Luke 2

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 7 StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size -9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 jBiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 14 2 8 0 0 CHAPTER II) Outline of Chapter 2) ) Theme: The Work Thou Gavest Him to Do) 2:1 7 The Birth of Jesus) 2:8 21 Shepherds and Angels) The Circumcision and Naming of Jesus) 2:22 38 The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple:) Simeon s Nunc Dimittis ) Anna s Thanksgiving and Testimony) 2:39, 40 The Return to Nazareth) 2:41 52 The Boy in the Midst of the Teachers) ) 2:1 7 The Birth of Jesus) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.18-40.1.25|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.18-40.1.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:18 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ��97��) 1 3 2 8 0 0 2 1 In those days a decree was issued by Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the entire [Roman] world. 2 This, the first census, took place while Quirinius was governor of��93�� Syria.��94�� 3 And all went on their way to be registered, each going to his own town. 4 So from Galilee, out of the town of Nazareth, Joseph too went up, into Judea, to the town of David, which is called Bethlehem. It was because he was of the house and family of David that he went there, 5 to be registered��95�� with Mary, his betrothed, who was pregnant. 6 And while they were there the days were fulfilled��96�� for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in strips of cloth and laid him down in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.) ) 1. In those days a decree was issued by Caesar Augustus that a census should be taken of the entire [Roman] world.) 7 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.5|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.1|AUTODETECT|” made mention of Herod, the king; 2:1 refers to Augustus, the emperor. Malevolent Herod and Benevolent Augustus, to a certain extent how different they were! To be sure, they had in common that they were heathen, and men of superior ability, but that is about where the similarity ended. At the time of the census, mentioned here in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Herod the Great (or Herod I) was still alive. He must have died shortly afterward.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The census was ordered by the emperor. For at least twenty-three years (27 4 b.c.) the reigns of emperor and king overlapped, as shown in the diagram on the following page.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.1|AUTODETECT|” Now as to that census. But first something more must be said about the man who ordered it, Emperor Augustus. Getting acquainted with this renowned ruler may help us to understand ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.2.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 f.) 1 11 2 8 0 0 His original name was Gaius Octavius. For the earlier period of his life (i.e., for 63 27 b.c.) he is popularly known in the English-speaking world) ) ) as Octavian. As shown on the diagram, he was Roman emperor from 27 b.c. (or a little earlier) until his death in a.d. 14. See what was said about him in N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 158 160, 163, 164.) He was a grandnephew of Julius Caesar; that is, Octavian s mother Atia was a daughter of Julia, the sister of Julius Caesar:) ) ) ) His granduncle, Julius Caesar, thought highly of him and showered gifts and honors upon him. When the great Roman statesman and general was murdered (44 b.c.), Octavian learned that in his will he, the grandnephew, had been named Caesar s son and heir. He then changed his name to Gaius Julius Caesar.) A sister of Octavian was married to Antony, member of The Second Triumvirate (Lepidus, Antony, and Octavian).

When Antony left his own wife behind and became infatuated with Egypt s bewitching Queen Cleopatra, and when, in addition, he began to show far greater concern for himself and Cleopatra than for the welfare of Rome, Octavian and the Romans understandably turned against him. In the naval battle of Actium (31 b.c.) Antony was defeated. Both he and Cleopatra shortly afterward committed suicide. Octavian conquered.) In the year 27 b.c. the Roman senate conferred on the former Octavian now Gaius Julius Caesar the title Augustus (= majestic, sublime, highly revered). From then on he was known as Caesar Augustus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.13|AUTODETECT|” His character is hard to analyze. During his climb to power he was ruthless. Once in power, however, he mellowed. He became, in fact, a wise administrator and famous organizer, especially of his military forces and of his bodyguard. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.1.13|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 1:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . By choosing his generals wisely he won many battles. He showed superb tact in dealing with his subjects, and allowed even the conquered provinces to retain a considerable measure of home rule. He respected their customs, religious convictions, and even their laws to the extent to which they did not interfere with Rome s. He caused an ordinance to be passed making adultery a crime. He stimulated the arts and encouraged cleaner literature. He was a great builder. He gave to the world a lengthy period of heretofore unknown peace. He has been called a benevolent ruler, and even the father of his country. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” After fully 41 years of a predominantly successful rule he calmly passed away in the arms of his wife. Many of the reforms he instituted survived his death. By means of the census he unwittingly contributed to the fulfilment of the prophecy of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 6 2 8 0 0 In saying some good things about Augustus we are contrasting him with Herod I , who, in comparison with Augustus, was worse than a beast. By no means are we saying, Augustus was just about a Christian. Far from it! That he was, after all, a heathen is clear not only from the ruthless manner in which he rose to power but also from various other facts: though by an act of law he made adultery a crime, as stated above, in his own personal life he certainly undermined the sanctity of marriage. When his first wife, Scribonia, failed to produce a son she did give birth to a daughter, Julia he divorced her and married Livia, with whom he had fallen madly in love. He also forced Livia s elder son (by her former marriage), Tiberius, who later became emperor, to divorce his wife and to marry Julia.) As to emperor-worship, because Augustus realized how unpopular his adoptive father, Julius Caesar, had made himself by accepting divine honors, he discouraged worship of himself.

Nevertheless, he not only accepted for himself the title Pontifex Maximus or Highest Priest, i.e., head of all religious worship, but also insisted on the deification of the murdered Julius Caesar, even building a temple in his honor. Moreover, he did not discourage the erection of temples to Rome and Augustus. ) All in all, therefore, we are probably justified in saying this about Caesar Augustus: he was certainly better than most Roman emperors and than King Herod I. Yet he was far removed from measuring up to the Christian standard. Augustus was a heathen. Nevertheless by God, in his unsearchable wisdom, this heathen was used for the advancement of God s kingdom. It was the Pax Romana (Roman Peace), to which Augustus contributed liberally, that made it possible for the Christian religion to push forward until, in a very short time, it had spread across the entire Mediterranean world.��99��) Since, as has been indicated, Augustus was a methodical man and a good administrator, who had taken note of the confused state of affairs in the realm entrusted to his care, he ordered a census to be taken of the entire inhabited world, that is, the populated world as far as it was ruled by Rome.

The census was ordered in those days, a very indefinite expression, probably referring to the days of Herod (1:5).) Something can be said in favor of the interpretation that what the emperor actually ordered was not just one census but a regular system of censuses: a registration with a view to taxation that would occur at equal time intervals.) That such periodic enrolments actually occurred can no longer be denied. The very papers, indicating a registration every fourteen years, have been found; namely, those proving that a census must have been taken in the years a.d. 230, 216, 202, 188, 174, 160, 146, 132, 118, 104, 90, 62, 34. There are also indirect references to the censuses of a.d. 48 and 20.��100��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” Subtracting 14 from a.d. 20 brings us back to a.d. 6, as having also been a census year. Indirect evidence for the correctness of this date is furnished by Josephus, Antiquities XVIII.26 (see also XVII.355; XVIII.1). He states that a census took place in the 37th year of Caesar s defeat of Antony at Actium. Since we know that this battle occurred Sept. 2 of the year 31 b.c., this yields a.d. 6 as the date for the census that caused a great uprising among the Jews. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; Josephus, Jewish War VII.253.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 When we now once more subtract 14 years we arrive finally at the year 8 b.c., for the first census. But does this necessarily mean that in Herod s domain the census was completed in 8 b.c.? This introduces us to verse 2. This, the first census, took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria. The sense is clearly that the system of periodic enrolments was put into operation for the first time when Quirinius was governor of Syria.��101��) At this point two difficulties arise, both relating to the date 8 b.c. The first concerns 8 b.c. and Quirinius; the second, 8 b.c. and Jesus.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” As to the first difficulty, is it not true that according to Josephus (Antiquities XVIII.1) Quirinius was governor of Syria not in 8 b.c. but in a.d. 6, when he arrived & to make an assessment, and when a certain Judas 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) instigated a rebellion?) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Answer: Inscriptions discovered by William Ramsay show that Quirinius was governor in Syria both before and after the birth of Jesus, though not necessarily in the same sense each time. For more details see the works of Ramsay and of Robertson mentioned earlier (on p. 39, footnote 30); especially Ramsay, Was Christ Born at Bethlehem?, p. 109; Robertson, Luke the Historian, p. 128. In fact, with brief interruptions Quirinius functioned as military governor or commander-in-chief in Syria from 12 b.c. to a.d. 16.��102��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.2|AUTODETECT|” As to the second difficulty, if it be true that the census to which ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” refers, and therefore also the birth of Jesus, took place in 8 b.c., then the beginning of Christ s ministry, when he was about thirty years of age 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ), must be dated about the year a.d. 22, and the first cleansing of the temple 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.12|AUTODETECT|” John 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ff.) circa a.d. 23. But this brings us into conflict with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” John 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , according to which that structure, work on which was begun in 19 b.c., had been in the process of building for forty-six years. That forty-six year span brings us to the date a.d. 27 for the first cleansing of the temple, and to the date a.d. 26 for the beginning of Christ s ministry. The date late December of the year 5 b.c., for the birth of Jesus, is therefore not unreasonable. But 8 b.c. would be too early.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 One reaches the same result by proceeding from the valid assumption that in all probability the birth of Jesus occurred shortly before the death of Herod I (see N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 181), on or before April 4, 4 b.c.��103��) How, then, must we account for the apparent discrepancy: census 8 b.c., birth probably 5 b.c., not earlier than 6 b.c.?) This remains a problem, though not a serious one. We may probably assume that in Herod s realm the carrying out of the decree was postponed. A few considerations point in this direction:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.24.0|AUTODETECT|” Ever since the events recorded in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.24.0|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 the Jews were afraid of a census. All the more were they opposed to one imposed upon them by a foreign power. This was going to become very clear from what happened in a.d. 6 hence, several years after Herod s death in connection with the second census.) 1 7 2 8 0 0 Herod s hesitancy to execute the emperor s decree is therefore understandable. He may have felt that a precipitous going ahead with the ordered census would mean trouble for him. So supposedly he obtained permission from the emperor to postpone the carrying out of the decree. It has been indicated that Augustus considered the desires of the subjugated nations. Let Herod therefore gradually prepare his people for the census. In his kingdom let the execution of the decree be postponed a while.) Postponement, however, does not mean annulment.

Being a man of system, order, and determination, Augustus still insists on the census, and this not only elsewhere for example, in Egypt, which has yielded many evidences of a periodic census but also in the kingdom of the Jews. Meanwhile, as has been indicated in N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 158 166; 179 193, Herod s physical, mental, and especially moral condition is beginning to deteriorate, so that he becomes the murderer of those whom he should have loved most dearly. Once before, the emperor had written him, Whereas formerly I treated you as a friend, I will now treat you as a subject. And now, having been informed about Herod s insensate and fiendish atrocities he even caused some of his own sons to be killed! Augustus remarks, It is better to be Herod s swine (hun) than his son (huion). ��104�� So the emperor now refuses to wait any longer. And thus it comes about that the census, originally ordered for 8 b.c., is finally carried out or completed in or about the year 5 b.c.) It should be stressed that this attempt to solve the problem 8 b.c. and Jesus is conjectural.

A more simple solution might be that the emperor from the beginning left the exact timing of the decree s execution to those immediately in charge. Or one might argue that especially in Herod s domain the taking of a census was time-consuming.) Whatever be the real solution, one fact stands out, as mentioned earlier (p. 40), namely, that wherever it has been possible to check Luke s statements, his impeccability as a historian has come to light. Nothing he says has been disproved.) It is nice to know this. More important, however, is the fact that the believer approaches Scripture in the firm conviction that it is true. He believes this without even waiting for so-called confirmation from outside sources.) 3. And all went on their way to be registered, each going to his own town.

In the land of the Jews, accordingly, the enrolment is by households. This was also true in Egypt, as an edict of G. Vibius Maximus, governor of Egypt in a.d. 104, indicates.��105��) 4, 5. So from Galilee, out of the town of Nazareth, Joseph too went up, into Judea, to the town of David, which is called Bethlehem. It was because he was of the house and family of David that he went there, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was pregnant.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.6|AUTODETECT|” In N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 106, it was pointed out how important it was for the Jews to know their line of descent, their family tree. Joseph was of the house and family of David, as is clear also from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Note house and family. House is here the more comprehensive word; otherwise and family would not have to be added.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.20.6|AUTODETECT|” In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.20.6|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 20:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.15|AUTODETECT|” Bethlehem is called David s city. It was here that he was born. It was in the fields around this town that he tended the sheep 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.17.15|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 17:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.20.6|AUTODETECT|” ). In fact, for a long time David and his relatives held a yearly sacrificial feast, a kind of sacred family reunion, in this place, as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.20.6|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 20:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.15|AUTODETECT|” implies. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.15|AUTODETECT|” II Sam. 23:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=10.23.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . It may be assumed, therefore, that it was here that the family records were kept.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.32|AUTODETECT|” That Mary, who, as has been made clear, was also of the house of David 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.32|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.69|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.69|AUTODETECT|” 69) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), was required by law to be present in person for the purpose of the registration has been denied. But from an enrolment form filled out and handed in by someone living in Egypt the conclusion can be drawn that in that country both husband and wife had to present themselves.��106�� And do not the words Joseph went up & to be registered with Mary suggest that what was true for Egypt applied also to Herod s kingdom?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20-40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” But whether her presence was required or not required, for Mary to remain in Nazareth was out of the question. She would in all likelihood have been exposed to slander. Joseph was too kind a person to allow this to happen. Besides, he wanted to be with her when her child was born. Also, the possibility that these two devout people, both of whom had received angelic messages concerning the One to be born 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20-40.1.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:20 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.26-42.1.37|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.26-42.1.37|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:26 37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” ), were acquainted with the prophecy of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.42|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.42|AUTODETECT|” John 7:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) should not be ruled out.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20|AUTODETECT|” The evangelist calls Mary his [= Joseph s] betrothed. By this time Mary was Joseph s wife, as is clear from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.24|AUTODETECT|” . But although the two were husband and wife, in one respect the betrothal relationship was continuing, as is clear from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.25|AUTODETECT|” b, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , & he had no sexual relations with her until she had given birth to a son. That situation may well have been the reason for Luke s description of Mary as Joseph s betrothed. ) 1 5 2 8 0 0 For Joseph the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem may not have been too strenuous. But for Mary, in the final days of her pregnancy, to ride this considerable distance about 90 miles, by the roundabout way of Trans-Jordan must have been exhausting. And if this trip was made during the rainy season, a possibility we have no right to discount, the stress and strain would have been even greater.) Finally the two reached the valley from which they could see the rather steep ridge on which Bethlehem is located. Did they have time to think of David tending the sheep and/or playing the harp? Of Ruth gleaning in the fields of Boaz? But once they reached the town all such thoughts would have to make way for the pressing necessity of finding shelter.) 6, 7.

And while they were there the days were fulfilled for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in strips of cloth and laid him down in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.) In connection with this simple yet all-important passage note the following:) a. The expression While they were there the days were fulfilled [or: completed] may mean that the two spent a few days in Bethlehem before the child was born. On the other hand, the words may simply place special stress on the fact that Jesus was indeed born in Bethlehem: the great event took place while they were there.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|” b. The days were fulfilled. The birth occurred in the fulness of time 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In this particular case, however, the meaning may simply be that the birth took place when the normal period between conception and delivery had expired. Even though the conception itself was a miracle, the process of development within the womb was allowed to run its usual course.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.55|AUTODETECT|” c. her firstborn son. Note: not her only son, but her firstborn son. The natural explanation is certainly this, that after Mary had given birth to Jesus she continued to bear children. The very names of Jesus brothers are mentioned in the New Testament 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.55|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46|AUTODETECT|” ). The fact that he had brothers is also clear from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.47|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.47|AUTODETECT|” 47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.31|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.31|AUTODETECT|” Mark 3:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.3.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.12|AUTODETECT|” ); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.12|AUTODETECT|” John 2:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.3|AUTODETECT|” 7:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.10|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.10|AUTODETECT|” 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.56|AUTODETECT|” . And ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.13.56|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 13:56) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 makes reference to his sisters.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.9|AUTODETECT|” d. She wrapped him in strips of cloth. Note: she wrapped him. Does this mean that Mary, having just given birth to her firstborn, now immediately with her own hands swaddled her babe? Not necessarily! No more than Herod s statement, John I beheaded 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.16|AUTODETECT|” ), means that he in person had wielded the executioner s ax; and no more than Pilate s declaration, I will therefore punish & him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), means that he intended to do this himself. If we assume that Mary gave the directions, and Joseph (or anyone else) carried them out, we have probably done full justice to the passage.) 1 8 2 8 0 0 As to the manner in which a little one was swaddled see B. S. Easton s article Swaddle, Swaddling-Band, I.S.B.E., Vol. V, p. 2874, though whether exactly this procedure was followed also in the present case may well be questioned. Let it suffice to say that with strips of cloth the baby was wrapped round and round tightly and securely. More about this in a moment.) e. & and laid him down in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. ) About this inn there are various, sometimes sharply contrasting,��107�� interpretations.

Note the following theories:) (1) The inn or caravansary was built around the four sides of an inner court. It generally had two stories. On the second story, reached by a primitive staircase, the rooms for the travelers were located. Those who stopped at the inn carried along their own blanket and pillow. If a person had no blanket, he could wrap himself up in his robe. On the ground floor the animals were stabled.

