JESUS' CIRCUMCISION AND EARLY LIFE

JESUS WAS CIRCUMCISED
EDITED BY GLENN PEASE
LUKE 2:2121Onthe eighth day, when it was time to
circumcisethe child, he was named Jesus, the name
the angel had given him before he was conceived.
BIBLEHUB RESOURCES
Pulpit Commentary Homiletics
The CircumcisionAnd PresentationOf Jesus
Luke 2:21-40
R.M. Edgar
We pass now from the angel's sermon and the shepherds' faithful verification
of it to the next notable events in the greatlife which embodies the gospelfor
mankind. And we have here -
I. THE CIRCUMCISION. (Ver. 21.)This was the admission of Jesus when
only eight days old into the Old TestamentChurch. It was a painful, bloody
process, andas such it was the beginning of that life of suffering upon which
God's Son had determined to enter in the interests of men. There are not the
same details about this circumcisionthat there were about John's. The
outstanding fact was that he receivedthe name Jesus, indicating that he was
to be the Savior of mankind. Into the Jewishcovenant, consequently, there has
entered by this circumcisiona Savior, One destined, like his namesake Joshua,
to lead the Lord's people out of all bondage into glorious liberty. This was a

practicalidentification of him with the people of God, before he could, at least
humanly, decide for himself. And there is nothing better for little children
than to be thus early associatedwith the cause ofGod.
II. THE PRESENTATIONIN THE TEMPLE. (Vers. 22-24.)The
circumcisionconstituted Jesus a member of the old covenant, but his
presentationin the temple was his formal dedicationto the service of the
Lord. The mother was directed, at the end of forty days from the child's birth,
to appear before the Lord with two offerings - one for a sin offering, the other
for a burnt offering. In Mary's case,becauseofher poverty, the offerings
consistedof two doves or two young pigeons The one sacrifice expresseda
sense ofsin, the other a sense of consecration, both beautiful in the mother of
our Lord. The first was entirely out of place it' she was "immaculate," as
some representher. In addition there would be paid for Jesus the redemption
price of five shekels, thathe might be excusedfrom temple service, and might
dedicate himself to the Lord in another capacity. When we consider all his
Messiahshipmeant, it was really a payment that he might have the privilege
of serving the Fatheras the Fulfiller of the ritual, and thus as the Abolisher of
the ritualism of the temple. It would have altogetherconfusedmatters if he
had undertaken any service aboutthe temple as the Levites and priests did, a
word, the Messiahcould not well have come, like the Baptist, from the tribe of
Levi; but it was better he should belong to one which was not bound to the
altar. And here we must notice as a practicalpoint that the claim made on the
firstborn by the Lord as being his peculiar possession, is a claim which we
should all recognize as just. We are not our own, but bought with a price, and
so bound to glorify God with our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20). This Jesus
alone realized in fullness, but we ought to try to realize it in increasing
measure.
III. THE TESTIMONYOF SIMEON. (Vers. 25 - 35.)While Jesus was being
presented, an agedbelievercalled Simeon comes, Spirit-impelled, into the
temple. His characteris clearly sketchedfor us. He was
(1) just and devout;
(2) waiting hopefully for the advent of him who was to be Israel's Consolation;

(3) the subject of specialrevelationabout seeing Messiahbefore death. And
now he comes into the temple to recognize intuitively the Messiahin Mary's
little Child. The result is his appropriation of the Child for an instant, that he
might fondle him in his breast. Then does he pour forth his swan-song,the
"Nunc Dimittis," which has been such a pathetic word in the experience of the
Church. This prayer of Simeon suggests suchthoughts as these:
1. A peacefuldeparture is not only possible, but most desirable. Manifestly
Simeon could go to his last sleepas quietly as to his nightly rest. We may
commit not only the folded hours of the night to God, but also the folded
hours of eternity.
2. The preliminary of such a departure is the sight of the Savior. The Child
Jesus was the Divine Savior provided for the agedSimeon, and in his tender
care we may also rest.
3. The peculiar joy of salvation is that it is intended for all people, Gentile as
well as Jew. After all the talk about selfishness,there is no systemwhich
embraces all the world as Christianity does. But after thus speaking gratefully
to God, Simeon speaks sympatheticallyto the wondering Josephand Mary.
He gives them an old man's benediction. They had a mighty charge and
needed greatgrace to fulfill it. And then he speaks specialwords ofwarning as
well as of encouragementto Mary about the Child. And here we notice:
(1) That the fate of multitudes often hangs on the destiny of an individual. So
was it with the Child Jesus.
(2) His fate will be one of determined oppositioneven unto death.
(3) It will involve Mary in desperate distress;but
(4) by the tragedy many hearts shall be revealed. The crucifixion of Jesus is
the touchstone by which our spiritual condition may be bestdetermined.
According as we are attachedto or repelled by a crucified Savior must be our
spiritual or carnal state.
IV. THE TESTIMONYOF ANNA. (Vers. 36-38.)Anna was another respired
person waiting for the advent of Messiah. An agedwidow, she seems never to

have left the temple, and to have risen as near the ideal of ceaselessservice as
one in this life could. She also gave thanks to Godas with eagereye she gazed
upon her Redeemerin the Personof the holy Child. And to all who, like
herself, were looking for redemption, she spoke ofJesus as the Redeemer
promised and now given. There is not the same melancholy tone about Anna
as about Simeon. She speaks aboutredemption, and will wait for it, while
Simeon seems inclined to reach it as speedily as possible by death (cf. Godet,
in loc.).
V. THE EARLY DEVELOPMENTOF JESUS. (Vers. 39, 40.)Its sphere was
Nazareth; not the place human wisdomwould have selectedfora holy
development. A sinless life there was the greatestofall miracles. And here we
are told of:
1. His development in physical strength. "The Child grew." If the Savior had
never been a child, but always full-grown like our first parent, he would not
have commanded so much sympathy in the world. Little children take delight
in the thought of him who was once like them a little child.
2. His development in spirit and in wisdom. The reference seemsto be to
energy of will and to intuitive insight, and the reflective form of the verbs
seems to attribute the progress to his own effort. That is to say, his will grew
in force while his soul grew in insight. As a Boy he lackedno decisionof
characterand his insight was remarkable for one of his years.
3. He became, consequently, the Object of Divine grace. This favor of the
Father was his by right. He wonhis way to it, and it could not have been justly
denied him. The human race was no longerin the Father's sight utterly
depraved. A redeeming feature had appeared in the personof the holy Child
Jesus in Nazareth. God's attitude towards the world was thereby altered, and
justly so. There are persons who give a halo of holy attractionto the sphere in
which they live. Nazarethbecame redeemedfrom universal suspicionbecause
of one little Child who was living there. It is for us to rejoice in such a Savior
as we have in Jesus, One who passedthrough the stages whichwe individually
experience, and was sinless in them all. Childhood attains new interest for us,

and its innocency was once a perfect reality as the little feet of the Lord of life
and glory trod the streets of Nazareth. - R.M.E.
Biblical Illustrator
For the circumcising of the Child.
Luke 2:21
Circumcision and baptism
DeanBurgon.
The teaching of Jewishcircumcisionresembles the teaching of Christian
baptism. Both exhibit the putting awayof the filth of the flesh; the first by a
wounding of the body (which aptly recalls the severity of the elder
dispensation); the secondby an outward washing. This, which may be called
the practicalbearing of the present festival (Circumcision of Christ, 1st
January), is brought out in the collectfor the day, wherein we beseechGodto
grant us "the true circumcision of the spirit." And it is worth observing that

this was seen, from the very first, to be the mystical teaching of the rite. Thus
Moses,in the book of Deuteronomy (which abounds in the loftier class of
doctrine), speaks plainly (Deuteronomy 10:16;Deuteronomy 30:6) of
circumcising the heart; and the prophets (Jeremiah4:4) use the same
expression. St. Stephen's language, whenhe addressedhis countrymen for the
last time ("Ye stiff-neckedand uncircumcised in heart and ears," Acts 7:51),
seems to show that this continued throughout the whole history of the Jewish
people to be the well-understoodmeaning of the rite; while St. Paul's witness
on the point (Romans 2:28, 29) is express. It is interesting to observe how
closelythis observance was connectedwith holy baptism, besides being typical
of the Christian sacrament, and, indeed, a kind of anticipation of it: a rite
performed in infancy, and made the occasionofbestowing a new name.
(DeanBurgon.)
Spiritual nature of circumcision
DeanBurgon.
Circumcision was the sealof the gospelcovenantmade by God with Abraham
(Genesis 17:2, 4, 9); which the law, added — as the apostle teaches (Galatians
3:17) — four hundred and thirty years after, could not disannul. This was a
covenantof faith, quite distinct from the covenantof works (Exodus 24:8)
made through Moses;it was an evangelical, nota legal, covenant. And it
foreshadowedwhatwas to be in the latter days, though the people knew it not,
would not know it. They relied on being naturally descendedfrom Abraham,
and gave no heed to our Saviour's declarationthat, if they were indeed
Abraham's children, they would do the works of Abraham (John 8:39); in
other words, that God's promise to the patriarch's seedwas a spiritual
promise, fulfilled to as many as showedthe like faith with himself (Galatians
3:7, 29). While, therefore, our Saviour's submissionto be circumcised —
whereby, in one respect, He fulfilled all righteousness — conveys an obvious
lessonof obedience, and conformity to the laws of the Church, to which we
belong; the gospelfulfilment which Christ gave to that sacredrite, and to the
covenantwith Abraham of which it was the sealand pledge, brings to mind

the high spiritual teaching of all His other ancient laws, the design of which
was to guide man's heart to the future Messiah. God's ancientlaw was
spiritual throughout; no dead letter, but a living reality, trying the very heart
and reins.
(DeanBurgon.)
The circumcisionof our Lord
Bishop Dehon.
There is no part of our Saviour's life uninteresting, or that will not yield
instruction. We ask, then, why did He submit to circumcision?
1. Christ was circumcisedin order to fulfil the law. By His perfect obedience
to all its precepts, He abolished its force and condemning power overevery
transgression. Forus He was circumcisedand baptized; for us He exhibited
entire legalobedience, that He might bring us under the tender, merciful,
encouraging covenantof the gospel, by "fulfilling all righteousness."
2. Christ's circumcisionwas necessaryto obtain for Him a hearing among His
own people. The Jews lookedupon every uncircumcised person as unclean.
Christ could have had no access to them without submitting to this ceremony.
To manifest Himself of the seedof Abraham, to satisfyin this respectthe
requisitions of His nation, to substantiate His pretentions to be their Messiah,
and deprive them of what would have been an unanswerable plea for rejecting
Him, He graciouslycondescendedto endure this painful rite. What an
example has He set us of the excellencyof submitting to privations and pains
in advancing the happiness of our fellow-beings!Did Jesus bear the marks of
an humbling rite in His own precious body, that His own people, when He
came to them, might not be offended in Him; and shall not we yield to all
innocent compliances with the habits and feelings of others, which may
facilitate our usefulness to them, and bear with contentment the labours and
crosses, self-denials,expenses, and cares, whichmay be necessaryin
promoting their salvationor happiness?

