Chron7pt6

The Scriptures do not tell us when Jesus was born. However, we are told he was crucified at the time of Passover which is usually around our April. He would have been approximately 33 ½ years old at the time as His ministry began when he was about 30-ref Lk 3:23. The Scriptures indicate that His ministry was 3 ½ years long. It is unlikely that the shepherds would have been out tending their flocks at night during the winter, as it would be quite cold there. It is reasonable to believe He may have been born between our August to October. Some believe it may have been on a Jewish feast date in our September

JESUS IS ANNOUNCED TO THE HUMBLE

It is further noted that the birth of Christ was not first announced to the great men or kings of the earth, or the religious leaders in Jerusalem, but to humble shepherds-ref Lk 2:8-12. It is much the same today. The coming of Jesus to remove His people from the earth before the Antichrist comes forth and the tribulation begins is not understood by the great men or kings of the earth, or even to so called religious leaders of the earth, but to humble shepherds and servants of God that have put their faith and trust in the Jesus of the Bible as their only hope.

Lk 2:15.    AND IT CAME TO PASS,
AS THE ANGELS WERE GONE AWAY FROM THEM
INTO HEAVEN. It is interesting to note that the angels did not appear to the chief priest, other religious leaders, or those in authority at that time. Of all the great people on the earth the angels appeared only to the shepherds. One can only imagine how the shepherds must have been after the angels left. They were undoubtedly astonished and still a bit scarred. The verse continues—
THE SHEPHERDS SAID ONE TO ANOTHER,
LET US NOW GO EVEN (straight) (TO) BETHLEHEM (which means the house of bread). Jesus is that true
bread from heaven-ref Jn 6:32,33. The verse continues—
AND SEE THIS THING WHICH IS COME TO PASS,
WHICH THE LORD (HAS) MADE KNOWN (TO) US. The shepherds believed the angels. There was no doubt. It appears without hesitation, they desired to go to Bethlehem to see the Messiah. How many of them there were, or if any of them stayed behind to keep an eye on the sheep is not mentioned.
The arrival of the wise men was later on when Mary, Joseph and the child Jesus were living in a house. Note, there is no mention of the star which appeared to the wise men.

Lk 2:16.    AND THEY (HURRIED). The shepherds went without delay—
AND FOUND (their way to) MARY, AND JOSEPH,
AND THE (BABY). The town of Bethlehem was little. The shepherds apparently knew exactly where to go. There is no mention of other people being present. There is no mention of a crowd being gathered for one of the greatest events in the history of the world. The verse continues—
(Who was) LYING IN A (FEEDING TROUGH). Jesus Christ (God who came to this earth in human form) had a very humble beginning. He was not born in a rich and prestigious environment. Later he would tell His followers, “Follow Me.” This He said many times including Lk 9:23. Jesus set the example. While the shepherds were there they probably shared with Joseph and Mary the vision of the angels. Joseph and Mary may have in turn shared some things with them as well.

Lk 2:17.    AND WHEN THEY HAD SEEN (HIM),
THEY (which are the shepherds)
(SPREAD) ABROAD THE (STATEMENT)
WHICH WAS TOLD THEM CONCERNING THIS CHILD. The shepherds became the first preachers. First they spread the good news of the birth of the Messiah, and the message that the angel had given to them. They did not return first to their sheep.
Note the order of things. First God makes known to the shepherds (or the first preachers of the Good News) the message, and they in turn tell the people.

Lk 2:18.    AND ALL THEY THAT HEARD IT (WERE AMAZED)
AT THOSE THINGS WHICH WERE TOLD THEM. The people that the shepherds told were greatly honored by God to be the first to learn of the birth of the Messiah after the shepherds were told by the angels and had seen the Christ with their own eyes. The verse continues—
BY THE SHEPHERDS. It is noted that all that heard the message from the shepherds were amazed. This would have included the events of the angels appearing to the shepherds, the birth of the Messiah, and the place and circumstances in which He was born. As a result of this, other people that learned of the birth of the Messiah would have undoubtedly also went to see the baby Jesus.

Lk 2:19.    BUT MARY KEPT (or treasured up)
ALL THESE THINGS,
AND (KEPT MULLING) THEM (over)
IN HER HEART. The various events that were happening and the things which were being told to Mary, she
keep thinking about them. The angel first appeared to Mary. Then she became pregnant but was still a virgin. Then there were the events which happened regarding Elizabeth and her husband and the words which she had spoken. Then there was the birth of John and what was done and spoken. Then an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream; now, the events that happened with the shepherds. Mary, indeed, had much to think about.

Lk 2:20.   AND THE SHEPHERDS RETURNED (back). After telling the people about the birth of the Messiah, then the shepherds returned to their sheep. They were—
GLORIFYING AND PRAISING GOD
FOR ALL THE THINGS THAT THEY HAD HEARD
AND SEEN, (which was just)
AS IT WAS TOLD UNTO THEM. The shepherds were fully persuaded this was the Messiah. They glorified
and praised God.

