What does Luke 2:28 mean?

Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Luke 2:28

Explanation

Luke 2:28 depicts a significant moment where Simeon, a righteous and devout man who was eagerly waiting for the consolation of Israel, takes the infant Jesus into his arms and blesses God. This event occurs when Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, as required by Jewish law. The act of taking Jesus into his arms signifies an intimate and personal encounter with the Messiah. Simeon’s blessing of God indicates a response of praise and thanksgiving for fulfilling the promise of redemption and salvation through the coming of Jesus.

Historical Context

This event takes place within the context of Jewish religious practice, where it was customary for Jewish parents to bring their firstborn son to the temple to present him to the Lord (Exodus 13:12, 13). Additionally, a sacrifice was typically offered as part of the purification after childbirth (Leviticus 12:1-8). The narrative falls within the infancy stories of the Gospel of Luke, which are often characterized by their attention to the fulfillment of Jewish expectations and prophecies regarding the Messiah. Simeon’s presence in the temple and his recognition of Jesus as the Messiah are significant as they confirm the early acknowledgment of Jesus’s divine mission.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse supports the idea of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, sent by God for the redemption of Israel and the light of the Gentiles. Simeon embodies the faithful remnant of Israel who are awaiting the fulfillment of God’s promises. His response is often interpreted as a recognition of salvation not only for the Jewish people but also for the entire world. The event reflects the incarnation theology, emphasizing that in Jesus, God has come into the world in human form. Simeon’s blessing also aligns with the themes of divine revelation and fulfillment of prophecy that are recurrent in the Gospel of Luke.

Practical Applications

The passage lends itself to numerous practical applications. Believers are encouraged to remain faithful and patient in their anticipation of God’s promises. It advocates for the recognition of divine encounters in everyday life and embracing them with gratitude. Furthermore, followers of Christ may see the importance of presenting their lives to God and blessing His name in all circumstances. Simeon’s example illustrates the virtue of righteousness and being led by the Spirit in one’s walk of faith.

Cross-References

• Exodus 13:12: “That thou shalt set apart unto the LORD all that openeth the matrix, and every firstling that cometh of a beast which thou hast; the males shall be the LORD’s.”
• Leviticus 12:1-8: “…and if she be not able to bring a lamb, then she may bring two turtles, or two young pigeons; one for the burnt offering, and the other for a sin offering…”
• Isaiah 49:6: “And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.”
• Luke 2:32: “A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.”

Language Study

• “Took”: The original Greek word used is “elaben” (ἔλαβεν), which is the aorist form of “lambano,” meaning to take or receive something in a physical sense.
• “Up in his arms”: This phrase is not explicitly written in the Greek text but is understood from the context. The act reflects affection and care.
• “Blessed”: The Greek word “eulogesen” (εὐλόγησεν) is the aorist form of “eulogeo,” which means to speak well of, praise, confer blessings upon.
• “God”: The term for God here is “Theos” (Θεὸς), the general Greek term for the deity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The presentation of infants in religious temples or places of worship is not exclusive to Judaism and can be seen in various cultural and religious practices. For example, in Hinduism, parents often bring their newborns to the temple for blessings. However, the Christian understanding of this practice pivots on the concept of Jesus as a firstborn dedicated to God in a manner that reveals Him as the Savior, which is distinct from other religious rites.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives typically do not engage directly with theological events such as the one described in Luke 2:28. However, the understanding of early childhood development can affirm the importance of intimate human contact, like holding a child, in emotional and psychological health. This understanding can indirectly reinforce the significance of Simeon’s nurturing action of holding the infant Jesus in his arms.

Commentaries

Commentators from various theological backgrounds often emphasize the significance of Simeon’s role in the narrative. Matthew Henry’s Commentary notes Simeon’s righteous and devout character and interprets his actions as a fulfillment of the Holy Spirit’s promise that he would see the Lord’s Christ. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary highlights Simeon’s recognition of Jesus as a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to Israel, reflecting the universal scope of Jesus’s ministry. The Pulpit Commentary observes the patience Simeon exhibits while waiting for the Messiah and the joy of God’s salvation realized in the event.