Here also the cargoes that were transported along the caravan route could be temporarily stored. And here the servants, in charge of the pack animals (donkeys, camels), found rest for the night. It was in such a stable that Joseph and Mary found lodging when there was no longer any room in the inn proper, the second story.��108��) (2) Akin to this is the explanation of A. T. Robertson, Word Pictures, p. 23, who, however, pictures the stables as being on one side of the square, outside the wall. He is careful to point out that the manger in which the child was laid was either connected with the inn or was in a cave.) (3) The manger was in a cave, but that cave was definitely part of or at least associated with the inn.) (4) The inn was filled to overflowing: the upstairs was filled with weary guests.

Even on the roof there was no room left. And downstairs the servants were crowding the courtyard, bedding down the animals for the night. At the suggestion of a villager Joseph and Mary then found shelter in a cave-stable.��109��) (5) The rendering inn is wrong. The right translation is stopping place (thus Lenski), or upper room (thus Christie, I.S.B.E., Vol. III, p. 1470, and several others).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.14|AUTODETECT|” Their reasoning is that the original (Greek) word here rendered inn means upper room in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.14|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.11|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.11|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); so, if it has that meaning there, why not here? As Lenski sees it, Joseph and Mary tried to find lodging with some relatives, but since all the extra space in their house proper had already been given away, these relatives put their guests up in an adjoining shed, where asses were kept.) 1 11 2 8 0 0 Comment on theories (1) through (5).) Any of the first four theories may be correct. They have in common their support of the rendering inn in 2:7.) Why was there no room in the inn? Was it because Bethlehem was overcrowded with people that wanted to be registered? That is the reason often given. It may be right, but is probably wrong or at least incomplete. Deserving of consideration is the fact that the town just now was filled with men charged with the responsibility of taking the census: officials and soldiers of the Roman government.

It is well known that since Augustus and those who carried out his decree were aware of the fact that the Jews, because of religious scruples, were terribly afraid of coming into contact with non-Jews, the census officials were to be quartered, as far as ever possible, not in private homes but in public places, in inns for example. It is not surprising, therefore, that it was exactly the inn in which there was no room for Joseph and Mary.) This also shows that the rendering inn is probably correct, and that theory (5) is probably defective. For more on this see the note on these verses on page 148.) The owner of the inn should not be charged with cruelty. Room was simply lacking, except in the inn-stable or cave-stable.) The belief that the travelers from Nazareth took up quarters in a certain cave dates all the way back to Justin Martyr (about a.d. 114 165). See his Dialogue with Trypho, ch. 78. A similar view was expressed by Origen, Against Celsus I.51.) Helena, the mother of Constantine, built a church on the presumed site of the nativity.

The present church was built by Justinian. In its interior the steps on either side of the altar lead to a cave below, where the supposed birthplace of Jesus is indicated by a star. Did the stable in which the infant was born actually stand there? This can neither be proved nor disproved. It is not very important. One thing is certain: the glitter, splendor, and aroma of the present site do not truly represent the circumstances that obtained when this child was born.

It cannot be emphasized too strongly that our Lord was born in a stable and was laid down in a manger, that is, a feeding trough for animals, possibly a niche carved out in the cave wall.) Greetings, you highly favored one, the Lord is with you. ) There was no room for them in the inn. ) He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. ) She laid him down in a manger. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|”

Why these contrasts? The answer is given in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|”

II Cor. 8:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|”

For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, that you through his poverty might become rich. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.32|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 8 2 8 0 0 It is not enough to be able to give a satisfactory interpretation of the nativity account, the Christmas story. We should be so deeply impressed with the love of God here revealed that we feel what the poet felt when he wrote:) For me, dear Jesus, was thine incarnation,) Thy mortal sorrow and thy life s oblation;) Thy death of anguish and thy bitter passion,) For my salvation.) Johann Heermann) Tr. Robert Bridges) The baby was born in a stable, not in a palace. It was laid in a feeding trough for animals, not in a pretty bassinet. All this spells poverty, deprivation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.16.4|AUTODETECT|” And yet, and yet! There is another side to the story. Love shines through. This infant at least was securely wrapped in pieces of cloth. Not so the child mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.16.4|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 16:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . From the very start that little one was thoroughly rejected, left to die in the field if God had not intervened. Also, many children, even today, have no bed to sleep in. Here, on the contrary, it takes but little imagination to see Joseph putting some straw into that manger, so that the baby would be able to rest in comfort.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 To be sure, as a grownup Jesus would be a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. Indescribable agonies would be his portion. Nevertheless, again and again during his ministry a voice would ring out from heaven, Thou art my Son, my Beloved; with thee I am well pleased. ) So here also this same love is revealed. And in a moment the angels are going to celebrate the infant s birth in song.��110��) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.1-42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.1-42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:1 7) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verses 1, 2) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.28|AUTODETECT|” A decree was issued by Caesar Augustus. When the emperor sent out this order, little did he realize that God was using this decree for the realization of his own purpose with respect to the church. What a comforting passage is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.8.28|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 8:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ! Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 13 2 8 0 0 Verses 4, 5) So & Joseph too went up & to be registered with Mary. The One who was going to say, What is due to Caesar render to Caesar, and what is due to God render to God had not yet issued from Mary s womb, yet was already being obeyed: Joseph and Mary never thought of refusing to obey the emperor in a matter that was not contrary to the will of God.) Verse 7) There was no room for them in the inn. This was not because the innkeeper was cruel or inhospitable, but because the inn was already overcrowded. So also there are hearts that never welcome Jesus, and this not because they definitely hate him but simply because these hearts are already so overcrowded with thoughts of riches, honor, prestige, pleasures, business affairs, etc., that they have no room for Jesus, no time to reflect on his will, no desire to go out of their way to do his pleasure.) In this connection see the beautiful hymn by Emily E. S. Elliott, Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne, ending with the stirring refrain,) O come to my heart, Lord Jesus!) There is room in my heart for thee.) ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 2:1 7) Verse 1) �����, decree, commandment, ordinance.

Cf. dogma (authoritatively affirmed doctrine).) �����������, present passive infinitive of �������: so also in verse 3: continued action indicated in both cases; here in verse 1 there may even be a reference to a regular system of censuses. Contrast this present infinitive with the aor. middle infinitive of the same verb in verse 5 (to get himself enrolled; hence, to be enrolled, a simple statement of fact there; no emphasis on the process).) Verse 2) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” �������**, basically a writing off, a transcript; here: enrolment or registration (name, address, occupation, marital status, income, etc.) mainly for the purpose of taxation; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 12 2 8 0 0 !������������, gen. s. masc. pres. participle of !��������, a word with very wide meaning, to be in command, to govern. Cf. hegemony.) Verse 4) The fact that ��p �x �6��� �P��� modifies ���� �r ��v 8���� should be clearly brought out in the translation. Even listeners in church must not get to hear that Bethlehem was the town of David because Joseph belonged to the house of David!) Verse 5) �z� ������. The point is not that Joseph went up with Mary, but that his purpose was to be registered with Mary.) �� ����������� �P��, (with) the one betrothed to him; hence, his betrothed, dat. s. fem. perf. passive participle of ��������, to betroth.) ����, dat. s. fem. of �����, pregnant.) Verses 6, 7) ���������, here and in verses 21, 22, third per. pl. aor. indicat. passive of �����, alternate form of ��������; cf. 1:15, 23, etc., to fill; passive: to be filled, to be fulfilled or completed.) ��� ������ is the (articular) aor. infinitive; ����, the third per. s. 2nd aor. active indicat.; and ����� in verse 11, the third per. s. aor. passive indicat. of �����, to bear, bring forth.) �����������, third per. s. aor. indicat. active of ���������, and in verse 12 ������������� is the acc. s. neuter perfect passive participle of this verb, meaning to swathe, swaddle, wrap tightly and securely. Cf. spiral.) �����* in 2:7, 12, 16 means manger, feeding trough; perhaps even feeding place under the open sky; in 13:15 stall.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.14|AUTODETECT|” �������� (cf. catalyst) is related to the verb �������, to loosen, unharness (the pack animals); hence, to rest, take lodging for the night. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.14|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.11|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.11|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” ) the �������� is a guest-room. But this does not mean that in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.14|AUTODETECT|” this word must also mean guest-room. The situations are entirely different. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.14|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” and its parallel we are dealing with a house, the very word being mentioned in the text. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” , however, there is no mention of a house at all. In the first instance Jesus and his disciples wish to make use of a room in a house to celebrate the Passover, etc.; in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.4.24|AUTODETECT|” Joseph and Mary are looking for a place to sleep, etc. Besides, as A. Edersheim already pointed out, the word �������� has several meanings (The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, two volumes, New York, 1897, Vol. I, p. 185, footnote 1). So, for example, in the Septuagint �������� is the Greek translation of no less than five different Hebrew words of widely different meanings. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.4.24|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 4:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 inn is the right translation: the Lord meets Moses in a lodging-place, an inn; so also the Dutch translations herberg (W. H. Gispen, Exodus in Korte Verklaring Kampen, 1932, p. 59), nachtverblijf (Nieuwe Vertaling). Any place that is adapted for rest is a ��������.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.41.17|AUTODETECT|” The possibility it is no more than that that there is a reference to an inn or lodging-place near Bethlehem even in the Old Testament 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=24.41.17|AUTODETECT|” Jer. 41:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) cannot be excluded. The Hebrew word geruth, when used as a common noun, does mean inn, lodging-place. Cf. gr, sojourner.) 1 11 2 8 0 0 ) 2:8 21 Shepherds and Angels) The Circumcision and Naming of Jesus) 8 Now there were shepherds in that region, living in the open fields and by turn keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 Suddenly an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory��111�� of the Lord shone around them, and they were terribly frightened. 10 But the angel said to them, Do not be frightened,��112�� for, behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people; 11 because to you is born this day in the town of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger. ) 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying:) 14 Glory to God in the highest,) And on earth peace among men of (his) good pleasure. ��113��) 15 After the angels had left them and had gone into heaven, the shepherds were saying to each other, Without delay��114�� let s go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us. 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and lying in the manger the baby. 17 Having seen this, they made known what had been told them about this child. 18 And all who heard what the shepherds told them were amazed.��115�� 19 But Mary continued to treasure up all these things, mulling them over in her mind. 20 Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, (which were) just as had been told them.) 21 Now when eight days were completed for circumcising him, he was called Jesus, the name given him by the angel before his conception in the womb.) ) 8. Now there were shepherds in that region, living in the open fields and by turn keeping watch over their flock by night.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” During his public ministry Jesus once quoted the following words from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 61:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 f.:) 1 14 2 8 0 0 The Spirit of the Lord (is) upon me,) Because he has anointed me) To proclaim good news to the poor;) To set free the downtrodden,) To proclaim the year of the Lord s favor.) It is certainly in harmony with this spirit that the very first proclamation of the fact that the Messiah had actually been born was made to poor and downtrodden shepherds.) They were indeed a despised class. Not only was it difficult for them, because of the very nature of their occupation, to observe all the regulations of the Mosaic law and especially all the man-made rules superimposed upon that law! but in addition they were suspected of confusing thine with mine. For these reasons they were looked down upon, and were excluded from the company of those who were allowed to give testimony in the courts.��116��) Nevertheless, Luke s narrative makes abundantly clear that these shepherds, the ones to whom the first proclamation of the Savior s birth was made, were different. They were devout men, probably acquainted with Messianic prophecy, and like Simeon, waiting for the consolation of Israel (2:25). Proof: Note how the angel addresses them (2:10 12), and note also their exemplary reaction (verses 15, 17, 20).) They were encamped in the open, by turns keeping watch over their flock. Does the sing. flock mean that all these sheep were owned by one person, or does it mean that flocks of several owners had been brought together so as to form one flock?

Suffice it to say that all the sheep under their care were regarded as one flock.) During the day these animals were out on the grass. In the evening they could, when necessary, be led into crude shelters, pens, or sheepfolds, to protect them against inclement weather, wild beasts, and thieves. Right near them, always watching, were the shepherds. Those men who needed sleep could retire to a hut made of branches. The actual work of keeping watch over the sheep was done by turns, some resting while others watched.) Does the presence of these sheep in the fields mean that Jesus cannot have been born in the month of December? Before answering this question let it be definitely affirmed that it is impossible to ascertain in which month Jesus was born.

The date December of the year 5 b.c. even more precisely Dec. 25 of that year can never be more than an assumption. But is it true that this date, interpreted even as being wholly tentative, a mere possibility, must be considered unreasonable, ridiculous, impossible?) Those who summarily reject it present the following arguments:) a. The sheep were at pasture.��117��) b. At this season of the year many roads in that region are impassable. No government would have forced people to travel then to the places where they must be registered.��118��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.4.2|AUTODETECT|” c. The decision that Christ s birth occurred on Dec. 25 was reached in the fourth century, i.e., during the reign of Constantine, the first Christian emperor (period of reign: a.d. 306 337). It was then that the date of the Savior s birth was made to coincide with Saturnalia, the orgiastic pagan festival celebrating the return of the sun after days of constantly increasing darkness. During that festival gifts were exchanged. Christians did not object to the giving of gifts, especially if they were in the form of donations to the poor. And as for rejoicing because of the sun s victory over the darkness, that too was no problem. According to Malachi s prophecy, reaffirmed by Zechariah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=39.4.2|AUTODETECT|” Mal. 4:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:78) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” 79) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), is not Christ the Sun who illumines our darkness?) 1 4 2 8 0 0 The third argument, then, amounts to this: since the determination of the date of Christ s birth was influenced by the Saturnalian Festival, since that date was not fixed until fully three centuries after the birth, and finally, since Christmas, as a festival, was not generally observed until the fourth or even fifth century,��119�� therefore the selection of Dec. 25 as the date does not rest on a solid historical basis.) Those who believe that Christ s birth may, nevertheless, have occurred on or about Dec. 25 answer as follows:) With respect to (a). Jewish sources support the belief that sheep destined for sacrifices in the temple could be found in these fields even in the winter. Also today flocks of sheep are often seen in Shepherd Field at Christmas time. See N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 182.) With respect to (b). The author who on pp. 69, 70 of his book Spoorzoeker uses this weather-and-roads argument to show that the date of Christ s birth was probably not Dec. 25, on p. 68 of that same book informs us that he and his wife traveled from Beirut to Jerusalem and to Bethlehem during Christmas vacation! In a personal letter (found in translation on p. 182 of N.T.C. on Matthew) he adds that the weather (in Jerusalem and Bethlehem) was beautiful. If we assume that the winter of the year when Jesus was born was mild, the rains not torrential, this argument against the possibility of Dec. 25 as the date of Christ s birth might no longer hold.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.36|AUTODETECT|” Besides, it is not at all certain that the people were ordered to do their traveling during the rainy season. According to A. Fahling��120�� they were allowed to present themselves any time during the year. Perhaps there were circumstances that prevented Joseph and Mary, traveling together from Nazareth to Bethlehem, from performing this duty in an earlier month. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.36|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.39|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.39|AUTODETECT|” 39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.56|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.56|AUTODETECT|” 56) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 may shed light on this.) 1 12 2 8 0 0 With respect to (c). It is true that during the reign of Constantine special enquiry was made with respect to the date of Christ s birth, and that Dec. 25 received official sanction. However, much earlier than this the attention of students was focused on this very date; for example, by Hippolytus.��121�� He was a disciple of Irenaeus, who was a disciple of Polycarp, who was a disciple of the apostle John.��122��) For an ingenious method of arriving at the date Dec. 25 see A. Fahling, op. cit., pp. 60, 732, 733. This is no endorsement of his theory.) Result: that Jesus was born on Dec. 25 can be neither proved or disproved. I fully agree, however, with Lenski s statement, While Dec. 25 is only traditional & it is at least traditional. ��123��) 9.

Suddenly an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terribly frightened.) It all happened with dramatic swiftness. One moment, except for the sounds always heard during the night, especially when shepherds are by turns watching their sheep, all was quiet. Then all of a sudden it happened: an angel of the Lord, holy, strong, brilliant, stood by them. They had not seen him come.) At the same time the glory of the Lord heavenly brightness, rightly regarded as the manifestation of God s presence and power flashed all around them. It is not surprising that the shepherds feared with great fear, were terribly frightened. They were devout men; nevertheless, they were sinners, and what they now experienced had come upon them unexpectedly.) 10 12.

But the angel said to them, Do not be frightened, for, behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people; because to you is born this day in the town of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger.) Note the following:) a. The exhortation Do not be frightened [or afraid], or Stop being frightened, here naturally in the plural, occurs also in 1:13 and in 1:30 (in both of these cases in the singular). For more on this and its implications see on 1:13.) b. I bring you good news. The good news is that of the evangel, the gospel.

