Lucas 2
R.C.H. Lenski · Citado em PreceptAustin
Lucas 2
Lenski writes "When Simeon now turns to Mary alone and leaves out Joseph, this is done because of the prophetic insight that Joseph will no longer be among the living when the things that are now stated shall come to pass. Joseph died long before Jesus began his ministry." (See The Interpretation of St. Luke's Gospel)
Lucas 2
Lenski - The statement as made by Luke conveys the thought that without any planning on the part of Joseph or of Mary her time came just after they had been in Bethlehem for a time. David
Lucas 2
Lenski adds "The question is still asked skeptically as to why these shepherds should have been selected for the angel’s announcement. The answer is as simple to the believer as it ever was: because God found them the kind of people to whom he could communicate such news." (See The Interpretation of St. Luke's Gospel ) Kostenberger on shepherds - Because of their work, shepherds were almost always ceremonially unclean, and, although Luke makes no mention of it, later Jewish texts indicate that shepherds were generally distrusted and viewed negatively. Most likely, the revelation to shepherds parallels and reinforces the lowly circumstances of the birth and the manger with no room in normal human habitation. On the back end of the story of Jesus, compare the fact that the first witnesses to the risen Jesus were women who likewise would have had a comparatively lower status in first-century Palestinian society (Lk 23:55, 24:1-5, 10, Jn 20:11-14, 15, 16). (The First Days of Jesus: The Story of the Incarnation)
Lucas 2
Lenski adds that "The fright that came upon the shepherds as poor mortal men who came in contact with the Lord’s glory and his angels in the dead of night is to cease, for it is blessing, yea, the absolute, supreme blessing for mortal man that is thus revealed to these shepherds. The gospel for sinners must always begin with “fear not,” for it removes sin and fear. The angel justifies the command with for (gar) and exclaims at the greatness of this justification with behold (idou). But he states first the effect and then the cause, first the joy and then the birth that produces the joy." (The Interpretation of St Luke's Gospel) THOUGHT - The angel told them to not be afraid. What a blessing it is to be told to not be afraid. However, the comfort of that news depends upon the source of the person who is making this statement. Men often tell us to not be afraid, when we, in fact, have plenty to fear. For example, Franklin Delano Roosevelt in his first inaugural address as President of the United States made the famous statement, "We have nothing to fear but fear itself." Even today people quote this sentence and think this was a great statement, but it was phony, for at that time in world history we had plenty to fear in the United States. • In Germany, Adolph Hitler and the Nazis were coming into power. • In Russia, Joseph Stalin and communism were gaining much power. • In Japan, Hideki Tojo was moving up the ranks. • Mussolini had a grip on Italy. Millions of Americans and people of other nations, would die as a result of these four men, but Roosevelt said that we had nothing to fear but fear itself. So you cannot always trust men when they tell you to not be afraid, but you can trust Heaven. (Ron Mattoon) Brian Bell - Long before PBS (Public Broadcasting Services) we have the 1st Public announcement of the good news of Jesus’ birth. The Shepherds Real Good News! (Lk 1:10-12) And it’s keynote? - JOY! To ALL people – even shepherds!!! There’s good news for all of us! J C Ryle on I bring you good news - We need not wonder at these words. The spiritual darkness which had covered the earth for four thousand years, was about to be rolled away. The way to pardon and peace with God was about to be thrown open to all mankind. The head of Satan was about to be bruised (Ge 3:15+). Liberty was about to be proclaimed to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind (Lk 4:18+). The mighty truth was about to be proclaimed that God could be just, and yet, for Christ’s sake, justify the ungodly (Ro 3:26+). Salvation was no longer to be seen through types and figures, but openly, and face to face (cf Col 2:16,17+). The knowledge of God was no longer to be confined to the Jews, but to be offered to the whole Gentile world. The days of heathenism were numbered. The first stone of God’s kingdom was about to be set up. If this was not “good tidings,” there never were tidings that deserved the name! (Luke 2) Warren
Lucas 2
Lenski - The “great joy” is the antidote for the “great fear.” Joy (5479)(chara) is a feeling of inner gladness, delight or rejoicing. Joy is a feeling of inner gladness, delight or rejoicing. Joy in the NT is virtually always used to signify a feeling of "happiness" that is based on spiritual realities, and (take careful note of this next thought), independent of what "happens"). Joy is an inner gladness; a deep seated pleasure birthed and energized by the Holy Spirit (Acts 13:52+, Ro 14:17+, Gal 5:22+, 1 Th 1:6+). It is a depth of assurance and confidence energized by the Holy Spirit that ignites a cheerful heart. And it is a cheerful heart that leads to cheerful behavior which in turn gives a proper opinion to the lost (and saved) world of the reality of the unseen God, God the Father (Mt 5:16+). Joy is not an experience that comes from favorable circumstances but is God’s gift to believers. Are you living in the "sunshine" (Sonshine) of His joy? Joy is the deep-down sense of well-being that abides in the heart of the person who knows all is well between himself and his God (Corollary - Unconfessed sin will steal that joy in a "split second!" Run to 1 John 1:9+, Pr 28:13+). There is a chorus from an old spiritual song that is apropos - "Happiness happens, but joy abides." Luke's uses of chara - Lk. 1:14; Lk. 2:10; Lk. 8:13; Lk. 10:17; Lk. 15:7; Lk. 15:10; Lk. 24:41; Lk. 24:52; Acts 8:8; Acts 12:14; Acts 13:52; Acts 15:3. What is fascinating is that there is not only joy on earth but also joy in Heaven and both have to do with the Good News in some way, Luke recording “I tell you that in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents (IMPLICIT IS THIS SINNER HEARD THE GOOD NEWS PROCLAIMED) than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.....In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” (Lk. 15:7, 10+) This joy is special for it is the gift of those who accept God's gift of eternal life in Christ. And so Peter writes "and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory." (1 Pe 1:8+) Serious Fear Read: Luke 2:8-20 Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy. —Luke 2:10 After weeks of preparation by the children’s choir, the night had finally arrived for our annual Christmas musical in 1983. The costumed children began filing into the auditorium when suddenly we heard a ruckus at the back door. My wife and I turned to look and saw our own little Matt. Sobbing loudly and with a look of sheer terror on his face, he had a death