god rules! · babe ruth, can set the record straight though. an umpire named babe pinelli once...
TRANSCRIPT
God Rules!
Luke 2:1–7 (NKJV)
As a historian, Luke identified the time period of Jesus’ birth by naming the Roman
emperor and the local governor.1
The Romans ruled Palestine; [and] Emperor Caesar Augustus, the first Roman
emperor, was one of the greatest of all Roman rulers. He was a good
administrator and was [meticulous] about the financial accounting of his empire.
Augustus ended the civil war in the land and brought peace and prosperity
throughout the Empire. He reigned from 27 B.C. to A.D. 14. The Roman rulers,
considered to be like gods, contrasted greatly with the tiny baby in a manger who
truly was God in the flesh.2
I. God Rules over Kings and Kingdoms, (Luke 2:1, 2)
2 And it came to pass in those days (a time prior to Luke 1:80)
that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus (the first Roman
emperor, and one of the greatest) that all the world (meaning the
Roman Empire) should be registered (all would be registered for tax
purposes, and for some it would include serving in the military as well
– all Jews though were exempt from Roman military service). 2 This
census first took place while Cyrenius (a Roman Senator, whom Augustus
raised up from obscurity to highest honors) was governing Syria (a second
census took place in A.D. 6 that Luke mentions in Acts 5:37 and by Josephus—
these ran in 14 year cycles after Caesar Augustus started them).
When Rome said, “Jump,” those under Rome said, “How high.”
Rome was full of itself.
Their emperor’s came to be so full of themselves that they began to see
themselves as gods, & they not only accepted worship…they demanded it.
Rome truly believed that they were sovereign over the world they ruled.
Babe Ruth, can set the record straight though.
An umpire named Babe Pinelli once called Babe Ruth out on strikes. When the crowd booed with sharp disapproval at the call, the legendary Ruth turned to the
Barton, B. B., Veerman, D., Taylor, L. C., & Osborne, G. R. (1997). Luke. Life application Bible commentary (36–37). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publishers. Barton, B. B., Veerman, D., Taylor, L. C., & Osborne, G. R. (1997). Luke. Life application Bible commentary (36–37). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publishers.
umpire with disdain and said, "There’s 40,000 people here who know that the last pitch was ball, tomato head." Suspecting that the umpire would erupt with anger, the coaches and players braced themselves for Ruth’s ejection from the game. However, the cool headed Pinelli replied, "Maybe so, Babe, but mine… is the only opinion that counts."
Believers need to realize that God’s judgment is:
* the only one that counts
* and thus resist the temptation to cave in or become angry over our
disappointments. – Where is Rome today?
> Rome came into the world and went out just as God predicted and willed in the Book of Daniel.
> Rome’s reign was allowed, used and sustained by God’s sovereign power
and authority, and for His purposes not theirs.
> It’s the same in our world today! God reigns sovereign over all nations and authorities.
We need to rely on God’s sovereign choices for us regardless of whether they seem right or not at the moment.
God was in control of Rome, its emperors and their wills.
Proverbs 21:1 (NLT) – The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by
the Lord; He guides it wherever he pleases.
Abraham Kuyper, (who was the Prime Minister of The Netherlands (1901-05).
Said once that) “In the total expanse of human life there is not a single
square inch of which… the Christ, who alone is sovereign, does not declare,
'That is mine!'”
Billy Graham is quoted as saying concerning God’s ruling hand, that, “God is
unchanging in His love. He loves you. He has a plan for your life. Don't let
the newspaper headlines frighten you. God is still sovereign; He's still on
the throne.”
Our government can’t take the road it is progressively moving towards and not
suffer the consequences. It ought to disappoint us but not frighten us. We ought
to be able to see the consequences coming, see them, but not be surprised by
them.
There is not a king or kingdom, an authority in the entire world that God doesn’t
rule over. Nor is there a judge, boss, spouse, parent, child, teacher etc... Not one,
not anywhere, not anytime.
II. God Rules over Times and Timetables, (3-7)
3 So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city (the
city of his or her ancestry). 4 Joseph also went up from Galilee,
out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David
(where he was born), which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house
and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who
was with child. 6 So it was, that while they were there, the days were
completed for her to be delivered (to have the baby). 7 And she brought forth
(gave birth to) her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths
(wrapped Him snugly in strips of cloth), and laid Him in a manger (a feeding
troth), because there was no room for them in the inn (being filled to capacity).