See also 1:19; 3:18; 4:18, 43; 7:22; 8:1; 9:6; 16:16; 20:1. Though the verb to bring good news was used first in the general sense of bringing good news of any kind, it was later going to be used especially to indicate the bringing of the good news of salvation through Christ (cf. to evangelize).) c. of great joy. What greater joy could there be than the realization and wholehearted acceptance of the fact that God himself, through the sacrifice of his own and only Son, had brought about the solution of the world s greatest problem, that of sin? And was not the Son s incarnation the first step in this solution?) d. for all the people, that is, all regardless of nationality, age, wealth, fame, social position, sex, education, etc. Even the shepherds are included; all God s people are included. The term all the people here in verse 10 is as wide as is the expression men of his good pleasure in verse 14.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” The well-meant promise of salvation by grace through faith must be proclaimed throughout the world, but those who reject it cannot experience the great joy here mentioned. That marvelous blessing is only for those who believe. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . In view of the fact that the shepherds were believers, the message continued as follows:) 1 7 2 8 0 0 e. because to you is born this day in the town of David & In the original the word born stands very close to the beginning of the sentence. Literally it reads & because born to you this day, etc. As if to say, long ago promised, promised, promised & now finally born: the promise has been fulfilled. ) For the town of David see on verse 4.) f. a Savior who is Christ the Lord. In order to place all the emphasis on the saving work of Jesus, the article is omitted in Greek; as if to say: above everything he is SAVIOR.) Be my Example and my Guide,) My Friend, yea everything beside,) But first, last, best, whate er betide,) Be thou to me my SAVIOR.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” Attention is at times called to the fact that in all the Synoptic Gospels this is the only place in which Jesus is called Savior. The fact as such is true.��124�� In John s Gospel Jesus is called Savior in 4:42. Cf. also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=62.4.14|AUTODETECT|” I John 4:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.23|AUTODETECT|” . For the rest, as a designation of Jesus, this term is found especially in the Pastoral Epistles and in II Peter. Also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.23|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.5.23|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 5:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.20|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” However, from this circumstance the deduction should not be drawn that the New Testament soft-pedals that precious name. Quite the contrary is the truth. Not only, as already indicated, does the angel, in addressing the shepherds, place great emphasis on it, but in other passages, too, the saving work of Jesus is stressed, and this both in the Fourth Gospel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.10|AUTODETECT|” 4:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.25|AUTODETECT|” 5:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.50|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.50|AUTODETECT|” 6:50) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.51|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.51|AUTODETECT|” 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.37|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.37|AUTODETECT|” 7:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.38|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.38|AUTODETECT|” 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” , etc.) and even in the Synoptics. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.15|AUTODETECT|” 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.21|AUTODETECT|” 12:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” ); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:78) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” 79) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.10|AUTODETECT|” 19:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.19|AUTODETECT|” 22:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 8 2 8 0 0 This Savior, moreover, is here introduced as the Christ, that is, the Messiah or Anointed One. He is the One anointed by the Holy Spirit to be his people s Great Prophet, Sympathetic Highpriest, and Eternal King.) He is, moreover, the Lord. See on 20:41 44.) g. And this will be the sign for you, etc. The angel did not tell the shepherds that they must go and see this child, no more than Gabriel had told Mary that she must visit Elizabeth (1:36). A mere hint sufficed in both cases.) Note the sign, not a sign, as the text is at times wrongly translated.

Note also that the one sign is this, that the swaddled child is lying in a manger. There may well have been other newly born, swaddled babes in Bethlehem, but this was the only swaddled infant that was lying in a manger. The sign was therefore definite and helpful.) 13, 14. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host,��125�� praising God and saying:) Glory to God in the highest) And on earth peace among men of (his) good pleasure.) Surprise follows upon surprise. First one angel had descended and had taken his position in the immediate vicinity of the shepherds. Once he has made his announcement, all of a sudden an entire army of angels descends.

These angels are now seen standing with the first angel, therefore also near the shepherds.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.14|AUTODETECT|” How considerate of God to arrange matters in such a way that the order was not reversed: first the army and then the one angel. Not until the shepherds have become somewhat used to the celestial brilliance that blazed around them, and had received from the one angel a message of cheer, did the entire host of angels descend. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.103.14|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 103:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Did the first Christmas resemble what nativity sets, paintings, exhibits, poetry, and popular fancy have made of it? In some respects it probably did. The humble surroundings of Joseph, Mary, and the child; the love and the tenderness mentioned earlier see p. 146; the shepherds bowing in adoration, these are some of the items in the exhibits, etc., that probably approach reality.) If there were no legitimate place for art, why did God order the tabernacle and later on the temple to be made so beautiful? If poetry must be frowned upon, why did it please the Holy Spirit to fill Scripture with so many songs?) However, by no means everything actually was or happened as it has been popularly made to appear; for example, we may be sure that the wise men did not meet the shepherds in the stable!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” This takes us back to these angels in the fields of Ephrathah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.5.2|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 5:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.8-42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.8-42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:8 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Did they actually look and act as presented by famous artists? And did they really sing something that resembled the Aramaic version of the refrain in the Westminster Carol: Glo..o..o..o..o..ria in excelsis Deo ?��126�� Or that resembled a Jewish chant, perhaps?) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Does the text even say that they sang at all? Granted that the word saying at the end of verse 13 may include singing, and also granted that the lines these angels uttered exhibit a pleasing parallelism: glory versus peace, God versus men, in the highest versus and on earth, and that the possibility must be allowed that these words were sung or chanted, is this the best explanation? More about this in a moment.) How did these angels look? Art has pictured the scene. Take, as an example, Plockhorst s painting, Tidings of Great Joy. ��127�� The sheep are huddled together in some kind of pen. Right near them are a few shepherds.

Leaning against one of these sturdy men is the faithful shepherd s dog. One of the shepherds is peering into the sky. His eyes are focused upon a descending angel. That heavenly visitor resembles a kindly looking and very pretty young lady. Her hairdo is neat, fairly short, and with bangs! She is dressed in a lengthy white gown.

Clutching her robe is a baby angel, and in the background one sees a few additional curly-headed angelets.) Looking at this pictorial representation, and then turning to Scripture and reading the words, Do not be frightened, one cannot help asking himself, Who was afraid of whom? As far as the painting is concerned, does one not rather receive the impression that the robust shepherds are shouting to the nice young lady, Come on down; don t be afraid of us; we ll not harm you ?) And as to the song, did the angelets sing soprano, most of the big angels tenor and alto, allowing the archangels to give body to the oft-repeated (?) refrain by supplying the bass notes? Was it a chant ?) Is not the following a more scriptural interpretation?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.1-23.6.4|AUTODETECT|” These angels, having been associated with Christ in heaven before his incarnation, knew something about his glory, riches, and majesty. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.6.1-23.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 6:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.41|AUTODETECT|” John 12:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” . They had also become aware of man s fall. And they had been informed that God had provided a way of salvation for man. Gabriel s announcement to Joseph You shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|” ) clearly implies this. Did they also know that this work of saving man, while at the same time fully maintaining God s righteousness, meant that the Father would not spare his own Son; that the Son, though he was rich, for his people s sake would become poor, vicariously bearing the curse resting on those whom he came to save; and that the Holy Spirit would condescend to dwell in sinful hearts, applying to them the salvation merited by the Son? We can assume at least that the very birth of Christ in a condition of poverty and deprivation must have caused these angels to stand in awe of God s indescribably marvelous love. Was it not Paul who, when reflecting on this love, cried out, Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.9|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 8:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.15|AUTODETECT|” 9:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.12|AUTODETECT|” )? And was not this very love probably included among the things which angels desire to look into 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.12|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), but cannot fully comprehend?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Viewed in this light we begin to see that, whether literally song or not, the words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 are above all else an outpouring of adoration. One might perhaps say that, having become informed about the Savior s birth, a birth under such circumstances and with such a self-sacrificing purpose, these angels never before had been so thrilled! No wonder, therefore, that from the bottom of their hearts they shout:) 1 2 2 8 0 0 ) Glory to God in the Highest!) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” They desire that all creation shall praise God. They realize that this very Jesus, through the accomplishment of the task which the Father gave him to do, brings peace 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” John 14:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ). That peace is: (a) reconciliation between God and man; (b) the believer s serene assurance that he has a share in this reconciliation. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.18-47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.18-47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:18 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The more men sincerely praise God for the salvation he has brought about, the more also they possess this peace.) 1 10 2 8 0 0 If the word song is used in its broadest meaning, not necessarily being a description of words set to music from the very start, but rather of words which because of their parallelistic structure can be adapted to music, then we may speak of The Angels Song of Adoration. ) What did the angels exclaim or shout? In verse 14 did they use the word eudokia = good pleasure, good will? Or did they say eudokias ? The latter means of good pleasure. The Greek texts vary.) Some interpreters, having accepted the first reading as being genuine, adopt the first view, according to which the angels said:) Glory to God in the highest,) And on earth peace,) Good will toward men.) (A.V.)) Others, having accepted the second reading, adopt the second view, according to which the angels said:) Glory to God in the highest,) And on earth peace among men of (his) good pleasure.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.26|AUTODETECT|” The genitive simply means of good pleasure. Whose good pleasure? Clearly God s. The angels are not glorying in man and his merits but in God and his grace. This is clear also from other references to this same concept (good pleasure). See especially ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.5|AUTODETECT|” 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.9|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.9|AUTODETECT|” 9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .��128��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Accordingly, when spelled out in full, the interpretation favored by the second view is this: And on earth peace among men whom God has graciously chosen. His sovereign delight rests on them. With them he is well pleased.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” Now even those who cannot read Greek but are sound in doctrine know that the second of the two views, rather than the first, is in line with biblical doctrine. True and lasting peace is the portion of those, and only of those, whom God has graciously chosen. See the following passages: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 26:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.26.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.32.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.32.17|AUTODETECT|” 32:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.48.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.48.22|AUTODETECT|” 48:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.9|AUTODETECT|” (= 57:21); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=37.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Hag. 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.9.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.9.10|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 9:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:78) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.79|AUTODETECT|” 79) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” John 14:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” 16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.20|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.32.1|AUTODETECT|” . The entire work of salvation, from start to finish, must be ascribed to him alone: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.32.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 32:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.33|AUTODETECT|” 89:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.89.34|AUTODETECT|” 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.115.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.115.1|AUTODETECT|” 115:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.20.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.20.14|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 20:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.9.19|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 9:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.44|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.44|AUTODETECT|” John 6:44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.16|AUTODETECT|” 15:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.9-66.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.5.9-66.5.14|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 5:9 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.3|AUTODETECT|” 15:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.15.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Greek students should also read the note on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 on page 161.) 1 8 2 8 0 0 15. After the angels had left them and had gone into heaven, the shepherds were saying to each other, Without delay let s go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.) After the angels had left them. That is always the critical time. What the shepherds should do had been clearly implied. Will they do it? The minister has delivered his sermon.

Will the listeners (including himself) take it to heart? The doctor has prescribed medication. Will the patient follow his prescription?) By the use of the imperfect tense Luke shows very graphically that these devout men never hesitated. What about the care of the sheep? The shepherds must have found a solution. The angel had said, You will find, etc.

So, they must go and search. And they were eager to do so.) At this point the original contains a couple words that require special attention. One of them is a little word of two letters. Frequently it means indeed; in the present context it can perhaps best be rendered now or at once, or without delay. ) There is also the verbal form which basically means Let us go through (to), Let us go over (to). ��129�� This probably implies that these men had to cover an appreciable distance in order to reach Bethlehem. The place was not right next door.��130�� Nevertheless, fully realizing that it was God himself who, through his angels, had spoken to them, they left immediately.) 16, 17. So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and lying in the manger the baby.

Having seen this they made known what had been told them about this child. They felt constrained to relate their marvelous experience: how first one angel had addressed them, exactly what it was he had said about the child, and the sign he had given them; how that first angel had been followed by an entire army of angels, and what this heavenly host had joyfully proclaimed. These men hid nothing. They told their story to Mary and Joseph, and to many others besides (note in verse 18: and all who heard what the shepherds told them, etc.).) So thoroughly convinced were these men of the truth of their story, and so sure were they of its importance, that they were willing to risk disbelief and even ridicule.) They remind us of the four lepers of Samaria. They too had made a marvelous discovery. They said:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.7.9|AUTODETECT|” We are not doing right. This day is a day of good news; if we keep quiet and wait until morning light, punishment will overtake us. Come on, and let s go and tell the king s household 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.7.9|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 7:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.78.0|AUTODETECT|” We ve a story to tell to the nations, etc. See the hymn by H. E. Nichol. Also the versification of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.78.0|AUTODETECT|” Psalms 78) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , containing the words:) 1 2 2 8 0 0 The wonderful story our fathers made known) To children succeeding by us must be shown. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.107.2|AUTODETECT|” And cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.107.2|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 107:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.33|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 7 2 8 0 0 18. And all who heard what the shepherds told them were amazed. This is not surprising. Just think of it: all those wonderful happenings an imperial decree, angelic messages, divine directions centering about & an infant lying in a manger, a child born in a stable! One can never appreciate this unless he is able to agree with the words of the poet:) Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;) Hail th Incarnate Deity.) Charles Wesley, lines in) Hark! the Herald Angels Sing ) Now amazement is fine, but it should lead to something better; as, for example, in the case of Mary:) 19. But Mary continued to treasure up all these things, mulling them over in her mind.

Cf. verse 51. Mary was treasuring, carefully storing away, all these things; such things as the following: what an angel had told Joseph, what Gabriel had told her, what her experience had been upon arriving in Bethlehem, what the shepherds had reported with respect to voices of angels, etc. She was putting them all together in her heart (thus literally), though in such a case as the present English idiom would probably substitute mind for heart. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.5|AUTODETECT|” Aside from the nativity narrative Scripture tells us little about Mary s development in faith. Nevertheless, such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.5|AUTODETECT|” John 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 show that she became a worshiper of the One to whom, with respect to his human nature, she had given birth. Her prayerful putting together of the things she had experienced, seen, and heard, was blessed by God and in course of time produced the result he had determined from eternity. To be sure, on Mary s part there were missteps along the way, but the end was victory.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 And as to the shepherds? Their story too ends climactically:) 20. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, (which were) just as had been told them. These men, upon returning, showed that they had not been offended by the low estate of Joseph and Mary. They did not shrink back from acknowledging the child in the manger as being indeed a Savior, Christ the Lord. In fact, their faith was even strengthened when they reflected on the fact that they had found everything to be exactly as they had been told. Instead of complaining, they were constantly ascribing glory and praise to God.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.12|AUTODETECT|” Time marches on: 21. Now when eight days were completed for circumcising him, he was called Jesus, the name given him by the angel before his conception in the womb. God had ordained that a son should be circumcised on the eighth day after his birth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.17.12|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 17:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.3|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 12:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.59|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.59|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:59) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Therefore when the designated day had arrived the parents saw to it that Jesus received the sign and seal of circumcision.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.9|AUTODETECT|” This is not surprising. Was he not an Israelite; in fact, the one and only perfect Israelite, the one in whom Israel reached its climax? The question will be asked, however, But does not the need for circumcision or excision symbolize that there was sin to be cut away ? Yet, this child was sinless. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.9|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.46|AUTODETECT|” b; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.46|AUTODETECT|” John 8:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.5.21|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 5:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.36.26|AUTODETECT|” . Is it not true then that he was exactly the one, the only one, who did not need a new heart ? See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=26.36.26|AUTODETECT|” Ezek. 36:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.2.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 2:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4-23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” The answer is: he had entered the world in order to remove the sins of his people. It was their guilt that rested on him. It was that sin which had to be removed. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4-23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10-23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.10-23.53.12|AUTODETECT|” 10 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; also N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 3:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The task of Jesus, as the last Adam, was to keep the law which the first Adam had failed to keep. He came into the world to bear the law s curse, thus delivering his people from it.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.11|AUTODETECT|” Besides, for Jesus too circumcision was, in a sense, a sign and seal of the righteousness of faith 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.4.11|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 4:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.4|AUTODETECT|” ). Perfect trust in his heavenly Father, and the obedience which that trust implies, was the pathway to victory for himself as Savior and for those whom the Father had given him, considered as those to be saved. It was thus that he was to accomplish fully the work which the Father had given him to do 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.17.4|AUTODETECT|” John 17:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In his willingness to submit to circumcision we see the Savior s passive obedience; in his insistence that he be baptized, his active obedience.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Nevertheless, Luke places the emphasis not on circumcision, which is merely implied, but on the naming of the child. The two, however, are closely connected. Submission to circumcision was an element in the Savior s required obedience, and without this obedience he could not be truly Jesus, that is, Savior. For further details on the significance of this name see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.31|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” . It was the name given to him by the angel before his conception in the womb. So important was this name that both Joseph 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.31|AUTODETECT|” ) and Mary 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.31|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) had been instructed to give it to him.��131��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.8-42.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.8-42.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:8 21) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verses 8 10) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Great joy. Gaiety, hilarity, festivity, mirth, laughter, in one measure or another these are found in many places throughout the world. But great joy, the joy unspeakable and full of glory 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=60.1.8|AUTODETECT|” I Peter 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is the portion of God s children, of them alone. This joy is deeply rooted. It satisfies, lasts, and even keeps on increasing, to God s glory.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 11) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.57.15|AUTODETECT|” To you is born. Not to the emperor, the king, the highpriest, but to humble, devout shepherds. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.57.15|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 57:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.20|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 A Savior, who is Christ the Lord. Without him, so regarded, there is no genuine commemoration of Jesus birth, no real Christmas.) Verse 14) Glory to God & peace among men of (his) good pleasure. God is always first; man comes next. That order must never be reversed.) Verse 16) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.6|AUTODETECT|” They hurried off and found.& The obedience of faith brings blessed results. Contrast what happens when skepticism asserts itself 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.8-1.3.21|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.8-1.3.21|AUTODETECT|” 8 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.24|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.3.24|AUTODETECT|” 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.2.15-12.2.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=12.2.15-12.2.18|AUTODETECT|” II Kings 2:15 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.20-42.1.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.20-42.1.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:20 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.24|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.24|AUTODETECT|” John 20:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.20.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 17) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.14-40.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Having seen this, they made known, etc. That is the lesson that has to be learned over and over again. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.14-40.5.16|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:14 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.15.27|AUTODETECT|” John 15:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” a; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.4.20|AUTODETECT|” Acts 4:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Tell it out. ) 1 8 2 8 0 0 Verse 20) Things & (which were) just as had been told them. The beauty of God s predictions and promises is that they are bound to be completely fulfilled.) Verse 21) & when it was time for them to circumcise him. Not to abolish the law did Jesus come but to fulfil it.) He was called Jesus. Jesus means Savior. He still bears that same name. For those who trust him this spells hope in every circumstance of life. Reflect on Jean Perry s hymn That Beautiful Name. ) ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 2:8 21) Verses 8, 9) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.15.16|AUTODETECT|” �����������, nom. pl. masc. pres. participle of �������, to live or spend the time in the open fields; from ����, field, and �P��, place or court under the open sky (in one of its meanings); see N.T.C. on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=41.15.16|AUTODETECT|” Mark 15:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , p. 642, footnote 808.) 1 12 2 8 0 0 Note cognate accusatives ������� after the pres. participle �����������, and ����� after the ingressive aorist ���������. This is the kind of style one would expect if Luke is making use of a Semitic original. The plural ������� probably indicates that the watching was by turns.) �����, ingressive, aor. active indicative of �������, (suddenly) to stand by, come upon. For more see the note on 10:40 on p. 603.) Verse 10) �t ��������, sec. per. pl. pres. middle imperat. of �����. Either Do not be afraid or Stop being afraid [or: frightened] will do as a translation.) �P�����������, I bring you good news. Cf. evangelize.

