record in Scripture of obeying God’s commands faithfully.
     The promptness in the faithfulness. “He arose” (Matthew 2:21). Right after Joseph received the fiat from the angel of the Lord, Joseph promptly got to work obeying the fiat. Faithfulness is not related to dilatoriness.
     The people in the faithfulness. “Took the young child and his mother” (Matthew 2:21). Joseph was not like many fathers who send their children and wives to church; rather he would take them to the place where God told them to go. This is the only way to be a faithful husband and head of the home.
     The place in the faithfulness. “Came into the land of Israel” (Matthew 2:21). It was not hard to come back home. It was hard to go to Egypt, but Joseph obeyed faithfully whether the command was to go to Egypt or to Israel. Too many folks only get excited about doing God’s command when they like the command. But you do the distasteful commands or you will not get any commands that you like to obey. Generally the distasteful commands come before the more desirable commands.

Herod Slays the Children - Matthew 2:16–18

     Herod’s horrid attitude towards Christ resulted in some horrible conduct in which he ordered the slaying of young children in Bethlehem. Creed and conduct go hand in hand, and those who reject Christ are not going to be known for their noble behavior.

1. The Provoking for the Slaying (Matthew 2:16)     Herod intended all along to get rid of the Christ-child; the provoking here has more to do with the timing of his murderous conduct than just his murderous conduct.
     The mocking of the wise men. “When he saw that he was mocked of the wise men” (Matthew 2:16). The mocking of the wise men was not by their talk but by their travel. They did not travel back to Herod in Jerusalem as he wanted them to do; but instead they traveled home a different route, as we have already noted. They obeyed God in not going back to Herod, and obeying God always mocks evil. And evil does not react to this mocking kindly, of course. This action mocked Herod’s authority and Herod’s plans and to him it threatened his throne. And being extra sensitive to slights, he took quick action.
     The madness of the king. “Herod … was exceeding wroth” (Matthew 2:16). The history of Herod’s rule is filled with his mad rages at any thing that opposed him—even his own family. And in his madness, he became brutal and shed much blood. Many rulers in history have been like Herod. Their madness will be tamed in the fires of hell, however.

2. The Place of the Slaying (Matthew 2:16)
     “Slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof” (Matthew 2:16). Herod ordered the slaying of young children in the town of Bethlehem and the surrounding areas (“coasts” means borders or surrounding neighborhoods). This area was about five miles from Jerusalem where Herod abode.

3. The Persons for the Slaying (Matthew 2:16)
     Herod had a special target for his murderous acts in Bethlehem and its vicinity.
     The age of the persons. “Two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently inquired of the wise men” (Matthew 2:16). As we noted earlier, Herod “inquired of them [the magi] diligently what time the star appeared” (Matthew 2:8). That would tell the approximate age of the child “born King of the Jews” (Matthew 2:2) and help Herod to know what age of children to slay.
     The amount of the persons. Since the population of Bethlehem and its “coasts” was small, the number of male children “two years old and under.” would not be many. The typical reader often thinks in terms thousands being slain by Herod here. But scholars say the slain would not number more than twenty. The small amount does not lessen the tragedy, however.

4. The Purpose of the Slaying (Matthew 2:16)
     “He was exceeding wroth” (Matthew 2:16). Why did Herod get so upset that he would kill all these young children? The answer is rather obvious. Herod wanted no rivalries to his throne. He was also a “king” (he had gotten the title of “king” from the Roman senate by political manipulation); so because of the area he ruled was Jewish, he was virtually the “king of the Jews.” Thus the announcement of a babe being born who was “King of the Jews” (Matthew 2:2) did not set well with him. So knowing only to kill his enemies, he ordered the slaying of the young children. Since the magi did not return to him, he had to slay all children two and under to make sure he got the Christ-child.

5. The Prophecy About the Slaying (Matthew 2:17, 18)
     “Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremiah the prophet” (Matthew 2:17, 18). This is the second of the three fulfilled prophecies mentioned in this second chapter of Matthew.
     The site in the prophecy. “Rama” (Matthew 2:18). This town is Ramah, which is located near Jerusalem. It was a town especially associated with the prophet Samuel (I Samuel 19:18. 25:1). When Nebuzardan of Babylon destroyed Jerusalem, he brought all his prisoners to Ramah and there disposed of them as he pleased. Some were permitted to stay in the land but many others were carried away to Babylon. Thus the town would be associated with much sorrow; and being close to Bethlehem, it would suffice for the fulfillment of prophecy.
     The symbolism in the prophecy. “In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning” (Matthew 2:18). This prophecy in Jeremiah 31:15 had its primary reference to the Israelites in the sorrow of their being taken captive to Babylon. Thus the prophecy, like the previous one about coming out of Egypt, was one of typology or symbolism about Christ. Many prophecies in the Old Testament had two applications—one to some specific event for the Israelites and the second to Christ in the form of typology. This gives us a precedence to see much of Christ in the Old Testament.
     The sorrow in the prophecy. “Lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not” (Matthew 2:18). The sorrow of going into captivity is as bad as death in terms of separation. The sorrow described here is extremely great. It would especially be bad for the mothers to see their children separated permanently from them and shipped to a foreign land. The mothers are spoken collectively and fittingly as Rachel in the text; for when she gave birth to Benjamin near Bethlehem, the birth was very difficult and she died as a result of the birthing experience. In the sorrow of her dying moments, she named the son “Benoni” (Genesis 35:18), which means son of sorrow. Jacob changed the name to Benjamin.

