Luke 2:26

The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

Study Bible

The Holy Spirit
The phrase "The Holy Spirit" refers to the third person of the Trinity, who is active in the world, guiding, comforting, and revealing God's truth to believers. In the Greek, "Holy Spirit" is "ἅγιον πνεῦμα" (hagion pneuma), emphasizing the sacred and set-apart nature of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit's role in revelation is significant, as it underscores the divine communication and assurance given to Simeon. This highlights the intimate relationship between God and His people, where the Spirit acts as a bridge, ensuring that God's promises are personally and powerfully communicated.

had revealed
The Greek word for "revealed" is "κεχρηματισμένον" (kechrēmatismenon), which implies a divine communication or oracle. This term suggests that the revelation was not a mere impression or feeling but a clear and authoritative message from God. The use of this word indicates the certainty and reliability of the message given to Simeon, reinforcing the idea that God's promises are trustworthy and will come to pass.

to him
The phrase "to him" personalizes the revelation, indicating that God’s communication is not just a general truth but a specific promise to an individual. This personal aspect of God's interaction with Simeon reflects the broader biblical theme of God's personal care and attention to His people. It serves as a reminder that God knows each of us intimately and has a unique plan and purpose for our lives.

that he would not see death
This phrase is a promise of life until a particular event occurs. The assurance that Simeon "would not see death" before witnessing the Messiah is a profound testament to God's control over life and death. It reflects the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and His ability to fulfill His promises in His perfect timing. This assurance would have provided Simeon with hope and anticipation, knowing that his life had a divine purpose that would be fulfilled.

before he had seen
The phrase "before he had seen" indicates a future event that Simeon eagerly anticipated. The Greek word "ἴδῃ" (idē) for "seen" implies not just a physical sight but a spiritual recognition and understanding. This suggests that Simeon's encounter with the Messiah would be a moment of profound spiritual insight and fulfillment, aligning with the biblical theme of revelation and recognition of God's work in the world.

the Lord’s Christ
"The Lord’s Christ" refers to the Messiah, the anointed one sent by God to bring salvation. The term "Christ" comes from the Greek "Χριστός" (Christos), meaning "anointed one," equivalent to the Hebrew "Messiah." This title emphasizes Jesus' divine mission and authority as the one chosen by God to fulfill the prophecies and bring redemption. The use of "the Lord’s" highlights the divine origin and purpose of Christ, underscoring the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through Jesus. This phrase encapsulates the hope and expectation of Israel and the world for a Savior, a hope that Simeon was privileged to witness firsthand.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Simeon
A devout and righteous man in Jerusalem who was waiting for the consolation of Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him, and he was promised that he would not die before seeing the Messiah.

2. The Holy Spirit
The third person of the Trinity, who revealed to Simeon that he would see the Messiah before his death. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding and revealing God's plans to His people.

3. The Lord’s Christ
Refers to Jesus, the Messiah, whom Simeon was promised to see. "Christ" is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Messiah," meaning "Anointed One."

4. Jerusalem
The city where these events took place, significant as the religious and cultural center of Jewish life and the location of the Temple.

5. The Consolation of Israel
A term referring to the hope and expectation of the coming Messiah who would bring comfort and redemption to Israel.

Teaching Points

The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit actively communicates God's promises and guidance to believers. We should seek to be sensitive to the Spirit's leading in our lives.

Faith and Patience
Simeon's life exemplifies faith and patience as he waited for God's promise to be fulfilled. We are encouraged to trust in God's timing and promises.

The Fulfillment of God's Promises
God's promises are sure and will be fulfilled. Simeon's experience reminds us that God is faithful to His word.

The Expectation of Christ
Just as Simeon awaited the first coming of Christ, we are called to live in expectation of His return.

The Importance of Spiritual Readiness
Simeon's readiness to receive the Messiah challenges us to be spiritually prepared for God's work in our lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the Holy Spirit's role in Simeon's life encourage you to seek His guidance in your own life?

2. In what ways can you cultivate patience and faith as you wait for God's promises to be fulfilled?

3. How does Simeon's expectation of the Messiah inspire you to live in anticipation of Christ's return?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to ensure you are spiritually ready for God's work in your life?

5. How can the fulfillment of God's promises in the Bible strengthen your trust in His faithfulness today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 40:1-2
This passage speaks of comfort and consolation for God's people, which aligns with Simeon's expectation of the Messiah as the "consolation of Israel."

Acts 2:17-18
This passage describes the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, similar to how the Holy Spirit revealed the promise to Simeon.

Hebrews 11:13
Discusses the faith of those who died without seeing the promises fulfilled, contrasting with Simeon, who was promised to see the Messiah before his death.