Luke 2:22

And when the time of purification according to the Law of Moses was complete, His parents brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord

Study Bible

And when the days of their purification
The phrase "days of their purification" refers to the period prescribed by the Mosaic Law for a woman after childbirth. According to Leviticus 12, a woman was considered ceremonially unclean for a set number of days after giving birth. For a male child, this period was 40 days. The Greek word for "purification" is "katharismos," which implies a cleansing or purifying process. This reflects the Jewish understanding of ritual purity, which was essential for maintaining a proper relationship with God. The purification process underscores the humanity of Jesus, born under the Law, and the obedience of Mary and Joseph to God's commandments.

according to the Law of Moses
This phrase emphasizes the adherence to the Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament, traditionally attributed to Moses. The "Law of Moses" is a central element of Jewish identity and religious practice. It signifies the covenantal relationship between God and Israel. By fulfilling the requirements of the Law, Mary and Joseph demonstrate their piety and faithfulness. This obedience sets the stage for Jesus, who would later fulfill the Law and the Prophets, as stated in Matthew 5:17. The phrase also highlights the continuity between the Old and New Covenants, showing that Jesus' life and mission are deeply rooted in Jewish tradition.

were completed
The completion of the purification period signifies readiness for the next step in the religious observance. The Greek word "plēroō" means to fulfill or bring to completion. This completion is not just a legalistic requirement but a spiritual readiness to present Jesus to the Lord. It symbolizes the fulfillment of God's promises and the preparation for the new covenant that Jesus would inaugurate. The completion of these days also points to the meticulous observance of God's commands by Mary and Joseph, setting an example of faithfulness and devotion.

they brought Him to Jerusalem
Jerusalem, the city of David, is the spiritual and political center of Jewish life. Bringing Jesus to Jerusalem is significant because it is the place where God's presence dwelt in the Temple. The act of bringing Jesus to Jerusalem foreshadows His future ministry and ultimate sacrifice in this city. The Greek word "anapherō" means to bring up or lead up, indicating a journey of spiritual significance. This journey to Jerusalem is a precursor to Jesus' later journeys to the city, culminating in His crucifixion and resurrection.

to present Him to the Lord
The presentation of Jesus to the Lord is an act of dedication and consecration. According to Exodus 13:2, every firstborn male was to be consecrated to the Lord. The Greek word "paristēmi" means to present or offer, signifying an act of worship and submission to God's will. This presentation is a profound moment of recognition that Jesus belongs to God and is set apart for His divine purpose. It also prefigures Jesus' role as the ultimate High Priest and sacrificial Lamb, who would offer Himself for the salvation of humanity. The presentation is a moment of divine acknowledgment and human obedience, encapsulating the essence of Jesus' mission on earth.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mary and Joseph
The earthly parents of Jesus, who are obedient to the Law of Moses, demonstrating their faithfulness and piety.

2. Jesus
The infant being presented at the temple, fulfilling the requirements of the Law and foreshadowing His role as the fulfillment of the Law.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the temple is located, a central place of worship and significant in Jewish religious life.

4. The Law of Moses
Refers to the commandments given to the Israelites, including the purification rites and the presentation of the firstborn.

5. Purification
A ceremonial process required by the Law, symbolizing spiritual cleanliness and dedication to God.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Law
Mary and Joseph's actions demonstrate the importance of obedience to God's commands, even in seemingly small matters.

Fulfillment of the Law
Jesus' presentation at the temple signifies the beginning of His fulfillment of the Law, pointing to His ultimate sacrifice.

Dedication to God
The act of presenting Jesus to the Lord serves as a model for dedicating our lives and families to God.

Spiritual Purity
The purification rites remind us of the need for spiritual cleanliness and the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice.

Role of Tradition
The adherence to tradition by Mary and Joseph shows the value of religious practices in maintaining faith and community.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of Mary and Joseph to the Law of Moses challenge us in our daily walk with God?

2. In what ways does Jesus' presentation at the temple foreshadow His role as the fulfillment of the Law?

3. How can we apply the concept of spiritual purification in our lives today, considering the sacrifice of Jesus?

4. What traditions or practices in your faith community help you stay connected to God, and how do they compare to the practices observed by Mary and Joseph?

5. How does understanding the cultural and religious context of Jesus' early life enhance our appreciation of His mission and sacrifice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Leviticus 12
Provides the background for the purification rites after childbirth, which Mary and Joseph are observing.

Exodus 13:2
Commands the consecration of the firstborn to the Lord, which is being fulfilled in this passage.

Hebrews 10:1-10
Discusses how Jesus fulfills the Law, including the ceremonial aspects, through His ultimate sacrifice.

Galatians 4:4-5
Speaks of Jesus being born under the Law to redeem those under the Law, highlighting His role in fulfilling the Law's requirements.