Lk 2:21.    AND WHEN EIGHT DAYS WERE (COMPLETED)
FOR THE CIRCUMCISING OF THE CHILD (or on the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise Him-NIV). This is covered in Lev 12:3, Gen 17:10-15, Ex 12:43-45, and Ro 4:1-16. Joseph and Mary obeyed the law that had been handed down regarding circumcism. If this took place in Bethlehem is not mentioned. The verse continues—
HIS NAME WAS CALLED JESUS. It was at this time that the baby was to be named. The name of Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew name of Joshua. It means “Saviour” or “Yahweh or God is salvation” or as Mt 2:21 says HE SHALL SAVE HIS PEOPLE FROM THEIR SINS. Jesus came to save mankind that are justly doomed to (death) which is eternal separation from God in the lake of fire under the law. The verse continues—
WHICH WAS SO NAMED OF THE ANGEL
BEFORE HE WAS CONCEIVED IN THE WOMB. Again Joseph and Mary obeyed the messages of the angels. An angel had commanded Joseph that the child should be called Jesus in Mt 1:21 and Mary had been commanded also in Lk 1:31.
Gal 4:4-Jesus was MADE OF A WOMAN, MADE UNDER THE LAW. Now he is circumcised which made Him obligated to do the whole law, which no man can do, but Jesus did. Jesus is able to redeem those under the curse of the law as it is written: Gal 3:13-CHRIST HATH REDEEMED US FROM THE CURSE OF THE LAW, BEING MADE A CURSE FOR US: FOR IT IS WRITTEN, CURSED IS EVERY ONE THAT HANGETH ON A TREE:
No mention is made where in the area they were now living. It is assumed that many people sought them out because of the message they had heard from the shepherds. It is noted that even before the Babe was conceived in the womb, His name had been given. God forbid, so many people in this wicked generation now kill the babies that are in the wombs because they are unwanted.

Lk 2:22.    AND WHEN THE DAYS OF HER PURIFICATION
ACCORDING TO THE LAW OF MOSES
  WERE (COMPLETED). The time period here was 40 days after the birth of a male or 80 days after the birth of a daughter-ref Lev 12:2-8.
A child being born brought to remembrance the events that happened at Eden. It was the woman that was the instrument of the rebellion. Thus if a girl was born the mother could not go to the temple for 80 days. For a boy she could not go for 40 days. The verse continues—
THEY BROUGHT HIM (up)
TO JERUSALEM. Often times when the word “down” or “up” is used it refers to elevation, not a northern or southern direction. Two examples might be that he went “down” to Jericho from Jerusalem, or “up” to Jerusalem from Jericho. Jericho is below sea level. Jerusalem is located up in the hills and is west of Jericho. The verse continues—
TO PRESENT HIM TO THE LORD. The trip from Bethlehem to the temple in Jerusalem was about five miles. Jerusalem is north of Bethlehem. References-Ex 13:12, 22:19, 34:19,10; Num 13:13, and 18:15.

Lk 2:23.    (AS IT IS WRITTEN IN THE LAW OF THE LORD,
EVERY [first-born] MALE
THAT [OPENS] THE WOMB
  SHALL BE CALLED HOLY [or is to be consecrated-NIV] TO THE LORD;). This refers to the following. Ex 13:2-SANCTIFY UNTO ME ALL THE FIRSTBORN, WHATSOEVER OPENETH THE WOMB AMONG THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL, BOTH OF MAN AND OF BEAST: IT IS MINE. Num 18:15-EVERY THING THAT OPENETH THE MATRIX IN ALL FLESH, WHICH THEY BRING UNTO THE LORD, WHETHER IT BE OF MEN OR BEASTS, SHALL BE THINE: NEVERTHELESS THE FIRSTBORN OF MAN SHALT THOU SURELY REDEEM, AND THE FIRSTLING OF UNCLEAN BEASTS SHALT THOU REDEEM. Col 1:13,15-…HIS DEAR SON (which is Jesus):…WHO IS THE IMAGE OF THE INVISIBLE GOD, THE FIRSTBORN OF EVERY CREATURE: Ro 8:29…THAT HE (Jesus) MIGHT BE THE FIRSTBORN AMONG MANY BRETHREN.

Lk 2:24.    AND (also) TO OFFER A SACRIFICE ACCORDING TO THAT WHICH IS SAID
IN THE LAW OF THE LORD,
A PAIR OF TURTLEDOVES,
OR TWO YOUNG PIGEONS. Over and over we are seeing that Joseph and Mary obeyed the law. The sacrifice that was given reflects poverty. The sacrifice recommended was a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon, or a turtledove, for a sin offering, but if she be not able to bring a lamb, then she shall bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons; the one for the burnt offering, and the other for a sin offering. It is written Lev 12:5-8-BUT IF SHE BEAR A MAID CHILD, THEN SHE SHALL BE UNCLEAN TWO WEEKS, AS IN HER SEPARATION: AND SHE SHALL CONTINUE IN THE BLOOD OF HER PURIFYING THREESCORE AND SIX DAYS.
AND WHEN THE DAYS OF HER PURIFYING ARE FULFILLED, FOR A SON, OR FOR A DAUGHTER, SHE SHALL BRING A LAMB OF THE FIRST YEAR FOR A BURNT OFFERING, AND A YOUNG PIGEON, OR A TURTLEDOVE, FOR A SIN OFFERING, UNTO THE DOOR OF THE TABERNACLE OF THE CONGREGATION, UNTO THE PRIEST:
WHO SHALL OFFER IT BEFORE THE LORD, AND MAKE AN ATONEMENT FOR HER; AND SHE SHALL BE CLEANSED FROM THE ISSUE OF HER BLOOD. THIS IS THE LAW FOR HER THAT HATH BORN A MALE OR A FEMALE.
AND IF SHE BE NOT ABLE TO BRING A LAMB, THEN SHE SHALL BRING TWO TURTLES (doves), OR TWO YOUNG PIGEONS; THE ONE FOR THE BURNT OFFERING, AND THE OTHER FOR A SIN OFFERING: AND THE PRIEST SHALL MAKE AN ATONEMENT FOR HER, AND SHE SHALL BE CLEAN.
The fact that she did not give a lamb appears to also indicate that the wise men had not yet come with their gifts, which included gold-ref Mt 2:11.