3. The institution of this ceremony, and Christ's compliance with it, suggests
to us the propriety and efficacyof visible rites and sacraments.Here was a
sealof a covenantestablishedby God. It was to be a tokenfor distinguishing
the faithful, a sign of cleansing from pollution, and an assurance ofblessing
from Jehovah. Without some visible rite it is hardly conceivable how this or
any Church could be preserved distinct. Some sacramentis necessary, and, if
necessary, obligatoryupon every one who would support the Church, for
which it is hallowed, and enjoy all its privileges. Accordingly, all systems of
religion have had their rites, mysteries, symbols. What circumcision was to
the Jews, baptismis to Christians. Both of Divine appointment, significant of
incorporation into the Church of God, requiring faith, representing
purification from the defilements of sin, and implying consequentself-denial,
holiness, obedience.
4. In the circumcisionof Christ we are strikingly taught the propriety of
submitting to all the precepts and institutions of the revelationunder which
we live. Christ was made under the law, consequentlythe law had authority
over Him. With singular truth, He might have asked, "CanI be benefited by
this rite, and by these simple ceremonies?" With peculiar force He might have
inquired, "Whatconnectioncan there be betweenthese outward forms and
My spirit; what efficacycan they have upon My heart?" With more propriety
than any mortal He might have said, "I can be safe and perfectwithout all
these." But he did not stop to scruple their utility; He did not find fault with
their nature. They were ordained by the Being who establishedthe law under
which He lived. This was sufficient for Him. And so throughout His life. He
kept the passover;He observed the Sabbath; He went up to the feasts;He
neglectedno precept of the revelation which He knew came from God, and
was authoritative till supersededby His new and better dispensation. In this
conduct of His life our Saviour has setan example, excellentin itself, and fit
for His disciples to revere. It points to us the necessityof obeying every
precept, and observing every rite to which the gospelgives the sealof Divine
authority. To neglectbaptism or holy communion because, as men think, they
may be as goodand as safe without them, or because they cannot see their
efficacy, is taking a ground which the all-perfect Sonof Godwas too modestto
assume. Whether men may be savedwithout these means, how they effect

what is attributed to them, whether they are the best which might have been
selected, are points with which we have nothing to do. The questions which
concernus are, Whether Christ instituted baptism and the eucharist; and, if
He did, whether His injunctions are binding upon us or not? On this plain
ground every man may easilyform a just determination concerning the
propriety of observing all the precepts and institutions of the revelationunder
which he lives. His observance ofthem should be a simple actof faith and
obedience, by which he should testify both to God and men.
(Bishop Dehon.)
Early suffering
ArchdeaconFarrar.
Thus early did Jesus sufferpain for our sakes, to teachus the spiritual
circumcision, the circumcisionof all our bodily senses. As the eastcatches at
sunsetthe colours of the west, so Bethlehemis a prelude to Calvary, and even
the Infant's cradle is tinged with a crimson reflectionfrom the Redeemer's
cross.
(ArchdeaconFarrar.)
The circumcisionof Christ
Canon V. Hutton, M. A.
(First Sunday after Christmas.)
I. THE RITE OF CIRCUMCISION WHICH, AS ON THIS DAY, WAS
ADMINISTEREDTO THE INFANT JESUS HAD A TWOFOLD
SIGNIFICANCE.
1. Its existence was a testimony that mankind is fallen and needs purification.
2. Circumcisionwas not only an actof humility, it was also an act of obedience
to the law of God.

II. THE CIRCUMCISION OF JESUS THUS REVEALS TO US THE
FOUNDATIONS ON WHICH HIS HUMAN LIFE WAS BUILT, VIZ.,
HUMILITY AND OBEDIENCE. Canthere be truer foundations for any
human life than these? Is it not the very ideal of Christian childhood?
Humility, which is the expressionof our own insufficiency; obedience, which is
the recognitionof our dependence upon God.
III. It has been well pointed out by many devout Christian thinkers that THE
HUMAN LIFE WHICH THE SON OF GOD LIVED IN THE FLESH IS
THE VERY SAME AS THE LIFE WHICH HE LIVES IN US; it is produced
in the same manner, and progressesaccording to the same law. After His
spiritual birth in us comes our spiritual circumcision(Colossians 2:11). As this
life grows within us, we shall find that it has also its epiphany, its baptism, its
temptation, its active ministry, its passion, its cross, its resurrection. Enough
for us to-day to considerits circumcision. Not without reasondo we pray in
the Litany, "By Thy holy nativity and circumcision, goodLord deliver us."
IV. The circumcisionwas distinguished from all other acts of our Lord's
humiliation IN THAT IT WAS WITHOUT ANY COMPENSATING
GLORY, and was acceptedby Him without any protest from God or man,
declaring that He neededit not for His own sake. Yetthere was evenin His
circumcisiona glory bestowedupon Him which men could not at the time
recognize, but which has proved to be the greatestofall the honours of His
incarnate life. IT WAS THEN THAT THERE WAS BESTOWED UPON
HIM THE NAME OF JESUS, Godour Saviour. The name thus given Him in
His humiliation has become the name in which He has triumphed overHis
enemies, the name which has been blessedby millions of penitent sinners, and
adored in rapture by ten thousands of His saints.
V. Trembling, anxiously, WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD INTO THE
UNCERTAINTYOF A NEW YEAR. If we begin the year in the spirit of Him
who beganHis earthly life in humility and obedience, we may know that,
howevergalling to our natural unrenewed will may be the humility which
alone becomes us, howeverdifficult may be the obedience which God
demands from us, there is yet to be manifested a glory that exalteth, in
comparisonwith which the trials of this present life are but as nothing.

(Canon V. Hutton, M. A.)
The year begins with Thee,
And Thou beginn'st with woe,
To let the world of sinners see
That blood for sin must flow.
Thine Infant cries, O Lord,
Thy tears upon the breast,
Are not enough — the legalsword
Must do its stern behest.
Like sacrificialwine
Poured on a victim's head
Are these few precious drops of Thin,,
Now first to offering led.
They are the pledge and seal
Of Christ's unswerving faith
Given to His Sire, our souls to heal,
Although it costs His death.
"Jesus,"the watchword
Dr. Gerok.
I. FOR THE CHURCH AND FOR THE HOME.
II. FOR JOY AND FOR SORROW.
III. FOR LIFE AND FOR DEATH.

(Dr. Gerok.)
The circumcisionand naming of the Child
E. Stapler, D. D.
Boys were circumcisedeight days after their birth. Tradition saidthat this
day was chosenbecausethe mother ceasedto be unclean on the seventh day if
she had borne a boy. He who circumcisedthe child used the following words:
"Blessedbe the Lord our God, who has sanctifiedas by His precepts, and
given us circumcision." The father of the child continued: "Who has
sanctifiedus by His precepts, and has granted us to introduce our child into
the covenantof Abraham our father." The child was named the same day,
because it was said that God changedthe names of Abraham and Sarahwhen
He gave the covenantof circumcision.
(E. Stapler, D. D.)
D. Hughes, M. A.
1. It signifies purification. Christ committed no sin, but stoodfor sinful man.
2. It signified obedience (Genesis 17:12). He was "made under the law"
(Galatians 4:4).
3. It signified consecration. This ordinance was part of the covenantbetween
God and the Jewishnation, whereby they were to be counted "a peculiar
treasure" unto God "above all people" (Exodus 19:5).
(D. Hughes, M. A.)
New Year's Day
J. A. Seiss, D. D.

I. CIRCUMCISION WAS A RITE WHICH TOLD OF A MISIMPROVED
PAST. The first accountof it occurs in the history of Abraham, in whose case
Paul says it was given as a sign and sealof the righteousness whichis obtained
by faith (Romans 4:11). The state of uncircumcision was thus a state of
unrighteousness. Paulalso tells the Colossians, thatthey had been dead in
their sins and the uncircumcision of their flesh (Colossians 2:13).
Circumcision, therefore, carried with it the remembrance and
acknowledgmentof a bad and unsatisfactorypast. It told of alienationfrom
God, and of faithlessnesses andinfidelities. It carriedwith it a retrospectof
failure and sin. Even the circumcision of "the holy child Jesus,"was an
acknowledgmentof the fallen condition of the race, with which he identified
Himself, in its humiliation, that He might become its perfectSaviour.
II. CIRCUMCISION WAS A SIGN OF THE CUTTING OFF AND
CASTING AWAY OF SIN. The fleshly incision was a tokenof a spiritual one,
which consistedin separationfrom moral impurity and evil (Romans 2:29).
III. BUT CIRCUMCISION SET APART TO OBEDIENCE, AS WELL AS
SEVERED FROM IMPURITY. It was the ceremonyof initiation into the
covenant, and pledged the subject to obey it. It was part of the redemption-
work of Christ to obey the law.
IV. CIRCUMCISION CONFERREDAND FIXED ON CHRIST HIS TRUE
DESCRIPTIVE NAME.
V. But, for the encouragementof those who feeltheir deficiencies and
miseries, there is still one other particular connectedwith the text. HE
WHOM GOD HATH APPOINTED TO BE OUR JUDGE, TOOKTHE
NAME OF JESUS. He is a Saviour, and a greatone. Hopefully His
circumcisionday so proclaims Him to us. Yea, saith the apostle, "He is able
also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him" (Hebrews
7:25).
(J. A. Seiss, D. D.)

COMMENTARIES
EXPOSITORY(ENGLISHBIBLE)
Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers
(21) When eight days were accomplished. . .—Hence the Feastofthe
Circumcision in the Church Calendar comes onJanuary 1st, and so, not
without design, perhaps, came to coincide with the beginning of the civil year.
The contrastbetweenthis and the narrative of John’s circumcisionis striking.
Here there are no friends and neighbours. Mary and Josephwere but poor
strangers, in a city far from their ownhome. On the name of Jesus, see Note
on Matthew 1:21. In St. Paul’s words, “made of a woman, made under the
law” (Galatians 4:4), we may, perhaps, see a reference to a narrative with
which his friendship with St. Luke must almostof necessityhave made him
familiar.
BensonCommentary
Luke 2:21. And when eight days were accomplished — That is, not when the
eighth day was ended, but when it was come:for the circumcising of the child
— A ceremonywhich the law of Moses requiredto be performed on every
male child at that age, and to which Christ was made subject, that he might
wearthe badge of a child of Abraham, and that he might visibly be made
under the law by a sacredrite, which obliged him to keepthe whole law. It is
true, he had not any corruptions of nature to mortify, which was in part
representedby that institution, but nevertheless it was necessarythat he
should be thus initiated into the JewishChurch, and thereby be engagedto
the duties, and entitled to the privileges, of a son of Abraham, according to
God’s covenant with that patriarch and his seed;as also that he might put an
honour on the solemndedication of children to God.
Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary

2:21-24 Our Lord Jesus was notborn in sin, and did not need that
mortification of a corrupt nature, or that renewalunto holiness, which were
signified by circumcision. This ordinance was, in his case, a pledge of his
future perfect obedience to the whole law, in the midst of sufferings and
temptations, even unto death for us. At the end of forty days, Mary went up to
the temple to offer the appointed sacrificesforher purification. Josephalso
presentedthe holy child Jesus, because, as a first-born son, he was to be
presentedto the Lord, and redeemedaccording to the law. Let us present our
children to the Lord who gave them to us, beseeching him to redeem them
from sin and death, and make them holy to himself.
Barnes'Notes on the Bible
Eight days ... - This was the regular time for performing the rite of
circumcision, Genesis 17:12.
Called Jesus - See the notes at Matthew 1:21.
Jamieson-Fausset-BrownBible Commentary
Lu 2:21. Circumcision of Christ.
Here only recorded, and even here merely alluded to, for the sake ofthe name
then given to the holy Babe, "Jesus," orSaviour (Mt 1:21; Ac 13:23). Yet in
this naming of Him "Saviour," in the actof circumcising Him, which was a
symbolical and bloody removal of the body of sin, we have a tacit intimation
that they "had need"—as Johnsaid of His Baptism—rather to be circumcised
by Him "with the circumcision made without hands, in the putting off of the
body [of the sins] of the flesh by the circumcisionof Christ" (Col 2:11), and
that He only "suffered it to be so, because thus it became Him to fulfil all
righteousness"(Mt 3:15). Still the circumcisionof Christ had a profound
bearing on His own work—byfew rightly apprehended. For since "he that is
circumcisedis a debtor to do the whole law" (Ga 5:3), Jesus thus bore about
with Him in His very flesh the sealof a voluntary obligationto do the whole
law—by Him only possible in the flesh since the fall. And as He was "made
under the law" for no ends of His own, but only "to redeemthem that were
under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons" (Ga 4:4, 5), the

obedience to which His circumcisionpledged Him was a redeeming
obedience—thatof a "Saviour." And, finally, as "Christ hath redeemedus
from the curse of the law" by "being made a curse for us" (Ga 3:13), we must
regard Him, in His circumcision, as brought under a palpable pledge to be
"obedient unto death, even the death of the cross" (Php 2:8).
Matthew Poole's Commentary
The time prescribedby the Divine law for circumcisionwas the eighth day.
Genesis 17:12 Leviticus 12:3. He was indeed the lawgiver, and as such not tied
to the observance ofthe law. But he was also made of a woman, made under
the law, Galatians 4:4; and the law was, Leviticus 12:2, that if a woman had
conceivedseed, and borne a man child, in the eighth day the flesh of his
foreskinshould be circumcised. He was to make himself appear the Sonof
Abraham; and so this was God’s covenant, Genesis 17:10, withAbraham and
his seedafterhim; Every man child among you shall be circumcised. This law
Christ was bound to fulfil, and by the fulfilling of it in this point he showed
himself a debtor to do the whole law, Galatians 5:3, and by his observance of
it he was to teach us our duty. He was to be a minister of the circumcision,
Romans 15:8, and to the circumcision, which they would never have allowed
him to be, had not he himself been circumcised;upon which accountPaul
took Timothy, and circumcisedhim, Acts 16:3. By his circumcisionalso we
were to be circumcisedwith the circumcision made without hands, in putting
off the body of the sins of the flesh, Colossians2:11. It was therefore
reasonable and necessarythat Christ should be circumcisedthe eighth day.
His name was calledJesus;it was in circumcisionbefore witnesses publicly
declaredto be so, for God by his angelhad given him his name, Matthew 1:21.
We read of four under the Old Testament, to whom God gave names before
they were born; Isaac, Genesis17:19, Josiah, 1 Kings 13:2, Ishmael, Genesis
16:11, Cyrus, Isaiah44:28; and in the New Testamentto John the Baptist, and
to Jesus Christ. Which lets us know the certainty to God of future
contingencies;for though the parents of Ishmael, and Isaac, Johnthe Baptist,
and Christ, imposed those names in obedience to the command of God, and

there was but a small time betwixt the giving of these four their names and
their birth, yet the case was otherwiseas to Josiahand Cyrus.
Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible
And when eight days were accomplishedfor the circumcising of the child,....
According to the original institution of circumcision, Genesis 17:12 and which
was strictly observed by religious persons, as by the parents of our Lord here,
and by those of John the Baptist, Luke 1:59 Hence the Apostle Paul reckons
this among his privileges, that he could have boastedof as well as other Jews;
see Gill on Philippians 3:5. But it may be asked, why was Christ circumcised,
since he had no impurity of nature, which circumcisionsupposed; nor needed
any circumcisionof the heart, which that was a symbol of? To which it may be
replied, though he needed it not himself, it was the duty of his parents to do it,
since all the male seedof Abraham were obligedit, and that law, or ordinance,
was now in force;and besides, it was necessarythat he might appear in the
likeness ofsinful flesh, who was to bear, and atone for the sins of his people;
as also, that it might be manifest that he assumedtrue and real flesh, and was
a partakerof the same flesh and blood with us; and that he was a son of
Abraham, and of his seed, as it promised he should; and that he was made
under the law, and came to fulfil it, and was obliged to it, as every one that is
circumcisedis; as well as to show a regard to all divine, positive institutions
that are in being, and to setan example, that we should tread in his steps;and
likewise to cut off all excuse from the Jews, thatthey might not have this to
say, that he was an uncircumcisedperson, and so not a son of Abraham, nor
the Messiah,
His name was calledJesus, whichwas so named of the angelbefore he was
conceivedin the womb, Luke 1:31 It appears from hence, and from the
instance of John the Baptist, that at circumcision it was usual to give names to
children; See Gill on Luke 1:57. The Jews observe (u) that "six persons were
calledby their names before they were born: and these are Isaac, Ishmael,
Moses,Solomon, Josiah, and the King Messiah:
the latter they prove from Psalm72:17 which they render, "before the sun his
name was Yinnon", or the son: that is, the Son of God,

(u) Pirke Eliezer, c. 32.
Geneva Study Bible
{3} And when eight days were accomplishedfor the circumcising of the child,
his name was calledJESUS, which was so named of the angelbefore he was
conceivedin the womb.
(3) Christ, the head of the Church, made subject to the law in order to deliver
us from the curse of the law (as the name of Jesus welldeclares)being
circumcised, ratifies and seals in his own flesh the circumcision of the flesh.
EXEGETICAL(ORIGINAL LANGUAGES)
Meyer's NT Commentary
Luke 2:21. Τοῦ περιτεμεῖν αὐτόν]The genitive, not as at Luke 2:22; Luke
1:57; Luke 2:6, but as genitive of the aim: in order to circumcise Him, that He
might be circumcised. Comp. Buttmann, neut. Gr. p. 230 [E. T. 267].
καὶ ἐκλήθη] was also named, indicating the naming as superadded to the rite
of circumcision. See Nägelsbach, z. Ilias, ed. 3, p. 164. And the Son of God had
to become circumcised, as γενόμενος ἐκ γυναικός, γενόμενος ὑπὸ νόμον,
Galatians 4:4. This was the divine arrangement for His appearing as the God-
man in necessaryassociationwith the people of God (Romans 9:5). There is
much importation of the dogmatic elementhere among the older
commentators.[53]
τὸ κληθὲν κ.τ.λ.]See Luke 1:31. Comp. Matthew 1:21, where, however, the
legend quite differently refers the giving of the name to the angel.
[53] Calovius says that Christ allowedHimself to be circumcised“tum ob
demonstrandam naturae humanae veritatem … tum ad probandam e semine

Abrahae originem … tum imprimis ob meriti et redemptions Christi
certificationem.”
Expositor's Greek Testament
Luke 2:21-24. Circumcisionand presentationin the temple.
Cambridge Bible for Schools andColleges
21. The Circumcision
21. for the circumcising of the child] Genesis 17:12. Doubtlessthe rite was
performed by Joseph. “JesusChrist was a minister of the circumcision” (i. e.
went to the Jew first) “for the truth of Godto confirm the promises made unto
the fathers,” Romans 15:8. Thus it became him ‘to be made like unto His
brethren, and to fulfil all righteousness,’Matthew 3:15. Christ suffered pain
thus early for our sake to teach us that, though He ordained for us the
painless rite of baptism, we must practise the spiritual circumcision—the
circumcisionof the heart. He came “not to destroy the Law but to fulfil,”
Matthew 5:17—
“He, who with all heaven’s heraldry whilere
Entered the world, now bleeds to give us ease.
Alas, how soonour sin
Sore doth begin
His infancy to seize!”

Milton, The Circumcision.
his name was calledJESUS]See on Luke 1:31. The name of the child was
bestowedat circumcision, as with us at baptism. Among Greeks andRomans
also the genethlia and nominalia were on the eighth or ninth day. Observe the
brief notice of Christ’s circumcisioncompared with the fuller and more
elaborate accountofJohn’s. “In the person of John the rite of circumcision
solemnisedits last glories.”
Bengel's Gnomen
Luke 2:21. Περιτεμεῖν· ἐκλήθη, that they should circumcise:He was called)
The circumcisionis not recordedin so direct terms as the naming of Him,
inasmuch as the latter was divinely ordered by express command.—[ὑπὸ τοῦ
ἀγγέλου, by the angel) ch. Luke 1:26; Luke 1:31.—V. g.]—πρὸ τοῦ, before
that) There is hereby exquisitely expressedthe goodpleasure of the Father in
Christ. [And it is implied at the same time, that this infant of (in) Himself did
not need circumcision.—V. g.]Comp. Galatians 1:15.—ἐντῇ κοιλίᾳ, in the
womb) viz. of His mother. So ἐν κοιλίᾳ is used absolutely, Jeremiah 1:5, ‫.ןטבב‬
Pulpit Commentary
Verses 21-40. -Circumcision and presentationof the Child Jesus. Verse 21. -
For the circumcising of the Child. These ancientrites - circumcision and
purification - enjoined in the Mosaic Law were intended as perpetual
witnesses to the deadly taint of imperfection and sin inherited by every child
of man. In the casesofMary and her Child these rites were not necessary;but
the mother devoutly submitted herself and her Babe to the ancient customs,
willingly obedient to that Divine Law under which she was born and hitherto
had lived.

PRECEPTAUSTIN RESOURCES
Luke 2:21 And when eight days had passed, before His circumcision, His
name was then calledJesus, the name given by the angelbefore He was
conceivedin the womb.
eight: Lu 1:59 Ge 17:12 Lev 12:3 Mt 3:15 Ga 4:4,5 Php 2:8
his name was:Lu 1:31 Mt 1:21,25
Luke 2 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries
JEHOVAH IS SALVATION
FULFILLS THE LAW
And when eight days had passed:(See graph of the clotting factors in notes on
Lev 12:3) Ge 17:12 prescribedthis ritual specificallyon "everymale among
you who is eight days old." The levels of the Vitamin K dependent coagulation
factors are decreasedto 30-60%of normal adult levels at birth (poor
placentaltransfer, low hepatic store, low content of breastmilk, lack of
intestinal flora) and in absence ofVitamin K administration (which is now
routinely administered to newborns), the levels drop by another 50% reaching
their nadir at day 2 or 3 then gradually increasing over the next few days. The
classic case ofHemorrhagic Diseaseofthe Newbornpresents at 1-7 days with
GI tract bleeding, bruising, etc. Is God's Word inspired? He knew exactly
when circumcision would be safe!
John MacArthur explains that "Godinstituted circumcisionfor three
purposes. First, along with the other dietary and sanitary regulations
prescribed in the law, circumcisionhad health benefits. As the sign of the
Abrahamic covenant, circumcisionwas also the mark of Israel’s national
identity. Finally, circumcisionwas a spiritual object lessonofthe need for
cleansing from the depravity of sin, which is passedto eachsucceeding
generationthrough procreation. Circumcisionwas a physical symbol of the
spiritual cleansing of the heart that takes place at salvation(cf. Dt. 10:16;
30:6; Jer. 4:4). But why was Jesus circumcised, since He was sinless (Isa. 53:9;

