Luke 2:23

(as it is written in the Law of the Lord: "Every firstborn male shall be consecrated to the Lord"),

Study Bible

as it is written in the Law of the Lord
This phrase underscores the importance of the Mosaic Law in the life of Jesus and His family. The Greek word for "written" is "γέγραπται" (gegraptai), which is in the perfect tense, indicating a completed action with ongoing results. This suggests that the Law of the Lord, as given in the Old Testament, remains authoritative and relevant. The phrase emphasizes the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, showing that Jesus' life and mission were in fulfillment of the Scriptures. Historically, this reflects the Jewish tradition of adhering to the Torah, which was central to Jewish identity and religious practice.

Every firstborn male
The term "firstborn" (Greek: πρωτότοκος, prototokos) is significant both culturally and theologically. In Jewish tradition, the firstborn male held a special place of honor and responsibility. This concept is rooted in the Passover narrative (Exodus 13:2), where God spared the firstborn of Israel. Theologically, Jesus being the "firstborn" signifies His preeminence and unique status as the Son of God. It also foreshadows His role as the firstborn from the dead (Colossians 1:18), highlighting His resurrection and the new creation He inaugurates.

shall be consecrated to the Lord
The word "consecrated" (Greek: ἅγιος, hagios) means to be set apart as holy. This reflects the practice described in Exodus 13:2, where the firstborn were dedicated to God as a reminder of His deliverance of Israel from Egypt. In the context of Jesus, this consecration is not just a ritual act but a profound declaration of His divine mission. Jesus is set apart for the work of salvation, embodying the ultimate fulfillment of what it means to be consecrated to the Lord. This dedication is a precursor to His sacrificial role, emphasizing His holiness and purpose.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus
The firstborn Son of Mary and Joseph, whose presentation at the temple is the focus of this passage.

2. Mary and Joseph
The earthly parents of Jesus, who are obediently following the Law of the Lord by presenting Jesus at the temple.

3. The Temple in Jerusalem
The sacred place where Jewish rituals, including the consecration of the firstborn, were performed.

4. The Law of the Lord
Refers to the Mosaic Law, specifically the commandment regarding the consecration of the firstborn, as found in Exodus 13:2.

5. The Firstborn
In Jewish tradition, the firstborn male holds a special place and is dedicated to God, symbolizing God's claim over all creation.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Law
Mary and Joseph's actions demonstrate their commitment to following God's commandments. As believers, we are called to live in obedience to God's Word, recognizing its authority in our lives.

Significance of the Firstborn
The consecration of the firstborn symbolizes God's sovereignty and His claim over all creation. It reminds us of the importance of dedicating our lives and resources to God.

Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Law
Jesus' presentation at the temple signifies His role in fulfilling the Law. As Christians, we understand that Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the Law, and through Him, we find our redemption.

The Role of Tradition in Faith
The adherence to the tradition of consecrating the firstborn reflects the value of maintaining spiritual practices that honor God. We should evaluate how traditions in our faith communities help us grow closer to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the consecration of the firstborn in the Old Testament relate to the presentation of Jesus in the temple?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate obedience to God's Word in our daily lives, as Mary and Joseph did?

3. How does understanding Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law impact our view of Old Testament commandments?

4. What are some traditions in your faith community that help you grow spiritually, and how do they align with biblical teachings?

5. How can the concept of dedicating the firstborn to God inspire us to dedicate our own lives and resources to His service?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 13:2
This verse provides the original commandment that every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord, establishing the foundation for the practice described in Luke 2:23.

Numbers 18:15-16
These verses elaborate on the redemption of the firstborn, indicating the payment required to redeem them, which Mary and Joseph would have adhered to.

1 Samuel 1:24-28
Hannah's dedication of Samuel to the Lord parallels the presentation of Jesus, highlighting the theme of dedicating one's child to God's service.