Luke 2
Summary. This chapter presents a wonderful description of the events, places, and people surrounding the birth of the beloved Son of God. The Lord stirs up various people to proclaim the coming of our Savior on earth. Messages are given by angels and by the Holy Spirit to these people regarding the beloved Son of God. The chapter emphasizes the fact that the Lord Jesus follows the Law given by the Father to humans and that in His humanity, He also subjects Himself to His earthly caretakers. Progressively, we find significant events from the life of Jesus on earth, starting with Mary's family travel to Bethlehem and His birth until He grew in stature and wisdom with God and men. Luke 2:1-5. Joseph and his betrothed, Mary, who was with the Child, traveled from Nazareth of Galilee to Bethlehem in Judea to register as required by the order of Caesar Augustus. Luke 2:6-7. Mary gives birth to her firstborn Son, our Lord Jesus, in Bethlehem in a manger. Luke 2:8-14. These verses represent the annunciation of the birth of the beloved Son of God, to a group of shepherds, by an angel and a multitude of heavenly hosts praising God. Luke 2:15-20. The Lord chose some poor shepherds to be messengers in that region about the birth of the beloved Son of God,our Savior, who is Christ the Lord. The birth of the Savior went unnoticed in the town until these shepherds came and proclaimed to them that the Savior was born. Luke 2:21. The beloved Son of God is circumcised and given the name Jesus. Luke 2:22-24. Jesus is brought to the temple in Jerusalem, after Mary's days of purification have passed, to be dedicated to the Lord. Jesus has followed all the commandments given by the Father to humans, even from His birth. Luke 2:25-35. A man of God, Simeon, by the power of the Holy Spirit, recognized the Lord Jesus as the Savior of the world when He was brought to the temple in Jerusalem. Simeon was a tool for the Lord to identify Jesus and show people that even His beloved Son follows the law and completes all the law. Luke 2:36-38. Anna, a prophetess, had gained knowledge about the beloved Son of God, and she told people at that time about Jesus, the Redeemer of the world. Luke 2:39-52. These verses tell us two times that Jesus grew in stature and wisdom, the first after His dedication in the temple and the second after His tarrying behind in the temple at twelve years old. The emphasis in this section about the beloved Son of God is that He has a duty to fulfill by worshiping the Father and, in His humanity, He is obeying His earthly family as well.
[1]
Now it came to pass in those days, there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be registered.
Comments Luke 2:1
Give attention to the words "all the world"; this here does not mean the whole world that the Lord has created. This is only the world that was in Augustus' mind for registration.
[2]
This was the first registration before Quirinius was governor of Syria.
Comments Luke 2:2
The correct translation of this verse must state "This was the first registration before" not "This was the first registration when". Q: Why does the Bible mention Quirinius here? A: In this place, it gives this information just to emphasize the period of time when this registration took place. This also gives information about the world's political situation and confusion during that period of time. Q: Why are not we given an exact year of this registration but instead we are granted some general timeline? A: The registration does not need to be described in detail. Even if the Lord will tell us the exact time, there will still be many arguments among humans. Also, the time recorded by humans (historians) is not correct; that is why the Lord never gives exact time here.
[3]
And all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
[4]
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David;
Comments Luke 2:3-4
Many Bible verses explain why Jesus was born in Bethlehem (Luke 1:27, 32-33, Luke 2:11; 1 Samuel 16:4, 13).
"he was of the house and lineage of David". Joseph will be a caretaker of the Lord Jesus. The Bible has linked the Lord to the house of David, because on this earth people will take Joseph as father of the Lord. Also, note that the Bible has mentioned the Lord as a carpenter, a trade that Joseph the Lord's caretaker had. This indicates that Joseph taught the Lord the knowledge of carpentry and did his duty as the caretaker of the Lord Jesus on earth.
"he was of the house and lineage of David". Joseph will be a caretaker of the Lord Jesus. The Bible has linked the Lord to the house of David, because on this earth people will take Joseph as father of the Lord. Also, note that the Bible has mentioned the Lord as a carpenter, a trade that Joseph the Lord's caretaker had. This indicates that Joseph taught the Lord the knowledge of carpentry and did his duty as the caretaker of the Lord Jesus on earth.
Comments Luke 2:5
Mary is betrothed to Joseph but with Child. In this situation, we see the trouble of Joseph and his family being with the begotten Son of God. Even with this blessing, they still face difficulties in life.
In Matthew 1:20, an angel appears to Joseph and tells him to take Mary as his wife, but this verse here indicates that they are still betrothed. Joseph and Mary were betrothed together but had not had the marriage ceremony yet. At that time, by tradition, the betrothed period could be a long time.
In Matthew 1:20, an angel appears to Joseph and tells him to take Mary as his wife, but this verse here indicates that they are still betrothed. Joseph and Mary were betrothed together but had not had the marriage ceremony yet. At that time, by tradition, the betrothed period could be a long time.
[6]
And it came to pass, while they were there, the days were fulfilled that she should give birth.
Comments Luke 2:6
In accordance with the Old Testament prophecy from Micah 5:2, the Messiah will be born in Bethlehem. The place where the Messiah must be born will be as it has been set by the Father. As this verse tells us, Mary gave birth to Jesus in Bethlehem.