John 8:46; 2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22; 1 John 3:5) and did not need
to have His heart cleansed? The answerlies in understanding that He came to
fulfill the law. In the words of the apostle Paul, Jesus was “bornof a woman,
born under the Law” (Gal. 4:4). Like His baptism, Jesus’circumcisionserved
to “fulfill all righteousness”(Matt. 3:15). He could saywith David, “I delight
to do Your will, O my God; Your Law is within my heart” (Ps. 40:8), and He
alone kept God’s law perfectly throughout His life. Only because He did so
could His righteousness be credited to believers. At the cross Godtreated
Jesus as if He had lived their sinful lives. He is, therefore, able to treat them as
if they had lived Jesus’perfectlyrighteous life."
Before His circumcision - Jesus receivedHis Name at His circumcision.
Jewishbeliever Arnold Fruchtenbaum offers these thoughts on Jesus'
circumcision- Circumcision was commanded under TWO of the covenants of
the Old Testament. The Abrahamic Covenant - obligatoryfor Jews, as a sign
of Jewishness. The Mosaic Covenant - obligatoryfor Jews and Gentiles who
convertedto Judaism, as a sign of submission to the Law. Jesus was
circumcisedunder both covenants, but upon Jesus’deaththe Mosaic
Covenantcame to an end. However, the Abrahamic Covenantstill stands.
Circumcision as a sign of Jewishnessis still in effect.The Abrahamic Covenant
is to set the ChosenPeople apart from the nations around them. It is an
ongoing, eternalcovenant.
Circumcision (4059)(peritemno from perí = around + témno = cut off - see
also study of peritome) means literally to cut something off or away("to cut
off around"), signifying a removal of that which has been cut away.
The rite of circumcision, as a sign of the Abrahamic Covenant(Ge 17:9-14), is
known also to be of significant health benefit to the male. Its performance on
the "eighthday" is also now known to be the optimum time for it to be done,
in terms of the child's most rapid recoveryfrom the operation. The coagulants
in the blood of an infant normally reach their optimum effectiveness eight
days after birth. Becausecircumcisionwas a Jewishlaw, the infant Jesus
experiencedit.

Wiersbe - Note that the word law is used five times in Luke 2:21-40. Though
He came to deliver His people from the bondage of the Law, Jesus was "made
under the Law" and obeyed its commands (Gal. 4:1-7). He did not come to
destroy the Law but to fulfill it (Matt. 5:17-18). Jesus'parents obeyed the Law
first by having the child circumcisedwhen He was eight days old. This was the
sign and sealof the covenantthat God made with Abraham (Gen. 17), and it
was required of every Jewishmale who wanted to practice the faith. The Jews
were proud to be God's covenant people, and they scornfully calledthe
Gentiles "the uncircumcision" (Eph. 2:11-12). It is unfortunate that
circumcisionbecame an empty ritual for many Jews, becauseit proclaimed an
important spiritual truth (Deut. 10:15-20;Ro 2:28-29). "His circumcision was
His first suffering for us," saidthe late Donald Grey Barnhouse, a
Philadelphia minister and author. It symbolized the work the Saviour did on
the cross in dealing with our sin nature (Gal. 6:15; Phil. 3:1-3; Col. 2:10-11).
In obedience to the Lord, Mary and Josephgave Him the name Jesus, which
means "Jehovahis salvation" (Matt. 1:21). (Ibid)
His name was then calledJesus, the name given by the angelbefore He was
conceivedin the womb
Luke 1:31 - “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and
you shall name Him Jesus.
Mt 1:21 "And she will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for
(THIS EXPLAINS THE MEANING OF HIS NAME JESUS)it is He who will
save His people from their sins."
Jesus (2424)(Iesous)is transliteration of the Greek Iesous, whichin turn is the
transliteration of the Hebrew name Jehoshua (Yehoshua)or Jeshua (Yeshua)
which mean Jehovahis help or Jehovahis salvation. Stated another waythe
Greek Iesous corresponds to the OT Jehoshua (Yehoshua)which is contracted
as Jeshua (Yeshua).
NET Note on Jesus - The Greek form of the name Iēsous, whichwas
translated into Latin as Jesus, is the same as the Hebrew Yeshua (Joshua),
which means “Yahwehsaves” (Yahwehis typically rendered as “LORD” in
the OT).

Spurgeon- Although the old law ends with Christ, it is very instructive to
notice that he came under the law, and conformed to all its appointments.
Jesus, therefore, had to be circumcised. In him the law was fulfilled in every
point, even to the jots and tittles; nothing was omitted. Behold, how perfect is
the righteousnesswhich he wrought out for his people!
J C Ryle - THE first point which demands our attention in this passage, is the
obedience which our Lord rendered, as an infant, to the Jewishlaw. We read
of His being circumcisedon the eighth day. It is the earliestfactwhich is
recordedin His history.
It is a mere waste of time to speculate, as some have done, about the reason
why our Lord submitted to circumcision. We know that “in Him was no sin,”
either original or actual. (1 John 3:5.) His being circumcisedwas not meant in
the leastas an acknowledgmentthat there was any tendency to corruption in
His heart. It was not a confessionofinclination to evil, and of need of grace to
mortify the deeds of His body. All this should be carefully borne in mind.
Let it suffice us to remember that our Lord’s circumcisionwas a public
testimony to Israel, that according to the flesh He was a Jew, made of a Jewish
woman, and “made under the law.” (Galat. 4:4.) Without it He would not
have fulfilled the law’s requirements. Without it He could not have been
recognizedas the sonof David, and the seedof Abraham. Let us remember,
furthermore, that circumcisionwas absolutelynecessarybefore our Lord
could be heard as a teacherin Israel. Without it he would have had no place in
any lawful Jewishassembly, and no right to any Jewishordinance. Without it
He would have been regardedby all Jews as nothing better than an
uncircumcised Gentile, and an apostate from the faith of the fathers.
Let our Lord’s submission to an ordinance which He did not need for Himself,
be a lessonto us in our daily life. Let us endure much, rather than increase the
offence of the Gospel, or hinder in any way the cause of God. The words of St.
Paul deserve frequent pondering;—“Though I be free from all men, yet have I
made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more, and unto the Jews I
became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews:to them that are under the law,
as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law.”—“Iam

made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” (1 Cor. 9:19–
22.)The man who wrote these words walkedvery closelyin the footsteps of
His crucified Master.
POSB notes that - There were three legalceremonies whichJesus underwent.
1. There was the ceremony of circumcision
2.There was the ceremonyof purification. This was a ceremonyMary had to
go through. After the birth of a boy child a woman was considereduncleanfor
forty days (eighty for a girl child). She could work around the home and
engage in normal activities, but she could not take part in religious
ceremonies. She was religiously, that is, ceremonially, unclean. After a
woman's forty or eighty days were up, she was to make an offering in the
temple (Leviticus 12:1-8).
3. There was the ceremony of dedication to the Lord (Luke 2:23; cp. Exodus
13:2, 12, 15;Leviticus 27:6; Numbers 18:15-16). A male child was presented
(dedicated) in the temple when the family was close to Jerusalem.
William MacDonald- At leastthree different rituals are describedin this
passage:
1. First there was the circumcision of Jesus. This took place when He was
eight days old. It was a token of the covenant that God made with Abraham.
On this same day, the Child was named, according to Jewishcustom. The
angelhad previously instructed Mary and Josephto call Him JESUS.
2. The secondceremony was concernedwith the purification of Mary. It took
place forty days after the birth of Jesus (see Lev. 12:1–4). Ordinarily parents
were supposedto bring a lamb for a burnt offering and a young pigeon or
turtledove for a sin offering. But in the case ofthe poor, they were permitted
to bring “a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons” (Lev. 12:6–8). The fact
that Mary brought no lamb, but only two young pigeons is a reflectionof the
poverty into which Jesus was born.
3. The third ritual was the presentationof Jesus atthe temple in Jerusalem.
Originally, God had decreedthat the firstborn sons belongedto Him; they

were to form the priestly class (Ex. 13:2). Later, He set aside the tribe of Levi
to serve as priests (Ex. 28:1, 2). Then the parents were permitted to “buy
back” or “redeem” their firstborn son by the payment of five shekels. This
they did when they dedicatedhim to the Lord.
BRIAN BELL
Luke 2:21-35 1-1-06 “Child of Hope!”
1. Intro: 1.1. Randy Harvey – Ordination. 1.2. Title: Child of Hope! 1.2.1. The
time was perfectfor the coming of Messiah!1.2.2. “Religionwas powerless;
the heathen systems failed; Judaism had become formal & lacking spiritually;
Rome bound the civilized world togetherw/its fine roads;Greek was the one
main language of cultured & intellectual life; the Jews were dispersedover
many lands carrying their national hope of a deliverer!” (Griffith Thomas)
1.2.3. This HOPE was shared by this morning’s guest…Mr. Simeon! 1.2.3.1.
“Maythe God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so
that you may overflow with hope by the powerof the Holy Spirit.” Rom.15:13
1.2.4. Pray!
2. PRESENTATION & BABY DEDICATION!(21-24)2.1. The Temple was
central in Israel’s worship & hopes.1 2.2. 3 Rites/Ceremonies:2.3. [1]
Circumcision (21) – as prescribedin Gen.17:9-14 2.3.1.Circumcisionwas
usually done in the parents’ home, and was also the occasionwhen the child
was officially named. 2.3.2. This rite was an external sign indicating that a
covenantrelationship had been establishedbetweenthe individual & the
Lord, w/all the privileges & responsibilities entailed by such relationship.
2.3.3. The operationwas also symbolized the “spiritual surgery” that God
wants to perform on the human heart. 2.3.3.1.Deut.30:6 "And the LORD
your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your descendants” (Also
Deut.10:16)

2.4. [2] Purification (22a) - as prescribed in Lev.12:22-24 2.4.1. BabyJesus is
40 days old! (7+33 days). 2.4.2. Read – Lev.12:1-8. 2.4.2.1.Note Mary’s “sin”
offering. 2.4.3. (Lightfoot)“This virgin presentedher babe unto the Lord in
the eastgate ofthe court called Nicanor’s gate, where she would be sprinkled
by the priest w/the blood of her sacrifice.”2.4.4. Theyalso would have to pay
a redemption fee (5 shekels)Num.3:44,45. 2.4.5. (23)Redemptionof the 1st
born - Ex.13:2,12-152.4.5.1. The Redeemeris Redeemed!
1 Shepherd’s Notes;pg.11
2
2.5. [3] Presentation(22b-24)- as prescribedin Ex.13:2, 12-15. 2.5.1. Whata
privilege to present our kids before the Lord. 2.5.1.1. BabyDedications:
Dedicate = set apart!
2.6. (24b) 2 Turtledoves/pigeons – 2.6.1. EvenMary & Josephhad to deal
with poverty at Christmas! 2.6.1.1. Seneca said, “Itis not the man who has too
little, but the man who craves more, who is poor.” (4 bc - 65 ad).
2.6.2. This reveals to us that Jesus was born into a home of modest
means…Yet, a home of deep loyalty to the religion of the OT. 2.6.3. 5x’s Luke
mentions that Mary/Josephactedaccording to the Law.2
3. SIMEON SEES SALVATION! (25-35)3.1. (25)Simeon = one who hears &
obeys. 3.1.1. Just – Attitude towardGod [Past] 3.1.2. Devout – Attitude
toward man [Present]3.1.3. Waiting - Attitude towardHope [Future]
3.2. Q: So why this man? (3 reasons)3.2.1.3 x’s the passagerefers to the
Spirit’s influence on Simeon. 3.2.2. [1]The H.S. was Upon him (25)3.2.3. [2]
The H.S. Revealedthings to him (26) 3.2.4. [3]The H.S. Led him (he came by
the Spirit) (27)
3.2.5. Q:Is the H.S. “upon” you? [en, on, epi] 3.2.5.1.Jn.14:17 "the Spirit of
truth, whom the world cannot receive, becauseit neither sees Him nor knows
Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.” 3.2.5.2.
Acts 1:8 “"But you shall receive powerwhen the Holy Spirit has come upon
you;” (i.e. Pent.) 3.2.6. The Definition: “The Baptism w/the H.S. is the Spirit of
God coming upon the believer, imparting powerto him, & gifts not naturally