6. The Portrayal of the Slaying (Matthew 2:16)
     While Herod’s deed was atrocious, our day is more bloody; for abortion makes Herod’s deed look tame in comparison. Abortion has killed millions upon millions, while Herod only killed a couple dozen at the most. Because of the refusal to stop abortion, the rulers of our land have more blood on their hands than Herod. The same goes for the doctors and other people involved with abortion. Even the gas chambers of Nazi Germany look tame in comparison to abortion. God’s judgment is the most certain sequence of all the abortion activity.

Joseph Warned & The Flight to Egypt - Matthew 2:13-15

     Herod’s evil intent regarding the Christ-child was not only revealed to the magi, but it was also revealed to Joseph. And in both cases the revelation involved travel orders. Men may think they can conceal their evil; but God knows all and can broadcast the most secret of evil conduct to the whole world, if He so desires. The revealing of Herod’s evil to Joseph resulted in Joseph, Mary and the Christ-child staying in Egypt for awhile.

1. The Warning for the Staying (Matthew 2:13)

     The revealing of Herod’s evil design against the Christ-child was given in a warning to leave Bethlehem and head for Egypt.

     The promptness of the warning. “When they were departed” (Matthew 2:13). When the magi left from their visit of the Christ-child, then a warning was given to move the Christ-child to Egypt for safety. It was necessary that the warning be given quickly, for soon Herod would learn of the magi going another way home rather than through Jerusalem and their requested visit with Herod. God always warns of evil in ample time. God is prompt with His warnings. But though the warning always comes in adequate time it often does not always come with time to spare. We must act promptly or it may be too late.

     The person given the warning. “The angel … appeareth to Joseph” (Matthew 2:13). The man given the warning was the head of the home and thus the one chiefly responsible for the care of Mary and the child. Often men want recognition as the head of the home but do not want the responsibility of the head of the home.

     The perception of the warning. “The Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream” (Matthew 2:13). Joseph perceived the warning through a dream. God used the dream method at least four times with Joseph. First, Joseph was given a dream to inform him about Mary’s pregnancy (Matthew 1:20–22); second, Joseph was given a dream to move to Egypt with the Christ-child (our text); third, Joseph was given a dream in Egypt to move back to Palestine (Matthew 2:19); and fourth, Joseph was given a dream to go to Galilee because of Archelaus evil reign (Matthew 2:22). God does not speak to people via dreams today; for we have the Scriptures, which are a much better revelation to us than any dream. Wanting dreams today reveals ignorance of the greatness of the revelation in Scripture.

     The pace in the warning. “Flee” (Matthew 2:13). The moving to Egypt was not to be sluggish. The angel indicated it was to be speedy. “Flee” is not the language of a normal trip to Egypt. “Flee” is necessary to get away from a lot of evil. If we do not move at the pace God orders, we will experience unnecessary peril.

     The place in the warning. “Flee into Egypt” (Matthew 2:13). Moving Christ to Egypt reflects the judgment of God upon Israel. Israel did not receive Christ well. Some did respect His coming, but most did not. Therefore, privilege rejected will be privilege lost.

     The period in the warning. “Be thou there until I bring thee word” (Matthew 2:13). Both our starts and stops are ordered by the Lord. Joseph was ordered to move to Egypt, but he was also ordered to stay in Egypt until word came from the Lord.

     The purpose in the warning. “For Herod will seek the young child to destroy him” (Matthew 2:13). God does not always give us the reason for our orders, but here He did give Joseph the reason. The reason or purpose for our orders are given to encourage and prompt us to obey. They are not given to satisfy mere curiosity.

     The perniciousness in the warning. “For Herod will seek the young child to destroy him” (Matthew 2:13). Herod’s pernicious attitude towards Christ illustrates the fact that “the rulers of this world are seldom friendly to the cause of God” (Ryle). Many governments in our world today are aggressively persecuting Christians. Even our government is becoming more and more anti-Christ. And it will get worse. Courts forbidding the mention of Christ in school papers and the forbidding of Christmas carols in some places are just the tip of the iceberg of the anti-Christ attitude in our government and land.