Joseph leaves Nazareth to go to Bethlehem in order to comply with the Emperor’s
decree, and it just so happens on the day of their arrival, Mary has her baby,
Jesus.
That’s cutting it a little close isn’t it?! What if they were one day later and she had
her baby somewhere else. Prophecy wouldn’t have been fulfilled then. Wow,
wasn’t God lucky! No, He wasn’t lucky, the fulfillment of His will and prophecy is
with pin-point accuracy… every time, all the time.
Not only was God in control of Rome, its emperors and their wills... but God was
also in control of the timing of the execution of their wills.
Think something through with me.
Look at Luke 1:38. What did Mary say to the angel who told her she would
miraculously give birth to the Messiah, whom she was to call Jesus?
Luke 1:38a – Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me
according to your word…”
Does that verse mean that God only has a plan for the lives of people like Joseph and
Mary? That’s not what a trove of other Scriptures tell us. One of the best concerning all
gospel believers is Jeremiah 29:11.
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) – I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a
future.
Whether you are a Caesar or a Joseph, or a Mary, or even God’s Son, as Jesus Himself said, “I came not into this world to do my will, but the will of Him who sent Me”, no matter WHO you are, God the Father has a plan for your life!
A.T. Pierson used to say, “History is His story,”
and President James A. Garfield called history “the
unrolled scroll of prophecy.”
[So] WHO’S [REALLY] IN CHARGE?
[Yes] The Romans ruled the civilized world [in Josephs and Jesus’] time.
[And yes, by contrast, Joseph controlled very little [and Mary controlled even less].
[And] Against [Joseph’s] better judgment and political convictions he complied with the Roman order and traveled with Mary to Bethlehem.
[But, tell me, is it not true that people often] feel like Joseph,/ [trapped] by forces larger than they are[?]
The Romans were in control [only] insofar as human authority can get its way
by exerting human power. But the Romans did not recognize their limitations. In reality, God (and God alone) controls the world. In all times and places, He works His will [according to His time table.].
God did not write Roman law, but judged it.
God did not soften Joseph’s bumpy road, but strengthened him.
God does not take away your free will, but He directs your life.
He will guide you and provide all you need, within whatever circumstances man or a broken world may place you in.
Like Joseph, [we need to] live each day by faith, trusting that God is in charge.3
Our real problem is that we attribute to the forces around us that put pressure
on our lives, with more power than they actually have and we attribute to ourselves less than God provides for us.
AROUND 70 MILES (5 MILES FROM JERUSALEM)
Barton, B. B., Veerman, D., Taylor, L. C., & Osborne, G. R. (1997). Luke. Life application Bible commentary (39). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publishers.
III. God Rules over Powers and Prejudice
8 Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields,
keeping watch over their flock by night (The rabbis considered them to be
religious outcasts and their testimony was not [even accepted] in court.4 These
flocks could also have been the sacrificial lambs for the temple).
Since it is by God’s power and authority that His children are to do all things, it
doesn’t matter
what your station in life is,
or what your personal resources are,
or even what your personal intelligence or abilities are.
The story is told of a philosophy professor at the University of Southern California. He was a committed atheist and used every opportunity in his introductory course to disprove the existence of God. Because of his flawless logic, students were afraid to contradict him. He had taught this class for 20 years, and every semester on the final day of class he would issue a challenge. He would stand at the front of the large lecture hall and say to the 300 or so students: "If anyone here still believes in God, stand up!" In all those years, no one had ever dared to stand up. Then he would say, "If you still believe in God, you're a fool. If God did exist, He could keep this piece of chalk from hitting the floor and breaking into pieces. A very simple task for an almighty God, wouldn't you say? Yet He can't do it!" His voice dripped with sarcasm and scorn. Every year he would drop the chalk, and it would shatter on the hard tile floor. The students would just stare, many of them convinced that he had proved God didn't exist. Surely, there had been Christian students in these classes, but none of them had had the courage to stand up. A few years ago, however, a freshman enrolled in the class because it was required for his major. This young man was terrified of the professor because he had heard the stories, but he prayed every morning during the semester that when the day came he would have the courage to stand up for his faith. Finally, on the last day, the prof issued his usual challenge: "If there's anybody here who still believes in God, stand up!" The freshman got to his feet. Everyone in the hall turned to look at him as the professor shouted, "You fool! If God is real, He can keep this piece of chalk from shattering when it hits the floor."