his ownbut which qualify him for service to which God has called him.”
3.2.6.1. The phrase is found in all 4 gospels, & twice in Acts. 3.2.7. I don’t
know what all went on at Pentecost?…Wereadof a terrific wind filling the
room, fire burning upon eachof their heads, & the Spirit filled & spoke
through this group in foreign tongues. But I do know from this point these
disciples were never the same. They took to the world like a Mighty Rushing
Wind, & burned with an Unquenchable Holy Fire!
3.2.8. “Theywere enthusiastic to the point of complete abandon.” Tozer
2 Lk.2:22,23,24,27,39.
3
3.2.9. Q:Who is involved in the baptism with the H.S.? 3.2.10.The Father
Promises!3.2.10.1. Acts 1:4 “He commanded them not to depart from
Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father,” 3.2.11. The Son
Baptizes!3.2.11.1. Mt.3:11 "I(JohnBap.)indeed baptize you with waterunto
repentance, but He(Jesus)who is coming after me is mightier than I, whose
sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and
fire.” 3.2.12. The H.S. Comes Upon! 3.2.12.1. Acts 1:8 "But you shall receive
powerwhen the Holy Spirit has come upon you;” 3.2.13.Don’tbe
surprised…If they had problems w/it in the very 1st century, surely it would
be abused & misused in the 20th. 3.2.13.1. But don’t let abuse & misuse rob its
“Holy & Intended use”!3.2.14.“It is one thing to be born of the Spirit &
another to be baptized w/the Spirit.”3 3.2.15. Don’ttry to pattern God, Just
receive the gift & experience His dynamic powerin your life. 3.2.15.1. It’s like
trying to figure out how Godexactly saves people, or heals people? (He uses
all different methods) 3.2.16.Ask! – Lk.11:13 "If you then, being evil, know
how to give goodgifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly
Father (obviously believers) give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!"
3.2.17.Pastorsneedthis power!Our missionaries, evangelists, S.S. teachers,
our business men/women, our mom’s working at home, our teens, our singles,
elderly, new believers. 3.2.17.1. It is available to ALL Believers at any time! J

3.3. Simeonwas Led by the Spirit of God; Taught by the Word of God;
Obedient to the Will of God; & Privilegedto see the Salvationof God
3.4. Consolation– paraklesis/comfort. 3.4.1.Prob. From Is.49:13 “Sing, O
heavens!Be joyful, O earth! And break out in singing, O mountains! For the
LORD has comforted His people, And will have mercy on His afflicted.”
3.5. (27)Simeon took prophecy seriously…Do we? 3.5.1. So he came by the
Spirit into the temple – 3.5.1.1. If both Pastor& Parishionerenteredthe
house of Godthis same way…the blessings wouldflow!
3 Chuck Smith; Living Waterpg.259
4
3.6. (28)It was the custom in Jerusalemto bring a small child to a rabbi that
he might bless the child & pray for it. (LKGNT; pg.144)
3.7. He took Him up in his arms – These are arms of faith stretched out.
3.7.1. “Here’s Jesus resting in the arms of Simeon, and Simeonresting in
Jesus Salvation!” 3.7.2. GeorgeMacdonaldin his poem said, “Where did You
come from baby dear? Out of everywhere into the here.” 3.7.3. Wesleysaid,
“Here we have God contractedinto a span!” 3.8. (29)This sectionis called
Simeon’s “Nunc Dimittis” or “now dismiss”. 3.8.1.“I’m ready to be called
home now!” 3.8.2. Q:What do you want to have happen so that you could say
at the end of your life, “Lord, now dismiss your servant in peace” ? 3.8.3.
Hopefully after we see salvationwe are then ready to fly! 3.8.3.1. “You’re not
ready to live, till you’re ready to die!” 3.8.4. Q: Canwe also die in peace? –
“Those who welcome Christmay also welcome deathwhen it comes!” 3.8.4.1.
Before I was saved, as a kid I was afraid of dieing! 3.8.4.2. In 1971 Don
McLeanhad his “one-hit wonder” song…Bye,bye miss American Pie - Drove
my Chevy to the levee but the levee was dry - And good ol' boys were drinking
whisky and rye? - Singing this will be the day that I die - this will be the day
that I die. (I was afraid to sing that part!) 3.8.4.3. Icouldn’t pray the famous
prayer, “if I die before I wake!” - I had a fearof doing just that!!! 3.8.4.4.Q:
Are you spiritually ready to depart/die in peace?

3.8.5. This is a Salvation Song a MissionaryHymn! 3.9. Depart= “to release a
prisoner; to untie a ship & setsail; to take down a tent; to untie a beastof
burden.” 3.9.1. It frees believers from the burdens of this life & leads us into
the blessings ofthe next! 3.9.2. Q:Are you tied to this place? If so by what?
3.9.3. Q:Like a Hot Air Ballooner, canyou cut another cord loose today?
3.10. (30)My eyes have seen…the glory of the Lord!(Battle Hymn of the
republic) 3.11. Salvation – not soteer(savior);not soteria(salvation);but
soterion(speaking of “one fitted to save”)3.11.1. Jesus is the means of
deliverance which God is giving to the world! 3.11.1.1. Saviorsare only for
sinners! 3.11.2.Mt.9:13 “ForI did not come to call the righteous, but sinners,
to repentance." 3.11.2.1.Q: Have your eyes seenSalvation?
5
3.12. (31,32) – You have Prepared– “it is not a human accomplishment, but a
Divine gift!”
3.13. All peoples, Gentiles, Jews – Gentiles brought into this prophecy! 3.13.1.
Who may have admission to the kingdom: “Samaritans;Pagans;Jews;
publicans; sinners; outcasts;respectable people;poor; rich; women; men;
children”
3.14. Light – To dispel darkness, to show them their way back to God! 3.14.1.
Jn.12:46 “I have come as a light into the world, that whoeverbelieves in Me
should not abide in darkness.”
3.15. (34,35) WhenJesus is preached, He always produces either “a rising or
a falling” in every one of His hearers. 3.15.1. He is history’s Dividing Ridge!
3.15.2.The whole world is affectedin one wayor another by Mary’s Son.
3.15.3.Neverdoes one hear the gospel & not fall or rise under the hearing of
it! [Neutrality is forever impossible!] 3.15.3.1. Riseunbelievers from your sins
dark depths; Rise believers above this World, to the next! 3.15.4.The same 2
options remain eventoday – Rise or Fall!
3.16. Note both His mission & His suffering.

3.17. Already, the shadow of the cross is falling across Jesus’life. 3.17.1.
Fulfillment will come, mixed w/pain & suffering.
3.18. (35)Sword– a large wide sword. Signifying extreme anguish.4 3.18.1.
Mary did feel “the sword” in her heart repeatedly as she watchedher son
during His ministry, & then stoodat the cross where He died. 3.19. Q:Do we
awaitChrist’s 2nd advent with as much excitement & hope as did Simeon his
1st? 3.19.1. Lessons from Mr. Simeon: 3.19.2. Be carefulof your attitude
toward God! (Just) 3.19.3. Be watchfulof your attitude toward man! (devout)
3.19.4.Invite the Holy Spirit to come upon you as Simeon did! 3.19.5. Be
listening for the Holy Spirit to revealHimself to you! 3.19.6. Be ledby the
Holy Spirit as Simeonwas!3.19.7. Reachyour arms out for Jesus! 3.19.8.
Bless God!3.19.9. Prepare to meet your Maker!...Don’tletit take you
unawares!3.19.10.Recognize Godis for ALL peoples!3.19.11. Be watching &
waiting for Messiah’s NextComing!
BIBLICAL ILLUSTRATOR
For the circumcising of the Child
Circumcision and baptism
The teaching of Jewishcircumcisionresembles the teaching of Christian
baptism.
Both exhibit the putting awayof the filth of the flesh; the first by a wounding
of the body (which aptly recalls the severity of the elder dispensation);the
secondby an outward washing. This, which may be calledthe practical
bearing of the presentfestival (Circumcision of Christ, 1st January), is
brought out in the collectfor the day, wherein we beseechGodto grant us
“the true circumcisionof the spirit.” And it is worth observing that this was
seen, from the very first, to be the mystical teaching of the rite. Thus Moses, in
the book of Deuteronomy(which abounds in the loftier class of doctrine),

speaks plainly (Deuteronomy 10:16; Deu_30:6)ofcircumcising the heart; and
the prophets (Jeremiah4:4) use the same expression. St. Stephen’slanguage,
when he addressedhis countrymen for the last time (“Ye stiff-necked and
uncircumcised in heart and ears,” Acts 7:51), seems to show that this
continued throughout the whole history of the Jewishpeople to be the well-
understood meaning of the rite; while St. Paul’s witness on the point (Romans
2:28-29)is express. It is interesting to observe how closelythis observance was
connectedwith holy baptism, besides being typical of the Christian sacrament,
and, indeed, a kind of anticipation of it: a rite performed in infancy, and made
the occasionofbestowing a new name. (Dean Burgon.)
Spiritual nature of circumcision
Circumcision was the sealof the gospelcovenantmade by God with Abraham
(Genesis 17:2;Gen_17:4;Gen_17:9);which the law, added--as the apostle
teaches (Galatians 3:17)--fourhundred and thirty years after, could not
disannul. This was a covenantof faith, quite distinct from the covenant of
works (Exodus 24:8) made through Moses;it was an evangelical, nota legal,
covenant. And it foreshadowedwhatwas to be in the latter days, though the
people knew it not, would not know it. They relied on being naturally
descendedfrom Abraham, and gave no heed to our Saviour’s declarationthat,
if they were
indeed Abraham’s children, they would do the works ofAbraham (John
8:39); in other words, that God’s promise to the patriarch’s seedwas a
spiritual promise, fulfilled to as many as showedthe like faith with himself
Galatians 3:7; Gal_3:29). While, therefore, our Saviour’s submissionto be
circumcised--whereby, in one respect, He fulfilled all righteousness--conveys
an obvious lessonof obedience, and conformity to the laws of the Church, to
which we belong; the gospelfulfilment which Christ gave to that sacredrite,
and to the covenantwith Abraham of which it was the sealand pledge, brings
to mind the high spiritual teaching of all His other ancientlaws, the designof
which was to guide man’s heart to the future Messiah. God’s ancientlaw was
spiritual throughout; no dead letter, but a living reality, trying the very heart
and reins. (DeanBurgon.)

