Simeon's Consolation
Notes
Transcript
Intro
Intro
Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
A man waiting in the ancient temple in Jerusalem for their long expected deliverance - their consolation.
Why were they expecting a consolation?
But God had a purpose, and had talked to him by the HS, telling him that he would get to see the promised messiah, Israel’s Consolation.
That day had arrived!
And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,
After the classic scene of the nativity with Jesus in a manger, Mary & Joseph brought Jesus up to the temple to make the sacrifices that God required under the OT Covenant.
Imagine it now, the wise old man swooping in on the infant holy, sweeping him into his arms, praising God, blessing His Holy Name!
But then he begins to prophesy...
“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation
Simeon saw a baby, how could he see God’s salvation?
It was in accordance with God’s Word - everything prophesied would be fuflilled.
He can depart this life in peace because he has been able to observe the coming of Israel’s consolation.
that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.”
In the presence of all peoples - public events
for the calling in of all peoples!
Everything God’s people down through History had looked for! Simeon is the embodiment of Israel looking for the Christ!
What would that baby do?
Crush Satan
Slay sin
Defeat death
Where is Jesus now?
right hand of the Father
What is he doing?
Reigning until all his enemies are defeated
interceding for his people
preparing a place for his people
What will he do next?
Return for Judgement & Restoration
YOUR Consolation
Is the coming of Christ a consolation to you? perhaps a curious story or historical irrelevancy?
He can be your consolation, your comfort, your joy!
Receive him!