Luke 2:34

Then Simeon blessed them and said to His mother Mary: "Behold, this Child is appointed to cause the rise and fall of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against,

Study Bible

Then Simeon blessed them
The act of blessing in the biblical context often involves invoking divine favor and protection. The Greek word for "blessed" here is "eulogēsen," which implies a formal pronouncement of good will and divine favor. Simeon, a devout man, recognizes the divine purpose in Jesus' life and imparts a blessing that acknowledges the sacred role of both Jesus and His family. This blessing is not just a customary greeting but a prophetic declaration, setting the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.

and said to His mother Mary
Simeon's address to Mary specifically highlights her unique role in the life of Jesus. The Greek word "eipen" (said) indicates a direct and intentional communication. Mary, as the mother of Jesus, is central to the narrative of the Incarnation. Her role is both a privilege and a burden, as she will witness the fulfillment of Simeon's prophecy. This moment underscores the personal and intimate nature of God's plan, involving real people with real emotions and challenges.

Behold, this Child
The word "Behold" (Greek "idou") is an imperative that calls for attention and reflection. It is a divine spotlight on Jesus, emphasizing His significance. "This Child" refers to Jesus, whose birth is the culmination of Old Testament prophecies and the hope of Israel. The use of "Child" (Greek "paidion") emphasizes His humanity and vulnerability, yet within this child lies the power and authority of God incarnate.

is appointed
The Greek word "keimai" means to be set or destined. This indicates that Jesus' life and mission are not random but divinely ordained. His coming is part of God's sovereign plan, predetermined before the foundation of the world. This appointment underscores the certainty and purposefulness of God's redemptive work through Christ.

for the fall and rise of many in Israel
The phrase "fall and rise" (Greek "ptōsin kai anastasin") suggests a paradoxical outcome of Jesus' ministry. "Fall" implies judgment and rejection, while "rise" indicates salvation and restoration. Jesus' presence will be a dividing line, revealing the hearts of many. Those who reject Him will fall, while those who accept Him will rise to new life. This dual outcome reflects the prophetic nature of Jesus' mission, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecies about the Messiah as both a stumbling block and a cornerstone.

and to be a sign
The word "sign" (Greek "sēmeion") refers to a miraculous or significant event that points to a deeper reality. Jesus Himself is the ultimate sign, embodying God's presence and power. His life, death, and resurrection are signs that reveal God's love and justice. This sign is not merely for wonder but for revelation, calling people to faith and repentance.

that will be spoken against
The phrase "spoken against" (Greek "antilegomenon") indicates opposition and controversy. Jesus' life and message will provoke resistance and hostility. This opposition is not just from political or religious leaders but from all who reject His claims. The prophecy foreshadows the conflict and suffering Jesus will endure, culminating in the cross. Yet, through this opposition, God's purposes will be accomplished, and the truth of the Gospel will be revealed.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Simeon
A devout and righteous man in Jerusalem who was promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. He is a key figure in recognizing Jesus as the Messiah.

2. Mary
The mother of Jesus, who is present during Simeon's prophecy. She is a central figure in the nativity account and the life of Jesus.

3. Jesus (the Child)
Referred to as the one appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel. His life and mission are central to the fulfillment of God's promises.

4. Israel
The nation to whom Jesus was sent as the Messiah. The prophecy indicates that Jesus' coming will have significant implications for the people of Israel.

5. The Temple in Jerusalem
The setting where this event takes place, symbolizing the heart of Jewish worship and the fulfillment of God's promises.

Teaching Points

The Dual Nature of Jesus' Mission
Jesus' coming brings both judgment and salvation. His presence causes a division between those who accept Him and those who reject Him.

The Role of Prophecy
Simeon's words remind us of the importance of prophecy in understanding God's plan. Prophecies are fulfilled in Jesus, affirming His identity as the Messiah.

The Cost of Discipleship
Following Jesus may lead to opposition and misunderstanding, as He is a sign that will be spoken against. Believers should be prepared for challenges in their faith journey.

The Rise and Fall
Jesus' impact is transformative. He raises those who humble themselves and fall before Him in repentance, while those who reject Him face spiritual downfall.

Mary's Role and Experience
As the mother of Jesus, Mary is both blessed and burdened by her unique role. Her experience reflects the joy and sorrow intertwined in the Christian journey.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Simeon's prophecy in Luke 2:34 reflect the broader theme of Jesus as a divisive figure in the Gospels?

2. In what ways can believers today experience Jesus as both a cornerstone and a stumbling block in their lives?

3. How does the prophecy of Jesus causing the rise and fall of many challenge our understanding of success and failure in God's kingdom?

4. What can we learn from Mary's response to Simeon's prophecy about handling the blessings and burdens of following Christ?

5. How do the prophecies in Isaiah and the writings of Paul and Peter deepen our understanding of Jesus' role as a sign that will be spoken against?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 8:14-15
This passage speaks of a stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall, which parallels the idea of Jesus being a sign that will be spoken against and causing the fall and rise of many.

Romans 9:32-33
Paul discusses how Jesus became a stumbling stone for Israel, which aligns with Simeon's prophecy about Jesus' impact on the nation.

1 Peter 2:7-8
Peter refers to Jesus as the cornerstone, precious to believers but a stone of stumbling to those who reject Him, echoing the dual response to Jesus' ministry.