grip on the door handle. He refused to enter the auditorium. After much negotiating, the director finally told him he didn’t have to go on stage. Instead, Matt sat with us, and soon his fears began to subside. Although we don’t usually identify Christmas as a time of fear, there was plenty of it on the night of Christ’s birth. Luke says, “Behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid” (Luke 2:9). The sight of the angelic messenger was more than the shepherds could process. But the angel reassured them: “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people” (Lk 2:10). Hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of righteousness! Light and life to all He brings, Risen with healing in His wings. —Wesley God incarnate is the end of fear. —F. B. Meyer (ED: BUT NEVER THE END OF REVERENTIAL FEAR - See Rev 19:5+) Joy Read: Luke 2:8-12 I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. —Luke 2:10 After Adam and Eve disobeyed God, joy was lost. God expelled them from their garden home to prevent something worse from happening. If they had eaten from the tree of life after eating from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, they would have lived forever in their misery. Life outside the garden was not easy. Adam and Eve had to work hard for their food. The reality of death was everywhere, and animals preyed on one another. Even worse, the couple’s firstborn son murdered his younger brother. What could be worse? Sin had pierced their lives, and the couple could not stop joy from draining out. Have you felt the joy of the shepherds, Who were first to behold the sight Of that holy Child of Mary, On that wonderful Christmas night? —Brill The joy of Christmas is Jesus. The Gift Of Joy Read: Luke 2:8-20 Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. —Luke 2:10 During the Christmas season it’s easy to be swept along by the flood of frenzied gift-buying. Our motive may be commendable—we want to show our love for family and friends. We may even argue that the exchange of expensive presents reflects God’s gift to us of His Son and is a way to spread yuletide joy. According to author Bill McKibben, though, we may be robbing ourselves and others of deeper and longer-lasting joy. When the giving is over, we find that the gifts didn’t bring the sought-after satisfaction. McKibben and some of his friends began to encourage others to limit their total holiday spending to a fraction of what they had spent in previous years. By taking the emphasis off gift-giving, they believe they will be able to concentrate more on the real reason for Christmas and to enjoy the season. When the angel of the Lord appeared to the shepherds outside Bethlehem, he told them, “I bring you good tidings of great joy” (Luke 2:10). The news that brings “great joy” even today is that the Savior has been born (v.11). Joy to the world! The Lord is come! Let earth receive her King; Let every heart prepare Him room, And heaven and nature sing. —Watts The joy of Christmas is Jesus. Christingle Read: 1 John 1:1-7 That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. —John 1:9 In the Czech Republic and other places, the Christmas celebration includes “Christingles.” A Christingle is an orange, representing the world, with a candle placed in the top of it to symbolize Christ the light of the world. A red ribbon encircles the orange, symbolizing the blood of Jesus. Four toothpicks with dried fruits are placed through the ribbon into the sides of the orange, representing the fruits of the earth. (ED THOUGHT: As I read this devotional the four toothpicks brought to mind the four wounds in His hands and feet, plus one in His side, so that when combined with the red ribbon, we have picture of His redemption provided on the Cross, the very purpose for which He came to earth!) This simple visual aid vividly represents the purpose behind Christ’s coming—to bring light into the darkness and to redeem a broken world by shedding His blood. In John’s account of Christ’s life, the disciple describes Jesus as the Light of the world. He wrote of Christ: “That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world” (John 1:9). Not only did Christ the Light come to penetrate our world’s darkness, but He is also “The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” (v.29). Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting Light; The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in Thee tonight. —Brooks The newborn Christ-child became the Light of the world and the Lamb of God CHRISTMAS SPIRIT - If you're a local TV news anchor, Christmas is a chance to talk about “those less fortunate” and the Holiday Spirit. The best one recently is about drive-through Starbucks in places like Nashville, TN, Palm Desert, CA, and Fort Lauderdale where a patron arrives at the window and says, "I want to pay for my coffee and also the coffee of the person in the car behind me"–even though he didn't know the person in the next car. And then the next person did the same thing for the car behind him, and so on and so on, and the chain was unbroken for 200 cars, and all the Starbucks employees were misty-eyed about the people who ordered $34 worth of coffee and found out it was paid for, even though the person in front of them only got a tall latte with sprinkles. And this was all presented as a story about The Christmas Spirit. No Fear Read: Luke 2:8–20 The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid.” Luke 2:10 Nearly every time an angel appears in the Bible, the first words he says are, “Do not be afraid” (Dan. 10:12, 19; Matt. 28:5; Rev. 1:17). Little wonder. When the supernatural makes contact with planet Earth, it usually leaves the human observers flat on their faces in catatonic fear. But Luke tells of God making an appearance on earth in a form that does not frighten. In Jesus, born in a barn and laid in a feeding trough, God finds at last a mode of approach that we need not fear. What could be less scary than a newborn baby? Puzzled skeptics stalked Jesus throughout His ministry. How could a baby in Bethlehem, a carpenter’s son, be the Messiah from God? But a group of shepherds in a field had no doubt about who He was, for they heard the message of good news straight from a choir of angels (2:8–14). In Jesus, God comes close to us. Why did God take on human form? The Bible gives many reasons, some densely theological and some quite practical; but the scene of Jesus as an adolescent lecturing rabbis in the temple gives one clue (v. 46). For the first time, ordinary people could hold a conversation, a debate, with God in visible form. Jesus could talk to anyone—His parents, a rabbi, a poor widow—without first having to announce, “Don’t be afraid.” By Philip Yancey In Jesus, God comes close to us. I’m humbled, Lord, that You would come near to me. But I’m grateful. Thank You. For further study read Is Jesus God? God incarnate is the end of fear. —F. B. Meyer (ED: BUT NEVER THE END OF REVERENTIAL FEAR - See Rev 19:5+) ILLUSTRATION - A wealthy English family once