Lk 2:25.    AND, BEHOLD,
THERE WAS A MAN IN JERUSALEM,
WHOSE NAME WAS SIMEON; AND THE SAME MAN
WAS (RIGHTEOUS) AND DEVOUT (or reverent). He was one of the few faithful in Israel that had not fallen
into leaven or false traditions and teachings of the religious leaders. The verse continues—
WAITING (eagerly)
FOR THE CONSOLATION OF (or God to comfort)
ISRAEL. Israel was expecting the Messiah-ref Lk 2:25,36,38. However, they were not expecting a suffering Messiah, but rather one that would come and restore again the kingdom to Israel-ref Acts 1:6.
Then Jesus was born of a virgin-ref Lk 1:26,27,35; 2:4-7. The birth, life, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus, fulfilled hundreds of Scriptures. The Scriptures give us approximately 172 reasons why Jesus came the first time.
Later, when the wise men came to Jerusalem, inquiring, WHERE IS HE THAT IS BORN KING OF THE JEWS?-Mt 2:2, Herod gathered the chief priests and scribes together. He demanded of them where Christ should be born-ref Mt 2:4. AND THEY SAID UNTO HIM, IN BETHLEHEM-Mt 2:5. Although they were troubled, it did not seem to surprise them that this was the time for the Messiah.
Daniel's prophecy made it clear—this was the time to expect the Messiah. The Messiah is Jesus.
Later on, Joseph, the counselor of Arimathaea was also waiting for the kingdom of God-ref Lk 23:50,51.
Simeon was waiting and expecting the Messiah also. The verse continues—
AND THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit) WAS UPON HIM. Note, it did not say “in” him but “upon” him.

Lk 2:26.    AND IT WAS REVEALED (TO) HIM
BY THE HOLY GHOST (or Spirit),
THAT HE SHOULD NOT (DIE),
BEFORE HE HAD SEEN THE LORD'S CHRIST (or Messiah). It appears that Simeon had a special revelation from God regarding the coming of the Messiah. When things are revealed to us, they are revealed by the Holy Ghost.

THE HOLY SPIRIT

It is written: Jn 14:26-BUT THE COMFORTER, WHICH IS THE HOLY GHOST, WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, HE SHALL TEACH YOU ALL THINGS, AND BRING ALL THINGS TO YOUR REMEMBRANCE, WHATSOEVER I HAVE SAID UNTO YOU.
1 Cor 2:12,13-NOW WE HAVE RECEIVED, NOT THE SPIRIT OF THE WORLD, BUT THE SPIRIT WHICH IS OF GOD; THAT WE MIGHT KNOW THE THINGS THAT ARE FREELY GIVEN TO US OF GOD. WHICH THINGS ALSO WE SPEAK, NOT IN THE WORDS WHICH MAN'S WISDOM TEACHETH, BUT WHICH THE HOLY GHOST TEACHETH; COMPARING SPIRITUAL THINGS WITH SPIRITUAL. Whatever any person believes they have received from the Holy Ghost should always is checked by God’s Word. If it is contrary to God’s Word, then it cannot be from God.
There are even times when we believe we sense something, and it does comes to pass, but it is not in harmony with the Gospel. Then it is not from God, as it is written-Deut 13:1-3-IF THERE ARISE AMONG YOU A PROPHET, OR A DREAMER OF DREAMS, AND GIVETH THEE A SIGN OR A WONDER, AND THE SIGN OR THE WONDER COME TO PASS, WHEREOF HE SPAKE UNTO THEE, SAYING, LET US GO AFTER OTHER GODS, WHICH THOU HAST NOT KNOWN, AND LET US SERVE THEM; THOU SHALT NOT HEARKEN UNTO THE WORDS OF THAT PROPHET, OR THAT DREAMER OF DREAMS: FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD PROVETH YOU, TO KNOW WHETHER YE LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL.

Lk 2:27.    AND HE CAME (or was prompted)
BY THE SPIRIT
INTO THE TEMPLE (courts). The Spirit of God can lead us to be in a certain place at a certain time for a certain event to fulfill His will. This can happen in different ways. He may have had a revelation or strong impression from God to go there for the very purpose he went. He may have gone to the Temple for another reason totally unrelated to seeing the child Jesus, not knowing the real reason God was leading him there. Through various events and situations that arise, even delays sometimes, God knows just how to have us at a certain place at an exact time to fulfill His will. In Mt 4:1-it is noted that Jesus was LED UP OF THE SPIRIT INTO THE WILDERNESS. The verse continues—
AND WHEN THE PARENTS BROUGHT IN THE CHILD JESUS,
TO (CARRY OUT) FOR HIM AFTER THE CUSTOM OF THE LAW (or what the…Law required-NIV). This was covered under verses 23 and 24. The baby at this time would have been about 6 weeks old.

Lk 2:28.       THEN (SIMEON TOOK) HIM UP
IN HIS ARMS. Simeon held the baby Jesus, the Messiah, the Promised one. This is the first time it is mentioned that anyone (other than Mary or Joseph) held the baby Jesus. The verse continues—
AND BLESSED (or praised)
GOD. It is noted that he first praised God. One must have wondered what awesome thoughts Simeon must have
had regarding actually holding the Messiah, and what grateful thoughts he had regarding God. One might even consider that he had tears of wonderment and gratefulness in his eyes. After this Simeon spoke. The verse continues—
AND SAID,

Lk 2:29.    (Sovereign) LORD,
NOW (YOU ARE LETTING) (YOUR) (bond) SERVANT
DEPART IN PEACE. Death, in the case of a saved person, is a departure from corruption to incorruption, eternal joy and peace. It is not an “end,” but the welcomed “beginning” of eternity. The verse continues—
ACCORDING TO (YOUR) WORD (or as You have promised-NIV) (or Your servant is at peace as You let
him go-JNT). God’s exact Word to him about seeing the Messiah had been fulfilled. . The wording seems to indicate that much time may have passed since God had given him the revelation that he would see the Lord’s Christ before he died. Simeon had the faith to stay the course and patiently wait on the Lord for the revelation to be fulfilled.
Simeon could recognize the Lord’s voice and was able to discern correctly. He had reached the point in his life where he had no fear of dying for he knew he would not perish.