As he said it, the piece of chalk slipped out of his hand, bounced off his sleeve, hit
his shoe, and rolled across the floor unbroken. The professor looked at the young man
and then angrily stomped out the door. In the stunned silence that followed, the student
Utley, R. J. D. (2004). Vol. Volume 3A: The Gospel According to Luke. Study Guide Commentary Series (Lk 2:8). Marshall, Texas: Bible Lessons International.
made his way to the front of the room and began to share his testimony with 300 very
attentive classmates.
IV. God Rules over Angels and Arrangements Appearances
9 And behold, an angel (messenger) of the Lord stood before them
(suddenly appeared, right out of the blue), and the glory (the brightness,
splendor) of the Lord shone (eliminated the area—it wasn’t their glory that
illuminated the darkness) around them, and they were greatly afraid (absolutely
terrified). 10 Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring
you good tidings (wonderful news) of great joy (that will result in tremendous
joy) which will be to all people. (regardless of gender, age, status, etc.) 11 For
(the good news which will fill you with joy is that) there is born to you (individually
as well as collectively) this day (right now, at this very moment) in the city of
David (Bethlehem) a Savior (Messiah, Redeemer), who is Christ (the Anointed
One) the Lord (the Master). 12 And this will be the sign to you (this is how you
will find your Savior): You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying
in a manger.”
13 And suddenly (again quite unexpectedly and all at once) there was with
the angel a multitude (an army) of the heavenly host (angels of God) praising
God and saying:
14 “Glory (splendor, honor, majesty) to God in the highest (in heaven for
sending a Savior), and on earth (God’s) peace, goodwill toward men (for the
provision of man to be reconciled with his Creator)!”
An angel appeared at a faculty meeting and told the dean that in return for his
unselfish service, he will be rewarded with his choice of wealth, wisdom, or
beauty. Without hesitating, the dean selects wisdom. "It is done!" the angel said,
and then disappeared into a cloud of smoke. All of the other members of the
faculty stared at the dean with amazement. Finally one of them whispered, "Now
that you have infinite wisdom, Dean, say something." The dean looked them and
said, "I should have taken the money."
September 11th, 2001 just past 9:00am, Stanley Praimnath, Vice President for
Fuji Bank, was in his office in the South Tower at WTC when his phone rang. “Are
you watching the news?’ asked a woman the Chicago office. “Are you alright?”
“I’m fine” he said wondering why she had called. Just then he turned to gaze out
the window at the Statue of Liberty, as had been his routine. The surreal sight of a
low-flying commercial jet, heading straight for his tower disrupted his view. He
dropped the phone in mid-sentence and dove to the floor. Curling under his desk
he began praying to God, “Lord, help me” he prayed desperately as the aircraft
smashed into the tower.
The smell of jet fuel in the air, equipment scattered all around, rubble covering the
floor, dust in the air, he began clawing across mound of debris. “Lord, I have to go
home to my family,” he wheezed. “I have to see my daughters.” Just then he saw
a light.
“I am here to help you.” He thought, “This is my guardian angel! The Lord sent
somebody to help me!” Praimnath’s guardian angel was Brian Clark, a Christian
who was an executive 3 floors below. The 2 miraculously climbed out of the rubble
to safety.
Praimnath stated, “My Lord has some unfinished tasks for me.” “I took the tattered
clothes I was wearing that day, put them in a box, and wrote DELIVERANCE all
over it. I told my wife, ‘if I ever get spiritually cold, I want you to bring this box to
me, open it up, and show me what the Lord brought me from.”
V. God Rules over Circumstances and Conclusions
15 So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that
the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem (let’s follow
through on this wonderful news) and see this thing that has come to pass (like
Mary, they believed the angel), which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And
they came with haste (rushed off, all but fell over one another) and found Mary
and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. 17 Now when they had seen Him
(Jesus who was the focus of attention and worship---not Joseph and/or Mary),
they made widely known (they told not just Joseph and Mary, but anybody and
everybody) the saying which was told them (by the angel) concerning this
Child, (being the Savior—they became the first NT Evangelists who had seen the
Christ!). 18 And all those who heard it marveled (were filled with wonder) at
those things which were told them by the shepherds (concerning what they
saw, heard and discovered). 19 But Mary kept (cataloged) all these things and
pondered them in her heart (over and over again). 20 Then the shepherds
returned (to their flock), glorifying (worshiping) and praising (testifying of) God
for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them (by Him).