 

2. The Work for the Staying (Matthew 2:14)

To fulfill the orders from God, Joseph had much work to do. God’s orders will not appeal to lazy folk.

     The promptness in the work. “When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt” (Matthew 2:14). The word translated “When” is simply a connective showing transition. It does not indicate that after the dream Joseph laid in bed awhile; and it was only after he got up, that he began to obey the command. The thought in this text is that immediately, after receiving the warning, Joseph got up and got busy making the move. He was prompt in doing what the Lord had ordered him to do. Traveling in the dark also emphasizes the promptness, for the dream-warning came at night and Joseph got going immediately before it became daylight.

     The perspiration in the work. “He took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt” (Matthew 2:14). It was no easy task for Joseph to get his family ready for moving to Egypt. Many things would have to be done and quickly. Perspiration would be flowing freely.

     The people in the work. “He took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt” (Matthew 2:14). Three times in our text for this chapter there is a reference to Joseph taking the “young child and his mother” (Matthew 2:14, 20, 21). That the child is always mentioned first shows Christ was the most important. But the fact that the mother was always mentioned too is another emphasis on the important place of the mother in regards to the care of the child.

     The precaution in the work. “By night” (Matthew 2:14). Going by night not only showed promptness but it also showed precaution. Traveling in the dark helped conceal their escape. God does not protect us supernaturally when we can protect ourselves by wise conduct

3. The Wait in the Staying (Matthew 2:15)

     “Was there until the death of Herod” (Matthew 2:15). The patience to stay in Egypt until Herod died may have been the hardest part about staying in Egypt. However, had Joseph not waited “until the death of Herod,” it would have been a fatal mistake.

4. The Word in the Staying (Matthew 2:15)

     The trip to Egypt and back was no surprise to God nor did it frustrate any of His plans. Rather, it helped confirm His Word.

     The recording of the Word. “Fulfilled” (Matthew 2:15). Three times in this second chapter of Matthew regarding events that were related to Herod, Matthew speaks of fulfillment of Scripture (Matthew 2:15, 17, 23). Each of the three events, which followed the visit of the magi, all end in a reference to fulfilled prophecies. All of these fulfillments of prophecies, which occurred as a result of Herod’s evil, illustrate that “surely the wrath of man shall praise thee” (Psalm 76:10). As we have noted earlier in our study of Matthew, Matthew, being written especially for the Jew, has more quotes from the Old Testament than any of the other Gospels. Matthew had some 93 quotations from the Old Testament, while Mark quotes the Old Testament but 49 times, Luke 80 times, and John only 33 times.

     The reliance on the Word. “Fulfilled” (Matthew 2:15). The fulfillment of these prophecies emphasizes the great reliability of the Word of God. You can depend on the Word of God unlike any other word. What God says will happen, will indeed happen. Circumstances may seem so adverse that fulfillment will appear impossible, but never discount the power of God’s Word to overcome any circumstance in the fulfillment of its prophecies and promises.

     The reference in the Word. “Out of Egypt have I called my son” (Matthew 2:15). The prophecy referred to here comes from Hosea 11:1 which says, “When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt.” The literal and primary reference here is to the exodus of the Israelites under the leadership of Moses from the Egyptian bondage.

     The representative in the Word. “Out of Egypt have I called my son” (Matthew 2:15). The fulfillment of the Word in Christ’s return from Egypt is a fulfillment of typology. Christ is represented by the nation of Israel in this typology example. Such typology, of which there is much in the Old Testament, reminds us that Christ is seen in shadow in the Old Testament but in substance in the New Testament. Scripture culminates in Jesus Christ.

Circumcision & Presentation at the Temple - Luke 2:21-38

     That which preceded by nearly six weeks the adoration in the Temple was the fulfilling of the rite of circumcision for Jesus.

     The instance of the circumcising. “When eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child” (Luke 2:21). A Jewish boy was to be circumcised on the eighth day after his birth. The eighth day was the best day. Medical science has learned that on the eighth day of the new born male child, the blood clotting and infection fighting agents in the blood are at their combined best. When God gave the command to circumcise, He did not choose the eighth day randomly.

     The importance of the circumcising. “When eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child” (Luke 2:21). The order for circumcision was given to the Jews through Abraham. Circumcision made the Jewish boy a member of the Israelite community. If one was not circumcised, he was excluded from national privileges.

     The identity at the circumcising. “His name was called Jesus, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb” (Luke 2:21). It was a custom with the Jews to name their boys when they were circumcised. We noted this custom in the naming of John the Baptist in the first chapter of Luke.

·         First, the order given before birth for His naming. Our text makes known the fact that the name Jesus was not one Joseph and Mary selected but one they were told to give the babe. Thus in naming the child, Joseph and Mary, like Zacharias and Elisabeth in the naming of John the Baptist, obeyed God. As we noted in the previous chapter, the name meant Savior and was thus a very appropriate name.