invited friends to spend some time at their beautiful estate. The happy gathering was almost plunged into a terrible tragedy on the first day. When the children went swimming, one of them got into deep water and was drowning. Fortunately, the gardener heard the others screaming and plunged into the pool to rescue the helpless victim. That youngster was Winston Churchill. His parents, deeply grateful to the gardener, asked what they could do to rewlard him. He hesitated, then said, "I wish my son could go to college someday and become a doctor." "We'll pay his way," replied Churchill's parents. Years later when Sir Winston was prime minister of England, he was stricken with pneumonia. Greatly concerned, the king summoned the best physician who could be found to the bedside of the ailing leader. That doctor was Sir Alexander Fleming, the developer of penicillin. He was also the son of that gardener who had saved Winston from drowning as a boy! Later Churchill said, "Rarely, has one man owed his life twice to the same person." Application - What do we owe to our Lord? Certainly we ought to share what we know about the Savior all the time and especially at Christmas. Good News For All Read: Luke 2:1-10 Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. —Luke 2:10 The angel who announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds said that he came to them with “good tidings of great joy” (Lk. 2:10). Many people today hear these words about “great joy” but don’t understand them. They relish the season as they decorate their homes, shop in cheerful malls, attend festive parties, and exchange gifts with the ones they love. But after all the excitement subsides, they feel empty and joyless. Others don’t like the season at all. Many have no money for gifts or decorations. Some have no friends with whom to celebrate. The atmosphere of cheer around them actually deepens their feelings of sadness. The problem with both groups is that they wrongly identify the “great joy” of which the angel spoke. It is found not in the superficial fun but in the deeper meaning of the season. When Jesus was born, God became a man so that He could save us from our sins and give us the joyful prospect of eternity in heaven. That’s the true reason for joy. The shepherds went back to the cold nights and loneliness of their vocation, but they were “glorifying and praising God” (v.20). Joyful, all ye nations, rise, Join the triumph of the skies; With the angelic hosts proclaim, "Christ is born in Bethlehem." —Wesley Jesus puts the joy into Christmas. One Silent Night Read: Luke 2:1-14 Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. —Luke 2:10 Simon had emigrated from the Netherlands to the United States. His wife, Kay, and all three of their children had been born in the US. Then Jenny married Roberto from Panama. Bill married Vania from Portugal. And Lucas married Bora from South Korea. On Christmas Eve, as the family gathered for a celebration, they began singing “Silent Night” in their native tongues—a sweet sound indeed for the Lord of the earth to hear as they celebrated the birth of His Son. Two thousand years ago, the silence of a quiet night ended abruptly when an angel told the shepherds a baby had been born: “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people” (Luke 2:10). Then a multitude of angels began praising God, saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (v.14). Christ the Lord, the Savior of the world, was born! Silent night! holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight; Glories stream from heaven afar, Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia— Christ the Savior is born! Christ the Savior is born! —Mohr Heaven’s choir came down to sing when heaven’s King came down to save. Luke 2:11 for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. NET Today your Savior is born in the city of David. He is Christ the Lord. GNT ὅτι ἐτέχθη ὑμῖν σήμερον σωτὴρ ὅς ἐστιν Χριστὸς κύριος ἐν πόλει Δαυίδ. NLT The Savior-- yes, the Messiah, the Lord-- has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! KJV For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. ESV For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. NIV Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. ASV for there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. CSB Today a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord, was born for you in the city of David. there has been born for you: Lu 1:69 Isa 9:6 Mt 1:21 Ga 4:4,5 2Ti 1:9,10 Tit 2:10-14 3:4-7 1Jn 4:14 in the city of David: Lu 2:4 Mt 1:21 Who is Christ: Lu 2:26 1:43 20:41,42 Ge 3:15 49:10 Ps 2:2 Da 9:24-26 Mt 1:16 16:16 Joh 1:41,45 6:69 7:25-27,41 20:31 Ac 2:36 17:3 1Jn 5:1 the Lord Lu 1:43 20:42-44 Ac 10:36 1Co 15:47 Php 2:11 3:8 Col 2:6 Luke 2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Luke 1:69+ And has raised up a horn of salvation for us In the house of David His servant– Luke 1:43+ “And how has it happened to me, that the mother of my Lord would come to me? Isaiah 9:6+ For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. JESUS BORN: SAVIOR (2) CHRIST (3) LORD Jamieson writes "Every word here contains transporting intelligence from heaven." For (hoti) - The subordinating conjunction hoti means that, because, since. Lenski says "We regard for (hoti) as epexegetical, as stating, not the reason for the great joy, but the contents of the angel’s announcement: “that there was born to you,” etc. The Greek states the simple past fact as such, “was born”; we prefer a reference to the present time, “has been born” (i.e., just recently) or even “is born”. Today - The waiting is over. The fullness of time has come. The Messiah had arrived. This very day God "invaded" earth, Deity took on Humanity. The fullness of time had arrived, Paul writing "But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law." (Gal 4:4+). "Christ the Lord has come to earth." -- Charles Wesley NET Note adds that "the Greek word for today (semeron) occurs eleven times in the Gospel of Luke (Lk 2:11; 4:21; 5:26; 12:28; 13:32–33; 19:5, 9; 22:34, 61; 23:43) and nine times in Acts (Acts 4:9; Acts 13:33; Acts 19:40; Acts 20:26; Acts 22:3; Acts 24:21; Acts 26:2; Acts 26:29; Acts 27:33). Its use, especially in passages such as Luke 2:11 , 4:21, 5:26; 19:5, 9, signifies the dawning of the era of Messianic salvation and the fulfillment of the plan of God." Indeed, out of eternity past God entered time so that He might offer the gift of life now and in eternity future to all who come to their senses and recognize that "Today is the day of salvation!" (cf 2 Cor 6:2+) In the city of David - The city of David is Bethlehem. Swindoll notes that "Bethlehem was not formally called this. In fact, most people would have considered Jerusalem the city of David. But the shepherds would have recognized the angel’s reference in connection with their hometown hero." R C H Lenski feels that this name city of David "is vastly more significant to the shepherds than “in Bethlehem” would have been, for the king’s name and his