The worst of circumstances and the best of conclusions
"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on Life.
Attitude, to me, is more important than facts.
It is more important than the past, than education,
than money, than circumstances, than failures,
than successes, than what other people think,
or say or do.
Attitude is more important than appearances,
giftedness, or skill.
Attitude will make or break a company --- a church --- a home.
The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day
regarding the attitude that we will embrace for that day.
We cannot change our past,
we cannot change the fact that people
act a certain way.
We cannot change the inevitable.
The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have,
and that is our attitude ---
I am convinced that life is 10% what happens
to me and 90% how I react to it." ---Chuck Swindoll.
Bill Klem was a famous National League umpire. He used to have a habit of
hesitating a minute before signaling a ball or a strike. It was just a quirk of his.
One day there was this young hotshot pitcher on the mound who would fire away,
and Bill Klem would take his dear old time calling the pitch.
Finally, in about the 6th inning, the kid was getting irritated. He threw a crucial
pitch and then just couldn’t help yelling, “Come on, Bill. What is it?” Klem pulled
off his face mask, stared the kid down, and said, “It ain’t nothing ‘til I call it
something.”
In light of God, kings and kingdoms, times and timetables, powers and prejudices,
angels and appearances, circumstances and conclusions, ain’t nothing, until we
call them something.
The Arrival of “THE” King!!
Luke 2:21–40
I. The King’s Arrival at the Temple, (21-24)
21 And (according Jewish law) when eight days were completed for the
circumcision of the Child, His name was called Jesus, (as naming the baby
was part of the ceremony—Jesus was) the name given by the angel before He
was conceived in the womb. (God is NEVER out of touch! He not only knows
what is going on, but He also is orchestrating it! (EXAMPLE: stage without props,
backgrounds, lighting, sound system, costumes, makeup, directors, scripts, etc.)
The name Jesus is very fitting for it is the Greek form of the Hebrew name
Joshua which means “Yahweh is salvation”.5 John 14:6 (NKJV) – Jesus said to
him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except
through Me. Acts 4:12 (NKJV) – Nor is there salvation in any other, for there
is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be
saved.” John 10:1-2, 7 – “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter
the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief
and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep… 7 Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door
of the sheep.
We see several aspects of Joseph’s and Mary’s obedience here don’t we.
They followed through with the Jewish law of circumcision.
They officially named the baby according to the Jewish law.
And they gave the baby the name they were told by the angel, Jesus.
Jesus is in the hands of faithful parents.
Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., & Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures (Lk 2:21). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
What would a faithful parent look like today?
Proverbs 22:6 – Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old
he will not depart from it. Well what does that look like?
Deuteronomy 11:18a,19 (NAS) – “You shall therefore impress these words of
mine on Y O U R heart and on your soul... You shall teach them to Y O U R
C H I L D R E N , speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you
walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.
If we do that, we should have no problem quoting 1 Corinthians 11:1 to our
children, no matter what their age – Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.
22 Now when the days of her (Mary’s) purification according to the law of
Moses were completed, they brought Him (Christ) to Jerusalem to present
Him to the Lord
The couple was required by the Law not only to have Jesus circumcised (Lev.
12:3), but also to present their firstborn to God (Ex. 13:2, 12) 33 days later and to
bring an offering for Mary’s purification after childbirth (Lev. 12:1-8).6
_________________________________________________________________
We must remember though that there’s no magic in dedicating a child to the Lord,
but it is a huge statement and commitment by the parent—concerning their values
and their desire to transfer those same values to their children!
Do you remember for example Manoah and his wife. Their son, Samson, was
dedicated to the Lord from birth. An angel of the Lord even affirmed it!
Manoah and his wife trained Samson up in the way he should go, but did Samson
respond in a godly fashion to their training? No, but he did, at the conclusion of
his life end up in the faith chapter of Hebrews 11. He pretty much wasted his life,
but confessed it and repented of it at the end.
A different account of dedicating ones child to the Lord is found in 1 Samuel 1:28–
2:1 (NIV) – So now I (Hannah) give him (Samuel) to the LORD. For his whole
life he will be given over to the LORD.” And he worshiped the LORD there. 2:1
Then Hannah prayed and said: “My heart rejoices in the LORD; in the LORD
Walvoord, J. F., Zuck, R. B., & Dallas Theological Seminary. (1983-). The Bible knowledge commentary : An exposition of the scriptures (Lk 2:21). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
my horn is lifted high. My mouth boasts over my enemies, for I delight in
your deliverance.