[7]
And she brought forth her firstborn Son ; and she wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
Comments Luke 2:7
"And she brought forth her firstborn Son". This is significant, because the Bible has told us that the firstborn male belongs to the Lord (See Exodus 13:2). In this place, for a woman who can give birth to the Lord Jesus, her firstborn child can only be the Lord. She must have had no children before Jesus. This verse emphasizes again that Mary is worthy.
"and she wrapped Him in swaddling clothes". This tells us about their situation. As they travel, they have nothing prepared. When the Lord of life was born on this earth, He did not come with the luxury of this earth. This is the example for all humans to see, you come empty and you leave empty, things on this earth will not make you be someone in heaven.
"and laid Him in a manger". Look at the first experience of the Lord of life; He did not lie down in a soft bed on his first day on earth. The Lord has created nature and the Lord of life used the natural things as the Father has created to be the place to lie down. Manger and the material to lie down, plain material from nature, simple, no artificial additives. That is where the Lord of life first slept.
"because there was no room for them in the inn". There should be no place used by humans for the Lord of life to be born in. The inn is the place where humans take a rest, but Mary as a human did not have that chance to stay in the inn. Because she will give birth to the Lord of life, and this must not be in a place where humans have used it, like an inn where many humans have used it, so that is why no room for them in the inn was found. The Father did not want His beloved Son to be born in a place or bed used by other humans before. That is why the birth of Jesus came at a time when they could not find a room in an inn.
"and she wrapped Him in swaddling clothes". This tells us about their situation. As they travel, they have nothing prepared. When the Lord of life was born on this earth, He did not come with the luxury of this earth. This is the example for all humans to see, you come empty and you leave empty, things on this earth will not make you be someone in heaven.
"and laid Him in a manger". Look at the first experience of the Lord of life; He did not lie down in a soft bed on his first day on earth. The Lord has created nature and the Lord of life used the natural things as the Father has created to be the place to lie down. Manger and the material to lie down, plain material from nature, simple, no artificial additives. That is where the Lord of life first slept.
"because there was no room for them in the inn". There should be no place used by humans for the Lord of life to be born in. The inn is the place where humans take a rest, but Mary as a human did not have that chance to stay in the inn. Because she will give birth to the Lord of life, and this must not be in a place where humans have used it, like an inn where many humans have used it, so that is why no room for them in the inn was found. The Father did not want His beloved Son to be born in a place or bed used by other humans before. That is why the birth of Jesus came at a time when they could not find a room in an inn.
[8]
And there were shepherds in the same region lodging in the fields and keeping watch by night over their flock.
Comments Luke 2:8
In this verse it talks about common people, the shepherds that are taking care of the sheep in the fields. The Lord has brought them here to this region.
"keeping watch by night over their flock". The shepherds that are watching during the night will have their minds at peace, no interaction with outsiders, their minds are clean. And, this will make them able to communicate easier with the Lord than others.
"keeping watch by night over their flock". The shepherds that are watching during the night will have their minds at peace, no interaction with outsiders, their minds are clean. And, this will make them able to communicate easier with the Lord than others.
[9]
And an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they feared with great fear.
Comments Luke 2:9
The shepherds were common people, but they have seen the glory of the Most High God around them, and they will be the witnesses to all humans to the birth of the Son of God. The Lord has chosen the poor and unimportant of society to be the witnesses to the birth of His Son.
"and they feared with great fear". In this place, there is a clear picture of the glory of the Lord and its high power. Humans will be afraid and fearful just thinking about it.
"and they feared with great fear". In this place, there is a clear picture of the glory of the Lord and its high power. Humans will be afraid and fearful just thinking about it.
[10]
And the angel said to them, Fear not; for behold, I bring to you good news of great joy which will be to all the people.
Comments Luke 2:10
In this verse, the angel said the good news not just to the poor like them, but to all the people that will hear about what they have seen and heard. There was no need to be fearful of the good news, but to be in awe of the good news for all humans. The Lord has sent His glory with His beloved Son to shine for all the humans on earth, not just for His people but for all the world.
Comments Luke 2:11
The city of David is Bethlehem and is in Judea as told in verse 4. In this verse, the Father has told clearly to all humans, The Savior of the world is His beloved Son who is Christ the Lord.
[12]
And this is the sign to you: You will find a B ab y wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.
Comments Luke 2:12
The beloved Son of God comes in human form as a helpless baby. The first place the Lord of life has been is not in a palace, but in a manger, the place for feeding the animals. But He did not come to feed the animals. The Lord of life has come to feed the humans with His own blood for salvation.
[13]
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God , and saying:
Comments Luke 2:13
"heavenly hosts". The heavenly hosts have been created before the earth was created. They are like angels, but the heavenly hosts themselves have form in real substance that can be felt, but not by humans. They are all beings, but their substance is not of this earth.
It will be difficult to imagine the number of heavenly host present here at the celebration of Jesus' birth on earth. There are many human souls in heaven (the ones that went through the earth's trials already) but the heavenly host themselves are much more than human souls, but all heavenly host will have one heart to glorify the Father. The voice of those sounds coming from the heavenly host is the voice the Father enjoys hearing. The point of this is that at the birth of the Lord Jesus on earth there were present many, many heavenly host and all came to rejoice at His birth and glorify the Father.
