I) Legalism vs In the Spirit V.21-27
• V.21, Jesus named/circumcised 8

th day. Genesis 17:12 (sign

of covenant); Leviticus 12:3.
• V.22 Mary’s purification (Leviticus 12:2-8). Firstborn
redemption, Exodus 13:2, 12, 14-16; 34:20; Number 3:13.
Redemption price is 5 shekels (Numbers 18:15-16).
• Purpose in redemption price and purification rite.
• V.25-27 “Legalism” brought Joseph, Mary, & Jesus to temple
to encounter Simeon.
• Simeon is impressed by Holy Spirit, guided as seeks Messiah.
• Lawful & spirit-filled meet in Jesus.
II) Death VS Birth V.26, 29
• Jesus’ birth brings Him to encounter Simeon.
• Jesus’ birth stages Simeon to die (v.26, 28).
• V.29 Simeon praises God for promise fulfilled, ready to die.
o Philippians 1:21 To live is Christ, to die is gain!
o Galatians 2:20 Crucified with Christ, Christ lives in me.
III) God’s Sovereignty VS The Impossible
• Simeon’s praise, quotes Isaiah 42:6; 49:6 (salvation to all).
• God incarnate (in flesh) impossible, but God’s plan.
• Messiah humble life, unfitting for honor. God’s plans
accomplish as He intends.
IV) To Celebrate VS Condemnation V.28-35
• Child to cause fall/rise of many.
o John 3:17-18 Jesus to save world, not condemn.
o John 5:24, Believe and pass from death to life.
• Celebration when know the way to eternal life.
• Condemnation – not respond when confronted with sin. Jesus
will be a blessing or a stumbling stone.
• 1Peter 2:8
• Believe & trust Jesus (celebration) or rebel and be
condemned.