This verb occurs with great frequency in the Third Gospel, Acts, and Pauline Epistles, once in Matthew (11:5), twice in Hebrews and in Revelation, and three times in I Peter. The noun �P�������� occurs in every Pauline epistle except Titus; also in Matthew, Mark, and once each in I Peter and Revelation. As to the writings of Luke, this word does not occur at all in his Gospel; only twice in Acts. For contrary information as to Luke s use of the substantive see A. T. Robertson, Word Pictures, Vol.

II, p. 24.) For ����� see under verses 6, 7.) Verse 12) For ������, here and in verse 16, see the note on 1:41 on page 99; and for ������������� see the note on verse 7 above.) Verse 13) As to grammatical construction, note ��������, gen. sing. followed by the plural present participle �0�������. This, however, is not an error, since host or army is a collective noun which in Greek here takes a plural verbal form. This plural is according to sense. ) Verse 14) The genitive �P������ is to be preferred to the nominative �P�����. Reasons: (a) From the point of view of external evidence the genitive has the edge, for the combination of B6! A W with D and the Old Latin outweighs E F G H, etc., several minuscules, the Syriac, Bohairic, and Georgian versions, Tatian and Eusebius. Besides, since the genitive case is, on the surface, harder to grasp, change to the nominative is understandable. The opposite process changing from the nominative to the genitive would be unnatural.

Also, it must be borne in mind that Luke is making use of Semitic sources, and that in Hebrew the expression men of [his, i.e. God s] good will occurs frequently; see, for example, M. Burrows, More Light on the Dead Sea Scrolls, New York, 1958, p. 123.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” For an excellent treatment of the question In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.14|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 should we adopt the �P������ or the �P����� reading? see B. M. Metzger, The Text of the New Testament, Oxford, 1964, pp. 229, 230. For the opposite position see Lenski, op. cit., pp. 85 87.) 1 24 2 8 0 0 Verses 15 19) ���������, first per. pl. 2nd aor. subjunctive of ���������, to go through (to), go over (to). Bethlehem evidently was not next door. Note third per. s. fut. indicat. of the same verb in 2:35.) �� in the present connection probably means now or at once, without delay.) Note that in verses 15 and 19 the word ���� (pl. in verse 19) is used in the sense of thing, matter; in verse 17 in the sense of word, message . And see the note on 1:37 on page 93.) ������, third per. pl. 2nd aor. indicat. of ��������, to find (after diligent search).) Verse 16 should be translated in such a fashion that even the listener does not get the impression that the entire family was lying in the manger.) �����������, nom. s. fem. pres. participle of ��������, to throw or put together, revolve, ponder, mull (over). See also the note on 14:31 on page 740.) Verses 20, 21) ������, third per. s. aor. indic. passive of �����. For �������� see the note on 2:6 on page 147.

For ������������, aor. passive infinitive of ����������, see the note on 1:24 on page 81.) ) 2:22 38 The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple: Simeon s Nunc Dimittis ) Anna s Thanksgiving and Testimony) 22 And when the days for their purification according to the law of Moses had been completed, they [Joseph and Mary] brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy��132�� to the Lord 24 and to offer a sacrifice as prescribed in the law of the Lord: a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons. ) 25 And look, in Jerusalem there was a man named Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, waiting for��133�� the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been disclosed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord s Christ. 27 Guided by the Spirit��134�� he came into the temple. And when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what was customary according to the law, 28 Simeon took him in his arms, blessed God, and said:) 29 Now, Sovereign Master, thou art releasing thy servant,��135��) According to thy word, in peace,) 30 Because my eyes have seen thy salvation) 31 Which thou hast prepared in the sight of all the peoples,) 32 A light for revelation to the Gentiles) And a glory for thy people Israel. ) 33 The child s father and his mother were amazed about the things that were being said about him. 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, the child s mother: Mark well, this child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign��136�� that is spoken against35 and a sword will pierce your own soul also that the deliberations of many hearts��137�� may be revealed. ) 36 There was also a prophetess, Anna, daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old.��138�� After her marriage��139�� she had lived with her husband seven years, 37 and she had been a widow until she was now eighty-four.��140�� She never departed from the temple, but continued to worship night and day with fastings and prayers. 38 Now coming up at that very hour, she was returning thanks to God and speaking about him [Jesus] to all those who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.) ) 22 24. And when the days for their purification according to the law of Moses had been completed, they [Joseph and Mary] brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord as it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord and to offer a sacrifice as prescribed in the law of the Lord: a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.15.13|AUTODETECT|” It is interesting to observe in how many different ways the wisdom of the Mosaic legislation comes to light. S. E. McMillen, a Christian doctor, in his book None of These Diseases, Westwood, N. J., 1963, has provided several illustrations. One of them belongs to the general sphere of Purification. He points out (pp. 15 18) how very, very slow medical science was in admitting the fact that those who handle patients should have clean hands, and, by way of contrast, how the scriptural method required not only washing in a basin but repeated washings in running water, etc. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.15.13|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 15:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.19.14-4.19.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.19.14-4.19.19|AUTODETECT|” Num. 19:14 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.1-3.12.4|AUTODETECT|” In line with this were also the Mosaic regulations with respect to the closely related subjects of menstruation and childbirth. As long as the woman who had given birth was still discharging the ensuing impurities, in general as long as her normal cycle had not fully returned, she was considered ceremonially impure, and therefore not permitted to enter the sanctuary. According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.1-3.12.4|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 12:1 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , after giving birth to a son, it was not until the fortieth day that the time of her purification was completed.��141�� Then by means of offerings she was restored to full communion with the worshiping multitude.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 That fortieth day having arrived, Joseph and Mary go up to Jerusalem from Bethlehem. Note up to, even though on the average the altitude of Jerusalem is somewhat lower than that of Bethlehem. But God s house (see 2:49) stood in Jerusalem. Hence up to is understandable.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.8|AUTODETECT|” For their purification! This has been explained in two ways: (a) Joseph too was unclean, through contact with Mary (Plummer, op. cit., p. 63); (b) as head of the family Joseph had to provide the sacrifice and see to it that the law was carried out (Lenski, op. cit., p. 90). The second theory has in its favor that the sacrifice which was brought was clearly for one person 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.8|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 12:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.24|AUTODETECT|” ), in the present case for Mary 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.24|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 In verses 22 24 mention is made not only of the mother s purification but also of the child s presentation. The purification ended with a sacrifice (verse 24). The presentation, to which verses 22 and 25 f. refer, included redemption, the payment of a ransom fee.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” On this fortieth day the Redeemer was himself redeemed! Strange as it may sound, the statement is true. Of course, he was not redeemed in the sense in which he was going to redeem his people, for he was, is, and ever will remain sinless, in fact the Fountain of all virtue. Yet, being his mother s firstborn son 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.7|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.1|AUTODETECT|” ), and belonging to the tribe not of Levi but of Judah, he had to be exempted from official temple service by the payment of five shekels of silver 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.1|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.11-2.13.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.11-2.13.15|AUTODETECT|” 11 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.11-4.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.11-4.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Num. 3:11 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.41|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.41|AUTODETECT|” 41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.44|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.44|AUTODETECT|” 44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.45|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.45|AUTODETECT|” 45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.47-4.3.51|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.3.47-4.3.51|AUTODETECT|” 47 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.18.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.18.16|AUTODETECT|” 18:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 If the shekel is considered the equivalent of $0.64, the redemption price would amount to $3.20 or (at the exchange rate when this was written) � 1.40. This may not seem much, but at that particular time how many days would an ordinary laborer have to work to earn it? See N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 301, footnote 290.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.29|AUTODETECT|” The underlying idea of the redemption ritual was this: in the night of Israel s deliverance from the house of bondage all firstborn Egyptians were slain 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.29|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 12:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). However, in God s holy sight not only the Egyptians but also the Israelites had forfeited their lives. In place of death God was willing to accept from the tribe of Levi lifelong service in the tabernacle or (later) temple, and from the firstborn of the other tribes five shekels, as a symbolic offering, a confession, as it were.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Jesus too was under the sentence of death. He was born under the law 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.4.4|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 4:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and this in the sense not only of being under personal obligation to keep the law but also of being duty-bound with a duty to which he voluntarily obligated himself vicariously to bear the law s penalty and to satisfy its demand of perfect obedience.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4-23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” He had no personal guilt but had of his own free will taken upon himself the sin of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.53.4-23.53.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 53:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.29|AUTODETECT|” John 1:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” ). Was the redemption fee paid at this time a symbol of the infinitely greater ransom to which the Savior was going to refer in saying, The Son of man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life a ransom for many 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.20.28|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 20:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.45|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 )?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.11|AUTODETECT|” It was in connection with the payment of the redemption fee that Joseph and Mary publicly consecrated their child to God, as Samuel had once been similarly dedicated 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.11|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 On this same visit to the temple Joseph and Mary brought the purification sacrifice.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.6|AUTODETECT|” According to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.6|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 12:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 f. this had to be a lamb a year old for a burnt-offering, and a young pigeon or a turtledove for a sin-offering. However, that same law went on to stipulate, If she cannot afford a lamb, then she shall take two turtledoves or two young pigeons, one for a burnt-offering and the other for a sin-offering (verse 8). It was this poor person s offering that was brought in the present case.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 From this it would be wrong to draw the conclusion that Joseph and Mary were desperately poor. After all, Joseph was a carpenter. He must have had money to pay the redemption fee. On the way from Nazareth to Bethlehem he must also have been able to pay lodging fees and to defray other expenses. Besides, for forty days the little family had now been living in or near Bethlehem. Whether during this period Joseph found employment and earned wages we do not know.

One fact is clear: the means at his disposal were insufficient to warrant purchase of the more expensive offering (lamb plus bird).) If by reason of the season of the year turtledoves were unavailable being migratory birds they could be purchased only from spring to fall there were always plenty of pigeons. One could purchase two birds for less than a tenth of the amount demanded for a lamb plus a bird.) 25, 26. And look, in Jerusalem there was a man named Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been disclosed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord s Christ.) Little is known about Simeon. The passage does not state that he was invested with any particular office; for example, that of priest.

He was apparently what we today would call a layman. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.11.26-4.11.29|AUTODETECT|” The church needs laymen as well as clergymen. Not only Moses and Joshua occupy an important place in the affairs of God s kingdom but so do Eldad and Medad 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.11.26-4.11.29|AUTODETECT|” Num. 11:26 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.19|AUTODETECT|” Especially such laymen! Simeon is described as being righteous. So was Mary s husband Joseph 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ); so was Mary herself, and so were Zechariah and Elizabeth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And do not forget Joseph of Arimathea (23:50).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.5|AUTODETECT|” Simeon was righteous and devout. For other instances of devout men see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.5|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.2|AUTODETECT|” 8:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.12|AUTODETECT|” 22:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . With utmost circumspection such men take hold of the duties God has assigned to them. They are conscientious in their planning, aiming always to advance their own and their neighbors welfare, to the glory of God. The combination righteous and devout may well indicate that Simeon conducted himself in such a manner that his behavior both with respect to men (he was righteous) and God (he was devout) was the object of God s approval.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 This man was waiting for the consolation of Israel. To be sure, conditions were bad, very bad, in Israel at the time of Jesus birth in Bethlehem. Think of loss of political independence, cruel King Herod, externalization of religion, legalistic scribes and Pharisees and their many followers, worldly-minded Sadducees, the silence of the voice of prophecy, etc. But in the midst of all this darkness, degradation, and despair there were men who were hopefully looking forward to, and earnestly expecting, the consolation of Israel. There were such men & and women too! Already mentioned were Mary and Elizabeth.

In a moment (see verses 36 38) Luke is going to add Anna to the list. That this group of devout men and women was considerable appears from the phrase all those who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem (2:38).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” That these men and women were indeed justified in this hope is clear from prophecy. As an example study the many prophecies of Isaiah in which such blessings as comfort, peace, and joy are promised, and are associated with the Messianic Age 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.7.14|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 7:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.1-23.9.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.9.1-23.9.7|AUTODETECT|” 9:1 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1-23.11.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.11.1-23.11.10|AUTODETECT|” 11:1 10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.1-23.40.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.40.1-23.40.11|AUTODETECT|” 40:1 11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.8-23.49.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.8-23.49.13|AUTODETECT|” 49:8 13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.51.1-23.51.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.51.1-23.51.6|AUTODETECT|” 51:1 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.51.12-23.51.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.51.12-23.51.16|AUTODETECT|” 12 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.52.13-23.55.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.52.13-23.55.13|AUTODETECT|” 52:13 55:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.60.1-23.60.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.60.1-23.60.3|AUTODETECT|” 60:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; ch. 61; 66:13).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Simeon had been endowed with a very rare and special blessing. In some manner, even now before Pentecost, the Holy Spirit rested abidingly upon him. He was being constantly influenced by that Spirit.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.2|AUTODETECT|” That same Comforter had revealed to him that he would not die before he had seen the Lord s Christ. For further light on the expression the Lord s Christ see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.2.2|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.45.7|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.45.7|AUTODETECT|” 45:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.110.1|AUTODETECT|” 110:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.61.1|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 61:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.28|AUTODETECT|” Some interpreters make a special point of emphasizing that this revelation does not necessarily mean that Simeon was an old man when the infant Jesus was being carried into the temple. That point must be granted. Nevertheless, are those commentators��142�� entirely wrong who picture him as being an old man? Is it not rather natural to think of old age when we read such statements as, It had been disclosed to him that he would not see death until and Now, Sovereign Master, thou art permitting thy servant to depart in peace, etc.? Was not Jacob also an old man when, speaking in similar vein, he said: It is enough; Joseph my son is still alive; I will go and see him before I die 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.45.28|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 45:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.47.9|AUTODETECT|” )? Jacob was 130 years of age when he said this. He died at the age of 147 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.47.9|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 47:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.47.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.47.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). I do not hesitate to picture Simeon as an old man, even though I admit that absolute proof for this position is lacking.) 1 10 2 8 0 0 27 32. Guided by the Spirit he came into the temple. And when the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what was customary according to the law, Simeon took him in his arms, blessed God, and said:) Now, Sovereign Master, thou art releasing thy servant,) According to thy word, in peace,) Because my eyes have seen thy salvation) Which thou hast prepared in the sight of all the peoples,) A light for revelation to the Gentiles) And a glory for thy people Israel.) Note the following:) a. Literally the text reads, In the Spirit he came into the temple. This in the Spirit is the same phrase that occurs in the Apocalypse (1:10; 4:2; 17:3; 21:10). In that book it indicates that the seer s soul seems for the moment to have been liberated from the shackles of time and space.

In a high state of ecstasy it is, as it were, alone & with God.��143�� Here in Luke, however, the meaning is slightly different. Simeon is thoroughly conscious of his surroundings. His soul is, however, flooded with thoughts of thanksgiving and praise. Moreover, he is and is conscious of being guided by the Spirit. The Spirit has taken care that at the precise moment when Joseph and Mary were walking into the temple, carrying the baby Jesus, to do for him what was customary according to the law (as has already been explained), Simeon also walked in.) b. The parents brought in the child.

This is no denial of the virgin birth (1:34, 35). In the legal sense Joseph and Mary were Jesus parents. See also 2:48, Your father and I. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.36|AUTODETECT|” c. Simeon took him in his arms. Simeon did what Jesus himself was going to do later on 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.36|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.16|AUTODETECT|” 10:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 7 2 8 0 0 d. He blessed God. When the Holy Spirit made clear to him that this very child was the Messiah, Simeon s heart was surcharged with gratitude to such an extent that before his Father s throne he poured out his ardent thanksgiving. As is clear from his Nunc Dimittis, he thanked God for what this child meant to him personally and for what it meant to the world of both Gentile and Jew.) e. Simeon s Song is the last of the five mentioned on p. 95. It is a hymn of Joyful Resignation.) f.

The word now is not the weak transitional now. It is definitely an adverb of time. What Simeon means is that he is now ready to die, since God is releasing him in peace, as he had promised to do. Simeon is holding in his arms and seeing with his eyes not just a little baby but salvation, that is, the One through whom God would save his people. Since Simeon is a willing servant, who joyfully acknowledges God s absolute right over him, he addresses God as Sovereign Master. For other explanations see the footnote.��144�� See also the note on verse 29 on page 176.) g.