It will be difficult to imagine the number of heavenly host present here at the celebration of Jesus' birth on earth. There are many human souls in heaven (the ones that went through the earth's trials already) but the heavenly host themselves are much more than human souls, but all heavenly host will have one heart to glorify the Father. The voice of those sounds coming from the heavenly host is the voice the Father enjoys hearing. The point of this is that at the birth of the Lord Jesus on earth there were present many, many heavenly host and all came to rejoice at His birth and glorify the Father.
Comments Luke 2:14
"Glory to God in the highest". Pay attention, people of God should always start their day of life with "glory to God in the highest". Humans do not have in them anymore to think about who is the highest here on earth, but God is the highest, not just in heaven, but on earth, and below earth as well. That is the position that God is in; God is the highest in all. This is not just about in the mind and in the heart, but in both worlds, seen and unseen, He is the highest.
"And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased." This is the moment when Jesus was born in the manger, during the night, when the heavenly hosts were praising God. Those that glorify the birth of the beloved Son of God are the people that the Father is well pleased with. He will be among those on earth with whom He is well pleased and will give them peace.
"And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased." This is the moment when Jesus was born in the manger, during the night, when the heavenly hosts were praising God. Those that glorify the birth of the beloved Son of God are the people that the Father is well pleased with. He will be among those on earth with whom He is well pleased and will give them peace.
[15]
And it came to pass, as the angels departed from them into the heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even to Bethlehem and see this spoken-word that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.
Comments Luke 2:15
"as the angels departed from them into the heaven." The angels here refer to the angel and the heavenly host from verse 13. The angels and heavenly hosts dwell in distinct parts of heaven with different levels of responsibility.
"Let us now go even to Bethlehem and see this spoken-word that has come to pass". We can say that the angel and the heavenly host appeared to the shepherds during the night (see verse 8 and 9). It is hard to walk during the night, and we can say that they started to go to Bethlehem after the birth of Jesus in the manger (see verse 14). The Lord does not look at the position of a person on earth. The people the Lord has chosen to know the Savior of the world is coming are these shepherds, and these shepherds have left everything and went to see that the spoken-word has come to pass.
"Let us now go even to Bethlehem and see this spoken-word that has come to pass". We can say that the angel and the heavenly host appeared to the shepherds during the night (see verse 8 and 9). It is hard to walk during the night, and we can say that they started to go to Bethlehem after the birth of Jesus in the manger (see verse 14). The Lord does not look at the position of a person on earth. The people the Lord has chosen to know the Savior of the world is coming are these shepherds, and these shepherds have left everything and went to see that the spoken-word has come to pass.
Comments Luke 2:16
Because at that time Mary and Joseph could not find another place to stay, they stayed here for some time.
"they came with haste". This tells us that the shepherds came quickly but still it took them some time to reach the manger where Jesus laid. Even though in verse 8 it tells us that the shepherds were in the same region, the distance to travel by foot without roads as we have now, for them it took some time.
The beloved Son of God has come into the world, but the people that come to see Him are these poor shepherds. And they have seen the Savior of the world lying in the manger used for feeding the animals.
In this verse, when the shepherds come to see the Baby, it surprised Mary and Joseph how they knew. They are in this little place having a Baby, and suddenly many shepherds come to see the Baby. They questioned themselves how the shepherds knew they were having a Baby. But the shepherds told them that they came to see what they had been told by an angel. Think, what this act would tell Mary in her heart concerning her Baby.
"they came with haste". This tells us that the shepherds came quickly but still it took them some time to reach the manger where Jesus laid. Even though in verse 8 it tells us that the shepherds were in the same region, the distance to travel by foot without roads as we have now, for them it took some time.
The beloved Son of God has come into the world, but the people that come to see Him are these poor shepherds. And they have seen the Savior of the world lying in the manger used for feeding the animals.
In this verse, when the shepherds come to see the Baby, it surprised Mary and Joseph how they knew. They are in this little place having a Baby, and suddenly many shepherds come to see the Baby. They questioned themselves how the shepherds knew they were having a Baby. But the shepherds told them that they came to see what they had been told by an angel. Think, what this act would tell Mary in her heart concerning her Baby.
[17]
And having seen, they proclaimed concerning the saying which was spoken to them about this C hild .
Comments Luke 2:17
In this verse, we see that the Lord stirred up the hearts of these commoners, as the word has said, concerning the saying. The spoken-word has captured the hearts of these poor people, and they went to check and found what they had been told.
"they proclaimed". They made known to the people in that town. They did not need to talk to Mary and Joseph anymore and they went and talked to the people in town.
"concerning the saying". See verses 10 to 14.
"they proclaimed". They made known to the people in that town. They did not need to talk to Mary and Joseph anymore and they went and talked to the people in town.
"concerning the saying". See verses 10 to 14.
[18]
And all that heard it marveled concerning the things which were spoken to them by the shepherds.
