Simeon & Anna

*Simeon’s and Anna’s stories are told in Luke 2:21-38

The Setting

  1. Temple in Jerusalem
    • This is a big deal, the heart of Jewish religious life.
    • Mary and Joseph are there to present Jesus to God, following the laws in the book of Leviticus.
  2. Time Period
    • This is shortly after Jesus’ birth, 40 days to be precise, per Jewish law regarding purification.

Simeon’s Story

  1. Who is Simeon?
    • Described as a righteous and devout man.
    • He’s been waiting for the “consolation of Israel,” a poetic way to talk about the coming of the Messiah.
  2. The Holy Spirit
    • The Holy Spirit told Simeon he would not die until he had seen the Messiah.
    • This guy’s basically been on Messiah-watch for who knows how long!
  3. Simeon Meets Jesus
    • Guided by the Spirit, he goes to the Temple just as Mary and Joseph arrive.
    • He takes Jesus in his arms and immediately knows that this is the one.
  4. Simeon’s Blessing and Prophecy
    • He blesses God and speaks a poetic prophecy, sometimes known as the “Nunc Dimittis.”
    • Indicates that Jesus is to be a light to the Gentiles and a glory to Israel.
    • Also warns Mary that her son will cause division and that “a sword will pierce her own soul,” hinting at future suffering.

Anna’s Story

  1. Who is Anna?
    • She’s an elderly widow who is a prophetess.
    • Has dedicated her life to worship, spending all her time in the Temple fasting and praying.
  2. Anna’s Encounter
    • She comes up right at the moment Simeon is finishing his blessing.
  3. Anna’s Proclamation
    • She starts praising God and talking about Jesus to everyone looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
    • Unlike Simeon, her focus seems to be more on telling others immediately.

Significance of Their Stories

  1. Confirmation of Messiah
    • Both Simeon and Anna serve to confirm Jesus’ identity as the awaited Messiah.
  2. Early Witnesses
    • They’re among the first to testify to Jesus’ role, providing an early foundation for what would later become Christianity.
  3. Inclusive Salvation
    • Simeon’s words specifically point out that Jesus will be significant not just for Israel but for the Gentiles as well.
  4. Foreshadowing
    • Their words hint at both the joy and suffering that are to come in Jesus’ life, touching on the full scope of his earthly ministry.