With reference to thy salvation Simeon continues:) Which thou hast prepared in the sight of all the peoples,) A light for revelation to the Gentiles) And a glory for thy people Israel.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.42.6|AUTODETECT|” There is nothing narrow about Simeon. He loudly proclaims the significance of Jesus not only for Israel but also for the Gentiles, the world outside of Israel. This is in line with such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.42.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 42:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.42.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.42.7|AUTODETECT|” 7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.1.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=33.1.15|AUTODETECT|” Mic. 1:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.28.19|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 28:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.16|AUTODETECT|” John 3:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.42|AUTODETECT|” 4:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.11|AUTODETECT|” 10:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.47|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.13.47|AUTODETECT|” Acts 13:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.13|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.27|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.27|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.9-66.7.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.7.9-66.7.17|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 7:9 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 The concept thy salvation is here defined as light and glory. For the Gentiles salvation is light: the true knowledge of God, holiness and love, joy as never before experienced. Of course, it is also light for Israel, but the term is especially appropriate when applied to the Gentiles because their darkness was deepest.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.40.34|AUTODETECT|” For Israel salvation is glory. It is glory also for the Gentiles, but no one who knows his Bible will fail to understand why this description specifically suits Israel. It is with Israel that we associate the Shekinah, i.e., the cloud of light, a manifestation of Jehovah s presence 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.40.34|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 40:34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.40.35|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.40.35|AUTODETECT|” 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.21|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.21|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 4:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.4.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.19|AUTODETECT|” ). God had blessed Israel above all the nations 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.19|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 147:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.147.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=30.3.2|AUTODETECT|” Amos 3:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” a; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 3:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.3.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.6|AUTODETECT|” ). Nevertheless, when we associate glory with Israel we are reminded especially of this unprecedented honor bestowed upon it, namely, that God chose it for the purpose of spreading the true religion among the nations of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.49.6|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 49:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.60.1-23.60.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.60.1-23.60.3|AUTODETECT|” 60:1 3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.8.20-38.8.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=38.8.20-38.8.23|AUTODETECT|” Zech. 8:20 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” ). Even more specifically, that he selected it to bring forth the Christ according to his human nature 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.12|AUTODETECT|” ). And Christ is the Light of the world 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.12|AUTODETECT|” John 8:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.62.3|AUTODETECT|” ). That, more than anything else, was Israel s glory. It was because of this that Zion could be addressed as follows, Thou shalt also be a crown of beauty in the hand of Jehovah, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=23.62.3|AUTODETECT|” Isa. 62:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; see context, verses 2, 12, and 60:3).) 1 15 2 8 0 0 We have now finished consideration of the five Hymns that center about the birth of Christ. Nothing could excel the doxology of the angels. The glory of God is the chief end not only of men but also of the heavenly hosts. Omitting any further reference to that anthem of adoration, we are left with the series: Elizabeth s Song of Love, Mary s Song of Faith, Zechariah s Song of Hope, and Simeon s Song of Resignation; that is, of Joyful Self-Surrender.) These four form a kind of climax,��145�� as follows:) Elizabeth s hymn centers about Mary. We would do her an injustice if we did not immediately add that she calls Mary the mother of my Lord, and the one the fruit of whose womb is blessed. But she begins with Mary (1:42) and ends with Mary (1:45).

She breathes love.) Mary reaches farther. She confesses her faith by magnifying Jehovah for his power, holiness, and mercy. She views him as Israel s Helper in time of need.) Zechariah is even more specific, approaches even more closely to the theme of Christmas. He speaks not only about the Lord, the God of Israel, but with firmly entrenched hope looks forward and sees the Horn of David, the Rising Sun, that is, the Messiah.) Most world-embracing of all is Simeon. In lines filled with humble recognition of God s absolute sovereignty, with trustful resignation, and with the tenderness of heart with which he is holding the baby Jesus in his arms, he yields himself to the God who, in fulfilment of his promise, has allowed him to live long enough to be able to see the Messiah, and in him the realization of the plan of redemption for the world:) A light for revelation to the Gentiles) And a glory for thy people Israel.) Now Simeon has found peace. Now he is ready to depart from this life.) 33 35.

The child s father and his mother were amazed about the things that were being said about him. And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, the child s mother: Mark well, this child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that is spoken against and a sword will pierce your own soul also that the deliberations of many hearts may be revealed.) What was it that amazed Joseph and Mary? Was it what some wish to call Simeon s clairvoyance, but can be more fittingly described as his Spirit-wrought profound insight into the future? The answer is that it was not Simeon himself but rather what Simeon said about the child that amazed them.) This is understandable. It is true that Gabriel too had said some wonderful things about the child (1:31 33), and so had the shepherds, in reporting to Joseph and Mary what an angel, and immediately afterward a host of angels, had proclaimed (2:8 14). But these earlier messages did not include anything specific about the significance of this child for both the Gentiles and Israel.

Besides, the relevations which Joseph and Mary received about their child were all so wonderful that even a measure of repetition would not have curtailed their amazement. Even today Jesus Christ is so altogether marvelous and the salvation he has provided so bountiful that we love the song:) Sing them over again to me,) Wonderful words of life.) P. B. Bliss) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=42.13.28|AUTODETECT|” Simeon now invoked God s blessing on Joseph and Mary. Having done this, he addressed to Mary words that must have startled her. In substance he told her that her child would become the great divider; not, however, that events would simply turn out that way, but that in God s plan it had been so decided. Literally what he said was, Mark well, this child is set for the falling and rising of many in Israel.& In other words a person s relation or attitude toward Jesus would be absolutely decisive of his eternal destiny. Some would reject him; others would by sovereign grace accept him. The former would fall; that is, they would (unless they repented) be excluded from the kingdom.

The latter would rise; that is, they would be welcomed to the kingdom and its wedding feast. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.28|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 2 2 8 0 0 There is also another interpretation. According to it Simeon is speaking about one group: first the people belonging to this group fall, then they rise.) However, far more in line with two contrasting groups is what we read elsewhere not only in the nativity account for example, in Mary s own Magnificat (1:50 53, note the contrasts) but also in other parts of the Gospels. In Luke see also 6:20 23; 13:28, 29; 16:25; 18:9 14. With this can be compared the lengthy series of contrasts in Matthew: 7:24 27; 10:32, 33, 39; 11:25, 26; 13:11, 12; 18:5, 6; 21:28 32; 24:45 51; 25:1 13, 31 46. And to add one example from John s Gospel, see 3:18.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Not to be overlooked is the phrase in Israel. Even in Israel, in spite of all its advantages, there would be this sharp division between those who reject Jesus, the vast majority 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.11|AUTODETECT|” John 1:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.66|AUTODETECT|” 6:66) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), and those who welcome and embrace him (1:12, 13).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.28|AUTODETECT|” The child would be a sign. ��146�� This means that he would point away from himself to his Sender, whose image he would reflect and whose works he would perform. In claiming this close relationship to his heavenly Father he would be spoken against or contradicted. That this is what actually happened is clear from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.28|AUTODETECT|” Luke 4:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.41|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.41|AUTODETECT|” John 6:41) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.52|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.52|AUTODETECT|” 52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.13|AUTODETECT|” 8:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.31-43.8.59|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.31-43.8.59|AUTODETECT|” 31 59) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , to cite but a few references.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.23|AUTODETECT|” By means of their attitude to Jesus men would be constantly revealing the thoughts or deliberations of their hearts. They would show whether they were for or against him. Neutrality would be forever impossible 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.11.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 11:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.30|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.30|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25-43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” In a parenthesis Simeon, in addressing Mary, states that a sword would pierce her soul; in fact, as the original indicates, a large and broad sword, the symbol of intense pain, of frightful and piercing anguish. For the fulfilment see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.19.25-43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” John 19:25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 15 2 8 0 0 In this connection we are reminded of the poetic lines:) Stabat mater dolorosa) juxta crucem lacrimosa.) The English translation of these and the immediately following lines is:) At the cross her station keeping) Stood the mournful mother weeping,) Close to Jesus to the last;) Through her heart, his sorrow sharing,) All his bitter anguish bearing,) Now at length the sword had passed.) The hymn might have been helpful, were it not for the fact that aside from the questionable to the last the doctrine here displayed is far from pure. Mary did not bear or share, and could not have borne or shared, all Christ s bitter anguish.) What Simeon said was true. But he did not see everything. He did not see that even in the midst of Mary s sorrow she would receive a measure of comfort. At the suggestion of the crucified Savior the disciple whom Jesus loved would take her to his home. Is it not possible that the very memory of Simeon s prophecy strengthened Mary in the moments of her deepest agony, proving to her that this too was included in God s plan and would therefore work together for good?

Best of all, because of the resurrection on the third day Mary s sorrow would subsequently be changed to rejoicing and strengthening of faith.) If Simeon was remarkable, so by God s grace was Anna: 36 38. There was also a prophetess, Anna, daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old. After her marriage she had lived with her husband seven years, and she had been a widow until she was now eighty-four. She never departed from the temple, but continued to worship night and day with fastings and prayers. Now coming up at that very hour, she was returning thanks to God and speaking about him [Jesus] to all those who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.) Anna) 1.

Who was she?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.32.30|AUTODETECT|” Her name means Grace. She was a widow, a daughter of Phanuel. This is the Greek transliteration of the more familiar Hebrew name Penuel, also spelled Peniel. It will be recalled that Jacob, returning to his homeland, was left alone at the river Jabbok. There he wrestled with the Angel, and his name was changed to Israel. In that connection we read, And Jacob named that place Peniel; for (said he) I have seen God face to face, yet my life is preserved 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.32.30|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 32:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.29.31-1.30.24|AUTODETECT|” Anna belonged to the tribe of Asher. Asher was the second son of Leah s handmaid Zilpah. He was named Asher (= Happy) because his birth made Leah happy. He was Jacob s eighth son. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.29.31-1.30.24|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 29:31 30:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.16-1.35.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.16-1.35.20|AUTODETECT|” 35:16 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.22-1.35.26|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.35.22-1.35.26|AUTODETECT|” 22 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 for the list of Jacob s children.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 More important in the present connection are these two facts: (a) The very presence of a member of the tribe of Asher, a member who is living in Jerusalem, shows that the so-called Lost Tribes were not completely lost. (b) The fact that Luke knows to which tribe Anna belongs indicates that the Jews were keeping their family registers or genealogies up to date. The reasons for this have been indicated in N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 106, 107.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.9|AUTODETECT|” Anna was a prophetess. For many years the voice of prophecy had been silent. Now here suddenly there is this prophetess! She reminds us of the evangelist Philip s four unmarried daughters on whom similarly the gift of prophecy was going to be bestowed 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.21.9|AUTODETECT|” Acts 21:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.18|AUTODETECT|” ). A true prophet or prophetess is one who, having received revelations of the mind and will of God, declares to others what has been thus received. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.18.18|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 18:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.1|AUTODETECT|” . The apostle Paul regarded the gift of prophecy as being highly important 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.14.1|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 14:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 13 2 8 0 0 2. How old was she?) She was indeed very old ; literally advanced in many days, or, as we might say, very advanced in years. She had married, and had lived with her husband seven years. Up to this point there is no disagreement among commentators. What immediately follows, in verse 37a, is obscure, open to two interpretations. Literally the clause reads: and she a widow up to eighty-four years.

This can mean either:) a. She had now been a widow for eighty-four years ) or) b. She had now reached the age of eighty-four. ) Which of these two theories is correct? Theory (a) is burdened with the consideration that if true this prophetess must have been a very, very old woman indeed. Even if she had been only 14 when she married which is possible, for Jewish girls often married young then she would now be (14+7+84=) 105 years of age! Theory (b) represents her as being now a woman of 84.

As some see it, that is not very old ; nevertheless Luke states that she was at this time very old. ��147��) For a good defense of theory (a) see Lenski, p. 99; Danker, p. 36; Greijdanus, Korte Verklaring, pp. 76, 77.) The arguments that have been advanced in favor of (a) are:) First of all, 84 years is not very old; 105 is indeed.) Secondly, Luke presents an addition: an indefinite number of years before Anna s marriage plus 7 years of marriage plus 84 years of widowhood. He places great emphasis on Anna s very advanced age.) Thirdly (Danker s argument): Luke may have been thinking of the parallel case of Judith; see the apocryphal book Judith 16:23.) For a defense of theory (b) see E. J. Goodspeed, Problems of New Testament Translation, Chicago, 1945, pp. 74 81.) Brief summary of arguments that can be advanced in favor of (b):) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.90.10|AUTODETECT|” First, in the light of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.90.10|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 90:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 eighty-four years can indeed be called very old. ) 1 9 2 8 0 0 Secondly, Luke s age-description is not at all necessarily an addition.) Thirdly, in the use of sources, as well as in composing, Luke was being guided by the Holy Spirit. There is no evidence whatever that he was being influenced by a book (Judith) filled with the most ridiculous and unhistorical nonsense.��148��) Conclusion: either view is certainly possible, though I, for one, favor theory (b). To the arguments already summarized I would add this one: not only is Anna described as being very old, she is also pictured as being still very active (verses 37, 38), which is more likely to have been the case at 84 than at 105.) 3. What kind of woman was she?) She never departed from the temple, etc. Unless Anna actually occupied quarters in the temple, so that she lived there, which is not impossible, this expression must be regarded as hyperbole. The meaning then would simply be: she attended very regularly, being present at both the public and the more private services.

Even today when a person not only attends the services on Sunday but also the various doings in the church during the days of the week, he will at times be heard to say, I live there. He is not afraid that anyone will take this literally.) (She continued to worship) & with fastings and prayers. This marks her as a woman who did not think highly of herself, was concerned about others, about God s kingdom, Israel s hope, etc., and remembered all these matters in prayer. On the general subject of fasting see N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 340 343; and on prayer pp. 321 324.) 4. What was her attitude to Jesus?) She was coming up at that very hour . We may picture her as being in one of the courts of the temple, perhaps the court of women, when she sees Joseph and Mary with the infant Jesus.

She carefully observes Simeon as he takes the baby into his arms. She listens to the words of his Nunc Dimittis. She distinctly hears every word for she has now come up and joined the little family. She is convinced that this child is indeed the Messiah.) Filled with gratitude she immediately returns thanks to God. Her prayer finished, she begins to speak to all like-minded people. Afterward this became a habit with her.

She would speak to all who, being one in spirit with herself, were similarly looking forward to and eagerly expecting Jerusalem s redemption, that is, Israel s consolation (see on verse 25), its deliverance from sin through the Savior, namely, Jesus. See above, on 1:68.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.18|AUTODETECT|” In view of the fact that the Gospels on ever so many pages are describing the wickedness and hardness of heart of Pharisees, scribes, and their many followers, it is certainly refreshing to know that, as it was in the days of Elijah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=11.19.18|AUTODETECT|” I Kings 19:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.5|AUTODETECT|” ) and would be in the days of Paul 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.11.5|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 11:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), so also now, in the days of the infant Jesus, there was a remnant according to God s gracious election. Thus it will ever be.��149��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.22-42.2.38|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.22-42.2.38|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:22 38) 1 5 2 8 0 0 Verses 22 24) They brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. It is the solemn duty and blessed privilege of parents to dedicate their children to the Lord.) Verse 25) Waiting for the consolation of Israel. Evidently Simeon took prophecy seriously. Do we?) Verse 27) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Guided by the Spirit he came into the temple. If both preacher and parishioner entered the house of God thus equipped, would not blessings overflow? Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=21.5.1|AUTODETECT|” Eccles. 5:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Verse 29) Sovereign Master. When God s sovereignty is recognized in every sphere there is consolation for life and death.) Verse 30) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” My eyes have seen thy salvation. Simeon held in his arms and was looking at a baby & and saw in him salvation. Jesus looked at unstable Simon and saw a Rock 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.42|AUTODETECT|” John 1:42) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.32|AUTODETECT|” ). Jesus reflected on his approaching cross and saw triumph 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.12.32|AUTODETECT|” John 12:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.16.33|AUTODETECT|” 16:33) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b). Faith means vision & and victory!) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verses 30, 31) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Thy salvation & which thou hast prepared. Salvation is not a human achievement but a divine gift. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 16 2 8 0 0 Verse 34) This child is set for the falling and rising of many.& Jesus is history s watershed, its dividing ridge: our relation to him is decisive for woe or weal, for bane or blessing.) Verses 36 38) She was very old. There is work to do even for those who are far along in years. Anna spent her time in prayer, praise, and proclamation. What a blessed way to spend one s declining (?) years.) ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 2:22 38) Verse 22) ����������, aor. infinitive of ���������, to place beside; here: to present.) Verse 23) �����, womb, should immediately remind one of ����� mother. Note similar resemblances between mother and womb in related languages: mater, matrix; m�re, matrice; madre, matriz; mother, matrix; Mutter, Mutterleib; moeder, baarmoeder; etc.) Verse 24) �0�������, (as) said, prescribed; acc. n. perfect passive participle of ��. Cf. ����, ��, �6���, �4����, etc.

Cf. rhetoric.) ������, pair; in 14:19 yoke. Cf. join.) ������, turtledove.) ������, young. Cf. new.) Verse 25) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.5|AUTODETECT|” �P�����**, also in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.5|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.8.2|AUTODETECT|” 8:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.22.12|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.22.12|AUTODETECT|” 22:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; basically: taking hold of well; hence devout, pious.) 1 10 2 8 0 0 �������������, pres. participle of �����������, to wait for, look forward to; see also verse 38 and 12:36; 23:51; in 15:2 to welcome.) ������ &� ����. Because of the rather unexpected position of &� between ������ and ���� some favor the rendering an influence which was holy or something similar. It is clear, however, from the following verse that Luke refers to the Holy Spirit. The omission of the articles in verse 25 may, however, place the emphasis on the operation of that Spirit, being indeed altogether holy in nature. For the rest, since Holy Spirit is a proper name, the term can be definite even without the use of articles. With Robertson and most translators and interpreters I, too, accept the rendering the Holy Spirit for verse 25.