Have you dedicated your child or children to the Lord, whether formally or
personally? If you have, are you following through on that commitment?
And you children, how are you responding to the training you are receiving?
23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb
shall be called holy to the Lord” ), 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to
what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young
pigeons.” (Which would not unduly burden the poor, like Joseph and Mary.)
You don’t have to have a lot of money or material possessions to be a faithful
servant, a good parent, or a godly child. All God requires is that we be faithful to
Him with however much or little He has allowed us to acquire.
II. The King Is Recognized by Simeon, One of His Faithful Servants, (25-35)
A. The faithful servant wanted to be like his King, (25a)
25 And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and
this man was just (righteous before God in his actions and motivations)
B. The faithful servant revered his King, (25b)
and devout (God fearing—right with God in his attitude and reverence),
C. The faithful servant looked forward to meeting his King, (25c)
waiting for (in an expectant way) the Consolation (encouragement and comfort)
of Israel (which the Messiah would bring),
D. The faithful servant listened to the Spirit of his King, (25d-27)
and the Holy Spirit was upon him (influencing him). 26 And it had been
revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had
(physically) seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 So (as a result) he came by the Spirit
into the (general area or outer courts of the) temple. And when the parents
(Joseph and Mary) brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the
custom of the law,
E. The faithful servant embraced his King, (28a)
28 he (Simeon) took Him (Jesus) up in his arms
God held the position of first place in the heart and life of Simeon and thus
Simeon had his mind open, his heart overflowing, his eyes looking expectantly and
his hands busy.
How about you and me?
Does God hold first place in our lives?
Are we “just” (righteous before God in our actions and motivations)
“and devout” (God fearing—right with God in our attitude and
reverence),
“waiting for” (in a patient and expectant way for our) “Consolation”
(encouragement and comfort)
o Are our minds open to the promises of God? (as a child’s needs to
be to a parents instruction)
o Are our hearts overflowing with reverence concerning God?
o Are our eyes looking expectantly for the presence and activity of
God? (In our life and in the lives of those around us.)
o Are our hands busy in the service of God?
F. The faithful servant rejoiced over his King, (28b-32)
and blessed God
1. The source of his peace, (28c, 29)
and said:
29 “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart (pass into eternity) in peace
(full and at rest), according to Your word (as You promised I would);
The word depart in the Greek has several meanings, and each of them tells us
something about the death of a Christian. It means:
to release a prisoner, to untie a ship and set sail,
to take down a tent (see 2 Cor. 5:1–8),
and to unyoke a beast of burden (see Matt. 11:28–30).
God’s people are not afraid of death because this [departure] only frees us from the
burdens of this [broken world] and leads into the blessings of the next life.7
Philippians 1:23–24 (NIV) – I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and
be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I
remain in the body.
In another sense when an individual lost in sin looks to Christ for the forgiveness
of his sin and becomes a gospel believer, a disciple of Christ, he is to depart from
all that is contradictory to God’s character and will.
2 Timothy 2:19 – Nevertheless the solid foundation of God stands, having
this seal: “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who
names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”
2. The source of his salvation, (30) 30 For my eyes have seen Your (means or Person of) salvation (the Christ
Child)
3. The source of everyone’s salvation, (31)
31 Which You have prepared (set in motion even before the foundation of the
world, [Rev. 13:8]) before the face of all peoples (for the benefit of the
entire human race),
4. The source of light to the Gentiles, (32a)
32 A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles (the penetrating, revealing truth of
God to wake the Gentiles up from their spiritual darkness and lead them to
salvation),
5. The source of glory to Israel, (32b)
and the glory of Your people Israel,” (being the people through whom the light,
the Messiah comes.)
Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Lk 2:21). Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books.
When you depart from your old life and all things become new through faith in
Christ, who wants to go back to his old way of living?
Mark 5:15, 18-20 – 15 … they came to Jesus, and saw the one who had been
demon-possessed and had the legion, sitting and clothed and in his right
mind. And they were afraid…18 And when He got into the boat, he who had
been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. 19 However,
Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell
them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had
compassion on you.” 20 And he departed and began to proclaim in Decapolis
all that Jesus had done for him; and all marveled.