ancient home recall all the Messianic promises made to David. While it modifies the emphatic verb at the head of the sentence the phrase, which is placed entirely at the end, is equally emphatic. Born is the Savior, Christ, and Lord in David’s city." Finally, Kostenberger adds that "the angel indicated the Davidic nature of this Messiah by explicit reference to the “city of David.” According to the angel’s gospel, this newly born Savior was the long-awaited Davidic Messiah (ED: "Son of David" was a known messianic title in first century - Mt 21:9, 15, 22:42, cf demon's cry "Jesus, Son of David" - Lk 18:38-39+) who would rescue God’s people and rule over them." (The Story of the Incarnation) As Ralph W. Sockman said "The hinge of history is on the door of a Bethlehem stable." City of David in NASB - 2 Sam. 5:7; 2 Sam. 5:9; 2 Sam. 6:10; 2 Sam. 6:12; 2 Sam. 6:16; 1 Ki. 2:10; 1 Ki. 3:1; 1 Ki. 8:1; 1 Ki. 9:24; 1 Ki. 14:31; 1 Ki. 15:8; 1 Ki. 15:24; 2 Ki. 8:24; 2 Ki. 9:28; 2 Ki. 12:21; 2 Ki. 14:20; 2 Ki. 15:7; 2 Ki. 15:38; 2 Ki. 16:20; 1 Chr. 11:5; 1 Chr. 11:7; 1 Chr. 13:13; 1 Chr. 15:1; 1 Chr. 15:29; 2 Chr. 5:2; 2 Chr. 8:11; 2 Chr. 12:16; 2 Chr. 14:1; 2 Chr. 16:14; 2 Chr. 21:1; 2 Chr. 21:20; 2 Chr. 24:16; 2 Chr. 24:25; 2 Chr. 27:9; 2 Chr. 32:5; 2 Chr. 32:30; 2 Chr. 33:14; Neh. 3:15; Neh. 12:37; Isa. 22:9; Lk. 2:4; Lk. 2:11 There has been born (tikto) for you a Savior (soter), Who is Christ (Christos) the Lord (kurios) - This name "Savior" summarizes Luke's previous description "To give to His people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins." (Lk 1:77+) Note the phrase for you, for you poor, lowly, despised shepherds, not for Caesar, not for King Herod, not for the high priest (although of course He would be the Savior of even the high and mighty if they become low and humble and contrite as described in Isaiah 57:15!) "The Baby in the manger of Bethlehem is none other than the Lord God in human flesh!" -- Steven Cole Steven
Lucas 2
Lenski adds that “Savior (soter), like the words “to save” and “salvation,” refers to the mighty act of rescue and its result, the condition of safety that follows. Savior on an angel’s lips recalls all that is said in the Old Testament about salvation as it is attributed to God and thus leaves far behind the pagan use of this title for the emperors (ED: WHO WERE OFTEN CALLED "SOTER" OR SAVIOR!). Even in later years Savior on a Christian’s lips differed so immensely from any imperial Savior title that the two were hardly ever compared in the Christian’s consciousness." (The Interpretation of St. Luke's Gospel ) Paul clearly linked God and Savior in Titus 2:13+ writing that believers are "looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus." (Are you looking for Him daily? It could be TODAY! cf 1Jn 2:28+). "We don’t need another advisor, a reformer, or a committee, but a Savior." -- David Guzik Kostenberger comments that "The angel’s pronouncement bears some striking similarities to the way in which Augustus and other Roman emperors were discussed and worshiped in the imperial cult. Consider these statements from the 9 BC Priene Calendar Inscription: Since Providence (ED NOTE: Providence or Providentia was personified as a proper goddess in her own right by Macrobius, a Neoplatonic Roman author, who wrote in defense of paganism about 400 CE.), which has ordered all things and is deeply interested in our life, has set in most perfect order by giving us Augustus, whom she filled with virtue that he might benefit humankind, sending him as a savior [soter], both for us and for our descendants, that he might end war and arrange all things, and since he, Caesar, by his appearance (excelled even our anticipations), surpassing all previous benefactors, and not even leaving to posterity any hope of surpassing what he has done, and since the birthday of the god Augustus was the beginning of the good tidings [euangelion; gospel, good news] for the world that came by reason of him. Providence had sent the “god” Augustus to be the savior of the Roman world, and his birth was the beginning of the Gospel (good news)." Such rhetoric pervaded the political and religious language of the first century. In contrast, the angel announced the gospel of God’s Son, Jesus, Who would be the true Savior of the world. (The First Days of Jesus: The Story of the Incarnation) (See more counterfeits below) JESUS IS THE MESSIAH: THE ANOINTED ONE Christ the Lord - This specific title surprisingly is only here in the NT. The angel clearly tells them the Messiah has come and He is Lord or God. Many Jewish writers who believed a Messiah was coming did not consider Him to be divine. Wrong! Now remember these were Jewish shepherds and likely, as with all Jews in Israel, were looking for the "Messiah,"(See also Messiah - Anointed One) to come and be their Deliverer, especially from the Roman oppression. Thus the angelic designation of Christ (corresponding to Messiah) would likely have been very significant to these shepherds (see messianic expectations). CHRIST IS LORD Christ the Lord - The name Lord (kurios) has already been used by Luke 16 times in chapter 1 to refer to God or Yahweh (Lk. 1:6; Lk. 1:9; Lk. 1:11; Lk. 1:15; Lk. 1:16; Lk. 1:17; Lk. 1:25; Lk. 1:28; Lk. 1:32; Lk. 1:38; Lk. 1:45; Lk. 1:46; Lk. 1:58; Lk. 1:66; Lk. 1:68; Lk. 1:76) and here the angel gives the same title to this newborn Babe, a helpless infant not sitting on a throne but lying in a trough!The implication is clear. This is not just any baby, but is God clothed in flesh and blood, the God-Man, fully God and fully Man. See Wayne Grudem's Outline of Jesus' Humanity In the Incarnation, the infinite God both became finite man and remained infinite God, now come as Savior, Christ, and Lord! Paul's words are apropos... By common confession, great is the mystery of godliness: He who was revealed in the flesh, Was vindicated in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Proclaimed among the nations, Believed on in the world, Taken up in glory. (1 Timothy 3:16+) It is notable that Peter made a proclamation similar to the angel when he stood before the Jewish audience and declared “Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ–this Jesus whom you crucified.” (Acts 2:36+) And in Acts 2:37+ for the impact of Peter's proclamation of Jesus as "Lord and Christ" Luke recording that "Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brethren, what shall we do? Savior, Christ and Lord are used together by Paul in his letter to the Philippians "For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; (Php 3:20+) Butler comments that"The Lord is the title Luke uses most often for Jesus. This title refers to the holy, unspeakable personal name of God himself. This baby in the manger was God himself (cf. Lk 1:32,35), with all power and all authority under heaven. Bow in obedience to the baby of Bethlehem. You will easily find him, the only baby wrapped up like an infant but lying in the trough where animals eat. (Ibid) It is notable that Mary had already heard the Baby called "Lord" while He was still in her womb declaring total allegiance - "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” (Lk 1:38+). Likewise, Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, exclaimed “And how has it happened to me, that the mother of my Lord would come to me?" (Lk. 1:43+) Jesus was recognized as Lord even before He was born! Savior (4990)(soter from sozo = rescue from peril > from saos = safe; delivered) refers to the agent of salvation or deliverance, the one who rescues, delivers, saves and preserves and in the case of Jesus, specifically rescue and deliverance from sin's penalty, sin's power and in glory from sin's presence and sin's pleasure (Heb 11:25)! As alluded to above, anyone who saves or delivers can be called a deliverer or rescuer (a soter). The Greco-Roman world commonly spoke about the various mythological, imaginary gods as “saviors,” so the first non-Jewish readers of Luke would have understood the term "Savior" most likely against that background. But keep in mind the angel also linked this baby as not only Savior but as Christ (Messiah) and Lord which would clearly help distinguish Him from the pagan gods and pagan rulers. Certainly none of them were ever designated as Christ or Messiah! Butler says that Jesus as Savior or Deliverer "will follow in the biblical tradition of deliverers (Jdg. 3:9,15; Neh. 9:27; Isa. 19:20; cf. Acts 5:31; Acts 13:23). A troubled, powerless people will find a hero able to overcome the enemy." But tragically most of the Jews failed to recognize and receive Jesus as their personal Savior (Jn 1:11+), for they were looking for a political or military "savior." The Exegetical Dictionary notes that "In secular Greek usage the gods are deliverers both as helpers of human beings and as protectors of collective entities (e.g., cities); this is the case with Zeus, Apollo, Poseidon, the Dioscuri Castor and Pollux, Heracles, Asclepius as the helper of the sick, and Serapis; it is true also for philosophers (Dio Chrysostom Or. 32.8) and statesmen (Thucydides v.11.1; Plutarch Cor. 11, also in inscriptions and elsewhere). In the Hellenistic ruler cult "theos soter" (god our savior) is attested in writings and inscriptions as a title of the Ptolemies and Seleucids. Inscriptions in the eastern part of the Empire called Pompey “Soter and Founder,” Caesar “Soter of the World,” and Augustus “Soter of Humankind.” Hadrian had the title "Soter of the Kosmos" (Exegetical Dictionary of the New Testament) As alluded to above, Greeks used soter as a title of divinities such as Asclepius, the god of healing. Soter was used by the mystery religions to refer to their divinities. At an early date soter was used as a title of honor for deserving men, e.g., Epicurus (300BC) was called "soter" by his followers. As discussed below, soter was used as a designation of the "deified" ruler, e.g., Ptolemy I Soter (323-285BC). Soter in the OT - The God was a Savior was not a new concept, but was rooted in the Old Testament - Deut. 32:15; Jdg. 3:9; Jdg. 3:15; Jdg. 12:3; 1 Sam. 10:19; Neh. 9:27; Est. 5:1; Est. 8:12; Ps. 24:5; Ps. 25:5; Ps. 27:1; Ps. 27:9; Ps. 62:2; Ps. 62:6; Ps. 65:5; Ps. 79:9; Ps. 95:1; Isa. 12:2; Isa. 17:10; Isa. 45:15; Isa. 45:21; Isa. 62:11; Mic. 7:7; Hab. 3:18 In the following OT passages salvation is translated in the Septuagint with soter. Psalm 27:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation (Lxx = soter = Savior); Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the defense of my life; Whom shall I dread? Psalm 62:2 He only is my rock and my salvation (Lxx = soter = Savior), My stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken. Psalm 79:9 Help us, O God of our salvation (Lxx = soter = Savior), for the glory of Your name; And deliver us and forgive our sins for Your name’s sake. Psalm 95:1 O come, let us sing for joy to the LORD, Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation (Lxx = soter = Savior). Isaiah 45:15 Truly, You are a God Who hides Himself, O God of Israel, Savior (Lxx = soter)! Isaiah 45:21 “Declare and set forth your case; Indeed, let them consult together. Who has announced this from of old? Who has long since declared it? Is it not I, the LORD? And there is no other God besides Me, A righteous God and a Savior (Lxx = soter); There is none except Me. Isaiah 62:2 Behold, the LORD has proclaimed to the end of the earth, Say to the daughter of Zion, “Lo, your salvation (Lxx = soter = Savior) comes; Behold His reward is with Him, and His recompense before Him.” Comment - A clear Messianic prophecy, partially fulfilled at His incarnation (cf Lk 2:11) but fully fulfilled at His coronation! Micah 7:7+ But as for me, I will watch expectantly for the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation (Lxx = soter = Savior). My God will hear me. Habakkuk 3:18+ Yet I will exult in the LORD, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation (Lxx = soter = Savior). Christ (5547)(Christos from chrio = to rub or anoint, consecrate to an office) means one who has been anointed, symbolizing appointment to a task. The majority of the NT uses refer to Jesus (exceptions = "false Christs" - Mt 24:24, Mk 13:22). The Messiah had come to sit on the throne of David and deliver Israel from oppression, not from the Romans but from sin and Satan. Sadly they wanted the former and were blind to the latter! BDAG says Christos is the "Fulfiller of Israelite expectation of a deliverer, the Anointed One, the Messiah, the Christ." The corresponding OT term is anointed or mashiach/masiyah (from mashach = to smear, anoint) a masculine noun which can function as an adjective (as in Lev 4:3,5, 16) and is used several times to prophetically picture the Messiah, the Christ (1 Sa 2:10, 35), such as in the Book of Daniel “So you are to know and discern (NOTE TWO VERBS REFERRING TO KNOWLEDGE - THE CLEAR IMPLICATION IS THAT THE JEWS COULD HAVE AND SHOULD HAVE KNOWN THE SPECIFIC TIME WHEN MESSIAH WAS TO COME TO ISRAEL BUT SADLY MOST DID NOT RECOGNIZE THE TIME OF THEIR VISITATION - Lk 19:44+) that from the issuing of a decree to restore and rebuild Jerusalem until Messiah (mashiach/masiyah) the Prince there will be seven weeks and sixty-two weeks (= 483 YEARS); it will be built again, with plaza and moat, even in times of distress. “Then after the sixty-two weeks the Messiah (mashiach/masiyah) will be cut off (CRUCIFIXION) and have nothing, and the people (ROMANS) of the prince who is to come (ANTICHRIST) will destroy the city and the sanctuary. And its end will come with a flood; even to the end there will be war; desolations are determined. (Daniel 9:25-26+) In the OT, priests, prophets and kings were anointed and all these offices were fulfilled in "the Mashiach," the Messiah, Christ Jesus (King = Rev 17:14, Rev 19:16, Lk 1:32-33, Priest = Heb 3:1, 1 Ti 2:5, Prophet = Heb 1:1-2). In fact in the Septuagint mashiach is translated in most of the 38 uses with the adjective Christos . Our English word Messiah is a transliteration of the Hebrew mashiach/masiyah. In the Old Testament and Early