Cf. 1:15, 35, 41, 67.) Verse 26) &� ���������������, periphrastic pluperf. passive indicat. of ���������, to impart a revelation; in the passive: to receive a revelation or disclosure; to have something revealed to one; perhaps related to �������, oracle. Here, as in classical Greek, ���� is followed by aor. subjunctive � 4��, before he would see; or: before he had seen.) Verse 27) �0��������, perf. passive participle of ����, to accustom; hence here: according to the custom of (i.e., as required by) ��� �����, the law. Cf. ethics.) Verse 28) ������, acc. pl. of �����, arm (that is bent hence, is at an angle to receive something or someone). Cf. angle. See N.T.C. on Mark, p. 359, footnote 426; p. 384, footnote 461.) Verse 29) �������, sec. per. s. pres. active indicat. of �����. The basic meaning of this verb is: to let go, to release.

This meaning develops as follows:) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.15-40.27.26|AUTODETECT|” a. to release a prisoner 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.27.15-40.27.26|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 27:15 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.27|AUTODETECT|” b. to release a debtor, wiping out his debt 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.37|AUTODETECT|” c. to forgive, pardon 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.37|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.12|AUTODETECT|” d. to dismiss a crowd 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.12|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.38|AUTODETECT|” ), a person 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.38|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.2|AUTODETECT|” e. to divorce a marriage partner 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.2|AUTODETECT|” Mark 10:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.10.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ),) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.20.29|AUTODETECT|” f. to discharge a person from his earthly post, to let him depart in death. In this sense the verb occurs on gravestones; so also here in Simeon s Nunc Dimittis. And see also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=4.20.29|AUTODETECT|” Num. 20:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (LXX).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 30) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.6|AUTODETECT|” There is little, if any, distinction between �x �������� and �������. Both indicate salvation, as is clear also from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.6|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.28|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.28.28|AUTODETECT|” Acts 28:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.6.17|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 6:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Verse 32) The concepts ��� and ����� are in apposition with salvation. On ���� see N.T.C. on Philippians, pp. 62, 63, footnote 43.) Verse 34) ������, third per. s. pres. passive indicat. of ������, with sense of the perfect: to have been set, laid, or solemnly appointed.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.27|AUTODETECT|” ������, fall, falling; cf. �����, to fall. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.7.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 7:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 the noun means: fall, collapse, crash.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.4|AUTODETECT|” ��������, rise, rising, resurrection; for example, of Jesus from the dead 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.1.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 1:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.4-66.20.6|AUTODETECT|” ); of people: (a) of their souls 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.4-66.20.6|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:4 6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.25|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.25|AUTODETECT|” John 5:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.24|AUTODETECT|” ); (b) of their bodies 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.24|AUTODETECT|” John 11:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.28|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.28|AUTODETECT|” John 5:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.5.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12-66.20.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.20.12-66.20.14|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 20:12 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 35) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.4|AUTODETECT|” �������, the large and broad sword, here used in the figurative sense of piercing anguish of heart. In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.4|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 6:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.6.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 note contrast between ������� and �������.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 ����������� (preceded by E��� �), third per. pl. aor. subjunct. passive (indicating purpose) of ���������, to reveal. Cf. Apocalypse.) �����������, deliberation, devising, thought, opinion, scheme. For more on this word see N.T.C. on Mark, pp. 282 289.) Verses 36 38) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.20|AUTODETECT|” ��������, a prophetess, as was Jezebel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.20|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ), the only occurrences of this word in the New Testament; but that other prophetess was as godless as Anna was godly.) 1 10 2 8 0 0 �����������, as in 1:18; see the note on 1:7 on page 79.) ��������, virginity.) @���������, eighty; here and in 16:7.) �������, third per. s. imperf. middle indicat. of �������, to depart.) �������, fast, fasting. Cf. �������, to fast; derived from the negative prefix ��- and ����; hence, not to eat; and so, to fast.) ������������, imperfect: was returning thanks, or: began to return thanks; from �������������. See my dissertation The Meaning of the Preposition ��� in the New Testament, pp. 82, 83. In this case the prefix ��� has been explained in three different ways: Anna was giving thanks: (a) in return for blessings received; (b) in turn, taking her turn as soon as Simeon was silent; or (c) in open response; hence publicly. Perhaps (a) is the best. Basically is not all thanksgiving making a return and thus providing a substitute for blessings received?) As to the base A�������, by what process this verb, with root meaning to say the same thing, may have developed into various shades of meaning, including to praise, give thanks (to), has been indicated in N.T.C. on Matthew, pp. 497, 498, footnote 477.) Note also the fem. s. aor. participles ������ (from ���) and ������� (from �������; see 2:9), and the present participle ���������� (from �������). For a discussion of the opening words of verse 37: and she a widow up to eighty-four years see the commentary.) ) 2:39, 40 The Return to Nazareth) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.19-40.2.23|AUTODETECT|” For Verse 39 cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.19-40.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:19 23) 1 3 2 8 0 0 39 And when they had accomplished everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town Nazareth. 40 And the child continued to grow and to become strong, being filled (day by day) with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.) ) 39. And when they had accomplished everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town Nazareth.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Again, as in verses 22, 23, 24, 27, Luke stresses the fact that the conduct of Joseph and Mary was in harmony with God s law. Having accomplished everything required by the law they returned to Galilee. The evangelist does not say that after the events of the fortieth day the little family immediately made for the north. Room is left for Matthew s account of the coming of the wise men, the flight to Egypt, the slaughter of the innocents, and the return of Joseph, Mary, and their child from Egypt; in other words, for the events reported in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:1 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . At 2:22, 23 Matthew and Luke (2:39) are together again, with this difference, that Matthew states the reasons why the family did not settle in Judea but returned to Nazareth.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.21|AUTODETECT|” The question occurs, therefore, How is it that Luke omits the material found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:1 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , particularly the visit of the wise men from the east and the temporary residence of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus in Egypt? ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Some are of the opinion that Luke omits it because he did not know about it. They argue that had he known about the magi he would have included their story in his book, for it would have harmonized beautifully with his emphasis on the universality of the gospel.��150��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.21|AUTODETECT|” According to others it is impossible to determine whether or not Luke knew anything about the incidents reported in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:1 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 But in this particular case it is probably unnecessary to give up so easily. One author��151�� may well be pointing in the right direction when he states that Luke omitted this material because the plan for his book did not require its inclusion.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Probably we can go beyond this. While it must be admitted that certainty is impossible, there is a solution which at least merits careful consideration and may well be the right one. At the outset it should be stressed that the theory according to which Luke was, or may have been, totally ignorant about the visit of the wise men and about the flight into Egypt is very difficult to maintain. As appears clearly from such passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.51|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.51|AUTODETECT|” 51) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and see Introduction, Point III B 6 there must have been very close contact between Luke and Mary. Luke received information either directly from her mouth or else from the mouth of those close to her. Also the horrible massacre of Bethlehem s infants cannot have remained hidden. Luke must have heard about it.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Why, then, did he not include this material? The key to what may well be the solution has already been indicated: the inclusion of this material did not harmonize with his plan; that is, his plan for Luke Acts.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.1|AUTODETECT|” It is true that in Luke s Gospel God s love even for Gentiles and Samaritans is clearly revealed and even emphasized. See p. 43. But this does not cancel another fact, namely, that to a very large extent the beloved physician reserved for inclusion in the book of Acts the narrative of the extension of God s kingdom among the Gentiles. In his orderly account (1:3) the Gospel describes Jesus ministry in the land of the Jews, Acts his ministry 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.8|AUTODETECT|” ) in and from Jerusalem into Samaria and to the ends of the earth 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.8|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 b)) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.13-40.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Was Jesus ever outside the land of the Jews? Matthew and Mark clearly answer Yes. He was in Egypt 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.13-40.2.15|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:13 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.21-40.15.28|AUTODETECT|” ), in Syrophoenicia 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.15.21-40.15.28|AUTODETECT|” Matthew 15:21 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.24-41.7.30|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.24-41.7.30|AUTODETECT|” Mark 7:24 30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.13|AUTODETECT|” ), and in Caesarea Philippi 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.13|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.27|AUTODETECT|” ff.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.8.27|AUTODETECT|” Mark 8:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28-40.8.34|AUTODETECT|” ff.). He was in the largely Gentile country of the Gadarenes 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.8.28-40.8.34|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 8:28 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1-41.5.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.1-41.5.17|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:1 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And according to John s Gospel the Savior also carried on a fruitful ministry in Samaria (chapter 4).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.25|AUTODETECT|” But does the Third Gospel ever place Jesus anywhere outside of Jewish territory? The answer must be a definitely soft-pedaled yes, a yes so small that it is almost transformed into a no. Nothing at all is said in Luke about Christ s work in Syrophoenicia. Although Luke briefly mentions what happened in Caesarea, he does not indicate that region by name but simply states that once while Jesus was praying he asked his disciples, Who do people say I am? (9:18). The work of Jesus in the country of the Gadarenes, Gerasenes, or Gergesenes is by Luke immediately brought into relation with the more Jewish Galilee (8:26). And definitely Gentile Decapolis 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.4.25|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 4:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.20|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.31|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.7.31|AUTODETECT|” 7:31) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; see N.T.C. on Mark, pp. 198, 199) is not even mentioned by Luke.) 1 2 2 8 0 0 All this is in harmony with Luke s already indicated plan. It is not surprising, therefore, that he also omits any reference to the wise men from the east and to the sojourn of the holy family in Egypt. The omission of such material from his Gospel may well reveal Luke s laudable consistency.) 40. And the child continued to grow and to become strong, being filled (day by day) with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.13.24|AUTODETECT|” This passage should be compared with somewhat similar ones in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=7.13.24|AUTODETECT|” Judg. 13:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.21|AUTODETECT|” b; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.21|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 2:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.26|AUTODETECT|” b, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.80|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.80|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:80) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.52|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.52|AUTODETECT|” 2:52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.80|AUTODETECT|” . With reference to the development of the child of Zechariah and Elizabeth ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.80|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:80) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 states, And the child continued to grow and to become strong in spirit. With the exception of in spirit exactly the same thing is said here about Mary s child. This indicates that the development of Jesus was:) 1 1 2 8 0 0 a. normal) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” By and large it resembled the development of any other normal child. This brings to mind ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , one who has been in every respect tempted as we are.& (More about this passage a little later.)) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.36|AUTODETECT|” The finite character of Christ s human nature is sometimes denied. For example, when it is suggested that even when he was a man there were certain things which, according to his human nature, Jesus did not know, some devout believers are shocked. Are they forgetting such clear passages as ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.24.36|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 24:36) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.5.32|AUTODETECT|” Mark 5:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.11.13|AUTODETECT|” 11:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.45|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.45|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.5.8|AUTODETECT|” ? The present passage too shows very clearly that according to his human nature there were certain things which the child Jesus did not know from the start. He had to learn them. He had to grow up, and this not only physically but also mentally, etc. In a sense did not the process of learning continue throughout his life? See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.5.8|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 5:8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Those who deny this are in danger of acquiring the mentality that must have marked the authors of certain apocryphal writings. These picture Jesus as being, even according to his human nature, omniscient and almighty (or at least nearly so), and this from the very start. Lions and leopards worship him. The infant Jesus says to a palm, Bend down and refresh my mother with your fruit, and it does so immediately. At five years of age Jesus models twelve sparrows out of soft clay. He claps his hands and the sparrows become alive and fly away, etc., etc.��152��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.40|AUTODETECT|” All this is clearly contrary to the pleasing reticence that marks ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.40|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 b. physical) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Jesus continued to grow and to become strong. It is encouraging to note that Luke does not belittle that which is physical. Is not the human body in its origin, composition, and development, a divine masterpiece? See especially ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.1.26|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 1:26) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.15|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 139:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.139.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.19|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 6:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.6.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .��153��) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.3|AUTODETECT|” A certain amount of physical strength was going to be required, and this not only to enable Jesus to wield the tools of a carpenter 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.6.3|AUTODETECT|” Mark 6:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) but also to carry on his earthly ministry.) 1 5 2 8 0 0 c. spiritual) Luke writes, And the child continued to grow & being [or becoming] filled with wisdom. He uses the present tense of the participle, indicating that this development in wisdom was a gradual, day by day, process.) What is meant by wisdom? That it includes knowledge is clear. But it far surpasses knowledge. It implies the ability and the desire to use this knowledge to the best advantage. The truly wise man is reaching for the highest goal and uses the most effective means to achieve it.) Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom;) and to depart from evil is understanding. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.28.28|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.28.28|AUTODETECT|” Job 28:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; see also 28:18)) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.17|AUTODETECT|” But the wisdom (that comes) from above is first of all pure, then peaceloving, considerate, congenial, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and unpretentious 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=59.3.17|AUTODETECT|” James 3:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 3 2 8 0 0 The person who has these qualities is surely wise. It was in that wisdom that even as a child Jesus was constantly increasing.) d. God-given) And the favor of God was upon him. In a marked and noticeable manner God manifested his favor and love to him. He guided him step by step and caused him to prosper.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Returning now to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.4.15|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 4:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , note the very important qualification, yet (he was) without sin. The development of this child was therefore perfect, and this along every line: physical, intellectual, moral, spiritual; for from beginning to end progress was unimpaired and unimpeded by sin, whether inherited or acquired. Between the child Jesus and his Father (see verse 49) there was perfect harmony, limitless love. This also introduces us to the next paragraph, in which the young boy Jesus reveals his closeness to his Father.��154��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.39|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.39|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:39) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.40|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.40|AUTODETECT|” 40) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Verse 39) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.46|AUTODETECT|” They returned & to their own town Nazareth. This was the village of which Nathaniel said, Out of Nazareth can any good come? 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.1.46|AUTODETECT|” John 1:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Yet, it was here that Jesus grew up. It was here that he spent much of his life.) 1 10 2 8 0 0 Even today it is not the place that makes the man, but the man that makes the place (at least, that makes it go down in his history).) Verse 40) Filled with wisdom.& Wisdom and Truth are twins: Die Weisheit ist nur in der Wahrheit (Goethe).) Wisdom and Goodness are also twins: Wisdom and goodness are twin-born (Cowper).) The favor of God was upon him. Blessings are not brought about by being born under a lucky star or attaching a horseshoe to the barndoor. On the contrary:) Unless the Lord the house shall build,) The weary builders toil in vain.) Unless the Lord the city shield,) The guards a useless watch maintain.) Psalter Hymnal of the Christian Reformed Church,) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.127.1|AUTODETECT|” Grand Rapids, 1959, No. 269; see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.127.1|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 127:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Old Dutch proverb: Aan Gods zegen is alles gelegen meaning: Everything is dependent on God s blessing.) ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 2:39, 40) Verse 39) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.30|AUTODETECT|” �������, third per. pl. aor. indicat. active of �����, to bring to an end, accomplish, finish, complete, fulfil. See also 12:50; 18:31; 22:37. Many sermons have been preached on ���������� 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.30|AUTODETECT|” John 19:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.16|AUTODETECT|” ). Similar in form (to �������) is ��������� from ��������, to turn, return, turn back, turn around; also used in a spiritual sense, as in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.16|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.17|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.17|AUTODETECT|” 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Verse 40) Note vivid imperfects �T����� and ����������.) �����������, present participle. The process of being or becoming filled with wisdom was gradual.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.30|AUTODETECT|” �����. In the Synoptics the ����� family of words is limited to Luke s Gospel. The noun ����� is found in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.30|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.40|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.40|AUTODETECT|” 2:40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.52|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.52|AUTODETECT|” 52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.4.22|AUTODETECT|” 4:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.32|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.32|AUTODETECT|” 6:32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.33|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.33|AUTODETECT|” 33) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.34|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.34|AUTODETECT|” 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.9|AUTODETECT|” 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . The following shades of meaning are represented:) 1 1 2 8 0 0 a. Basically the word means beauty, charm, attractiveness, graciousness. Thus 4:22 mentions words of grace. Phillips renders the Greek: beautiful words. ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.5|AUTODETECT|” b. From beauty or graciousness to grace or favor is but a small step. Note 1:30, You have found favor with God ; also 2:40, the favor of God, cf. 2:52. Grace and favor are used interchangeably in many translations. In such a passage as 2:40 either is correct. It is especially when ����� acquires the meaning unmerited favor bestowed on the unworthy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.5|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.2.8|AUTODETECT|” 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , etc.) that the rendering grace is generally used.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.32-42.6.34|AUTODETECT|” c. The next step is again a small one: favor, regarded as a disposition, easily develops into favor viewed as a beneficence (kindly gift), benefit, reward, credit. Cf. Do me a favor. Perhaps ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.32-42.6.34|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:32 34) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , What reward do you receive from this? or What credit is this to you? belongs here.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.15|AUTODETECT|” d. Finally, the idea of a benevolent disposition and/or free gift suggests the response of thanks, thanksgiving, gratitude. Cf. Thanks be to God for his inexpressibly precious gift 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.9.15|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 9:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.9|AUTODETECT|” ). In a far less emotional context thanks is also the meaning in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.17.9|AUTODETECT|” Luke 17:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , Does he give thanks to the servant? See also the note on 7:47 on page 412.) 1 5 2 8 0 0 ) 2:41 52 The Boy in the Midst of the Teachers) 41 Now his parents were in the habit of going to Jerusalem every year for the feast of the Passover. 42 So when he became twelve years of age they went up as usual according to the custom of the feast. 43 And after the days (of the feast) were over, while his parents were returning, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. 44 Supposing that he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances. 45 When they did not find him they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him. 46 And after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of��155�� the teachers, both listening to them and putting questions to them. 47 All who were listening to him were astonished at his insight and answers. 48 When his parents saw him, they were astounded. His mother said to him, Son, why have you treated us like this? Indeed, your father and I have been anxiously looking for you. 49 He answered, Why have you been looking for me? Didn t you know I had to be in my Father s house? 50 But they did not understand the statement he made to them.) 51 Then he went down with them, came to Nazareth, and rendered constant obedience to them. And his mother continued to treasure up all these things in her heart. 52 Meanwhile Jesus kept making progress in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and men.) ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.14-2.23.17|AUTODETECT|” 41. Now his parents were in the habit of going to Jerusalem every year for the feast of the Passover. For his parents see on 2:27. The law obligated all male Jews of mature age to go to Jerusalem thrice a year to attend the three great feasts: Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacles 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.14-2.23.17|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 23:14 17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.34.22|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.34.22|AUTODETECT|” 34:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.34.23|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.34.23|AUTODETECT|” 23) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.16.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.16.16|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 16:16) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). The dispersion of the Jews made it impossible for them to comply literally with this commandment. And even after the return of a remnant to the land of the fathers, it was still very difficult for many who lived a long distance away from Jerusalem to go there three times a year. Therefore it became the custom of many to attend once a year. In the case of Joseph and Mary, as well as of many others, the feast selected was the Passover, which was held in commemoration of the deliverance of the Jews from Egyptian bondage.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.7|AUTODETECT|” The law did not require women to attend, though certain famous teachers (e.g., Hillel) strongly recommended this. But the divine commandment itself refers only to males. That Mary, nevertheless, also attended shows that we are dealing here with a very devout couple. Cf. Hannah 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.1.7|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 1:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=9.2.19|AUTODETECT|” 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 2 2 8 0 0 42 45. So when he became twelve years of age they went up as usual according to the custom of the feast. And after the days (of the feast) were over, while his parents were returning, the boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it. Supposing that he was in their company, they traveled on for a day. Then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances. When they did not find him they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him.) Jewish sources��156�� reveal no unanimity with respect to the exact age when a boy became a bar mitzvah (son of the law), that is, when he attained the age of maturity and responsibility with respect to the keeping of God s commandments.