Lk 2:30.    FOR (MY) (own) EYES HAVE SEEN (YOUR) SALVATION. The babe was like any
other, yet through faith immediately Simeon knew that this baby was the Messiah. He knew this was God’s salvation. He had faith with no doubts. He knew that through this Baby, salvation would come. Jesus is salvation. Jesus is light. Jesus is life. Salvation is not found through faith (or trust) in a temple, a denomination, a church, a set of rules, or trying to be a good person. Salvation can only be found through faith (or trust) in the person of Jesus Christ alone. This is God’s salvation. This is God’s way.

Lk 2:31.    WHICH (YOU) (HAVE) PREPARED
(IN THE PRESENCE)
OF ALL PEOPLE. Note the words in the following verses, God sent. It is written:
Jn 3:17-FOR GOD SENT…HIS SON INTO THE WORLD…THAT THE WORLD THROUGH HIM MIGHT BE SAVED.
Acts 10:36-THE WORD WHICH GOD SENT UNTO THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL, PREACHING PEACE BY JESUS CHRIST: (HE IS LORD OF ALL:)
Gal 4:4-BUT WHEN THE FULNESS OF THE TIME WAS COME, GOD SENT FORTH HIS SON, MADE OF A WOMAN, MADE UNDER THE LAW,
1 Jn 4:9-IN THIS WAS MANIFESTED THE LOVE OF GOD TOWARD US, BECAUSE THAT GOD SENT HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON INTO THE WORLD, THAT WE MIGHT LIVE THROUGH HIM.

Lk 2:32.    A LIGHT. Note that Jesus is light. He is directly or indirectly also referred to as light in Mt 4:16; Lk 1:79; 2:32; Jn 1:4,5,7,8, 20,21, 12:35,
Jesus is that TRUE LIGHT-ref Jn 1:9. He is that light that IS COME INTO THE WORLD-ref Jn 3:19. Jesus said clearly in Jn 8:12 and 9:5-I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. Other verses also refer to Jesus as light. The verse continues—
TO LIGHTEN (or bring revelation to)
THE GENTILES. Simeon is revealing that Jesus is not for the Jews only, but also a light or revelation to the Gentiles. This was also written in Isa 49:6-I WILL ALSO GIVE THEE FOR A LIGHT TO THE GENTILES, THAT THOU MAYEST BE MY SALVATION UNTO THE END OF THE EARTH.
Isa 42:6 also tells us-I…GIVE THEE FOR…A LIGHT OF THE GENTILES.
The revelation that Jesus came not only for the Jew but also for the Gentiles was difficult for the Jews to accept-ref Acts 11:1-18.
The verse continues—
AND THE GLORY OF (YOUR) PEOPLE ISRAEL. Jesus is also the Glory of the people Israel yet He came unto
His own, and His own received Him not-ref Jn 1:11. They did not recognize the time of their visitation-ref Lk 19:44. Jesus is the Glory as written but to believers, not to unbelievers. This verse shall have its complete fulfillment when Jesus returns in power and great glory-ref Mt 24:30.
We are reminded of Lk 4:18,19 when Jesus was in Nazareth. He said these words: THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME, BECAUSE HE HATH ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR; HE HATH SENT ME TO HEAL THE BROKENHEARTED, TO PREACH DELIVERANCE TO THE CAPTIVES, AND RECOVERING OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND, TO SET AT LIBERTY THEM THAT ARE BRUISED, TO PREACH THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD.

Lk 2:33.    AND JOSEPH AND HIS MOTHER. It is noted that Joseph was not called the child’s father, but Mary was called the child’s mother. The verse continues—
(WERE AMAZED) AT THOSE THINGS
WHICH WERE SPOKEN OF HIM. Both Joseph and Mary were (as one might say) flabbergasted regarding the things that Simeon spoke. Just how much they understood what was being said is unknown.

Lk 2:34.    AND SIMEON BLESSED THEM. Simeon blessed Joseph and Mary. No mention is made that he blessed the babe for Jesus is the one that blesses. The verse continues—
AND SAID (TO) MARY HIS MOTHER,
BEHOLD, THIS CHILD
IS (DESTINED) (TO CAUSE) THE FALL AND RISING AGAIN OF MANY IN ISRAEL. Many in Israel rejected Jesus, but a few did not. Many were enraged at the revelation of Jesus Christ because of their sin. Jesus is the Foundation-ref 1 Cor 3:11, or Chief Corner Stone-ref Eph 2:20. He is hope and salvation to the obedient—but to the disobedient He is the stone that people stumble over and a Rock that makes men fall. They stumble because they disobey God’s Word-ref 1 Pe 2:8, Isa 8:14-Jesus said in Jn 15:22,24-If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin. If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father. Heb 4:12-For the word of God (which is Jesus) is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes (or intents) of the heart-NIV.
Israel was destroyed within a generation of the crucifixion of Jesus (app. 70 AD). Although Israel has now risen and been reborn (May 14, 1948), yet will she fall again as she will accept the Antichrist as her Messiah, yet one third of Israel will be saved and go into the millennium. The verse continues—
AND (He) (will become) A SIGN
WHICH SHALL BE SPOKEN AGAINST (or opposed). In other words, Simeon was saying people would speak against and oppose the birth and virgin birth of the Messiah. It is written Isa 7:14-THEREFORE THE LORD HIMSELF SHALL GIVE YOU A SIGN; BEHOLD, A VIRGIN SHALL CONCEIVE, AND BEAR A SON, AND SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL. Lk 2:12-AND THIS SHALL BE A SIGN UNTO YOU; YE SHALL FIND THE BABE WRAPPED IN SWADDLING CLOTHES, LYING IN A MANGER. Note again the words: He, (which is Jesus)…SHALL BE SPOKEN AGAINST (or opposed). One might consider, at any given day upon this earth, how many people curse or dam the name of Jesus or God.
Money, fame, prosperity, education, worldly knowledge, or even living in a perfect environment where all your needs are met such as the garden of Eden cannot change the evil that is in the heart of man.