·         Second, the others named before their birth. Jesus was one of six people in the Bible who were given names from heaven before they were born. The other five people were Ishmael (Genesis 16:11), Isaac (Genesis 17:19), Josiah (I Kings 13:2), Cyrus (Isaiah 44:28; 45:1), and John the Baptist (Luke 1:13).

2. The Presentation for the Adoration (Luke 2:22–24)

     That which helped to prompt the adoration of Christ was the faithful fulfilling of the law by Joseph and Mary regarding her purification rites and the presenting of Christ after His birth.

     The practice in the presentation. “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” (Luke 2:22). According to the law of Moses a new mother had to fulfill the rite of purification after having a baby. A male child required forty days before the rite could be observed (Leviticus 12:2–4). A female child required eighty days. All of this involved the presenting the child at the Temple which was part of the required ritual of the law of Moses. Joseph and Mary obediently followed this practice.

     The place in the presentation. “They brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord” (Luke 2:22). Bringing to Jerusalem meant they brought Christ to the Temple. This was required because it was at the Temple where the sacrifices were made in regard to the purification ritual.

     The purpose in the presentation. “To present him to the Lord” (Luke 2:22). All the firstborn of Israel were to be presented to the Lord with a sacrifice. This was done in view of the fact that all the Levites were taken as priests to God instead of the firstborn of every family. Originally God ordered all the firstborn of every family be given to Him (Exodus 13:2), but later the entire tribe of Levi was selected in place of the firstborn (Numbers 3:11–13) to be the priests. When those outside the Levite tribe had a firstborn, they had to fulfill this rite.

     The poverty in the presentation. “To offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons” (Luke 2:24). This describes the sacrifice Joseph and Mary made in the presentation and it spoke of their poverty. They could not afford a lamb so they offered the birds. The law said, “If she [the mother] be not able to bring a lamb, then she shall bring two turtles [turtledoves], or two young pigeons” (Leviticus 12:8). Christ was not born into wealth but into poverty. But His poverty was for our spiritual wealth. “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich” (II Corinthians 8:9).

3. The Prophet in the Adoration (Luke 2:25–35)

     Two people gave much adoration to Christ in the Temple. The first was an elderly prophet named Simeon.

    The character of the prophet. The adoration of Christ is enhanced by the fact that the ones giving the adoration were people of great character.

·         First, his ward. “There was a man in Jerusalem” (Luke 2:25). Simeon used the advantage of living in Jerusalem to visit the Temple. Spiritual advantages create spiritual responsibilities.

·         Second, his walk. “Just and devout” (Luke 2:25). This is a twofold description of Simeon. “Just” speaks of his relationship with man. “Devout” speaks of his relationship with God.

·         Third, his waiting. “Waiting for the consolation of Israel” (Luke 2:25). The word “waiting” here speaks of expectation. Many Israelites were in expectation at this time about the coming of the Messiah. As an example, “The people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not” (Luke 3:15). The word “consolation” speaks of comfort. It is a good word for Christ, for no one brings comfort like Jesus Christ.

·         Fourth, his wisdom. “It was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ” (Luke 2:26). Simeon’s wisdom came from the Holy Spirit whose business is to inform mankind about Christ (John 16:13,14). Simeon’s revelation was unique in that it was limited to Simeon.

·         Fifth, his worship. “He came by the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus … then took he him up in his arms and blessed God” (Luke 2:27,28). Three aspects about worship are here.

·         (1) The prompting to worship. The Holy Spirit led him to the Temple, the place of worship. As we noted above, the Holy Spirit does not lead to places of amusement and commercialism when it is time to worship.

·         (2) The profit in worship. “Then took he him up in his arms.” Worship brings great reward, and Simeon, by coming to the Temple to worship, met the Christ child, a great blessing indeed.

·         (3) The praise in worship. “Blessed God.” The word translated “blessed” here gives us our English word eulogy. Simeon glorified and praised God in the Temple. When your affections are upon Jesus Christ, you will praise God. The lack of honor for God in our country reveals our lack of love and respect for Jesus Christ.

     The comments of the prophet. Here we examine the comments which Simeon made as a result of seeing Jesus.

·         First, the segments of his comments. The comments of Simeon are given in two different segments (Luke 2:28–32 and Luke 2:34,35) which are divided by the verse (Luke 2:33) which speaks of Joseph’s and Mary’s reaction to the comments. Each segment begins with “blessed.” The first section praises God, but the second segment blesses man. The second “blessed” is translated from a different word than the first “blessed.” The second “blessed” means to bestow a blessing.

·         Second, the subject of his comments. The subject of the comments in both segments is Jesus Christ. He is the main theme of the song. Simeon’s understanding of and affection for Christ was far different than the religious leaders.