Jewish Background “Anointed” (mashiach/masiyah) carries several senses and all have to do with installing a person in an office in a way that the person will be regarded as accredited by Yahweh. Even a pagan king such as Cyrus was qualified as the Lord's anointed (Isaiah 45:1) to execute a divinely appointed task. The usual application of the term anointed was to God's representatives within the covenant people. Prophets such as Elisha were set apart in this way (1 Kings 19:16 where anoint in Lxx = chrio). The New Jewish Encyclopedia defines the MESSIAH as “a modified form of the Hebrew word mashiach meaning ‘anointed,’ applied in the Bible to a person appointed for special function, such as High Priest or King. Later the term Messiah came to express the belief that a Redeemer, that is a divinely appointed individual, will in the end bring salvation to the Jewish people and to the entire human race” (p.317). The Dictionary Of Jewish Lore And Legend encapsulates the term MESSIAH a bit more succinctly: “The anointed king of the House of David of Bethlehem who will be sent by God to inaugurate the final redemption in the end of days” (p.132). Related Resources: Messiah - messias Messiah - Anointed One The Messiah - The Anointed One - similar but more notes The Jewish Tradition of Two Messiahs Do the narratives of Jesus’ birth contradict each other? What is a Christmas nativity? Lord (Master, Owner)(2962)(kurios from kuros = might or power) conveys the sense of a supreme one, one who is sovereign and possesses absolute authority, absolute ownership and uncontested power. Kurios is used of the one to whom a person or thing belonged, about which he has the power of deciding, the one who is the master or disposer of a thing (Mk 7:28). Note it is not correct to say we are to make Jesus "Lord" of our lives! He is Lord, period! In 1 Cor 12:3 the confession enabled by the Holy Spirit is that “Jesus is Lord." Paul says "that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." (Ro 10:9). In the Septuagint, kurios is used repeatedly to designate the sacred tetragrammaton YHWH (Jehovah), the personal name for God. In fact the word kurios is used almost 7000 times in the Old Testament and about 747 times in the New Testament! Kurios is used in the Septuagint rendering of the Messianic psalm, Ps 110:1 to translate the Hebrew ' A Psalm of David. (DAVID SPEAKING) The LORD (Yahweh) says to my Lord ('Adonay - Lxx = kurios)(DAVID'S LORD MESSIAH): “Sit at My right hand Until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.” Lord is not merely a name that composes a title, but signifies a call to action so that every saint should willingly, reverently bow down to Jesus Christ as Lord. If Christ is our Lord, we are to live under Him, consciously, continually submitting our wills to him as His loyal, loving bondservants ("love slaves"), always seeking first His Kingdom and His righteousness (Mt 6:33+). According to this practical working "definition" beloved we all need to ask ourselves "Is Jesus Christ my Lord?". "Do I arise each day, acknowledge this is the day the Lord hath made?" (Ps 118:24+) "Do I surrender my will to His will as I begin each day?" (cf Ro 12:1+, Ro 12:2+) And by the way, we don't "make Jesus Lord." Jesus IS Lord, regardless of our response to His Lordship! Beloved, don't misunderstand. None of us have "arrived" in this area of Jesus as Lord of our lives. And it is precisely for that reason that Peter commands us to continually "grow (present imperative) in the grace (unmerited favor, power to live the supernatural, abundant life in Christ enabled by His Spirit) and knowledge (not just intellectual but transformational) of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen." (2 Pe 3:18+) So do not be discouraged. Don't "throw in the towel" as they say. Keep on keeping on, pressing (continually = present tense) "on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." (Php 3:14+) David Gooding - The gospel is that centuries ago God started a great movement in history with Abraham and his seed and then with David, a movement which was every bit as literal and historical as the rise of the Roman Empire; and that Jesus the Messiah and Saviour is the culmination of that historical movement, come to fulfil all the promises made to and through David. It was therefore indispensably necessary for this royal family tradition to be maintained at the birth of Jesus, and one feature of it in particular. The prophet Micah had predicted that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem (see Micah 5:2+); in Bethlehem, therefore, Jesus must be born. Notice at once how our two stories together emphasize the place where Jesus was in fact born: in the city of David, in Bethlehem, in a manger (see Luke 2:4, 7, 11–12, 15–16); but notice next that the chief concern of 2:1–7 (Story 6) is to explain how he came to be born there. It was not Joseph or Mary who arranged it in order to lend credibility, when the day should come, to Jesus’ claim to be David’s Son. Divine providence so ordered things that it was the supreme organizing genius of the ancient world who arranged for Jesus to be born in Bethlehem. Caesar Augustus ordered a census. The organizing principle of the census was that every man must return to the city from which his family sprang in order to be registered. Joseph belonged to the house and line of David and he therefore had to go to David’s city. He could not avoid maintaining the family tradition: the census compelled him. Of course Augustus knew nothing about this effect of the census, and the last thing he or his vassal Herod would have done would be to strengthen the credentials of a messianic claimant to the throne of Israel. For Augustus the taking of censuses was one of the ways he employed to get control over the various parts of his empire. But—and here is the irony of the thing—in the process, as he thought, of tightening his grip on his huge empire, he so organized things that Jesus, Son of Mary, Son of David, Son of God, destined to sit on the throne of Israel and of the world, was born in the city of David, his royal ancestor. Fulfilling, all unknowingly, the prophecy of Micah, he established this particular detail in the claim of Jesus to be the Messiah. It is a most interesting example of God’s providential government of the world of men. When John the Baptist was conceived, God turned back the processes of nature. When our Lord was conceived there was introduced into nature something which nature had never known before and which nature by herself could never have produced. But when God’s Son and destined ruler of the kings of the earth entered the world of men, there was apparently no interference with men’s will or freedom of action whatsoever. Augustus had his own completely adequate reasons for his action and he did exactly what he wanted to do. Yet he did what, had he known, he would not have wished to do: he established the claim of the royal Son of David. He did in fact what had been predetermined by the counsel and foreknowledge of