Comments Luke 2:18
The birth of the Savior went unnoticed in the town until these shepherds came and proclaimed to them that the Savior was born. The word spoken by these commoners, the truth about the beloved Son of God, has brought joy and surprise to all the people that heard about the birth of the Savior.
[19]
But Mary kept all these matters, pondering them in her heart.
Comments Luke 2:19
People have a problem with this verse because Mary was already pregnant by the Holy Spirt, and why then she still needs to ponder about the matter that the shepherds have told about her Baby. But, it is not easy for a young girl like her to be pregnant and not know what will happen to her. What happened to her body was after her heart had accepted the duty. But for herself, the heart must accept what happened in her body as well, and all that happened to her must go through her head also. Because when her body has changed, it will make her heart realize her duty as a mother, and the head will start to think, and then her soul will come to accept her duty.
[20]
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was spoken to them.
Comments Luke 2:20
The shepherds are talking about the birth of the beloved Son of God. They are talking among themselves confirming the message they have received about this Child. And now they all have the same feeling in their hearts and come to realize the truth regarding the message they have received. The things that have been spoken to them cannot be kept secret. The news about this Child must go further.
[21]
And when eight days were fulfilled for circumcising Him , His name was called JESUS , which was so called by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
Comments Luke 2:21
In Genesis 17:12-14, Genesis 21:4, and Leviticus 12:3, the Lord commanded circumcision to be done on the eighth day. In this verse, we can see the Son of God has followed the command of the Father. All this has been done to Him. After eight days had passed, He received the circumcision. When He was circumcised, His name was called Jesus. He did everything that humans should do. He was born as a human, and as a human, He must follow the command of the Father.
No place in the Bible mentions the location where Jesus was circumcised. We are just told in this verse that the circumcision time was fulfilled, and His name was called Jesus. At that time, by tradition, people invite a priest of the Lord to circumcise the child. But His parents did not do that, because when the circumcision is done the parents must give certain things to the priest. And Mary and her family were traveling and did not have all the things they needed.
No place in the Bible mentions the location where Jesus was circumcised. We are just told in this verse that the circumcision time was fulfilled, and His name was called Jesus. At that time, by tradition, people invite a priest of the Lord to circumcise the child. But His parents did not do that, because when the circumcision is done the parents must give certain things to the priest. And Mary and her family were traveling and did not have all the things they needed.
[22]
And when the days of their purification according to the law of Moses were fulfilled, they brought Him to Jerusalem, to present to the Lord
Comments Luke 2:22
As given in Leviticus 12:3-8, the purifying from the blood of Mary continued for 33 more days after the circumcision of the Lord Jesus. When the time according to the law of the Lord was fulfilled, they brought the Lord Jesus to present Him to the Father, the beloved Son in human form has come to meet the Father. The Father Himself follows the rule that He has given to humans, and His beloved Son must follow that rule as well.
According to this verse, when the days of Mary's purification were complete, Mary came to make an offering for her purification. After she purified herself, she could present the Lord Jesus to the Father. Each one of these activities must have its own offering. These activities most of the time are done in one day, but sometimes the Lord allows them to go beyond one day.
According to this verse, when the days of Mary's purification were complete, Mary came to make an offering for her purification. After she purified herself, she could present the Lord Jesus to the Father. Each one of these activities must have its own offering. These activities most of the time are done in one day, but sometimes the Lord allows them to go beyond one day.
[23]
(as it is written in the law of the Lord , Every male that opens a womb shall be called holy to the Lord ),
Comments Luke 2:23
All the firstborn that are males are the Lord's as written in the book of Exodus 13:2, 12. The Lord has fulfilled according to the law of the Lord; His beloved Son has opened the womb and is holy. Even among humans when they look upon Him on earth, He is holy in every direction.
[24]
and to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord , A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.
Comments Luke 2:24
In Leviticus 12:6-8 by the law of the Lord, Mary was supposed to bring a lamb a year old for a burnt offering, and a pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering for her cleansing. However, if she cannot afford a lamb, then she can offer two turtledoves or two pigeons. This verse tells us that Mary and Joseph offered a pair of turtledoves for Mary's cleansing. In general, this would indicate they are poor, but in their case, we need to consider they were traveling, so, they offered what they could get.
[25]
And behold, 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.
Comments Luke 2:25
It may not say much about Simeon, but his name and his actions have been written down in the Bible. The verse has its own meaning, but we need to notice the last part of the verse that says, "and the Holy Spirit was upon him". When the Bible says that the Holy Spirit is upon someone, that will indicate also that the person is righteous before God, and that person is a true worshiper of the Lord.
[26]
And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit , that he should not see death, before he should see the Christ of the Lord .
Comments Luke 2:26
Simeon is a blessed man, and he will see Christ before he dies. Even at that time, the Lord was not yet known publicly, but the Holy Spirit had worked in Simeon's heart to wait to meet the Lord. The Bible did not mention for how long Simeon had received the revelation about the coming of the Lord's Christ.
[27]
And he came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus , that they might do concerning H im after the custom of the law,
Comments Luke 2:27
"And he came in the Spirit into the temple". Simeon was led by the Holy Spirit to come to the temple.