·         Third, the satisfaction in his comments. “Now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace” (Luke 2:29). Having seen Christ, Simeon was ready to depart his life, for Christ was the zenith of blessings. This statement is the source of the “Nunc Dimittis” (“Now … depart”) name for this song.

·         Fourth, the Savior in the comments. “Mine eyes have seen thy salvation” (Luke 2:30). Here is Simeon’s confession of faith. He is confessing that Christ is the Savior.

·         Fifth, the Sovereign in the comments. “Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people” (Luke 2:31). God is the Sovereign in this matter of salvation. It is His plan. You cannot be saved any other way.

·         Sixth, the scope in the comments. “A light to lighten the Gentiles” (Luke 2:32). Simeon saw what many Israelites did not see, namely, that Christ would bring salvation to the Gentiles as well as the Jews. Soul salvation in Christ is offered to all.

·         Seventh, the splendor in the comments. “The glory of thy people Israel” (Luke 2:32). Christ is Israel’s Messiah and will bring to Israel their greatest glory. But thus far Israel has rejected Christ which is the root of their troubles.

·         Eighth, the stone in the comments. “This child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel” (Luke 2:34). This statement begins the second segment of Simeon’s speech. The word “stone” is not in the text, but the word “set” means to place, to be laid, to be set down and reminds us of the stone reference to Christ. The substance of this text is that Christ is both a stumbling block and stepping stone. Reject Him and you will stumble; receive Him and you will rise (cp. I Peter 2:6–8).

·         Ninth, the sign in the comments. “This child … for a sign which shall be spoken against” (Luke 2:34). The word translated “sign” is also translated “miracle” in Scriptures. Christ gave great evidence of Who He was, but He was rejected. There is no excuse for this rejection.

·         Tenth, the sorrow in the comments. “Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul” (Luke 2:35). Mary experienced much sorrow because of Christ, especially at the end when He was crucified. She stood at the cross and watched (John 19:25,26). What agony to see your child crucified.

·         Eleventh, the secrets in the comments. “The thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:35). The part about the sword and Mary is parenthetical. This part continues the statement concerning Christ as a sign. Christ will expose the secrets of every heart. “Men will be judged by … their thoughts concerning Christ; are they for him or are they for his adversaries” (Henry).

·         Twelfth, the surprise about his comments. “Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him” (Luke 2:33). They could have been surprised that Simeon knew all of this, but the real meaning is that they were surprised at all the wonderful things said of Christ. Joseph and Mary had been Divinely informed about Christ, but it still caused them to marvel when great truths were revealed about Him.

4. The Prophetess in the Adoration (Luke 2:36–38)

     The second person to give adoration to the Christ child in the Temple was a woman who was a prophetess.

     The person in the prophetess. “There was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of great age … a widow of about fourscore and four years” (Luke 2:36,37). Some significant details are given about this woman who met up with Joseph and Mary and the Christ child in the Temple.

·         First, her name. “Anna” (Luke 2:36). The name is the same as “Hannah” (I Samuel 1:2) the mother of Samuel. The name means “grace.” Anna lived her name.

·         Second, her age. “She was of great age” (Luke 2:36). Anna did not cease her devotion to God as many elderly do. Age may keep you from doing many things you used to do physically, but it should not diminish your spiritual devotion to God.

·         Third, her marriage. “She … had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity … was a widow of about fourscore and four years” (Luke 2:36,37). She did not live long with her husband before he died. Thus she knew sorrow early in life but that did not diminish her devotion to God. Trials are not to drive us from God but to God.

·         Fourth, her purity. “Virginity” (Luke 2:36). Anna had good morals; she was virtuous and lived a holy life in her younger years before marriage, during marriage, and during her widowhood.

·         Fifth, her calling. “Prophetess” (Luke 2:36). Being a prophetess did not mean Anna was in the foretelling ministry, but rather she was involved in forthtelling—predominantly a teacher.

·         Sixth, her heritage. “Daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher” (Luke 2:36). Being of the tribe of Asher was significant inasmuch as Asher was part of the “lost ten tribes” who, for the most part, did not return to Israel from captivity. Her family returning showed great devotion to God. Obviously Anna was raised in a godly home which shows in her character.

     The piety of the prophetess. Anna was a very devout person. “Departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day” (Luke 2:37).

·         First, her steadfastness. “Departed not from the temple … served God … night and day.” Some think Anna was given a place to stay in the Temple because of her devotion to God. Whether or not that was so, the emphasis here is upon her steadfastness in service to the Lord. She was not a short-termer like so many church members are today. She would not miss any services.

·         Second, her self-denial. “Fastings.” Her fastings were not to gain special favor from God, but they were self-denial to be able to serve God better. We see little self-denial for the Lord’s work today. Self-denial shows up mostly in business, sports, and other worldly achievements.