G. The faithful servant blessed & informed the King’s guardians, (33-35)
33 And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were
spoken of Him (Jesus). 34 Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His
mother,
1. Some will be offended by the King & judged by Him, (34b)
“Behold, this Child is destined for the fall (meaning destruction, ruin, undoing)
2. Some will believe the King & be blessed by Him, (34c)
and rising (lifting up, elevating, promotion) of many in Israel, and for a sign
which will be spoken against (To some Christ will be a stumbling stone of
offense [Rom. 9:33]; to others Christ will be the cornerstone of their salvation [1
Pet. 2:6, 7].)
3. Your heart will be broken over your King, (35)
35 (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also [referring to
Christ’s death on the cross]), that the thoughts of many hearts may be
revealed,” (at the time of the crucifixion, it will be easy to see who is for and
against Christ).
III. The King Is Recognized by Anna, Another of His Faithful Servants, (36-40)
A. The faithful servant was a proclaimer of her King, (36)
36 Now there was one, Anna (which means Grace), a prophetess (a
forthteller), the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher (the second son of
Leah’s handmaid Zilpah—Jacob’s 8th son). She was of a great age, and had
lived with a husband seven years from her virginity;
B. The faithful servant was a worshiper of her King, (37a)
37 and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who (was still
very active in the Lord’s service whereby she) did not depart from the temple
(she was as regular an attendee of the services and the goings on as one could
be),
C. The faithful servant was in constant touch with her King, (37b)
but (her main service was towards others in that she) served God with fastings
and prayers night and day (continually).
D. The faithful servant never lost hope in her King, (38a)
38 And coming in that instant (when Joseph and Mary arrived with Jesus)
she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him (Christ) to all those who
looked for redemption (salvation— v. 25) in Jerusalem.
She shared the message with all believers (v.38b)
Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible - Outline - The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible –
Luke.
Being continually in the presence of the Lord leads to continual worship and
service on behalf of the Lord.
At five years of age Jesus models twelve sparrows out of soft clay. He claps his
hands and the sparrows become alive and fly away, etc., etc.8
The Childhood of Jesus, Luke 2:39-52
1. JESUS’ EARLY YEARS OF DEVELOPMENT WERE NORMAL (V.39-40).
Hendriksen, W., & Kistemaker, S. J. (1953-2001). Vol. 11: New Testament commentary : Exposition of the Gospel According to Luke. New Testament Commentary (179–181). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.
39 So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord
(concerning Jesus’ dedication and Mary’s purification), they returned to Galilee,
to their own city, Nazareth. 40 And (during the years following their return) the
Child (Jesus) grew (physically) and (as well) became strong in spirit (He
progressively became zealous in spiritual matters and became), filled with
wisdom (progressively became more accomplished intellectually); and the grace
of God was upon Him (The presence and blessing of God the Father became
progressively more evident within and upon Jesus. I love what Matthew Henry
says here, “The wheat sprang up without tares”.
We need to remember that (even though there were some unique features about
Jesus’ person….being both God and man) Jesus still developed progressively in
His humanity, just like any child towards adulthood.
Understanding that will help us to avoid some of the thoughts that are portrayed in
“certain apocryphal writings. These picture Jesus as being, even according to his human
nature, omniscient and almighty (or at least nearly so), and this from the very start.
Lions and leopards worship him.
The infant Jesus says to a palm, “Bend down and refresh my mother with your
fruit,” and it does so immediately.
At five years of age Jesus models twelve sparrows out of soft clay. He claps his
hands and the sparrows become alive and fly away, etc., etc.9
2. HIS FAITHFULNESS IN WORSHIP WAS NOTEWORTHY (V.41-42).
41 His parents (both) went to Jerusalem (regularly) every year at the Feast of
the Passover. 42 And when He (Jesus) was twelve years old (for the first time),
9 Hendriksen, W., & Kistemaker, S. J. (1953-2001). Vol. 11: New Testament commentary : Exposition of the Gospel According to Luke. New Testament Commentary (180). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.
they went (all together) up to Jerusalem (as a family) according to the custom
of the feast.