"and when the parents brought in the child Jesus". This is the most important moment for humans. The God Most High comes to the temple of God in human form; the Savior of the world in human form has come to meet the Father.
"they might do concerning Him after the custom of the law". This is a moment when the beloved Son of God received the custom of humans, the custom which the Lord has given to humans to follow. Now the law has been fulfilled with the coming of the beloved Son of God; the law is in Him. Here the Son did as the Father has given as a law for humans, and this is for the Son of man to be received in the law of Moses, as the law of Moses requires to dedicate the baby to the Lord. Because it was a law, and God Himself has come to do as that law required and the beloved Son has fulfilled that law.
"and when the parents brought in the child Jesus". This is the most important moment for humans. The God Most High comes to the temple of God in human form; the Savior of the world in human form has come to meet the Father.
"they might do concerning Him after the custom of the law". This is a moment when the beloved Son of God received the custom of humans, the custom which the Lord has given to humans to follow. Now the law has been fulfilled with the coming of the beloved Son of God; the law is in Him. Here the Son did as the Father has given as a law for humans, and this is for the Son of man to be received in the law of Moses, as the law of Moses requires to dedicate the baby to the Lord. Because it was a law, and God Himself has come to do as that law required and the beloved Son has fulfilled that law.
Comments Luke 2:28
By the power of the Holy Spirit, Simeon recognized the Lord Jesus, and this happened before the custom offering took place for Jesus' dedication to the Lord. It is important for Simeon to prophesy about the Lord before He was dedicated to the Father. Simeon was a tool for the Lord to show people that even His beloved Son follows the law and completes all the law.
[30]
For my eyes have seen Your salvation,
[31]
Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples;
Comments Luke 2:29-31
Simeon just wants to confirm to people that the Savior has come.
Comments Luke 2:32
"A light for revelation to the Gentiles". The beloved Son of God has come to save the Gentiles as well. The Gentiles just need to follow the teaching of the beloved Son of God.
"And the glory of Your people Israel". There is a difference between saying 'for revelation' and 'the glory' in this verse. For the Gentiles, the light will open their hearts to accept the Lord Jesus, but the glory of His people means lifting up His people to be separated since Jesus came among His people. For His people, the Lord has put a light shining out to cover them. Because they are His people, and they will always be separated from the rest. But only when they have faith in the beloved Son of God, then will the rest of the people see their light of knowledge.
"And the glory of Your people Israel". There is a difference between saying 'for revelation' and 'the glory' in this verse. For the Gentiles, the light will open their hearts to accept the Lord Jesus, but the glory of His people means lifting up His people to be separated since Jesus came among His people. For His people, the Lord has put a light shining out to cover them. Because they are His people, and they will always be separated from the rest. But only when they have faith in the beloved Son of God, then will the rest of the people see their light of knowledge.
Comments Luke 2:33
His earthly family were doing for Him as the earthly requirement to do, and the Lord Himself also came to fulfil that law.
[34]
and Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother: Behold, this C hild is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel; and for a sign spoken against;
Comments Luke 2:34
"Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother". Mary herself does need this encouragement. For her, hearing all the talking about Jesus will make her gain peace in her heart.
"this Child is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel". The Beloved Son of God Himself will be the cause of rising and falling among His people. For the rising of His people, when they look upon the Son of God, and their hearts are open to accepting His authority above them all, the peace from God will occupy their hearts and even when their life is difficult, they will still have that peace. For the falling of His people, when His own people have rejected the Lord of life, the suffering of the physical and heart will be more than what they can tell their own kinsmen and it will be hard to bear.
"and for a sign spoken against". When people speak against the beloved Son of God's birth, death and resurrection, all these signs they will talk against and blaspheme against. But when they talk against these signs, deep inside their hearts they will blaspheme against the Three in One, not just the Son alone, but against all Three in One.
"this Child is set for the falling and the rising of many in Israel". The Beloved Son of God Himself will be the cause of rising and falling among His people. For the rising of His people, when they look upon the Son of God, and their hearts are open to accepting His authority above them all, the peace from God will occupy their hearts and even when their life is difficult, they will still have that peace. For the falling of His people, when His own people have rejected the Lord of life, the suffering of the physical and heart will be more than what they can tell their own kinsmen and it will be hard to bear.
"and for a sign spoken against". When people speak against the beloved Son of God's birth, death and resurrection, all these signs they will talk against and blaspheme against. But when they talk against these signs, deep inside their hearts they will blaspheme against the Three in One, not just the Son alone, but against all Three in One.
[35]
yes and a sword will pierce through your own soul; so that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed.
Comments Luke 2:35
For Mary herself, when she hears people talking against her Son, it is like a sword itself piercing through her soul. The hurt of Mary as a mother is beyond what words can tell. The thoughts of many people against the Holy Son will be revealed to her ears, and Mary as a mother will hear them all.
Note that Simeon was not mentioned as a prophet, just as a righteous man used by the Holy Spirit.
Note that Simeon was not mentioned as a prophet, just as a righteous man used by the Holy Spirit.
[36]
And there was Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (she was of a great age, having lived with a husband seven years from her virginity,
[37]
and she was a widow until eighty-four years), who departed not from the temple, worshipping with fasting and supplications night and day.