Lk 2:35.    ([YES],
A SWORD SHALL PIERCE THROUGH [YOUR] OWN SOUL ALSO,) (all this will happen in order-JNT). With these words in verse 35, it is looking ahead about 33 years. In other words Mary would be hurt greatly. She would see her son rejected by most (including the religious leaders, rulers, and people), and then crucified. Jesus never sinned. He was holy and perfect. He healed the sick and raised the dead. He spoke only truth. He is God, yet he died a horrible death at the hands of man whom He had created. They hated Jesus without a cause-ref Jn 15:25.
Man does not want to be confronted with his sin, rebellious attitude and stubbornness. Man wants to rule over himself. He does not want a Holy God telling him what he should and should not do. The verse continues—
THAT THE (inmost) THOUGHTS
OF MANY (people’s) HEARTS. Note, that thoughts come from the heart. The verse continues—
MAY BE REVEALED. As already mentioned previously, Heb 4:12-For the word of God (which is Jesus) is living and active…it judges the thoughts and attitudes (or intents) of the heart-NIV.
Indeed, as Jesus preached later on, that “He” was the only way to God, the only way to eternal life, and as He brought forth the Words His Father gave Him to say, the thoughts of many hearts were revealed. Most opposed the words of God that flowed from the mouth of Jesus. The nation of Israel had waited for the coming of the Messiah for a very long time, but when He came, he was rejected-His own received Him not. It is the same today. When God’s Word regarding sin, judgment, and correction comes forth as a two edged sword, it is usually rejected and even hated. Today also, the thoughts of many hearts are revealed by God’s Word.
Man rejects God because the things which he does are not right in the eyes of a holy God and he does not wish to change and repent.

Lk 2:36.    AND THERE WAS (also)
ONE ANNA,
A PROPHETESS. We note that she was a profit which served God. The verse continues—
THE DAUGHTER OF PHANUEL, OF THE TRIBE OF (ASHER). The Pharisees later said, OUT OF GALILEE ARISETH NO PROPHET-Jn 7:52. She was a prophet and the tribe of Asher that she was from was originally in the Galilee area. The verse continues—
SHE WAS (VERY OLD),
AND HAD LIVED WITH AN HUSBAND SEVEN YEARS (AFTER HER MARRIAGE). In other words, her husband had died after they had been married for seven years.

Lk 2:37.    AND (then)
SHE WAS A WIDOW
OF ABOUT FOURSCORE AND FOUR YEARS (or had remained a widow ever since; now she
was eighty-four-JNT). Some believe the wording here means she had lived about 84 years after her husband died and was now well over 100 years old. The verse continues—
WHICH (NEVER LEFT) THE TEMPLE (grounds),
BUT SERVED (or worshipped)
GOD
WITH FASTINGS AND PRAYERS. Note, she was a very old woman, but yet served God and also fasted.
NIGHT AND DAY. Note, God had a woman, a prophetess, in the Temple grounds continually. She faithfully served God, since her husband had died. She was highly favored with God as was Simeon and the shepherds.

   Lk 2:38.    AND SHE COMING IN (at)
THAT INSTANT. Again we have an example that God will have certain people at exact places at exact times. The verse continues—
GAVE THANKS LIKEWISE (TO) THE LORD. It is noted that the first thing it mentions that she did was to gave thanks to the Lord. It is much like Simeon also did. The shepherds, then Simeon, and now Anna, all had no doubts that this bade was the long awaited Messiah. They believed. God had bestowed a great honor on them and they rejoiced. Yet, how sad, that most people at that time and even this time, would not have rejoiced at this same honor being bestowed upon them. Most spend their lives in vanity, seeking for the things of this world, and Jesus is not truly in their hearts. The verse continues—
   AND (SPOKE) OF HIM (or spoke about Jesus which is the Christ or Messiah)—
TO ALL THEM THAT LOOKED FOR REDEMPTION
IN JERUSALEM (or the redemption of Jerusalem-NIV) (or Jerusalem) (to be liberated). First the Baby Jesus (the Messiah) is revealed to Simeon-a man. Next He is revealed to a woman.
The shepherds had spread the Word of the Messiah. Undoubtedly Simeon also spread the Word of the Messiah. Now Anna also spreads the Word of the Messiah. How few people in this latter day generation that claim they are saved, will spread the Word of Jesus and serve God. As it is written in Mt 9:37-THE LABOURERS ARE FEW.
It did not mention that she spoke to all the people that she met, but rather it indicates she spoke to those that looked for the coming of the Messiah. People expected that when the Messiah came, he would liberate Israel from under the hand of the Romans. They did not understand a suffering Messiah coming to give His life a ransom for many-ref Mk 10:45.

WHY DID JESUS THE MESSIAH, GOD'S ONLY BEGOTTEN SON, COME?