The law obligated all male Jews “of mature age” to go to Jerusalem thrice a year
to attend the three great feasts: Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacles (Exod. 23:14–
17; 34:22, 23; Deut. 16:16). 10
Again [we see here as we have in the earlier passages of Luke that] there is
attention to the law—Jesus grew up in a home where God’s laws were obeyed
and annual festivals observed. So, the year when Jesus was twelve years old was
no different, and the family set off for the festival as usual.11
Jesus’ parents, like most devout Jews, went to Jerusalem each year. Jesus’ family
had the right priorities. …Putting God first is a great example to children, who
quickly learn what parents care about by observing how they plan and spend
time12
3. HIS SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT WAS NORMAL (V.43-45).
43 When they had finished the days (the 7 days of the Passover Feast), as
they (Joseph and Mary) returned (to Nazareth with a traveling party), the Boy
Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not
know it; 44 but supposing Him to have been in the company (of other
members of the family and friends), they went a day’s journey, and sought Him
among their relatives and acquaintances. 45 So when they did not find Him
(in the returning caravan), they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him.
10 Hendriksen, W., & Kistemaker, S. J. (1953-2001). Vol. 11: New Testament commentary : Exposition of the Gospel According to Luke. New Testament Commentary (182). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House. 11 Barton, B. B., Veerman, D., Taylor, L. C., & Osborne, G. R. (1997). Luke. Life application Bible commentary (56). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publishers. 12 Barton, B. B., Veerman, D., Taylor, L. C., & Osborne, G. R. (1997). Luke. Life application Bible commentary (56). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publishers.
4. HIS KNOWLEDGE WAS SURPRISING (V.46-47).
46 Now so it was that after three days (of searching—A.T. Robertson says,
“One day out, one day back, one day finding him.”13) they found Him in the
temple (probably on the temple porches), sitting in the midst of the teachers,
both listening to them and asking them questions.
Since these were the days immediately following the great feast, and since
Jerusalem was the headquarters of the Jewish religion, we have a right to imagine
that several famous Jewish teachers were still to be found in the temple, for
teaching was not confined to the duration of the festivities. Here, then, was an
opportunity for Jesus which Nazareth did not afford.
It was not at all unusual for students to ask and answer questions. In fact that
was a favorite method of teaching among the Jews. The purpose was not to leave
these questions unanswered but to arouse interest among the students and to
arrive at definite answers.14
47 And all who heard Him (teachers and bystanders alike) were astonished
(“astonished” is a derivative of the word for “bewilderment” and “wonder” – We
would say today that they were “dumbfounded” or “awestruck”) at His
understanding (at the breadth and depth of Jesus’ comprehension) and answers
(at the breadth and depth of His responses).
What was unusual in the present case was the kind [and depth] of questions
this boy, Jesus, asked, and the kind of answers he gave. Both questions and
answers revealed such insight that all who were listening to him were astonished.
Soon all eyes must have been riveted on him, so that in a very real sense
whenever he spoke he became the center of attention: the boy in the midst of the
13 Hendriksen, W., & Kistemaker, S. J. (1953-2001). Vol. 11: New Testament commentary : Exposition of the Gospel According to Luke. New Testament Commentary (184). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House. 14 Hendriksen, W., & Kistemaker, S. J. (1953-2001). Vol. 11: New Testament commentary : Exposition of the Gospel According to Luke. New Testament Commentary (184). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.
teachers! Nevertheless, exaggeration must be avoided. Jesus was not yet the
teacher. That would come later.15
5. HIS MISSION WAS MISUNDERSTOOD BY HIS PARENTS (V.48).
48 So when they (Joseph and Mary) saw Him (Jesus), they were amazed
(which this time means overwhelmed, beside themselves); and His mother said
to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us (What were you thinking!)? Look,
Your father and I have sought You anxiously (greatly distressed, terribly
worried).”
6. HIS FIRST KNOWN RECOGNITION OF MESSIAHSHIP WAS AT AN
EARLY AGE (V.49-50).
49 And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me (Why did you have to search
everywhere to find me)? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s
business (meaning “things or affairs” – Of all people, did you not know that you
would certainly find Me in My Father’s places in or around My Father’s affairs? –
Another idea here is that 12 year old Jesus, was speaking as a man would speak
and not as a child, which would be confusing to them too.)?” 50 But they did not
understand the statement which He spoke to them (Maybe it was because
they were so upset, but Jesus’ statement went right over their head).
The word must was often on our Lord’s lips:
“I must preach” (Luke 4:43);
[He said to Zacchaeus, “I must stay at your house” Luke 19:5]
[“I must work the works of Him who sent Me” John 9:4]
“The Son of man must suffer” (Luke 9:22);
15 Hendriksen, W., & Kistemaker, S. J. (1953-2001). Vol. 11: New Testament commentary : Exposition of the Gospel According to Luke. New Testament Commentary (184). Grand Rapids: Baker Book House.