The circumcisionof our Lord
There is no part of our Saviour’s life uninteresting, or that will not yield
instruction. We ask, then, why did He submit to circumcision?
1. Christ was circumcisedin order to fulfil the law. By His perfect obedience
to all its precepts, He abolished its force and condemning power overevery
transgression. Forus He was circumcisedand baptized; for us He exhibited
entire legalobedience, that He might bring us under the tender, merciful,
encouraging covenantof the gospel, by “fulfilling all righteousness.”
2. Christ’s circumcisionwas necessaryto obtain for Him a hearing among His
own people. The Jews lookedupon every uncircumcised person as unclean.
Christ could have had no access to them without submitting to this ceremony.
To manifest Himself of the seedof Abraham, to satisfyin this respectthe
requisitions of His nation, to substantiate His pretentions to be their Messiah,
and deprive them of what would have been an unanswerable plea for rejecting
Him, He graciouslycondescendedto endure this painful rite. What an
example has He set us of the excellencyof submitting to privations and pains
in advancing the happiness of our fellow-beings!Did Jesus bear the marks of
an humbling rite in His own precious body, that His own people, when He
came to them, might not be offended in Him; and shall not we yield to all
innocent compliances with the habits and feelings of others, which may
facilitate our usefulness to them, and bear with contentment the labours and
crosses, self-denials,expenses, and cares, whichmay be necessaryin
promoting their salvationor happiness?
3. The institution of this ceremony, and Christ’s compliance with it, suggests
to us the propriety and efficacyof visible rites and sacraments.Here was a
sealof a covenantestablishedby God. It was to be a tokenfor distinguishing
the faithful, a sign of cleansing from pollution, and an assurance ofblessing
from Jehovah. Without some visible rite it is hardly conceivable how this or
any Church could be preserved distinct. Some sacramentis necessary, and, if
necessary, obligatoryupon every one who would support the Church, for
which it is hallowed, and enjoy all its privileges. Accordingly, all systems of
religion have had their rites, mysteries, symbols. What circumcision was to

the Jews, baptismis to Christians. Both of Divine appointment, significant of
incorporation into the Church of God, requiring faith, representing
purification from the defilements of sin, and implying consequentself-denial,
holiness, obedience.
4. In the circumcisionof Christ we are strikingly taught the propriety of
submitting to all the precepts and institutions of the revelationunder which
we live. Christ was made under the law, consequentlythe law had authority
over Him. With singular truth, He might have asked, “CanI be benefited by
this rite, and by these simple ceremonies?” With peculiar force He might have
inquired, “Whatconnectioncan there be betweenthese outward forms and
My spirit; what efficacycan they have upon My heart?” With more propriety
than any mortal He might have said, “I can be safe and perfectwithout all
these.” But he did not stop to scruple their utility; He did not find fault with
their nature. They were ordained by the Being who establishedthe law under
which He lived. This was sufficient for Him. And so throughout His life. He
kept the passover;He observed the Sabbath; He went up to the feasts;He
neglectedno precept of the revelation which He knew came from God, and
was authoritative till supersededby His new and better dispensation. In this
conduct of His life our Saviour has setan example, excellentin itself, and fit
for His disciples to revere. It points to us the necessityof obeying every
precept, and observing every rite to which the gospelgives the sealof Divine
authority. To neglectbaptism or holy communion because, as men think, they
may be as goodand as safe without them, or because they cannot see their
efficacy, is taking a ground which the all-perfect Sonof Godwas too modestto
assume. Whether men may be savedwithout these means, how they effect
what is attributed to them, whether they are the best which might have been
selected, are points with which we have nothing to do. The questions which
concernus are, Whether Christ instituted baptism and the eucharist; and, if
He did, whether His injunctions are binding upon us or not? On this plain
ground every man may easilyform a just determination concerning the
propriety of observing all the precepts and institutions of the revelationunder
which he lives. His observance ofthem should be a simple actof faith and
obedience, by which he should testify both to God and men. (Bishop Dehon.)
Early suffering

Thus early did Jesus sufferpain for our sakes, to teachus the spiritual
circumcision, the circumcisionof all our bodily senses. As the eastcatches at
sunsetthe colours of the west, so Bethlehemis a prelude to Calvary, and even
the Infant’s cradle is tinged with a crimson reflectionfrom the Redeemer’s
cross. (ArchdeaconFarrar.)
(First Sunday after Christmas.)
I. THE RITE OF CIRCUMCISION WHICH, AS ON THIS DAY, WAS
ADMINISTEREDTO THE INFANT JESUS HAD A TWOFOLD
SIGNIFICANCE.
1. Its existence was a testimony that mankind is fallen and needs purification.
2. Circumcisionwas not only an actof humility, it was also an act of obedience
to the law of God.
II. THE CIRCUMCISION OF JESUS THUS REVEALS TO US THE
FOUNDATIONS ON WHICH HIS HUMAN LIFE WAS BUILT, VIZ.,
HUMILITY AND OBEDIENCE. Canthere be truer foundations for any
human life than these? Is it not the very ideal of Christian childhood?
Humility, which is the expressionof our own insufficiency; obedience, which is
the recognitionof our dependence upon God.
III. It has been well pointed out by many devout Christian thinkers that THE
HUMAN LIFE WHICH THE SON OF GOD LIVED IN THE FLESH IS
THE VERY SAME AS THE LIFE WHICH HE LIVES IN US it is produced
in the same manner, and progressesaccording to the same law. After His
spiritual birth in us comes our spiritual circumcision(Colossians 2:11). As this
life grows within us, we shall find that it has also its epiphany, its baptism, its
temptation, its active ministry, its passion, its cross, its resurrection. Enough

for us to-day to considerits circumcision. Not without reasondo we pray in
the Litany, “By Thy holy nativity and circumcision, goodLord deliver us.”
IV. The circumcisionwas distinguished from all other acts of our Lord’s
humiliation IN THAT IT WAS WITHOUT ANY COMPENSATING
GLORY, and was acceptedby Him without any protest from God or man,
declaring that He neededit not for His own sake. Yetthere was evenin His
circumcisiona glory bestowedupon Him which men could not at the time
recognize, but which has proved to be the greatestofall the honours of His
incarnate life. IT WAS THEN THAT THERE WAS BESTOWED UPON
HIM THE NAME OF JESUS, Godour Saviour. The name thus given Him in
His humiliation has become the name in which He has triumphed overHis
enemies, the name which has been blessedby millions of penitent sinners, and
adored in rapture by ten thousands of His saints.
V. Trembling, anxiously, WE ARE LOOKING FORWARD INTO THE
UNCERTAINTYOF A NEW YEAR. If we begin the year in the spirit of Him
who beganHis earthly life in humility and obedience, we may know that,
howevergalling to our natural unrenewed will may be the humility which
alone becomes us, howeverdifficult may be the obedience which God
demands from us, there is yet to be manifested a glory that exalteth, in
comparisonwith which the trials of this present life are but as nothing.
(Canon V. Hutton, M. A.)
The year begins with Thee,
And Thou beginn’st with woe,
To let the world of sinners see
That blood for sin must flow.
Thine Infant cries, O Lord,
Thy tears upon the breast,

Are not enough--the legalsword
Must do its stern behest.
Like sacrificialwine
Poured on a victim’s head
Are these few precious drops of Thin,,
Now first to offering led.
They are the pledge and seal
Of Christ’s unswerving faith
Given to His Sire, our souls to heal,
Although it costs His death.
“Jesus,”the watchword
I. FOR THE CHURCH AND FOR THE HOME.
II. FOR JOY AND FOR SORROW.
III. FOR LIFE AND FOR DEATH. (Dr. Gerok.)
The circumcisionand naming of the Child
Boys were circumcisedeight days after their birth. Tradition saidthat this
day was chosenbecausethe mother ceasedto be unclean on the seventh day if
she had borne a boy. He who circumcisedthe child used the following words:
“Blessedbe the Lord our God, who has sanctifiedas by His precepts, and
given us circumcision.” The father of the child continued: “Who has sanctified
us by His precepts, and has grantedus to introduce our child into the
covenantof Abraham our father.” The child was named the same day,

because it was said that God changedthe names of Abraham and Sarahwhen
He gave the covenantof circumcision. (E. Stapler, D. D.)
1. It signifies purification. Christ committed no sin, but stoodfor sinful man.
2. It signified obedience (Genesis 17:12). He was “made under the law”
Galatians 4:4).
3. It signified consecration. This ordinance was part of the covenantbetween
God and the Jewishnation, whereby they were to be counted “a peculiar
treasure” unto God “above all people” (Exodus 19:5). (D. Hughes, M. A.)
New Year’s Day
I. CIRCUMCISION WAS A RITE WHICH TOLD OF A MISIMPROVED
PAST. The first accountof it occurs in the history of Abraham, in whose case
Paul says it was given as a sign and sealof the righteousness whichis obtained
by faith (Romans 4:11). The state of uncircumcision was thus a state of
unrighteousness. Paulalso tells the Colossians, thatthey had been dead in
their sins and the uncircumcision of their flesh (Colossians 2:13).
Circumcision, therefore, carried with it the remembrance and
acknowledgmentof a bad and unsatisfactorypast. It told of alienationfrom
God, and of faithlessnesses andinfidelities. It carriedwith it a retrospectof
failure and sin. Even the circumcision of “the holy child Jesus,”was an
acknowledgmentof the fallen condition of the race, with which he identified
Himself, in its humiliation, that He might become its perfectSaviour.
II. CIRCUMCISION WAS A SIGN OF THE CUTTING OFF AND
CASTING AWAY OF SIN. The fleshly incision was a tokenof a spiritual one,
which consistedin separationfrom moral impurity and evil (Romans 2:29).

III. BUT CIRCUMCISION SET APART TO OBEDIENCE, AS WELL AS
SEVERED FROM IMPURITY. It was the ceremonyof initiation into the
covenant, and pledged the subject to obey it. It was part of the redemption-
work of Christ to obey the law.
IV. CIRCUMCISION CONFERREDAND FIXED ON CHRIST HIS TRUE
DESCRIPTIVE NAME.
V. But, for the encouragementof those who feeltheir deficiencies and
miseries, there is still one other particular connectedwith the text. HE
WHOM GOD HATH APPOINTED TO BE OUR JUDGE, TOOKTHE
NAME OF JESUS. He is a Saviour, and a greatone. Hopefully His
circumcisionday so proclaims Him to us. Yea, saith the apostle, “He is able
also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him” (Hebrews
7:25). (J. A.Seiss, D. D.)
GENE BROOKS
1. CALL TO CONSECRATION TO THE LORD AMONG HIS PEOPLE
(Luke 2:21-24)
a. Luke 2:21-24 – the Mosaic Law required (Lev 12:3) that boys be
circumcisedat eight days of age. Justas with the birth of John, the baby
receives the name Jesus atthis time. The Law also required the redemption of
the firstborn son30 days after childbirth (Num 3:14) and a service of
purification of the mother 40 days after childbirth (Lev 12:4-8). The ceremony
of redeeming the firstborn sonis a reminder of the redemption from slavery
in Egypt at Passover(Exod12:3-14, 21-28;13:2-16)and of avoiding the last of
the ten plagues (Exod 11:45; 12:29-30). Becauseofthis, every Israelite family