PROPHECIES FULFILLED

(Approximately 172 reasons)(also see Lk 4:19 for an even more in-depth list)

*    God GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON-Jn 3:16; ref 6:32
*    THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD, WHICH SHOULD COME INTO THE WORLD-Jn 11:27
*    To be CALLED THE SON OF GOD-Lk 1:35
*    He was MADE OF A WOMAN, MADE UNDER THE LAW-Gal 4:4
*    And He came WHEN THE FULLNESS OF THE TIME WAS COME-Gal 4:4
*    To do THE WILL OF HIM THAT SENT ME-Jn 6:38; ref Heb 10:7
*    To do THOSE THINGS THAT PLEASE HIM (the Father)-Jn 8:29
*    TO BE HIS SERVANT-Isa 49:5
*    To be a PROPHET-Deut 18:15
*    To have the words of the Father put IN HIS MOUTH-Deut 18:18
*    To speak THE WORDS OF GOD-Jn 3:34; ref Deut 18:19; Jn 8:26,28, 38; 12:49,50
*    To SPEAK UNTO THEM ALL THAT I (the Father) SHALL COMMAND HIM (the Son)-Deut 18:18
*    To testify WHAT HE HATH SEEN AND HEARD-Jn 3:32
*    TO GIVE KNOWLEDGE OF SALVATION UNTO HIS PEOPLE-Lk 1:77
*    TO GIVE LIGHT TO THEM THAT SIT IN DARKNESS-Lk 1:79
*    TO GIVE LIGHT TO THEM THAT SIT...IN THE SHADOW OF DEATH-Lk 1:79
*    To give good and perfect gifts-ref Ja 1:17
*    TO GUIDE OUR FEET INTO THE WAY OF PEACE-Lk 1:79
*    To give SALVATION-Lk 2:30
*    To be A LIGHT TO LIGHTEN THE GENTILES-Lk 2:32; ref Isa 9:2; 49:6
*    To be THE GLORY OF THY PEOPLE ISRAEL-Lk 2:32
*    FOR THE FALL AND RISING AGAIN OF MANY IN ISRAEL-Lk 2:34
*    FOR A SIGN WHICH SHALL BE SPOKEN AGAINST-Lk 2:34
*    THAT THE THOUGHTS OF MANY HEARTS MAY BE REVEALED-Lk 2:35
*    THAT (Jesus) MAY PREACH in other towns-Mk 1:38
*    He CAME...TO CALL…SINNERS TO REPENTANCE-Mk 2:17; ref Lk 5:32; Mt 9:13
*    TO MINISTER-Mt 20:28; ref Mk 10:45
*    To PREACH THE KINGDOM OF GOD-Lk 4:43
*    To preach the Gospel-ref Lk 7:22; 4:18
*    To preach the Gospel to the poor-ref Lk 7:22; 4:18
*    TO PREACH GOOD TIDINGS UNTO THE MEEK-Isa 61:1
*    TO PREACH DELIVERANCE TO THE CAPTIVES-Lk 4:18
*    TO PREACH...RECOVERING OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND-Lk 4:18
*    TO PROCLAIM LIBERTY TO THE CAPTIVES-Isa 61:1
*    TO PROCLAIM...THE OPENING OF THE PRISON TO THEM THAT ARE BOUND-Isa 61:1
*    TO PROCLAIM THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD-Isa 61:2
*    TO PROCLAIM...THE DAY OF VENGEANCE OF OUR GOD-Isa 61:2
*    TO HEAL (or bind up) THE BROKENHEARTED-Lk 4:18; ref Isa 61:1
*    So the blind could see-ref Lk 7:22
*    So the lame could walk-ref Lk 7:22
*    So the lepers could be cleansed-ref Lk 7:22
*    So the deaf could hear-ref Lk 7:22
*    So the dead could be raised-ref Lk 7:22
*    So THAT THEY WHICH SEE NOT MIGHT SEE-Jn 9:39
*    So THEY WHICH SEE MIGHT BE MADE BLIND-Jn 9:39
*    TO BE A PRINCE-Acts 5:31
*    To be A KING-Jn 18:37
*    To be BORN KING OF THE JEWS-Mt 2:2
*    TO SAVE SINNERS-1 Tim 1:15
*    To SAVE HIS PEOPLE FROM THEIR SINS-Mt 1:21
*    To take AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD-Jn 1:29
*    TO BE THE SAVIOR OF THE WORLD-1 Jn 4:14
*    TO SAVE THE WORLD-Jn 12:47
*    To give HIMSELF FOR OUR SINS-Gal 1:4
*    To give LIFE-Jn 6:33,51; Jn 3:16
*    TO PUT AWAY SIN-Heb 9:26
*    TO MAKE AN END OF SINS-Dan 9:24
*    TO TAKE AWAY OUR SINS-1 Jn 3:5
*    TO BEAR THE SINS OF MANY-Heb 9:28
*    To be a sin offering, or for sin-ref Ro 8:3
*    To condemn sin in sinful man, or condemn SIN IN THE FLESH-Ro 8:3
*    To give FORGIVENESS OF SINS-Acts 5:31
*    TO BE THE PROPITIATION (or atoning sacrifice) FOR OUR SINS-1 Jn 4:10
*    To be AN HORN OF SALVATION-Lk 1:69
*    TO FINISH THE TRANSGRESSION-Dan 9:24
*    To redeem HIS PEOPLE-Lk 1:68
*    TO REDEEM THEM THAT WERE UNDER THE LAW-Gal 4:5
*    To REDEEM US FROM ALL INIQUITY-Titus 2:14
*    To turn AWAY EVERY ONE OF YOU FROM HIS INIQUITIES-Acts 3:26
*    TO MAKE RECONCILIATION FOR INIQUITY-Dan 9:24
*    To have our iniquities laid upon Him-ref Isa 53:6
*    To DELIVER US FROM THIS PRESENT EVIL WORLD-Gal 1:4
*    TO SEEK…THAT WHICH WAS LOST-Lk 19:10
*    TO SAVE THAT WHICH WAS LOST-Mt 18:11; ref Lk 19:10
*    To save MEN'S LIVES-Lk 9:56
*    TO BE A…SAVIOR-Acts 5:31
*    TO GIVE REPENTANCE TO ISRAEL-Acts 5:31
*    So THAT WE MIGHT LIVE THROUGH HIM-1 Jn 4:9
*    So THAT THEY MIGHT HAVE LIFE-Jn 10:10
*    So people SHOULD NOT PERISH-Jn 3:16
*    So men may NOT DIE-Jn 6:50
*    So people SHALL NEVER HUNGER-Jn 6:35
*    So people SHALL NEVER THIRST-Jn 6:35
*    TO SET AT LIBERTY THEM THAT ARE BRUISED-Lk 4:18
*    To DESTROY THE WORKS OF THE DEVIL-1 Jn 3:8