God. See context in According to Luke: The Third Gospel’s Ordered Historical Narrative) THE COUNTERFEIT "SAVIOR" - CAESAR AUGUSTUS - The Priene Inscription (written 9 BC) -- “The most divine Caesar…we should consider equal to the Beginning of all things…for when everything was falling into disorder and tending toward dissolution, he restored it once more and gave the whole world a new aspect; Caesar…the common good Fortune of all…The Beginning of life and vitality…All the cities unanimously adopt the birthday of the divine Caesar as the new beginning of the year…Whereas the Providence which has regulated our whole existence…has brought our life to the climax of perfection in giving to us the emperor Augustus…who being sent to us and our descendants as Savior, has put an end to war and has set all things in order; and whereas, having become God manifest, Caesar has fulfilled all the hopes of earlier times…the birthday of the God Augustus has been for the whole world the beginning of good news (ED: "gospel") concerning him.” Horace, Odes 4.15, published 13 BC - “Thine age, O Caesar, has brought back fertile crops to the fields,…has wiped away our sins and revived the ancient virtues,…and the fame and majesty of our empire were spread from the sun’s bed in the west to the east. As long as Caesar is the guardian of the state, neither civil dissension nor violence shall banish peace.” An inscription dedicated to Caesar Augustus from Halicarnassus dated after 2 B.C. reads: “"Since the eternal and deathless nature of the universe has perfected its immense benefits to mankind in granting us as a supreme benefit, for our happiness and welfare, Caesar Augustus, Father of his own Fatherland, divine Rome, Zeus Paternal, and Savior of the whole human race, in whom Providence has not only fulfilled but even surpassed the prayers of all men: land and sea are at peace, cities flourish under the reign of law, in mutual harmony and prosperity; each is at the very acme of fortune and abounding in wealth; all mankind is filled with glad hopes for the future, and with contentment over the present; [it is fitting to honor the god] with public games and with statues, with sacrifices and with hymns." [Source: British Museum Inscriptions, 894, Cf. P. Wendland, HRK, p. 410, no. 9] One Silent Night Read: Luke 2:1-14 Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. —Luke 2:10 Simon had emigrated from the Netherlands to the United States. His wife, Kay, and all three of their children had been born in the US. Then Jenny married Roberto from Panama. Bill married Vania from Portugal. And Lucas married Bora from South Korea. On Christmas Eve, as the family gathered for a celebration, they began singing “Silent Night” in their native tongues—a sweet sound indeed for the Lord of the earth to hear as they celebrated the birth of His Son. Two thousand years ago, the silence of a quiet night ended abruptly when an angel told the shepherds a baby had been born: “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people” (Luke 2:10). Then a multitude of angels began praising God, saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” (v.14). Christ the Lord, the Savior of the world, was born! God’s gracious gift, His Son, which was announced on that long-ago silent night, is still available to everyone—“every tribe and nation” (Titus 2:11-14; Rev. 5:9-10). “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Silent night! holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight; Glories stream from heaven afar, Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia— Christ the Savior is born! Christ the Savior is born! —Mohr Heaven’s choir came down to sing when heaven’s King came down to save. ILLUSTRATION - In 1971, Ray Tomlinson was experimenting with ways people and computers could interact. When he sent a message from his computer through a network to a different unit in his office, he had sent the first e-mail. Now decades later, more than a billion e-mails are sent every day. Many contain important news from family and friends, but others may carry unwanted advertising or a destructive virus. A basic rule governing e-mail use is: “Don’t open it unless you trust the sender.” God has sent us a message in the Person of His Son, and we can trust the Sender. In the Old Testament, God spoke to His people through the prophets and many rejected God’s Word. But it was all leading to this: “God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds” (Heb. 1:1-2). "Where's The Baby Jesus?" Read: Luke 2:1-12 There is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. —Luke 2:11 It seems to happen earlier each year. Stores put up Christmas decorations. Newspaper ads announce “the perfect Christmas gift.” Toy commercials punctuate television shows. Christmas music fills the air. Before you know it, there are banquets to attend, parties you can’t miss, gifts to wrap, family gatherings to plan, baking to be done, and a host of other activities that manage to crowd out the real meaning of Christmas. Delores Van Belkum told me a story about her young grandson that drives home the point. His mother and father had used a simple manger scene to tell Justin about Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus. They wanted him to know that the Child born in Bethlehem was someone very special. As the holiday approached, Justin went on a shopping trip with his mother and grandmother. One salesperson showed him a sparkling display of Santas, toys, and decorations. He was fascinated. But he spoke words that far surpassed his years when he looked up and said, “But where’s the baby Jesus?” Invite Him in this Christmas, This Savior from above; The gift He seeks you need not wrap— He only wants your love. —Berg Beware of keeping Christmas but losing Christ. Changing History Read: Luke 2:1-14 There is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. —Luke 2:11 Today when we can make international cell-phone calls, send worldwide e-mail, and download images from space on our computers, it’s difficult to imagine the impact of one small satellite the size of a basketball. But on October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union’s launching of Sputnik I, the world’s first artificial satellite, ushered in the modern Space Age and changed the course of history. Nations rushed to catch up, technological development accelerated, and fear alternated with hope about the meaning of it all for humanity. But events that alter the present and the future sometimes occur in obscurity. That was true of the birth of Jesus—just one baby, born to an ordinary couple in a small town. But it changed the course of history. The words of an angel spoken to shepherds began to spread: “There is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). Nineteen centuries later, Phillips Brooks wrote of Bethlehem, “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.” The turning point in history Occurred one night in Bethlehem; And shepherds spread the glorious news The angel had announced to them. —Hess The