Comments Luke 2:36-37
The information about Anna is given for a reason. Her role may not be mentioned many times, but this prophetess has gained knowledge about the beloved Son of God, and she will reveal it to His people.
Q: In these verses we are given the lineage of Anna. However, the Bible is silent about Mary's linage. What is the reason for this? A: Mary's lineage cannot be told further because people will link her lineage to the Lord in the wrong way. People will find a way to worship her lineage instead of the true Father.
Q: In these verses we are given the lineage of Anna. However, the Bible is silent about Mary's linage. What is the reason for this? A: Mary's lineage cannot be told further because people will link her lineage to the Lord in the wrong way. People will find a way to worship her lineage instead of the true Father.
[38]
And coming up at that hour she gave thanks to God and spoke concerning Him to all those that were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.
Comments Luke 2:38
We are given the lineage of Anna and information about her life, but the Bible does not record her words that she spoke about Jesus. Anna had told people at that time about the redemption of Israel, but people also ignored her words. If it has written down what she has said, people will try to make another book, and compare her book with the Holy Bible, and this will create much division among believers. The duty of Anna was to tell in that time, but not for further generations. For doing her duty towards her people, the Lord honors her by mentioning her name and her story in the Bible. Also, the Lord has told us she was a prophetess.
"coming up at that hour". This means that Anna came at the time of the Lord's dedication in the temple.
"spoke concerning Him to all those that were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem". Anna, because she has been selected as a prophetess, her duty is to tell people about the Messiah who is coming to redeem His people. Anna will go out and tell all, but only those that have been called will listen to the voice of Anna. Being a prophetess, she has told people many things about the beloved Son of God.
Note that Simeon was not mentioned as a prophet, just as a righteous man used by the Holy Spirit.
"coming up at that hour". This means that Anna came at the time of the Lord's dedication in the temple.
"spoke concerning Him to all those that were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem". Anna, because she has been selected as a prophetess, her duty is to tell people about the Messiah who is coming to redeem His people. Anna will go out and tell all, but only those that have been called will listen to the voice of Anna. Being a prophetess, she has told people many things about the beloved Son of God.
Note that Simeon was not mentioned as a prophet, just as a righteous man used by the Holy Spirit.
[39]
And when they had accomplished everything according to the law of the Lord , they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.
Comments Luke 2:39
"when they had accomplished everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee ...". Within this verse there is a gap of time and places.
The family did not return immediately to Nazareth, but they traveled around for a period of time, as shown in Matthew chapter 2, before they settled in Nazareth as specified in Luke 2:39b and Matthew 2:23. In each gospel there is a unique time described, but if we put each gospel in a timeline then we will be able to fill up the gaps of time. Each Gospel has its own purpose for people. According to the Gospel of Matthew, the family traveled to other places for a period of time before they settled in Nazareth. See Matthew 2:1-23 for the timeline related to the Child Jesus and family travels in and around Bethlehem before settling in Nazareth.
As Jesus and His family are traveling, it takes them longer than normal to go to their destination in Nazareth. They cannot travel straight to where they want, because at that time, the Lord Jesus is still young, and they must try to avoid people as well to make sure that they are not followed by someone else to harm them. In Bethlehem, they did not stay in their own house. Jesus and His family traveled most of the time. Mainly because of fear, it makes them never stay long in any place. Because Mary was fearful of the safety of the beloved Son of God, she could not stay peacefully in one place.
Note that neither Gospel mentions the exact time, it will always use the term about. In each period of time, it could mean a short or a long period of time to stay in one place. And when the Lord guided the wisemen, He used the star to guide them.
The family did not return immediately to Nazareth, but they traveled around for a period of time, as shown in Matthew chapter 2, before they settled in Nazareth as specified in Luke 2:39b and Matthew 2:23. In each gospel there is a unique time described, but if we put each gospel in a timeline then we will be able to fill up the gaps of time. Each Gospel has its own purpose for people. According to the Gospel of Matthew, the family traveled to other places for a period of time before they settled in Nazareth. See Matthew 2:1-23 for the timeline related to the Child Jesus and family travels in and around Bethlehem before settling in Nazareth.
As Jesus and His family are traveling, it takes them longer than normal to go to their destination in Nazareth. They cannot travel straight to where they want, because at that time, the Lord Jesus is still young, and they must try to avoid people as well to make sure that they are not followed by someone else to harm them. In Bethlehem, they did not stay in their own house. Jesus and His family traveled most of the time. Mainly because of fear, it makes them never stay long in any place. Because Mary was fearful of the safety of the beloved Son of God, she could not stay peacefully in one place.
Note that neither Gospel mentions the exact time, it will always use the term about. In each period of time, it could mean a short or a long period of time to stay in one place. And when the Lord guided the wisemen, He used the star to guide them.
[40]
And the C hild grew, and became strong, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him .
Comments Luke 2:40
In this verse, it says clearly that the grace of God was upon Jesus. All the work will be done through the Holy Spirit, not only the work in this verse alone, the work that will come on the way, all the decisions and interactions related to Jesus will be guided through the Holy Spirit.
"And the Child grew, and became strong". Strong in this place means strong in two ways, physically and spiritually.