*    To DESTROY HIM (the devil) THAT HAD THE POWER OF DEATH-Heb 2:14
*    He CAME…TO SEND...A SWORD-Mt 10:34
*    He came to SET A MAN AT VARIANCE AGAINST HIS FATHER-Mt 10:35
*    He came to set THE DAUGHTER AGAINST HER MOTHER-Mt 10:35
*    He came to set THE DAUGHTER IN LAW AGAINST HER MOTHER IN LAW-Mt 10:35
*    He came FOR JUDGMENT-Jn 9:39
*    To carry OUR SORROWS-Isa 53:4
*    TO COMFORT ALL THAT MOURN-Isa 61:2
*    To be followed-ref Jn 12:26
*    To BEAR WITNESS UNTO THE TRUTH-Jn 18:37
*    TO BLESS YOU-Acts 3:26
*    To DELIVER THEM WHO THROUGH FEAR OF DEATH WERE ALL THEIR LIFETIME SUBJECT TO
BONDAGE-Heb 2:15
*    To PURIFY UNTO HIMSELF A PECULIAR PEOPLE-Titus 2:14
*    TO BRING JACOB AGAIN TO HIM-Isa 49:5
*    To dwell in the saints, and they to dwell in Him-ref Jn 6:56
*    To GO UNTO JERUSALEM-Mt 16:21
*    To BE BETRAYED-Mt 20:18; ref Lk 22:48
*    To be betrayed by a FAMILIAR FRIEND-Ps 41:9
*    To be betrayed for THIRTY PIECES OF SILVER-Mt 26:15
*    To be betrayed WITH A KISS-Lk 22:48
*    To SUFFER MANY THINGS-Mt 16:21
*    To be ACQUAINTED WITH GRIEF-Isa 53:3
*    To be WOUNDED FOR OUR TRANSGRESSIONS-Isa 53:5
*    To be BRUISED FOR OUR INIQUITIES-Isa 53:5
*    To be punished to bring us peace-ref Isa 53:5 NIV
*    To be a REPROACH OF MEN-Ps 22:6
*    To be despised by man-ref Isa 49:7; Isa 53:3; Ps 22:6
*    To be insulted-ref Ps 22:7 NIV
*    To be REJECTED OF MEN-Isa 53:3
*    To be abhorred by the nations-ref Isa 49:7
*    To be mocked-ref Mt 20:19; Lk 22:63
*    To have His beard PLUCKED OFF-Isa 50:6
*    To be spit on-ref Isa 50:6; Mt 26:67
*    To be bound-ref Jn 18:12
*    To have the chief priests and council seek for false witnesses against Him-ref Mt 26:59
*    To have many bear false witness against Him-ref Mk 14:56
*    To be ACCUSED-Mt 27:12
*    To be OPPRESSED, AND...AFFLICTED-Isa 53:7
*    To be struck with fists-ref Mt 26:67 NIV
*    To be struck in the face-ref Jn 19:3 NIV
*    To be struck on the head with a staff-ref Mk 15:19 NIV
*    To be slapped-ref Mt 26:67 NIV
*    To be SCOURGED-Mt 27:26; ref Isa 50:6
*    To give HIMSELF FOR US-Titus 2:14
*    To be OFFERED-Heb 9:28
*    To be condemned-Mt 20:18; ref Mt 26:66
*    To be delivered TO THE GENTILES-Mt 20:19
*    To be delivered UP FOR US ALL-Ro 8:32
*    To have kings, chief priests, rulers, and people against Him-Acts 4:25-27; ref Lk 23:13,21
*    To SACRIFICE Himself-Heb 9:26
*    To be STRICKEN-Isa 53:8
*    TO BE CRUCIFIED-Mt 26:2
*    To have His hands and feet PIERCED-Ps 22:16
*    To have people LOOK AND STARE UPON Him-Ps 22:17
*    To be POURED OUT LIKE WATER-Ps 22:14
*    To have all His BONES…OUT OF JOINT-Ps 22:14
*    To have His HEART…LIKE WAX-Ps 22:14
*    To have His heart melted IN THE MIDST OF (His) BOWELS-Ps 22:14
*    To have His STRENGTH…DRIED UP-Ps 22:15
*    To have His TONGUE cleave to His jaws-Ps 22:15
*    To have dogs compass Him-ref Ps 22:16
*    To have the ASSEMBLY OF THE WICKED enclose Him-Ps 22:16
*    To have HIS APPEARANCE...SO DISFIGURED BEYOND THAT OF ANY MAN-Isa 52:14 NIV
*    To have HIS FORM MARRED BEYOND HUMAN LIKENESS-Isa 52:14 NIV
*    To be CUT OFF OUT OF THE LAND OF THE LIVING-Isa 53:8
*    TO GIVE HIS LIFE A RANSOM FOR MANY-Mt 20:28; ref Mk 10:45
*    To BE KILLED-Mt 16:21
*    To DIE-Jn 12:24; Ro 8:34; 14:9
*    To die FOR OUR SINS-1 Cor 15:3
*    To die FOR THE UNGODLY-Ro 5:6
*    To die FOR US-Ro 5:8
*    To have His side PIERCED with a spear-Jn 19:34
*    To be BURIED-1 Cor 15:4
*    To revive-ref Ro 14:9
*    To rise-ref Ro 8:34
*    To BE RAISED AGAIN THE THIRD DAY-Mt 16:21; ref 1 Cor 15:4; Mt 20:19
*    To make INTERCESSION FOR US-Ro 8:34
*    To BE GLORIFIED-Jn 12:23
*    To BE GLORIOUS IN THE EYES OF THE LORD-Isa 49:5
*    To bring FORTH MUCH FRUIT-Jn 12:24
*    To BE LORD BOTH OF THE DEAD AND LIVING-Ro 14:9
*    To come (or return) WITH POWER AND GREAT GLORY-Mt 24:30
*    To THEM THAT LOOK FOR HIM SHALL HE APPEAR THE SECOND TIME WITHOUT SIN UNTO
SALVATION (second coming)-Heb 9:28
*    To RAISE HIM (the saints) UP AT THE LAST DAY-Jn 6:40,54
*    To be given a name WHICH IS ABOVE EVERY NAME-Phili 2:9
*    That AT THE NAME OF JESUS EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, OF THINGS IN HEAVEN, AND THINGS IN     EARTH, AND THINGS UNDER THE EARTH-Phili 2:10
*    AND THAT EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS THAT JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, TO THE GLORY
OF GOD THE FATHER-Phili 2:11
*    To fulfill that WHICH WAS SPOKEN BY THE PROPHET-Mt 21:4