·         Third, her supplications. “Prayers night and day.” Anna spent much time in prayer. It was considerably more than a five-minute devotional popular in our day.

     The providence of the prophetess. “She coming in that instant” (Luke 2:38). Providence worked for Anna so that she was able to see the Christ child when He was in the Temple. Just as she was coming into the Temple, there was Jesus. Providence works for those who are dedicated to the Lord.

    The praise by the prophetess. “She … gave thanks likewise unto the Lord” (Luke 2:38). The words “gave thanks likewise” are translated from one Greek word which means to praise, to agree. Anna agreed with Simeon in his praise about Christ. So she “likewise” gave thanks which is praise to God.

     The proclamation of the prophetess. “Spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem” (Luke 2:38). After seeing Jesus, Anna spoke a message of blessing to others. When you have been blessed of God (as Anna was in seeking Jesus), you will be able to bless others. When you honor Christ, you will be able to help others. Anna’s message honored Christ and helped (here it great encouraged) others.

·         First, the subject in her proclamation. “Spake of him.” The theme of Anna’s speaking was Jesus Christ. If Christ is not in our message, we cannot help people. Many pulpits today do not honor Christ and leave Him completely out of the message.

·         Second, the society for her proclamation. “To all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” There was a group of people in Jerusalem who had not departed from the faith and were looking for the Messiah to appear. What encouraging news would it be to them to know that He had come. Thus Anna would be a great blessing to this group by her proclamation about Christ.

Perplexity About His Person - John 7:41-42

     While some believed, others were perplexed about Jesus being the Messiah because of His residence.

·         First, the character of the perplexity. “Shall Christ come out of Galilee? Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?” (John 7:41, 42). These folk were right in that Christ was to come from Bethlehem. They were wrong in assuming Christ came out of Galilee, for He was born in Bethlehem.

·         Second, the cause of the perplexity. Obviously the people did not investigate well the place of Christ’s birth. They could have learned, had they investigated, that Christ did indeed come from Bethlehem as the Scripture predicted. Often perplexity in the matter of faith is a result of failure to investigate and examine the facts. People today do not know Scripture well—they have not examined the Word and investigated it and so are easily led astray by doctrinal error.

The Announcement By The Angels - Luke 2:8–14

 

     Though God send angels to earth to proclaim the birth of Christ, much of the world did not give any attention to His birth or think it important. What is important with God is generally not important with mankind and vice versa.

1. The Shepherds for the Announcement (Luke 2:8)

     The angelic announcement about the birth of Jesus Christ was made to lowly shepherds.

     The field of the shepherds. “There were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field” (Luke 2:8). The field was important in its country and convenience.

·         First, the country. “Same country” indicates the shepherds’ fields were in the Bethlehem vicinity. It is possible they were keeping sheep in the same field in which David kept sheep centuries earlier.

·         Second, the convenience. “Same country.” Being near Bethlehem permitted the shepherds to go and see the Christ child and yet get back to their flocks without jeopardizing their flocks by the shepherds’ absence. The wise men could come from afar without a problem, for they did not have flocks that demanded their care. God provides circumstances for all men to worship if they so desire. The lack of worship is desire, not circumstances.

     The faithfulness of the shepherds. “Abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night” (Luke 2:8). These shepherds were good shepherds in terms of faithfulness.

·         First, their continuousness. “Abiding.” These shepherds stayed on the job. The word “abiding” is in the present active participle in the Greek and means continuous action. These shepherds stayed on the job.

·         Second, their country. “In the fields.” These were hardy souls. They were not lounging in some luxurious palace but abiding outside in pasture. They did their job though it involved much hardship.

·         Third, their care. “Watching their flock.” They were diligent stewards. If you want your sheep to do well, you will have to watch over them.

·         Fourth, their courage. “By night.” Night time brought out the wild beasts and other perils for sheep. These shepherds were courageous, however, and stayed on the job even when night came.

     The flocks of the shepherds. “Keeping watch over their flock” (Luke 2:8). The Talmud says that the sheep used for many of the sacrifices at the Temple in Jerusalem (only about six miles from Bethlehem) were raised near Bethlehem. How fitting that the angel announced the coming of Christ, the Lamb of God, to shepherds raising sheep who in their sacrifices portrayed Christ.

     The favor for the shepherds. “Shepherds abiding in the field” (Luke 2:8). The angelic announcement was given not to kings or religious leaders but to lowly shepherds. God did not send an angelic delegation to the Caesars or the high priest to inform them of Christ’s birth, but the angelic announcement came to lowly shepherds. Divine favors sometimes do come to those in high position in the world, but often the lowly are favored more than the high-ups. The lowly generally respond better to spiritual advantage that those in high position.

     The fear in the shepherds. “The angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid” (Luke 2:9). When the angels suddenly came to the shepherds, it created much fear among them.