"being filled with wisdom". The beloved Son of God let the Holy Spirit from the Father to lead Him and do the work for the Father. Humans will use intelligence, but for the Lord in His humanity, when He lets the Holy Spirit lead Him, His mind will have received the idea of thinking and will convince His heart to do what is right and pleasing to the Father.
"And the Child grew, and became strong". Strong in this place means strong in two ways, physically and spiritually.
"being filled with wisdom". The beloved Son of God let the Holy Spirit from the Father to lead Him and do the work for the Father. Humans will use intelligence, but for the Lord in His humanity, when He lets the Holy Spirit lead Him, His mind will have received the idea of thinking and will convince His heart to do what is right and pleasing to the Father.
[41]
And His parents went every year to Jerusalem at the feast of the Passover.
Comments Luke 2:41
The Lord's Passover was held at twilight, the day before the Feast of Unleavened Bread (See Leviticus 23:5-6). In this verse we have the proof showing that both, Mary and Joseph, have been taught in the way of the Lord. Because the verse told us every year they go, this is the support showing their piety.
[42]
And when He was twelve years, they went up according to the custom of the feast;
Comments Luke 2:42
"And when He was twelve years". This is also a turning point in time for the Lord Himself. At this point in time, Mary and His earthly family will notice in their hearts who Jesus truly is in human form.
"they went up according to the custom of the feast". The family went up for worship, and every time the Lord was traveling with them in a group.
"they went up according to the custom of the feast". The family went up for worship, and every time the Lord was traveling with them in a group.
[43]
and when they had fulfilled the days, in their returning, the boy Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; but H is parents knew it not;
Comments Luke 2:43
"and when they had fulfilled the days". This refers to the fulfillment of the days as described by the Feast of Passover and the Feast of the Unleavened Bread. Notice the term days, not one day to do according to the custom, but more days they all are busy doing worship (Leviticus 23:5-6).
"in their returning, the boy Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem". The beloved Son of God Himself has the duty to fulfill by worshiping the Father. Because of this, it made the Lord separate Himself and that is why the Bible uses the term 'tarried behind'.
"but His parents knew it not". Q: Why did not the Lord Jesus inform His earthly family about staying behind in the temple? A: The Lord did not inform His earthly family because Mary herself had been busy and her mind was occupied at that point (See verse 44). But the beloved Son of God needed to glorify the Father and that is why He tarried behind alone. Jesus always knows who His true Father is.
"in their returning, the boy Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem". The beloved Son of God Himself has the duty to fulfill by worshiping the Father. Because of this, it made the Lord separate Himself and that is why the Bible uses the term 'tarried behind'.
"but His parents knew it not". Q: Why did not the Lord Jesus inform His earthly family about staying behind in the temple? A: The Lord did not inform His earthly family because Mary herself had been busy and her mind was occupied at that point (See verse 44). But the beloved Son of God needed to glorify the Father and that is why He tarried behind alone. Jesus always knows who His true Father is.
[44]
but supposing Him to be in their company, they went a day's journey, and sought for Him among their kinsfolks and acquaintances;
Comments Luke 2:44
This verse shows us that Jesus' earthly family were occupied and busy with their worldly things. The verse shows distinctly that Mary's thoughts were not on the Lord and her mind was also occupied with worldly things, and she was not concerned about her Child.
"they went a day's journey". Mary, as a mother, and entrusted by the Father to take care of His beloved Son, ignored in her heart to look for her Child before leaving. She was concerned with earthly things and not about her own duty towards her Child.
"they went a day's journey". Mary, as a mother, and entrusted by the Father to take care of His beloved Son, ignored in her heart to look for her Child before leaving. She was concerned with earthly things and not about her own duty towards her Child.
Comments Luke 2:45
In this verse, we can see that they returned to Jerusalem after what happened because of their lack of duty. For that length of time (see verse 46) a human child could be in danger, but this is also the beloved Son of God, and they have neglected Him. Humans forget even their own child, but the Lord God Almighty never forgets His children.
[46]
And it came to pass, after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both hearing them and questioning them.
Comments Luke 2:46
"And it came to pass, after three days". Think as well, this Child is still young, the beloved Son of God in human form has been left alone for this length of time. 'Three days' in this verse refers to three days of searching for Him. In all, we can say that Jesus was separated from them for more than three days.
"they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both hearing them and questioning them". At this moment in time, we all should realize that the Lord of life, as a young Child, has performed His duty as an adult. The Child Jesus has magnified the work of the Father in the midst of humans. The beloved Son of God at a young age has full power as an adult. He knew His early family would come back to search for Him. But that was the time for Him to follow the Father as well. The time alone with humans in the temple also has showed to all humans that as a young Child He had performed His duty as the Teacher. Being left alone by an earthy family does not stop the work of God.
"they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both hearing them and questioning them". At this moment in time, we all should realize that the Lord of life, as a young Child, has performed His duty as an adult. The Child Jesus has magnified the work of the Father in the midst of humans. The beloved Son of God at a young age has full power as an adult. He knew His early family would come back to search for Him. But that was the time for Him to follow the Father as well. The time alone with humans in the temple also has showed to all humans that as a young Child He had performed His duty as the Teacher. Being left alone by an earthy family does not stop the work of God.