dedicates its firstborn son to God’s service but then redeems the boy for a
payment of five sanctuary shekels (Numbers 18:16). In return, God accepts
instead the Levites, the sons of Levi, for service in the Temple (Numbers 3:12-
13, 45; 8:14-19). Since there is no mention of Mary “redeeming” their son with
five shekels,then he was probably dedicated wholly to the Lord, after the
model of the child Samuel (1 Sam 1-2). Note the echoes in Luke 2:22-23 to 1
Sam 1:24, 28 (cf. Luke 2:34, 40)
b. The offering is of a lamb or a pair of turtledoves as a substitute (Exod
13:2, 12;Lev 12:6-8). This was Joseph’s offering, further evidence of their
adverse poverty. Mary would lay hands on the pigeons, then a priest would
take them to the southwestcornerof the altar, wring one bird’s neck as a sin
offering and burning the other as a whole burnt offering in a complete picture
of the Messiahto come.
ALAN CARR
Luke 2:11 THE THREE-FOLD IDENTITYOF BETHLEHEM’S BABE
Intro: Ill. The Majestyand the glory of the Christmas story. Perhaps no other
story in the Bible speaks with such clarity about the power and the purpose of
God. Justthe fact that God steppedout of eternity into time is almost mind-
boggling. I read of the shepherds, lowly and undeserving, yet called just the
same. I read of the angels amazed that the Creatorwas born in the image of
the creature. I read of the wise men and I rejoice that these pagans traveled so
far and came to know the Lord Jesus Christ. I read of the manger and I am
reminded that Jesus laid aside certain attributes of His deity that He might
become a man and die for sinners. I read all these things, and it is more than
my mind cangrasp.
Then, I am called back to the words of the angelwho visited the shepherds on
that Judean hillside that night. In the angel’s words, we find the true glory of
Christmas. Because,no matter what else we may make of it, Christmas will
always be about the Baby born in Bethlehem. Tonight, I want to take a look at

the three-fold identity of Bethlehem’s Babe. Notice what the angel had to say
about who this Baby was.
I. SAVIOR – THE TITLE OF ACCEPTANCE
A. This child’s mission wasn’t to save the wealthy, or the righteous. He came
to set the sinner free – Luke 19:10. He came for those no one else wanted –
Mark 2:17.
B. As Savior, Jesus provided 3 essentialservicesto the sinner:
1. We are Acceptedin Him – Eph. 1:6 (Acceptance)
2. We are Deliveredin Him – Deliveredfrom sin’s penalty, power and
presence. Rev. 1:5; 1 Pet. 1:18-19 (Deliverance)
3. We are Preservedin Him – Those whomJesus saves are foreversaved –
John 6:37; 1 Pet. 1:5 (Preservation)
C. Thank God, He came not as Judge, but as Savior – John 3:17
II. CHRIST – THE TITLE OF ACCESS
A. This child came to do more than provide simple salvation. He came to
allow us accessinto the very presence of Almighty God.
B. Through Jesus, we can:
1. Approach the Father – Heb. 4:16 (Ill. Jesus is the only means of access – 1
Tim. 2:5)
2. Appeal to the Father – John 16:23
C. The Name "Christ" refers to Jesus as the "Anointed High Priest." In this
ministry, He addresses the father on our behalf. He does this in two ways:
1. He talks to the Father on our behalf – Heb. 7:25
2. He pleads our case before the throne of God – 1 John 2:1

III. LORD – THE TITLE OF AUTHORITY
A. When the angelcalledJesus Lord, He was referring to One who was to be
in absolute control.
B. This title of our Lord is a reminder to every Christian that Jesus Christis
to be the absolute authority in our lives. We are to allow Him the Headship in
every area of our beings. (Ill. Rom. 12:1-2)
C. God’s demand for total obedience is not too much to ask. He knows that
true love is always shownby obedience to Him.
Conc:It’s Christmas time! As such, we need to remember that the reasonwe
are even here tonight is because ofa little infant born into this world 2,000
years ago. That infant was no ordinary baby. As Savior, He is worthy of our
worship. As Christ, He is worthy of our dependence. As Lord, He is worthy of
our obedience. As Jesus, He is worthy of all we cangive to Him. Have you
given Jesus your all this Christmas?
DON FORTNER
Everything our Savior did as a man he did “according to the law.” When
the Lord Jesus Christcame into the world to save his people from their sins,
he willingly put himself under the law and became voluntarily subject to the
law in all things as a man. He did so because Godcannot justify the guilty
exceptupon the grounds of strict justice. Righteousnessmust be maintained
and justice must be satisfiedin the exercise ofmercy, love, and grace. He who
is our God and Savioris “a just God and a Savior” (Isa. 45:20). “By mercy
and truth iniquity is purged” (Pro. 16:6).
The LORD is wellpleasedfor his righteousness'sake;he will magnify the law,
and make [it] honourable. (Isaiah 42:21)

But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a
woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that
we might receive the adoption of sons. (Galatians 4:4-5)
Though the yoke of the law was a heavy yoke, and only a shadow of
goodthings to come, if we would have those goodthings, Christ must bear the
law’s heavy yoke for us. And he did it as our willing Substitute and Surety.
Though the carnalordinances of the law were what the Holy Spirit calls,
“weak andbeggarlyelements,” and but the “rudiments of the world,” our
Lord Jesus Christ submitted to all the ordinances and institutions of the law
as a man, that he might fulfil the law for us and bring it to an honorable end.
Proposition:Our Lord Jesus Christ fulfilled all the law for us, from the
beginning to the end of his manhood, that he might by his obedience unto
death bring in everlasting righteousness forus and put away our sins forever,
and that he might do so in a way that honors God.
In our text, tonight, we see our Savior, Mediator, Surety, and Substitute
beginning to fulfil the law of God in the room and steadof his people – Luke
2:21-24.
And when eight days were accomplishedfor the circumcising of the child, his
name was calledJESUS, which was so named of the angelbefore he was
conceivedin the womb. And when the days of her purification according to
the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to
present [him] to the Lord; (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every
male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) And to offer a
sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of
turtledoves, or two young pigeons. (Luke 2:21-24)

I. When he was just a baby, eight days old, The Lord Jesus Christ
was circumcisedas our CovenantSurety.
Circumcision was instituted under the law as a symbol of the new birth. The
cutting awaythe filth of the flesh showedthe necessityof God’s electbeing
purified by his grace (Tit. 3:5-6). But Christ had no sin. Why was he
circumcised? The answeris obvious. He was circumcisedas our Surety.
A. Circumcisionidentified him as one with Abraham’s seed
whom he came to save (Heb. 2:16-17).
For verily he took not on [him the nature of] angels;but he took on [him] the
seedof Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like
unto [his] brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in
things [pertaining] to God, to make reconciliationfor the sins of the people.
(Hebrews 2:16-17)
B. Circumcisionrequired the shedding of blood.
Here he shed a few drops of blood by a painful act done to him by order of
God’s law, as a foreshadowing ofthe pouring out of his life’s blood unto
death, by the order of God’s law, in the most painful, ignominious manner
possible.
C. By submitting to this ordinance of the law, our blessed
Savior voluntarily made himself a debtor to do the whole law for us (Gal. 5:3).

For I testify againto every man that is circumcised, that he is a debtor to do
the whole law. (Galatians 5:3)
Circumcisionwas the legallyrequired pledge of every Israelite that he
was a debtor to keepthe whole law. Our Lord Jesus Christ, “by being
circumcised,” wrote Thomas Goodwin, “did as it were sethis hand to it, being
made sin for us.” The ceremoniallaw consistedmuch in sacrifices. Christ
hereby obligedhimself to offer, not the blood of bulls and goats, but his own
blood.
II. When he was circumcised, The incarnate God was named as our
Savior. – “His name was called JESUS, whichwas so named of the angel
before he was conceivedin the womb.”
This name Jesus, orJoshua, was given to our Lord by the express command
of God by the angel, both to Josephand to Mary, before he was conceivedin
the womb (Matt. 1:21; Lk. 1:31).
A. Many are called“Jesus” who are not saviors at all. – This was a common
name (Col. 4:11).
B. Our Lord was given this name because it was the name of two very
eminent types of him in the Old Testament.
1. Joshua, who led Israel into the land of rest.
2. Joshua, the priest upon his throne (Zech. 3:1-5; 6:11-13).

· Joshua representedthe removal of sin by Christ.
And he shewedme Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the
LORD, and Satanstanding at his right hand to resisthim. And the LORD
said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan;even the LORD that hath
chosenJerusalemrebuke thee: [is] not this a brand plucked out of the fire?
Now Joshua was clothedwith filthy garments, and stoodbefore the angel.
And he answeredand spake unto those that stoodbefore him, saying, Take
awaythe filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have
causedthine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of
raiment. And I said, Let them seta fair mitre upon his head. So they seta
fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments. And the angelof the
LORD stoodby. (Zechariah3:1-5)
· Joshua also representedour Lord Jesus Christ upon his throne as our
IntercessorKing.
Then take silver and gold, and make crowns, and set[them] upon the head of
Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest; And speak unto him, saying,
Thus speakeththe LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name [is]
The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the
temple of the LORD: Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he
shall bear the glory, and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a
priest upon his throne: and the counselof peace shallbe betweenthem both.
(Zechariah 6:11-13)
C. Our Lord Jesus Christ was named Jesus because he was sentinto this
world to save his people from their sins; and save them he shall.

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS:for he
shall save his people from their sins. (Matthew 1:21)
1. He shall save! – By Redemption! – By Regeneration!– By
Resurrection!
2. His people! – His by divine election! – His by covenant gift!
3. From their sins! – Their Penalty! – Their Power! – Their
Presence!– Their Consequence!
How sweetthe name of Jesus sounds
In a believer’s ear!
It soothes his sorrows, heals his wounds,
And drives away his fear.
It makes the wounded spirit whole,
And calms the troubled breast,
Tis manna to the hungry soul,
And to the weary, rest.
Dearname! The rock on which I build,
My shield and hiding place:
My never failing treasury filled,

With boundless stores ofgrace!
His name shall endure for ever: his name shall be continued as long as the
sun: and [men] shall be blessedin him: all nations shall callhim blessed.
(Psalms 72:17)
III. Our Lord Jesus Christ was presentedin the temple at Jerusalemas
the Firstborn, “according to the law.”
And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were
accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present[him] to the Lord;
(As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb
shall be called holy to the Lord;) (Luke 2:22-23)
A. Mary came to the temple to offer he sacrifices, according to the law, for
ceremonialpurification, forty days after Christ was born , “according to the
law” (Lev. 12:4-6).
There is no cleansing from uncleanness of any kind, except by the blood of a
sacrifice. If we would be cleanbefore God, it must be by blood.
B. The Lord Jesus came into his temple to fulfil the prophecy given by
Malachi.
Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the waybefore me:
and the Lord, whom ye seek, shallsuddenly come to his temple, even the

messengerofthe covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith
the LORD of hosts. (Malachi3:1)
C. Our Savior, the God-man, came into the temple, according to the law of
God, as the firstborn, as God’s firstborn, that one who is sanctified and holy
before God (Ex. 13:2; Num. 3:13).
Sanctify unto me all the firstborn, whatsoeveropeneththe womb among the
children of Israel, [both] of man and of beast:it [is] mine. (Exodus 13:2)
Because allthe firstborn [are] mine; [for] on the day that I smote all the
firstborn in the land of Egypt I hallowedunto me all the firstborn in Israel,
both man and beast:mine shall they be: I [am] the LORD. (Numbers 3:13)
· Christ is the Firstborn!
· Among Many Brethren (Rom. 8:29).
· Of Every Creature (Col. 1:15).
· From The Dead(Col. 1:18).
IV. In order to bring us into the unsearchable riches of his grace and
his kingdom, the Son of God became the poorestof men (v. 24).
The law required worshippers to bring a lamb of the first year for a burnt
offering and a young pigeon or turtledove for a sin offering, except if they
were very poor. If they were very poor, they were allowedto bring two young
pigeons or two turtledoves (Lev. 12:6-8), the one for a burnt offering and the
other for a sin offering. Mary was a poor woman.