The prevailing opinion may have been that at the age of 13 a boy should fully shoulder that responsibility but that in order to become prepared to do this it would be wise for the parents to take him along to the temple even earlier. We know at least that when Jesus became 12 years of age Joseph and Mary took him along to Jerusalem in order to attend the Passover festival. Though it is not stated in so many words that this was the first time he went along, is not this a reasonable inference?) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.15|AUTODETECT|” What does after the days (of the feast) were over mean? According to the law the feast lasted fully seven days 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.15|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 12:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.12.16|AUTODETECT|” 16) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.23.15|AUTODETECT|” 23:15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.23.6|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.23.6|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 23:6) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.16.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=5.16.3|AUTODETECT|” Deut. 16:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). But since many considered a lengthy stay in Jerusalem a burden, such people would leave the city after attending one full day or at most two days. With respect to the question whether this procedure could be justified there was a difference of opinion among the religious authorities.��157��) 1 6 2 8 0 0 The question arises, Did Joseph and Mary stay on for the entire seven days or did they leave earlier? The most natural explanation of and after the days (of the feast) were over would certainly seem to be that this devout couple and their son remained in Jerusalem for the entire period.��158�� We assume that this conclusion is correct.) At the end of the feast, therefore, Joseph and Mary join the northward bound caravan. If the custom which can be verified for a later day prevailed even at this time, the women and children traveled in front, the men and young men came on behind. At the age of 12 Jesus might fit into either category. However, he had not even joined the traveling party but had stayed behind in Jerusalem.) At first his parents did not miss him. Joseph may have thought, He is in front with Mary.

Mary may have reasoned, He is in the rear with Joseph. ) Generally the caravan was composed of people from the same town or from several small neighboring villages. On the evening of each day of travel the entire group would gather at a previously agreed rendezvous.) So, in the present case, when evening arrived and Jesus did not show up, his parents became worried. They searched up and down for him among their relatives and acquaintances. Unsuccessful, the next day they were on their way going back to Jerusalem. Thus the second day went by. Still no success.

Then came the third day. As Robertson says, One day out, one day back, one day finding him. ) 46, 47. And after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and putting questions to them. All who were listening to him were astonished at his insight and answers.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.41-41.12.44|AUTODETECT|” The beautiful and very spacious porches of the temple provided ample opportunity for teaching. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.12.41-41.12.44|AUTODETECT|” Mark 12:41 44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.47|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.19.47|AUTODETECT|” Luke 19:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.23|AUTODETECT|” John 10:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ; also N.T.C. on Mark, p. 448 f. It was in one of these places that Joseph and Mary now found Jesus. He was sitting in the midst of ��159�� the teachers, listening to them, and at times directing questions to them.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Since these were the days immediately following the great feast, and since Jerusalem was the headquarters of the Jewish religion, we have a right to imagine that several famous Jewish teachers were still to be found in the temple, for teaching was not confined to the duration of the festivities. Here, then, was an opportunity for Jesus which Nazareth did not afford.) It was not at all unusual for students to ask and answer questions. In fact that was a favorite method of teaching among the Jews. The purpose was not to leave these questions unanswered but to arouse interest among the students and to arrive at definite answers. For more about this see the special section Principles and Methods of Education in Israel, N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, p. 296 f. And cf.

S.BK., Vol. II, p. 150.) What was unusual in the present case was the kind of questions this boy, Jesus, asked, and the kind of answers he gave. Both questions and answers revealed such insight that all who were listening to him were astonished. Soon all eyes must have been riveted on him, so that in a very real sense whenever he spoke he became the center of attention: the boy in the midst of the teachers! Nevertheless, exaggeration must be avoided. Jesus was not yet the teacher.

That would come later.) 48. When his parents saw him, they were astounded. His mother said to him, Son, why have you treated us like this? Indeed, your father and I have been anxiously looking for you.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.18-40.1.24|AUTODETECT|” It was natural for Mary, the one who had given birth to this boy, to begin the conversation. Besides, Joseph is everywhere pictured as the quiet type, one who speaks little and acts when he is authoritatively told to act. See ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.1.18-40.1.24|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 1:18 24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.13|AUTODETECT|” 2:13) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.19|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.19|AUTODETECT|” 19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . Also, it should be constantly borne in mind that though Joseph could indeed be called the father of Jesus as Mary does in this very passage he was the father only in a legal sense.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Note the word expressive of strong emotion: When Joseph and Mary saw Jesus they were astounded, as it were knocked out, shocked. Mary s exclamation begins with the word Son or Child. It is not at all unnatural, in connection with deeply emotional occasions, that a mother even today will address her offspring by exclaiming Child! though that son or daughter may have reached the age of 12 or even 20.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.30-42.1.35|AUTODETECT|” The words, Why have you treated us like this? etc., reveal a medley of surprise, reproach, and anguish. Was Mary forgetting, for the moment, what Gabriel had told her about this child? If she had reflected on the words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.30-42.1.35|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:30 35) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , would she have been so surprised and & almost indignant?) 1 1 2 8 0 0 49. He answered, Why have you been looking for me? Didn t you know I had to be in my Father s house? Note the contrast, your father .& (the house of) my Father. That contrast tells the whole story.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.21|AUTODETECT|” It is clear from this answer that Jesus even at the age of 12 was deeply conscious of the unique relation between himself and his Father in heaven. Later on he is going to refer to this marvelous theme again and again. It is he alone who thoroughly knows the Father, and the Father alone who thoroughly knows him 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 10:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.22|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.10.22|AUTODETECT|” 22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.25-40.11.27|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.11.25-40.11.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 11:25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.37-43.6.40|AUTODETECT|” ). He was conscious of having been sent by the Father, whose will he always obeys 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.37-43.6.40|AUTODETECT|” John 6:37 40) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.44|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.44|AUTODETECT|” 44) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.57|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.57|AUTODETECT|” 57) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.18|AUTODETECT|” 8:18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.28|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.28|AUTODETECT|” 28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.29|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.29|AUTODETECT|” 29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.38|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.38|AUTODETECT|” 38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.49|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.49|AUTODETECT|” 49) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.54|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.54|AUTODETECT|” 54) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.55|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.8.55|AUTODETECT|” 55) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.30|AUTODETECT|” ). He is one with the Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.30|AUTODETECT|” John 10:30) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.46|AUTODETECT|” , and read the intensely stirring chapter 17 of John s Gospel); and he finally commits his spirit to the Father 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.23.46|AUTODETECT|” Luke 23:46) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Didn t you [note the plural, obscured in most English renderings Joseph and Mary] know that I had to be [must be] in my Father s house? Although about my Father s business (A.V.) is possible, it is improbable. The entire question here is one of whereness. Joseph and Mary had been searching for Jesus, not knowing where he was. He answers, as it were, In my Father s house, that s where I was, and had to be. Didn t you know that? See also the note on 2:49 on page 188.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.40.7|AUTODETECT|” I had to be or I must be. The fact that his entire life was controlled by the divine must, a must which was in complete harmony with his own desire 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.40.7|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 40:7) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.17|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.17|AUTODETECT|” John 10:17) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.18|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.10.18|AUTODETECT|” 18) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” ), dawned on the boy Jesus very early in life. The Gospels are full of this idea of necessity, decree. In Luke s Gospel note the following: Jesus must preach (4:43), suffer (9:22), go on his way (13:33), stay at the home of Zacchaeus (19:5), be delivered up, crucified, rise again (24:7), suffer these things and enter into his glory (22:37; 24:26), and fulfil all the Old Testament prophecies with reference to himself (24:44). The same truth is also emphasized in the other Gospels, particularly in John (3:14; 4:4; 9:4; 10:16; 20:9). Whatever happens to Jesus is the realization of God s eternal decree 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.22.22|AUTODETECT|” Luke 22:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.2.23|AUTODETECT|” Acts 2:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.22|AUTODETECT|” 50. But they did not understand the statement he made to them. Note the sharp contrast between verse 47, All who were listening to him were astonished at his insight [or understanding], and verse 50, But they [Joseph and Mary] did not understand.& One aspect of Jesus suffering was exactly this, that men, including even his own relatives and his own disciples, failed to understand him: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.22|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:22) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.10|AUTODETECT|” Mark 9:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.32|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.9.32|AUTODETECT|” 32) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.45|AUTODETECT|” 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.9.45|AUTODETECT|” Luke 9:45) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.19-42.8.21|AUTODETECT|” ); ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.8.19-42.8.21|AUTODETECT|” Luke 8:19 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.3-43.7.5|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.3-43.7.5|AUTODETECT|” John 7:3 5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.5-40.16.12|AUTODETECT|” . At times this failure took the form of their interpreting literally what was meant figuratively 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.16.5-40.16.12|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 16:5 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.19|AUTODETECT|” John 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.20|AUTODETECT|” 20) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.3|AUTODETECT|” 3:3) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.4|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.3.4|AUTODETECT|” 4) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.13-43.4.15|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.4.13-43.4.15|AUTODETECT|” 4:13 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.51|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.51|AUTODETECT|” 6:51) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.52|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.6.52|AUTODETECT|” 52) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.11|AUTODETECT|” 11:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.11.12|AUTODETECT|” 12) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 0 When the two facts expressed in verses 49, 50 (a) Jesus consciousness of being the Son of God in a unique sense, and (b) his awareness of the fact that Joseph and Mary did not understand him are combined, the next statement becomes even more striking: 51a. Then he went down with them, came to Nazareth, and rendered constant obedience to them. He did not ask to remain a while longer in his Father s house. Unquestioningly he went down to Nazareth with his parents. Note down, for whenever one leaves Jerusalem he goes down, no matter what the elevation of either place may be. To Joseph and Mary, moreover, with all their weaknesses and lack of understanding, he yielded continuing obedience.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.37.11|AUTODETECT|” 51b. And his mother continued to treasure up all these things in her heart. She was doing what Jacob had done 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.37.11|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 37:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.28|AUTODETECT|” ), and Daniel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=27.7.28|AUTODETECT|” Dan. 7:28) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.19|AUTODETECT|” ), and she herself twelve years earlier 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.19|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:19) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). That enabled her to tell the story to others, perhaps even to Luke himself.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.27|AUTODETECT|” 52. Meanwhile Jesus kept making progress in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and men. In wisdom, as already explained in connection with the similar verse 40; in stature, that is, in physical growth, not life-span 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.6.27|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 6:27) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.25|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.12.25|AUTODETECT|” Luke 12:25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.3.4|AUTODETECT|” ); and in favor with God and men. The last phrase means that he continued to experience increasingly the lovingkindness of his Father and also the friendliness of the people round about him. The words of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=20.3.4|AUTODETECT|” Prov. 3:4) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 were fulfilled in him.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Between this description and what is said about Samuel 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.21|AUTODETECT|” I Sam. 2:21) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.26|AUTODETECT|” b, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=9.2.26|AUTODETECT|” 26) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) there is a close resemblance. Note, however, in the case of Jesus the addition in wisdom. ) 1 1 2 8 0 0 There is also a degree of resemblance between what is said about Jesus and what is said about John (1:80). But though John continued to grow and to become strong in spirit, it is only in connection with Samuel and Jesus that we have the addition, & he kept making progress & in favor with God and men. It should be borne in mind that early in life John separated himself from people, grew up in uninhabited regions, and when he did make an appearance before the public, must have impressed his audience as being rather stern, austere.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.5|AUTODETECT|” As to Mary s progress in faith, see ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.2.5|AUTODETECT|” John 2:5) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.1.14|AUTODETECT|” Acts 1:14) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” . As to Joseph, except for the mention of his name in the genealogy 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.3.23|AUTODETECT|” Luke 3:23) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) there is no further reference to him in the Third Gospel. He may have died before Jesus began his public ministry.��160��) 1 1 2 8 0 0 ) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.41-42.2.52|AUTODETECT|” Practical Lessons Derived from ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.41-42.2.52|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:41 52) 1 7 2 8 0 0 Verse 42) Joseph and Mary took their son along with them to the temple when he became twelve years of age. What can be done today to help children assume their covenant obligations?) Verse 43) The boy Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem. What can be done today to make young people so enthralled with their religion that it captivates them and makes them active for Christ?) Verse 46) Both listening to them and putting questions to them. Consider: Within proper limits discussion, properly monitored, advances knowledge. ) Verse 48) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.86.11|AUTODETECT|” Why have you treated us like this? Mary forgets the implications of Gabriel s message. We all need the prayer of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=19.86.11|AUTODETECT|” Ps. 86:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 and 119:125.) 1 21 2 8 0 0 Verse 51) Jesus rendered constant obedience to them. Are we kind to a child when we neglect to teach him the blessings of obedience? Are freedom of expression and obedience mutually exclusive?) And his mother continued to treasure up all these things in her heart. Should an important place be assigned to the discipline of meditation?) Verse 52) & in favor with God and men. Granted that favor with God is by far the most important, is favor with men of any significance? Is the anti-social attitude Christian?) ) Notes on Greek Words, Phrases, and Constructions in 2:41 52) Verse 41) ���������, imperfect of customary action.) ��� = �����, year.

Cf. veteran.) Verse 42) �����������, gen. pl. masc. present participle of customary action. This is a gen. absolute. The entire event described in the following verses may be conceived of as taking place in connection with this going up to the feast.) Verse 43) ������������, gen. pl. masc. aor. participle of �������, to finish, complete. This is another gen. absolute.) ����, boy; no longer ������� (verse 40).) Verse 44) �������* = ��� plus A��� , a company traveling the same road, traveling party, caravan.) Verse 47) �������; cf. �������, to put together; hence the noun indicates the ability to put things together in the mind, understanding, insight. Note third per. pl. aor. indicat. of verb (verse 50).) Verse 48) ����������, third per. pl. 2nd aor. indicat. pass. of �������; see the note on 4:32 on page 267.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.24|AUTODETECT|” @���������, nom. pl. masc. pres. middle participle of @�����**, to cause pain; in middle: to be in agony, anguish, pain, sorrow, distress; to agonize, be anxious. See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.24|AUTODETECT|” Luke 16:24) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.25|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.16.25|AUTODETECT|” 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.38|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.20.38|AUTODETECT|” Acts 20:38) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.2|AUTODETECT|” . Cf. @���� in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.9.2|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 9:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.10|AUTODETECT|” , and see N.T.C. on I and II Timothy and Titus, p. 201 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.10|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:10) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Cf. anodyne.) 1 4 2 8 0 0 Verse 49) � ���� ��� ������ ���. Although the rendering about my Father s business (A.V. and Lenski) is possible, better is in my Father s house. See L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 554, sec. column, under 7; also E. J. Goodspeed, Problems, pp. 81 83; Plummer, op. cit., p. 77; and see the explanation in the text of this commentary.) Verses 51, 52) �� Q������������, periphrastic passive imperfect of Q�������, to range under; in the middle or passive: to range oneself under, to be obedient.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.29|AUTODETECT|” ��������, imperfect of ��������**; in the New Testament only here and in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.15.29|AUTODETECT|” Acts 15:29) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.37.11|AUTODETECT|” . See also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=1.37.11|AUTODETECT|” Gen. 37:11) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 . A synonym is ��������, verse 19, in one of its meanings. Another imperfect is ����������, was chopping ahead or forward (as is done by pioneers), was advancing, making progress.) 1 7 2 8 0 0 Summary of Chapter 2) The Birth of Jesus (verses 1 7). In the days of King Herod I an order was issued by Emperor Augustus that there should be a periodic census (registration for the purpose of taxation) of the entire Roman world. The first of these censuses took place while Quirinius was military governor of Syria. So everybody, women as well as men, went to be registered. In Herod s kingdom each person to be registered was traveling to his own town, that is, to the place where his family originated and his birth records were kept. For Joseph and Mary this meant traveling from Nazareth in Galilee to Bethlehem in Judea.