hinge of history is found on the door of a Bethlehem stable. The Meaning of a Name Read: Matthew 1:18-25 You are to give him the name Jesus. Matthew 1:21 According to a New York Times article, children in many African countries are often named after a famous visitor, special event, or circumstance that was meaningful to the parents. When doctors told the parents of one child that they could not cure the infant’s illness and only God knew if he would live, the parents named their child Godknows. Another man said he was named Enough, because his mother had 13 children and he was the last one! There’s a reason for everyone’s name, and in some cases it also conveys a special meaning. Before Jesus was born, an angel of the Lord told Joseph, “[Mary] will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matt. 1:21). Jesus is the Greek form of Joshua, which means “the Lord saves.” In that day and culture, many children would have been named Jesus, but only one came into this world to die so that all who receive Him might live eternally, forgiven and freed from the power of sin. In Jesus we see God's loving purpose & boundless #grace. Charles
Lucas 2
Lenski - Luke’s words read as if the angels, surrounded by heavenly light, receded upward until they were hid from sight. (See The Interpretation of St. Luke's Gospel) Holman NT Commentary - Angelic presence does not last forever. Angels leave. People must respond. How would shepherds respond—these tough men whose theological education came from the heavens and meadows rather than the synagogue and its rabbis? No quibbling or quarreling! Rather, they made an immediate decision—to go to Bethlehem to see what God had reported to them. They wanted to be part of the work God was doing in his world. They saw God's work in the face of a baby lying in a manger. What audacity that God would use society's lowest occupations and its most meager resources to begin his awesome work of salvation. The shepherds (poimen) began saying to one another - Began saying is in the imperfect tense which pictures them beginning to speak to each other, over and over, finally concluding it was time to quit talking and start walking, a good pattern for all saints to emulate! While the angels offered a heavenly response (Luke 2:8-14). Now the shepherds offer an earthly response (Luke 2:15-20)! THOUGHT- The good news always calls for a response. Not responding to the good news when you hear it is in fact a response. Apathy or seeming "neutrality" will not suffice, but will take one straight to eternal destruction! Let us go straight (dierchomai) to Bethlehem then, and see this thing (rhema) that has happened which the Lord (kurios) has made known (gnorizo) to us - NLT = "Let's go to Bethlehem!" Note their sense of urgency! Would we all be so eager to see Jesus each new morn! There are two subjunctives (Let us go...and see) are hortative. Let's see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." Notice their immediate reaction to go straight to Bethlehem. A T
Lucas 2
Lenski adds "We have no English word for the urgent particle de which indicates that the shepherds could not wait, so we use “at once” partially to convey the sense. NET Note on the Lord has made known to us - Note how although angels delivered the message, it was the Lord whose message is made known, coming through them. To Bethlehem ("the city of David" - Lk 2:11+) See map. Luke does not tell us specifically where they were when the angels made the announcement to them, but it must have been relatively close. See also map of Jesus' birth and flight to Egypt, described only by Matthew (cf Mt 2:13-22, 20, 21,22, 23) "The Christ Who was born into the world must be born in your heart." -- R Kent Hughes Kent
Lucas 2
Lenski - Simeon calls Jesus “a sign,” for his person and his work shall signify salvation for Israel as, indeed, also for all men (Lk 2:32). Israel shall see this “sign” and all it signifies for them but shall raise only objection to it. This is dreadful and inexplicable but a fact nonetheless. Unbelief is the height of irrationality, and no reasonable explanation can be given for an unreasonable act. Men fall solely by their own guilt (Acts 7:51, 52; 28:25–27); men rise up solely by grace (Eph. 2:4–9). (See The Interpretation of St. Luke's Gospel)
Lucas 2
Lenski writes that "The idea is that when Jesus comes to a man with his grace and salvation, his contact with that man will produce and reveal to men certain thoughts of a decisive nature, either those of unbelief, when a man rejects Jesus and loves darkness more than light (John 3:19), or those of faith, when a man has been brought to love truth and comes to the light with his deeds wrought in God (John 3:21). Hitherto Mary (and Joseph) had heard only the glorious part of Jesus’ work, now she hears also the painful part, which is almost unbelievable and yet sure to come, for by the Spirit Simeon spoke true words of revelation and prophecy, they were uttered under divine inspiration." (See The Interpretation of St. Luke's Gospel).
Lucas 2
Lenski notes that in regard to her gift "she resembled Philip’s daughters (Acts 21:9), and she used her gift in a similarly quiet way. The title does not mean that she constantly foretold the future, or that she put herself forward publicly, but that she knew and interpreted the Word and the will of God for edification as 1 Cor. 14 describes this so valuable charisma." (See context in The Interpretation of St. Luke's Gospel) And what a dramatic contrast godly Anna was with the only other NT use of the word prophetess (prophetis) describing ungodly Jezebeel. John records the words of the risen, glorified Lord Jesus... ‘But I have this against you, that you tolerate the woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, and she teaches and leads My bond-servants astray so that they commit acts of immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols.(Rev 2:20+) CSB Study Bible Note - The immediate shift of focus from Simeon, a male who prophesied, to Anna, the prophetess, fits with Luke's emphasis on women. The other prophetesses mentioned in the NT are Philip's daughters (Ac 21:8-9) John MacArthur on prophetess (prophetis) - This refers to a woman who spoke God’s Word. She was a teacher of the OT, not a source of revelation. The OT mentions only 3 women who prophesied: Miriam (Ex 15:20); Deborah (Jdg 4:4); Huldah (2Ki 22:14; 2Ch 34:22). One other, the “prophetess” Noadiah, was evidently a false prophet, grouped by Nehemiah with his enemies. Isaiah 8:3 refers to the prophet’s wife as a “prophetess”—but there is no evidence Isaiah’s wife prophesied. Perhaps she is so-called because the child she bore was given a name that was prophetic (Is 8:3, 4). This use of the title for Isaiah’s wife also shows that the title does not necessarily indicate an ongoing revelatory prophetic ministry. Rabbinical tradition also regarded Sarah, Hannah, Abigail, and Esther as prophetesses (apparently to make an even 7 with Miriam, Deborah, and Huldah). (See context of MacArthur Study Bible) Matthew