·         First, the cause of the fear. “The angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them.” Suddenly in the darkness of the night a bright light appeared along with angelic creatures. That would frighten anyone. The darkness of the night would only add to the fear.

·         Second, the character of the fear. “Sore afraid.” This was a great fear, not a slight scare. The fact it was shepherds who were afraid only emphasizes the greatness of the fear, for they were normally among the bravest men, for they could stay out in the fields all night with the sheep.

·         Third, the compliment for the fear. “They were sore afraid” (Luke 2:9). This was a healthy fear, for it was a fear caused by Divine manifestation. Today, men do not fear God. They sin without concern about a holy God bringing judgment. They need the shepherds’ fear.

2. The Statements in the Announcement (Luke 2:10,11)

     Three major statements were made in this angelic announcements to the shepherds.

     The statement about the scare. The angel first addressed the problem of the fear of the shepherds.

·         First, the command in the statement. “Fear not” (Luke 2:10). This command was also given Zacharias (Luke 1:13) and Mary (Luke 1:30) when the angel gave them Divine announcements. This command would be difficult to obey. Obeying God is not easy but it is the best way to live.

·         Second, the comfort in the statement. “Behold, I bring you good tidings” (Luke 2:10). This news would help them to “fear not.” The word translated “bring you good tidings” is the word that gives us the English word evangelize and evangelism.

·         Third, the cheer in the statement. “Good tidings of great joy” (Luke 2:10). The news of Jesus Christ is the greatest cause of joy known to mankind.

     The statement about the Savior. The main reason for the angelic announcement was the Savior.

·         First, the responsibility to the Savior. “For unto you is born” (Luke 2:11). “Unto you” creates responsibility. We are to care for what God gives us. We all have a responsibility regarding Jesus Christ.

·         Second, the reproach for the Savior. “Born this day” (Luke 2:11). Coming to earth as a babe shows the humility and reproach which Christ experienced in coming to earth the first time.

·         Third, the region of the Savior. “In the city of David” (Luke 2:11). This was another name for Bethlehem. The angelic announcement informed the shepherds in what city Christ was born.

·         Fourth, the relevance of the Savior. “A Savior” (Luke 2:11). Being a “Savior” makes Jesus Christ relevant to all mankind because all mankind needs a Savior more than anything else.

·         Fifth, the reign of the Savior. “Christ” (Luke 2:11). The word “Christ” speaks of His Messianic office in which He will rule and reign over Israel and the whole world during the millennium.

·         Sixth, the rank of the Savior. “Lord” (Luke 2:11). This is the third title given the babe in this statement. The first was “Savior.” The second was “Christ.” Now the third is “Lord.” He is of higher rank than any human. He is called “Lord of Lords” in Revelation 19:16.

     The statement about the sign. “This shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger” (Luke 2:12). The angel gave the shepherds an important sign in the angelic statement.

·         First, the proof in the sign. “Ye shall find.” The sign was proof that what the angel said was true. The work of Christ comes with much proof (cp. Acts 1:3).

·         Second, the precept in the sign. “Ye shall find.” The precept is implied. Telling the shepherds what they would find was an indirect way of telling them to seek the Savior.

·         Third, the promise in the sign. “Ye shall find.” The promise was not apart from obedience to the seeking.

·         Fourth, the particulars of the sign. “Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” There were three specific things the shepherds would find: (1) child, (2) clothes, and (3) crib. The crib would be the most unusual aspect of the sign and also the most surprising aspect of the sign.

3. The Song With the Announcement (Luke 2:13,14)

     The announcement to the shepherds about Christ’s birth climaxed with a great chorus of angels sounding forth a great song of praise and blessing (the meaning of the great songs or anthems in Luke is that of a poem like “Psalms” and “Song of Solomon” which does not necessarily include music). This song of the angels’ chorus is called the “Gloria.” Previously we had the “Beatitude” by Elisabeth, the “Magnificat” by Mary, the “Benedictus” by Zacharias, the “Evangel” by the angel announcing Christ’s coming, and now the “Gloria.” One more song will be recorded in Luke 2 which is “Nunc Dimittis,” the song of Simeon in the Temple.

     The multitude in the song. A great heavenly choir was assembled with the angel to accompany the angel’s announcement with a great song.

·         First, the suddenness of the multitude. “Suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host” (Luke 2:13). Sudden heavenly appearances exhort us to always be ready spiritually. “Watch … lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping” (Mark 13:35,36).

·         Second, the size of the multitude. “A multitude of the heavenly host” (Luke 2:13). The word “multitude” means “fullness.” This means the area around the shepherds was full of angels. Heaven was very interested in the birth of Christ, but earth was not. Those of earth who were interested in his birth would not fill much space at all.