Millennium

*    THAT WE (Israel) SHOULD BE SAVED FROM OUR (their) ENEMIES, AND FROM THE HAND OF ALL
THAT HATE US (them)-Lk 1:71
*    THAT WE (Israel)...MIGHT SERVE HIM WITHOUT FEAR-Lk 1:74
*    TO PERFORM THE MERCY PROMISED TO OUR FATHERS-Lk 1:72
*    TO REMEMBER HIS HOLY COVENANT; THE OATH WHICH HE SWARE TO...ABRAHAM-Lk 1:72,73
*    To be A GOVERNOR-Mt 2:6
*    To RULE…ISRAEL-Mt 2:6; ref Mic 5:2
*    To be KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS-Rev 19:16; ref 17:14
*    To rule the nations-ref Rev 19:15; 12:5; 20:4
*    TO BRING IN EVERLASTING RIGHTEOUSNESS-Dan 9:24
*    TO SEAL UP THE VISION AND PROPHECY-Dan 9:24
*    TO ANOINT THE MOST HOLY-Dan 9:24

WITNESSES AND PROOF
THAT JESUS IS THE SON OF GOD

The angel-THAT WHICH IS CONCEIVED IN HER IS OF THE HOLY GHOST-Mt 1:20.
The angel Gabriel-THAT HOLY THING...SHALL BE CALLED THE SON OF GOD-Lk 1:35.
Satan-He knew Jesus was the Son of God-ref Mt 4:3-11; Lk 4:3-13.
John the Baptist-BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD-Jn 1:29,36.
John the Baptist-THIS IS THE SON OF GOD-Jn 1:34; 5:36.
Nathanael-THOU ART THE SON OF GOD-Jn 1:49.
The unclean spirit-I KNOW THEE...THE HOLY ONE OF GOD-Mk 1:24.
The devils-THOU ART CHRIST THE SON OF GOD-Lk 4:41.
The unclean spirits-THOU ART THE SON OF GOD-Mk 3:11.
The unclean devil-THE HOLY ONE OF GOD-Lk 4:34.
The unclean spirit-JESUS, THOU SON OF THE MOST HIGH GOD-Mk 5:7.
Jesus had said-GOD WAS HIS FATHER-Jn 5:18.
Peter-WE BELIEVE AND ARE SURE THAT THOU ART THAT CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD-Jn 6:69.
Jesus said-I…CAME FROM GOD-Jn 8:42.
Jesus-DOST THOU BELIEVE ON THE SON OF GOD?...IT IS HE THAT TALKETH WITH THEE-Jn 9:35,37.
Martha-I BELIEVE...THOU ART...THE SON OF GOD-Jn 11:27.
The disciples in the boat-OF A TRUTH THOU ART THE SON OF GOD-Mt 14:33.
Peter-THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF THE LIVING GOD-Mt 16:16; ref Jn 6:69.
Martha-THOU ART THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD-Jn 11:27.
His disciples-WE BELIEVE THAT THOU CAMEST FORTH FROM GOD-Jn 16:30.
Thomas said-MY LORD AND MY GOD-Jn 20:28.
John-JESUS IS THE CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD-Jn 20:31.
Jesus-They…asked, “Are you...the Son of God?” He replied, “YOU ARE RIGHT IN SAYING I AM”-Lk 22:70 NIV. JESUS SAID, I AM-Mk 14:62.
The centurion-TRULY THIS WAS THE SON OF GOD-Mt 27:54; ref Mk 15:39.
The works He did, proved He was the Son of God-ref Jn 5:36; 10:38.
The Father-THIS IS MY BELOVED SON-Mt 3:17; ref Jn 5:37.
The witness of God’s Word-the many, many prophecies.
The resurrection, many witnesses, and many portions of Scripture.