While they were there the time for Mary to give birth arrived. However, in Bethlehem s inn there was no vacancy, the men in charge of registration having probably occupied every available room. So it was in a nearby stable, perhaps a cave-stable, that Mary gave birth. The little boy was wrapped in strips of cloth and laid in a manger, a feeding trough for animals.) Shepherds and Angels; The Circumcision and Naming of Jesus (verses 8 21). This section consists of two very unequal parts:) Verses 8 20 take us to the fields of Ephrathah, where the darkness of night is suddenly pierced by an angel bathed in light. He brings to shepherds, who by turn were keeping watch over their flock, the good news that in the city of David (Bethlehem) there was born to them a Savior, Christ the Lord.

To enable them to find him they receive the sign of a swaddled baby lying in a manger. Following hard upon this message was the Glory to God refrain by an entire host of angels.) The shepherds found everything exactly as it had been described to them. They related to Mary, Joseph, and others what the angel and the angels had proclaimed to them. Those who listened to their story were amazed. But Mary continued to treasure up all these things, mulling them over in her mind. The shepherds returned glorifying God.) Verse 21 states that on the eighth day the child was circumcised and named Jesus.) The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple; Simeon s Nunc Dimittis ; Anna s Thanksgiving and Testimony (verses 22 38).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.1|AUTODETECT|” The Presentation (verses 22 24). On the fortieth day Joseph and Mary brought Jesus to the temple for the purpose of redemption 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.1|AUTODETECT|” Exod. 13:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.2|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.2|AUTODETECT|” 2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.11-2.13.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=2.13.11-2.13.15|AUTODETECT|” 11 15) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.6-3.12.8|AUTODETECT|” ) and presentation, public consecration of the child to God. Now too Mary s purification was climaxed by offerings which, since Joseph and Mary were rather poor, amounted to a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=3.12.6-3.12.8|AUTODETECT|” Lev. 12:6 8) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ).) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.19.25-43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” Simeon s Nunc Dimittis (verses 25 35). Little is known about this devout man. He seems to have been a layman and perhaps well along in years. For a long time he had been patiently but ardently waiting for the Messiah to appear, bringing help and consolation to Israel. The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah . Guided by the Spirit he entered the temple.

When Joseph and Mary brought in the child Jesus for the purpose already indicated the Spirit informed Simeon that this baby was indeed the Christ. So he took Jesus into his arms and uttered the words of wholehearted resignation, Now, Sovereign Master, thou art releasing thy servant, according to thy word in peace, because my eyes have seen thy salvation, etc. He described Jesus as a light for revelation to the Gentiles and a glory for thy people Israel. He also declared that anyone s attitude toward Jesus would determine either his eternal weal or woe. Finally, he predicted that one day a sword (bitter anguish) would pierce Mary s soul. For fulfilment of this prediction read ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.19.25-43.19.27|AUTODETECT|” John 19:25 27) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 1 2 8 0 0 Anna s Thanksgiving and Testimony (verses 36 38). One of the people who witnessed the scene of Simeon with the baby Jesus in his arms, and who heard the devout man s Nunc Dimittis, was Anna. She was indeed a very pious woman, one who never missed a service in the temple. She was very old. As some read verses 36, 37 she was 84; according to others she was about 105. She too became convinced that this child was the Messiah, and she made known her conviction to all those who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem. (See commentary for explanation of this term.)) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.2.1-40.2.21|AUTODETECT|” The Return to Nazareth (verses 39, 40). When Joseph and Mary had accomplished everything required by God s law they returned to Nazareth. As many see it, the events reported in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.2.1-40.2.21|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 2:1 21) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 (arrival of the wise men, flight to Egypt, etc.) took place before the little family returned to their Galilean home. In Nazareth Jesus continued to grow physically and to become strong. With God s loving care resting upon him he also gradually increased in wisdom.) 1 15 2 8 0 0 The Boy in the Midst of the Teachers (verses 41 52). Jesus parents were in the habit of going to Jerusalem every year to attend the Passover. When their son became 12 years of age they took him along to the feast. The celebration ended, Joseph and Mary joined the returning caravan. Without their knowledge Jesus remained behind in Jerusalem. During the first day of travel the fact that his parents did not see him did not bother them.

But afterward, when he still did not show up, they searched the caravan up and down. Not finding him they returned to Jerusalem. There, on the third day, they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of (or among) famous teachers, listening to them and putting questions to them. His insight astonished everybody. Greatly surprised, Mary reproachfully said to him, Son, why have you treated us like this? Indeed, your father and I have been anxiously looking for you.

He answered, Why have you been looking for me? Didn t you know I had to be in my Father s house? They did not know what to make of this answer. They should have known! Nevertheless, he went down to Nazareth with them and obeyed them constantly. Mary continued to store up all these things in her memory and was in the habit of mulling them over in her mind.

The story ends with the beautiful statement, Meanwhile Jesus kept making progress in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and men. ) ) ) ) 97 Though these two narrative paragraphs harmonize, they are parallel only to a small extent.) 93 Or: was in command of.) 94 Or: This registration took place for the first time while Quirinius, etc.) 95 Or: to get himself enrolled.) 96 Or: completed.) N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 99) That Augustus was a self-worshiper appears also from his Monumentum Ancyranum, an obituary, written by himself, in which he recounts his own achievements. In his will he ordered this obituary to be engraved in bronze on two pillars in front of his mausoleum in Rome.) The Cambridge Ancient History, Vol. X, chapters 1 8 (1934), gives ample treatment to the life and times of Augustus and furnishes bibliographies. See also the article on Augustus in Encyclopaedia Britannica, Chicago, London, etc., 1969 edition, Vol. 2, pp. 758 761; and A.

Hyma and J. F. Stach, World History, A Christian Interpretation, Grand Rapids, 1942, pp. 80, 86, 87.) 100 See W. M. Ramsay, Was Christ Born in Bethlehem?, pp. 129, 132, 170; The Bearing of Recent Discovery, pp. 246, 255 274; A. T.

Robertson, Luke the Historian, p. 123.) 101) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.2|AUTODETECT|” By substituting the term census (or enrolment or registration) for taxing, A.V. 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.2.2|AUTODETECT|” Luke 2:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” ) is corrected to read, And this census was first made when Cyrenius [better Quirinius] was governor of Syria, a good translation. Excellent also are the renderings found in Phillips, Berkeley, Beck, N.E.B., Amplified, and Dutch (Nieuwe Vertaling). Wrong is: This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria, as if Luke is looking forward, and is saying: Of the two censuses taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria this was the first; that mentioned in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=44.5.37|AUTODETECT|” Acts 5:37) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 was the second. The very wording of the text, in the original, shows that Luke is not looking forward but back to a time when there was as yet no census. Thus also L.N.T. (A. and G.), p. 733.) 1 3 2 8 0 0 Another questionable view is that according to which Luke would be saying, This first census did not actually take place until [a.d. 6, when] Quirinius was governor of Syria. Though this eliminates the necessity of positing two censuses under Quirinius, it does not suit the immediately following context: and all went on their way to be registered.& Joseph too went up & to Bethlehem & to be registered with Mary.& And while they were there she gave birth, etc. Besides, how this reconstruction can be reconciled with the actual wording of the Greek text is hard to see. That objection also holds with respect to the rendering by F. M. Heichelheim in An Economic Survey of Ancient Rome, edited by T.

Frank, Vol. IV, Baltimore, 1938, p. 161, namely, This census was the first before that under the prefectureship of Quirinius in Syria. ) 102) F. W. Danker, op. cit., p. 23.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46-40.12.50|AUTODETECT|” Tertullian s statement (Against Marcion, Book IV, ch. 19) that in Judah the census was taken by Sentius Saturninus has little weight. He connects this census with the event related in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.12.46-40.12.50|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 12:46 50) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 , and is even inconsistent with himself, as elsewhere he gives an entirely different date for Christ s birth. See The Ante-Nicene Fathers, Grand Rapids, 1951, Vol. III, p. 378, footnote 3.) 1 23 2 8 0 0 N.T.C. W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 103 See also H. W. Hoehner, Chronological Aspects of the Life of Christ, Part I: The Date of Christ s Birth, BS, Vol. 130, No. 529 (Oct. Dec. 1973), pp. 338 351.

On p. 350 Hoehner states, Late 5 b.c. or early 4 b.c. best satisfies the evidence. I agree.) 104 The pun makes sense especially when one bears in mind that as king of the Jews, a ruler who tried to make his subjects believe that he worshiped their God and respected their laws, he was not supposed to eat pork! Pigs had nothing to fear from him, but his own sons did.) 105 See A. Deissmann, op. cit., pp. 270, 271, including figure 51. See also F. G.

Kenyon and H. I. Bell, Greek Papyri in the British Museum, Vol. III, London, 1907, p. 125.) 106 See G. J. D.

Aalders, Het Romeinsche Imperium En Het Nieuwe Testament, Kampen, 1938, pp. 34, 35.) I.S.B.E. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia) 107 See especially Lenski, op. cit., p. 80. This commentator, who has given his readers much worthwhile material, seems to lose his patience when he arrives at this part of the Christmas story. The idea that the New Testament would teach that Mary bore more children he calls cheap exegesis, and the thought that Joseph and Mary would have stopped at an inn, particularly one as described by A. T. Robertson in Word Pictures, he describes as ridiculous.

All I can say is that in this case Lenski s own interpretation fails to measure up to his usual excellent standard.) 108 See the very interesting description in H. Mulder, Spoorzoeker in Bijbelse Landen, Amsterdam, 1973, pp. 64 67.) 109 G. E. Wright (editor), Great People of the Bible and How They Lived, Pleasantville, Montreal, etc., 1974, p. 320.) 110 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 2:1 7 begin on page 147.) 111 Or: splendor.) 112 Or: Stop being frightened.) 113 Or: on whom his favor rests; or: whom he has graciously chosen.) 114 Or: Come on, etc.) 115 Literally: And all the listeners were amazed about that which was spoken to them by the shepherds.) 116 S.BK., Vol. II, p. 113.) 117 E. E.

Ellis, op cit., p. 78.) 118 H. Mulder, Spoorzoeker, pp. 69, 70.) 119 L. Dobler, Customs and Holidays Around the World, New York, 1962, p. 140.) 120 Op. cit., p. 97.) 121 See A. H. Newman s article Christmas in S.H.E.R.K., Vol. III, p. 47.) 122 Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol.

V, p. 3, gives the birth-to-death date of Hippolytus as a.d. 170 236.) 123 Op. cit., p. 82.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.47|AUTODETECT|” 124 In ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.47|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:47) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.25|AUTODETECT|” the term SMtr (Savior) is applied to God, not specifically to Jesus. Cf. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=65.1.25|AUTODETECT|” Jude 25) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 22 2 8 0 0 125 Or: of the army of heaven.) 126 No disparagement of that hymn is intended. It is beautiful!) 127 See a copy of this painting in C. P. Maus, Christ and the Fine Arts, New York, 1959, p. 59.) A.V. Authorized Version (King James)) 128 For more on this see N.T.C. on Matthew, p. 500; on Ephesians, pp. 74 81; on Philippians, p. 54; and on Colossians, p. 78, footnote 55.) 129 It has that sense unless the prefix ��� (in ���������) has lost its force. In that case, however, the simple verb would be more natural.) 130 Therefore also the translation in the nearby fields (verse 8) is probably not the safest.

Better and certainly closer to the original is in that region (so also R.S.V.) or in the same region (N.A.S.) or in the same neighborhood (Williams).) 131 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 2:8 21 begin on page 160.) 132 Or: shall be consecrated.) 133 Or: looking forward to. So also in verse 38.) 134 Or: In the Spirit.) 135 Or: thou art permitting thy servant to depart, etc.) 136 Or: Mark well, this child is set for the falling and rising of many in Israel and for a sign, etc.) 137 Or: minds.) 138 Or: very advanced in years (literally: advanced in many days). Cf. 1:7, 18.) 139 Literally: from her virginity.) 140 Or: and she had now been a widow for no less than eighty-four years.) 141 I have not been able to find a satisfactory explanation of the rule that after the birth of a girl the mother had to wait until the eightieth day. For strange theories see S.BK., Vol. II, p. 119.) 142 For example, S. Greijdanus, Korte Verklaring, p. 72.) 143 For more on this see the author s book More Than Conquerors, Grand Rapids, 22nd edition, 1977.) 144) Lenski (op. cit., pp. 94, 95) rejects the idea that Simeon s thou art releasing has reference to death.

My answer is that the expression according to thy word connects God s promise, namely, that Simeon would not die until he had seen the Lord s Christ, with Simeon s words of resignation.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.1|AUTODETECT|” A very popular view is the one according to which the noun despots (vocative despota) here (as well as in the Pastoral Epistles) indicates slave-master, and that doulos (accusative doulon) here 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.1|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:1) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.9|AUTODETECT|” f.; ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:9) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ) means slave. The sense of the passage at least the underlying figure would then be, Now, O slave-master, grant manumission, at least dismissal from further duty, to thy slave. See E. E. Ellis, op. cit., p. 82; Lenski, p. 94; Plummer, p. 68; Robertson, Word Pictures, p. 28, etc.) 1 1 2 8 0 0 On the other hand, Danker, op. cit., p. 32, aptly states that Simeon loves God, his Master, and would not seek manumission on any terms. Worthwhile also are Godet s remarks, Vol. I, p. 128. He writes that Simeon, by using the word release is asking to be relieved from his earthly duty and from the burden of life. Simeon is, as it were, a sentinel whom his master has placed in an elevated position and has charged to look for the appearance of a star. When that star appears Simeon must announce its appearance to the world. He sees it, proclaims its rising, and now asks to be relieved from the post he has occupied so long.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” The idea of seeing in Jesus the expected star or the Rising Sun may find some support in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.1.78|AUTODETECT|” Luke 1:78) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 .) 1 16 2 8 0 0 145 So also H. Burton, The Gospel According to St. Luke (The Expositor s Bible), Grand Rapids, 1943, Vol. V, pp. 16 18.) 146 See F. Stagg, ������� in the Fourth Gospel, unpublished dissertation submitted to the Faculty of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky, 1943.) 147 Some commentators skip the entire problem. Some go in both directions; cf.

A. T. Robertson, Word Pictures, Vol. II, p. 30, quoting Montefiore (106 years) without a word of dissent, with A. T. Robertson, Translation, pp. 24, 151 (84 years).

Among those who give her age as 84 are A.V., N.A.S., Beck, R.S.V., Phillips, Jerusalem Bible. Among those who accept the opposite view are Lenski, Danker, Greijdanus, St�ger, Good News for Modern Man, The Living Bible. In several instances one view is presented without indication that the other is also possible. Among those who acknowledge that either theory may be correct are Plummer and N.E.B.) 148 On Judith see B. M. Metzger, An Introduction to the Apocrypha, New York-Oxford, 1957, pp. 43 53.) 149 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 2:22 38 begin on page 175.) N.T.C.

W. Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary) 150 Plummer, op. cit., p. 73.) 151 S. Greijdanus, Korte Verklaring, p. 78. For a more detailed and excellent discussion see H. Mulder, Spoorzoeker, pp. 99 103.) 152 See especially D. L.

Dungan and D. R. Cartlidge, Sourcebook of Texts for the Comparative Study of the Gospels, Missoula, 1971.) 153 Written in a style so simple that even children can enjoy it is Dr. A. I. Brown s book, God and You: Wonders of the Human Body, Findlay (no date).) 154 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 2:39, 40 begin on page 181.) 155 Or: among.) 156 Cf.

Mishnah, Aboth 5:21; Niddah 5:6, with S.BK., Vol. II, p. 145.) 157 S.BK., Vol. II, p. 147.) 158) That is also the position taken by the following commentators, among others: St�ger, Greijdanus, Lenski, Danker, Godet, Geldenhuys, A. B. Bruce.) 1 1 2 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.2|AUTODETECT|” Others disagree. For example, H. Mulder, Dienaren van de Koning, Kampen, 1956, p. 92, is of the opinion that Joseph and Mary returned earlier, and that Jesus remained behind because he wanted to live in compliance with God s law. Objections: (a) The feast of Tabernacles also lasted seven days; yet Jesus arrived in the midst of the feast 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.2|AUTODETECT|” John 7:2) 1 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.14|AUTODETECT|” , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.7.14|AUTODETECT|” 14) 1 1 -1 9 0 0 ); (b) if that had been the reason for Jesus staying behind in the temple, would he not have indicated this?) 1 11 2 8 0 0 159 So also both Lenski and Robertson, though several translators and commentators prefer among, a possibility that must be granted.) S.BK. Strack and Billerbeck, Kommentar zum Neuen Testament aus Talmud und Midrasch) A.V. Authorized Version (King James)) 160 Notes on Greek words, phrases, and constructions in 2:41 52 begin on this page.) L.N.T. (A. and G.) W. F. Arndt and F. W. Gingrich, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) ) ) ) ) ) )