And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord,
A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons. (Luke 2:24)
For ye know the grace ofour Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet
for your sakeshe became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. (2
Corinthians 8:9)
Application:
1. Since Christ fulfilled all the law for us, we are entirely and forever free
from the law (Gal. 3:13; Rom. 7:4; 10:4).
2. We must never attempt to worship God by the carnal ordinances of legal
religion.
3. Those who attempt to establishrighteousness by their works do but
trample upon God’s holy law and would nullify it altogetheras an unholy
thing.
4. We establishthe law by faith in Christ (Rom. 3:28, 31).
Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the
law. (Romans 3:28)
Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish
the law. (Romans 3:31)
5. Let us now prove the sincerity of our love to Christ (2 Cor. 8:7-9).

Therefore, as ye abound in every [thing, in] faith, and utterance, and
knowledge, and[in] all diligence, and [in] your love to us, [see]that ye abound
in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasionofthe
forwardness ofothers, and to prove the sincerity of your love. For ye know
the grace ofour Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your
sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. (2
Corinthians 8:7-9)
How do we prove the sincerity of our love to our Savior?
· By Our Devotionand Commitment To Him.
· By Our Generosityin His Cause.
· By Our Love and Devotionto One Another.
JOHN MACARTHUR
A + A - Reset
Let's open our Bibles to Luke chapter 2, Luke chapter 2. We have gone
through the first 20 verses ofthis wonderful chapter which details for us the
birth of Jesus Christ, God in human flesh, the Messiah, Saviorofthe world.
And, you know, we're so very familiar with the story, the story of the birth of
Jesus, familiar with Josephand Mary, familiar with Bethlehem, familiar with
shepherds, angels, a manger, a stable. Those are very familiar parts to the
story. And Luke has taken us through those familiar elements.
And were we to study the gospelof Matthew, we would meet some more
familiar elements that Luke doesn't bring up, such as the wise men. Luke
doesn't tell us about the wise men but Matthew does. Those mysterious and

wonderful men from the eastwho followedthe starlooking for the greatKing
that had been born, that incredible accountof their arrival and the gifts of
gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. And then there was the wonderful and
fascinating story of Herod who, hearing about the birth of the rival king, as he
saw Him, decided that he had to save his own throne and so he massacredall
the little baby boys in the area. Matthew tells us about that familiar story.
And then there is the very brief accountof the family of Josephand Mary and
the baby Jesus fleeing for their lives into Egypt to be protectedfrom Herod.
Familiar and beloved scenes thatget retold every Christmas season;
they...they sort of go into an eleven-month fade every year and then they're
brought back to vivid color around Christmas season. And we hear them oft
repeatedwith all their beauty and wonder is restoredfor us in the vivid color
of the retelling. Those are very familiar, very familiar stories.
Far less familiar, however, is the accountthat we're about to read in Luke.
And for that we are the poorer, frankly. As a kid growing up, I have
memories of just about all of the elements of the Christmas story that I've
mentioned to you. In fact, I was in a number of Christmas pageants which
sort of find a vivid place into your mind, often because your mother took
pictures and keeps showing them to you through the years. And so the
memories are kind of cemented. We are familiar with things I've mentioned,
the wise men, the shepherds, and Herod, and Bethlehemand all of that.
But perhaps not familiar with two names with which we should be familiar,
Simeon and Anna. I don't really remember, as I look back in my childhood,
ever giving thought to them, or hearing anything about them. And yet they
play an absolutely critical part in the whole scene ofthe arrival of the Son of
God and the Savior of the world, the Lord Jesus Christ. They are far less
familiar to us. And their story doesn't gettold very often and rarely ever gets
repeatedaround Christmas season. It seems like the wise men are more
dramatic and the shepherds and angels are more dramatic and certainly the
story of Herod is dramatic and deadly. But what we see here from verse 21 to
verse 40 is drama at its highest level. It is impactful. It is critical, essential
testimony to the identity of Jesus Christ.

There is a principle that is woveninto the fabric of our lives. And it starts out
in the Bible back in Deuteronomy and it's this principle: Any testimony
should be confirmed in the mouth of two or three witnesses. Eventodayin the
jurisprudence of westerncivilization, a story corroboratedby two or three
witnesses is consideredto be credible and believable and true. That goes back
to that biblical affirmation, that testimony had to be confirmed in the mouth
of two or three witnesses. And the testimony of Luke has been that Jesus has
been born "Sonof God, Son of Man, Son of Abraham, Son of David." The
testimony has been borne that Jesus came into the world as a child of a virgin,
having no human father, being fathered by GodHimself through the powerof
the Holy Spirit, being planted in Mary's womb without a human father, thus
the child born of a virgin. And Luke has given testimony to the fact that this
child is God in human flesh, that this child is the eternal King who will reign
on the throne foreverand ever, that this child is the Saviorof the world. This
is the child who will save people from their sins. This is the singular and the
greatestchild ever to be born in the history of the universe.
That testimony needs to be confirmed. And so Luke in this sectionbrings in
the testimony of witnesses. First, there is the testimony of Josephand Mary,
the parents' testimony. Secondly, there is the testimony of a man named
Simeon. And thirdly, there is the testimony of a woman named Anna. And
finally, there is the testimony of God Himself. Four testimonies are given: The
testimony of His parents, the testimony of Simeon, the testimony of Anna, and
the affirmation and testimony of God Himself as to the identity of this child.
And so the passageconfirms the credibility of Luke's accountthat this child is
indeed the Messiah, the Son of God, the anointed Christ, and the Savior of the
world.
Now there's something you want to know about a witness. There's something
you want to know about someone calledto testify. You want to know that
they're honest. And so you want some indication of their character. Luke is
careful in this passageto let us know that the witnesses thatare calledto give
affirming testimony to Jesus Christ are righteous people. They are credible
witnesses because theyare righteous. Their testimony we canbelieve because
of the characteroftheir lives. And so we find here that Luke majors on letting
us in on the characterofall of these witnesses.

The first thing we find out about has to do with the parents of Jesus. Now we
already know they are righteous because in Matthew 1:19 it says, "Joseph,
being a righteous man." That is to say he was right with God. That's what
Scripture means. He was right with God. Josephwas one of a small remnant
in Israel. He was just a boy thirteen, fourteen years old when he...whenhe
came togetherto take Mary as his wife after she had given birth to the child
and Mary was just a girl of thirteen or fourteen. But Josephwas righteous. It
says it in Matthew 1:19 he was a righteous man.
Now in Israel the righteous were a very small remnant, a very small remnant.
There were liberals, theologically, in the nation Israel, having been influenced
by the Sadducees who didn't believe in a real resurrectionand didn't believe
in angels. Theydenied the supernatural and they were the...the theological
liberals of the time and they had greatinfluence on a lot of people.
And there were the legalists as wellas the liberals. They were the Pharisees
and everybody they influenced who believed that they could work their way to
heaven by their own righteousness andtheir own adherence to Jewish
ceremony, that they could be good enoughon their own. And those legalists
commanded a large following.
And then there were those that we could saywere the politicizers, the people
who had reduced Judaism to a political thing. They were nationalists. They
were zealous for the preservationof the nation Israel and its political
autonomy and independence and their goalin life was to overthrow Rome and
get back their autonomy as a people and they're often identified as Zealots,
sometimes calledthe sikariibecause they carried little daggers andstabbed
Romans. They were the terrorists.
There was another group of Jews that one could adhere to and those would be
the Esseneswho were ascetics,they were hermits. They lived out in the...in
the wilderness and they were out there in a monkish kind of life, isolatedfrom
all societycontemplating their theology. And in the midst of this mix in a...in
a nation that had fallen far awayfrom God, there was a very, very small
remnant, a very small remnant, in fact even after the three-year ministry of

Jesus, afterHis death and resurrectionwhen all the believers of Jerusalem
gatheredin the Upper Roomthere were only 120 of them.
But there were in Israelsome. There was a remnant of righteous ones.
Zacharias and Elizabeth, the father and mother of John the Baptist,
introduced to us in chapter1 verse 6, are introduced as being righteous. They
were a part of that remnant. God was working the coming of His Messiah
and the forerunner to the Messiah, the prophet, John, He was working that all
out through righteous people, people who belongedto Him, who believed in
Him, who were right with Godbecause they had come to grips with their
sinfulness, knew they couldn't save themselves and repented of their sins and
castthemselves on the mercy of God. And God had forgiven them and saved
them from their sin. They were the righteous remnant.
And it's important to have testimony from righteous people. First of all, we
find that Josephand Mary were righteous and the evidence of that comes
because it is said of Joseph... Josephthat he was righteous, Matthew 1:19.
And secondly, we know that Mary was righteous because ofwhat came out of
her mouth in chapter 1 verse 46, she said, "My soulexalts the Lord and my
spirit has rejoicedin God, my Savior." Godwas her Savior. She too was a
righteous girl.
Their commitment to God, the devotion of their lives is indicated. Let me
show you how it's indicated. It tells us in verse 21 here that they circumcised
Jesus, now that according to the law, that according to the law of God. They
followedthe law. It tells us in verse 22 that according to the law of Moses they
brought Him to Jerusalemto present Him to the Lord. I should say, according
to the law of Mosesshe had her purification, it says in the beginning of the
verse, "When the days for their purification according to the law of Moses
were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem." Verse 23 says, "Itis
written in the law of the Lord, every firstborn male that opens the womb shall
be called holy to the Lord." Verse 24 says, "To offersacrifice according to
what was said in the law of the Lord." Downin verse 27 it says, "Whenthe
parents brought in the child Jesus to carry out for Him the custom of the
law," againthe law of the Lord. Verse 39 says, "When they had performed
everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their

own city of Nazareth." Five times it mentions that they were committed to the
law of the Lord.
You know, James, I guess, has a good insight into this. James says, "Faith
without works is (what?) is dead." And true saving faith shows up in
obedience. And these people were obedient. They were compliant with the
law of the Lord. They delighted in the law of the Lord and they did the will of
the Lord, as revealedin His law.
So here is a righteous young couple. They're just...they're just kids by our
definition, but they were righteous before God. They were saved. Their sins
had been forgiven and they were devout and they were committed to the
obedience of the law of God as an expressionof their love and their worship
toward God. And they are incredible witnesses.
And then in introducing Simeon to us, we'll see him next week, but in
introducing Simeon to us, Luke takes greatpains to establishhow righteous
he is. And then introducing Anna to us, the way Luke introduces Anna, we
can't imagine that there was any womanin all of Israelwho was as righteous
as Anna was. And, of course, the fourth testimony is given by God who is
righteous in His nature.
So what you have here is confirming testimony by parents, Simeon, and Anna.
And then a final word from God Himself is indicated here. Incredible
witnesses to Luke's accountthat this in fact Jesus, Sonof God, Savior of the
world.
Now the setting here is tied to two things. It's tied to Mosaic law because
you're in the temple. And what's going to go on here is all connectedto the
Mosaic law and to temple sacrifices andtemple offerings. Also, this entire
passageborrows richly from the writings of Isaiah. That shouldn't surprise us
because from chapter 40 of Isaiah through 66, Isaiahunfolds the Messiah. So
you're going to see a very Jewishbackground, very Jewishsetting for the
scene that unfolds. It is tied to the Old Testamentlaw and prophets, Mosaic
law and the prophecies of Isaiah. Righteous people giving testimony to the
identity of Jesus Christ. This is critical so that His assertations concerning

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