Comments Luke 2:46-47
These verses tell many things to people. Jesus was sitting among the teachers of humans, and they were all amazed at His understanding and answers. The beloved Son of God has performed His duty as a Savior of the world by listening and answering questions.
[48]
And when they saw Him , they were astonished; and His mother said to Him , Child , why have You thus done to us? behold, Your father and I sought Y ou distressing.
Comments Luke 2:48
"And when they saw Him, they were astonished". In this place, Mary and Joseph are starting to realize whom they are dealing with now.
"His mother said to Him, Child, why have You thus done to us?" For Mary herself to try not to have the guilty feeling in her heart of leaving Him alone, her human nature has played a big role here. Mary in her heart tried to find someone else to blame instead of herself.
"Your father and I sought You distressing". We must remember that Joseph has played a role as an earthly father in taking care of the Lord Jesus at this time. But the distress feeling has come after their own mistake, and it is natural to refuse to accept their mistakes.
"His mother said to Him, Child, why have You thus done to us?" For Mary herself to try not to have the guilty feeling in her heart of leaving Him alone, her human nature has played a big role here. Mary in her heart tried to find someone else to blame instead of herself.
"Your father and I sought You distressing". We must remember that Joseph has played a role as an earthly father in taking care of the Lord Jesus at this time. But the distress feeling has come after their own mistake, and it is natural to refuse to accept their mistakes.
[49]
And He said to them, Why were you seeking Me ? Knew you not that I must be in M y Father's house?
Comments Luke 2:49
"Why were you seeking Me?" In this question, Jesus has asked His caretakers directly, meaning looking for Me, but you have left Me behind. As for all of us humans, the Lord has given the book of life, but so few are searching for what the Lord teaches. But, after something bad happens, then we come and ask, "where are you, Lord?"
"knew you not that I must be in My Father's house?" Here, the Lord has told Mary to remember how she conceived Him, and bring Mary back to her place where she knows in her heart who Jesus is. As the verse has said, 'My Father's house' is to make Mary remember who His true Father is.
"knew you not that I must be in My Father's house?" Here, the Lord has told Mary to remember how she conceived Him, and bring Mary back to her place where she knows in her heart who Jesus is. As the verse has said, 'My Father's house' is to make Mary remember who His true Father is.
[50]
And they understood not the saying that He spoke to them.
Comments Luke 2:50
Mary herself is human, as all humans on earth would be. She forgot whom she gave birth to, the beloved Son of God, and that is the saying they cannot understand.
[51]
And H e went down with them and came to Nazareth, and He was subject to them. And His mother kept all these matters in her heart.
Comments Luke 2:51
"And He went down with them and came to Nazareth." The beloved Son of God, in human form, is also obeying His earthly family as well.
"and He was subject to them." Jesus went and lived with them as the good son would be in human eyes.
"and His mother kept all these matters in her heart." Mary never understood anything about the beloved Son of God until now. This has come to the point of what the Lord has said that He must be in His Father's house. All these things that she has kept in her heart made her feel confused, and she could not understand what she truly gave birth to, a human or just God Himself.
Q: Why did the Holy Spirit tell us this story in this Gospel? A: This story about the Lord being in the temple, is given here for all humans to see distinctly that the Lord Himself has taken part to be a human. But He Himself is the beloved Son of God, and He will always want to be close to the Father.
"and He was subject to them." Jesus went and lived with them as the good son would be in human eyes.
"and His mother kept all these matters in her heart." Mary never understood anything about the beloved Son of God until now. This has come to the point of what the Lord has said that He must be in His Father's house. All these things that she has kept in her heart made her feel confused, and she could not understand what she truly gave birth to, a human or just God Himself.
Q: Why did the Holy Spirit tell us this story in this Gospel? A: This story about the Lord being in the temple, is given here for all humans to see distinctly that the Lord Himself has taken part to be a human. But He Himself is the beloved Son of God, and He will always want to be close to the Father.
Comments Luke 2:52
"And Jesus advanced in wisdom and stature." The beloved Son of God in human form grew up in the physical body and as He grew as a human, His wisdom has increased in the eyes of people.
"And in favor with God". Even though He Himself is God, however, He has always put the Father above all, and the meaning here is favor with God the Father.
"And in favor with men" in this place refers to the way He respects His earthly family.
"And in favor with God". Even though He Himself is God, however, He has always put the Father above all, and the meaning here is favor with God the Father.
"And in favor with men" in this place refers to the way He respects His earthly family.
Life and Faith Applications. From this chapter we can highlight three main life and faith application points. 1) The Savior of the world is the beloved Son of God,who is Christ the Lord (Luke 2:10-14, 26-32, 36-38). 2) The Lord has given the book of life to all humans, but so few are searching for what the Lord teaches us. We do not need to wait until something bad happens in our life to seek the Lord; instead, we always need to keep the Lord in our hearts and study and meditate on His Word(Luke 2:42-49). 3) We, as humans, need to be subjected to our Father in heaven first, but we also need to respect and honor our earthy parents (Luke 2:49-52).