·         Third, the site of the multitude. “With the angel a multitude of the heavenly host” (Luke 2:13). The angel “came upon” the shepherds. “Came upon” means to stand with the shepherds, not hover over them. The host that came to stand with the angel were standing on the ground in the hills around the shepherds. These hills would make great risers for the choir of angels.

     The message in the song. The message of the song of the choir of angels was twofold.

·         First, the praise for God. “Glory to God in the highest” (Luke 2:14). Indeed God needed to be praised for sending Christ to earth to be our Savior. There is not much praise for God in the world today, but angels certainly are not hesitant to praise Him.

·         Second, the peace for men. “And on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14). Christ is the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Christ is the source of the greatest peace mankind can ever have. But many individuals exclude Christ from their life and will never know this great peace. This is why the earth knows little peace. It has excluded Christ. In fact, much of the world has done more than exclude Christ; they have openly and unhesitantly showed contempt for Christ.

 

The Action Of The Shepherds

Luke 2:15–20

     The visit by the angels caused the shepherds to take some action. Divine revelation is given for us to act upon not to sit and gloat over the fact and privilege of the revelation.

1. The Seeking by the Shepherds (Luke 2:15,16)

     The action of the shepherds was to seek Jesus Christ. The angels had informed them of Christ, now they would find Him.

     The fastness of their seeking. “Let us now go … they came with haste” (Luke 2:15,16) The shepherds did not waste time in seeking Jesus. All men should be likewise prompt in seeking the Savior.

     The faith in their seeking. “See this thing which is come to pass” (Luke 2:15). The shepherds were not religious skeptics and scoffers about Jesus Christ. They believed the truth and gave evidence of their faith by their actions. Some say they believe but their actions deny their faith. If you believe it will affect your conduct.

     The finding in their seeking. “Found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger” (Luke 2:16). There is both reward and ratification here.

·         First, the reward for faith. “Found.” Faith will experience great rewards. These shepherds, because of their faith, were the first ones to see Jesus Christ other than Mary and Joseph. Faith does not disappoint. The world’s promises disappoint, but faith does not.

·         Second, the ratification for faith. “Found.” Our faith will be ratified. It will be abundantly confirmed. Our faith stands on the solid ground of abundant and excellent evidence (cp. “many infallible proofs” of Acts 1:3). Faith is built on facts not wistful thinking.

2. The Speaking by the Shepherds (Luke 2:17–19)

     The shepherds did not keep quiet about this great news of the coming of Jesus Christ to earth, but they told it to others.

     When they spoke. “When they had seen it, they made known” (Luke 2:17). The shepherds told about Christ after they had come to see Christ for themselves. If you are going to tell people about Christ, you must first come to Christ. If you are going to teach or preach, you need to first study and become acquainted with the message.

     What they spoke. “They made known … the saying which was told them concerning this child” (Luke 2:17). Two things can be said about what the shepherds spoke.

·         First, the source of the message. “The saying which was told them.” They spoke the heavenly revelation. What was told them was the Word of God. The angels spoke God’s message. Preachers are to do the same. They are to “preach the word” (II Timothy 4:2).

·         Second, the subject of the message. “Concerning this child” (Luke 2:17). Their message focused on Jesus Christ. They did not preach Mary (Catholicism) or Joseph (cults) or the manger (social gospel), but they proclaimed Christ. If we do not proclaim Christ, we do not have a message worth proclaiming.

     Where they spoke. “Made known abroad” (Luke 2:17). The area where the shepherds told their message was the area around Bethlehem. The area was not large, but it received a good message because the word translated “made known abroad” not only speaks of where the message was spoken but also how it was spoken—the word means it was spoken fully. The shepherds did not hold back any information even if it would offend some.

     Wonderment from their speaking. The message really arrested the listeners’ attention.

·         First, of the multitudes in the wonderment. “All they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds” (Luke 2:18). The multitudes were amazed at this message. They had never heard anything like it before. They did not mock but marveled at the message.

·         Second, of the mother in the wonderment. “But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19). God had not revealed everything to Mary. She had to walk by faith. When she heard messages like what the shepherds proclaimed, it illuminated Mary more about Who Christ was, and so she did some serious thinking about this precious babe born to her.

3. The Steadfastness of the Shepherds (Luke 2:20)

     We noted earlier the faithfulness of the shepherds. Here we see it again. These men were men of high character.

Steadfastness in their duties. “The shepherds returned” (Luke 2:20). The excitement of the hour could have caused the shepherds to forsake their sheep. But they had their calling and though they were privileged by God to see and hear angels and the Christ child, this great privilege did not exempt them from their daily duties. Spiritual blessings to not make us impractical or irresponsible.

Steadfastness in their devotion. “Glorifying and praising God” (Luke 2:20). These shepherds were not just Sunday Christians who acted pious at church but ungodly during the rest of the week. Rather these shepherds would honor God in their daily lives as well as in their special spiritual experience.