[He said] the Son of man “must be lifted up” (John 3:14).
[“He must go to Jerusalem” Mat. 16:21]
[“The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men” (Luke
24:7.]
[“He must rise again from the dead” John 20:9]
Even at the age of twelve, Jesus was moved by a divine compulsion to do the
Father’s will.16
I wonder if there is there anytime during the morning, afternoon or
evening…that our spouse, children or friends know that if they need us at a
particular time, they know they will find us in a certain place in the Word and
presence of God.
7. HIS OBEDIENCE TO HIS PARENTS WAS STRIKING (V.51).
51 Then He (Jesus) went down with them (Joseph and Mary) and came to
Nazareth, and was (as always) subject (obedient) to them (even though Jesus
revealed His approaching manhood and messianic business), but His mother
(Mary) kept (stored, treasured) all these things in her heart (she didn’t forget
what Jesus had said. She kept bringing His words to her mind. – This is the last
thing we hear about Joseph).
This reveals the deep nature of Mary and the proper attitude of her heart. The
mysteries were beyond her comprehension, yet she treasured them and sought
not so much to penetrate as to draw the blessedness from them. Unlike the bold
rationalist who disbelieves, rejects, or seeks to explain away what he does not
16 Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Lk 2:39). Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books.
understand about the mysteries of God, Mary regarded them as her dearest
treasures.17
8. HIS GROWTH WAS IN FAVOR WITH BOTH GOD AND MAN (V.52).
52 And Jesus increased (grew even more) in wisdom and stature, and in favor
with God and (now, even with) men. (in the social, political and religious arena.)
Jesus is a wonderful example for all young people to follow. He grew in a
balanced way (Luke 2:52) without neglecting any part of life, and His priority was
to do the will of His Father (see Matt. 6:33). He knew how to listen (Luke 2:46) and
how to ask the right questions. He learned how to work, and He was obedient to
His parents.
The Boy Jesus grew up in a large family, in a despised city, nurtured by parents
who were probably poor. The Jewish religion was at an all-time low, the Roman
government was in control, and society was in a state of fear and change. Yet
when Jesus emerged from Nazareth, eighteen years later, the Father was able to
say of Him, “Thou art My beloved Son; in Thee I am well pleased” (Luke 3:22).
May the Father be able to say that about us! 18
BEING YOUNG
If you are twelve years old, one of your hardest jobs in life is obeying the adults who run
your home. They are called parents, and they always think they know best. It’s very
tough for a twelve-year-old to keep from taking over the family and running it according
to intelligent twelve-year-old standards. But when the temptation strikes, remember
Jesus… . Even though he knew his real Father, he did not reject his earthly parents. He
went back to Nazareth with them and lived under their authority for another eighteen
years. God’s people do not despise human relationships or family responsibilities. If the
17 Lenski, R. C. H. (1961). The Interpretation of St. Luke's Gospel (170). Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Publishing House. 18 Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Lk 2:39–Lk 3). Wheaton, Ill.: Victor Books.
Son of God obeyed his human parents, how much more should you honor your family
members!19
This in-between stage of rapid physical, mental, and spiritual growth is potentially
a time during which young people begin making more of their own choices.
Scripture offers examples of teens making choices, ranging from the wise choices
of Jesus at age twelve to the poor choices of the prodigal son.
During this transition time, parents move toward letting go, recognizing that the
child has been given in stewardship from the Lord (1 Sam. 1:11; Ps. 127:3–5).
This “letting go” gives adolescents room for growth in an atmosphere of parental
guidance and influence as well as accountability (Rom. 14:12; 1 Cor. 10:13).
Parents watch their teens move from parent-control to self-control and then
hopefully to God-control.
In the midst of this “letting go,” parents of adolescents must also remember that
God created each child uniquely; each must be reared with loving attention and
encouragement to her particular talents, gifts, and personality (Prov. 3:27), with
consistent discipline to lead the child God’s way (Prov. 22:6; 27:5), with the faithful
example of a consistent Christlike lifestyle (Deut. 6:7–9; 2 Cor. 3:2, 3), with godly
counsel and advice (Prov. 12:15; 19:20), and with undergirding in prayer (1 Sam.
12:23).
Teens need to realize that they are experiencing a great time of change. They
should cling to the spiritual values they know to be true, exercise patience with self
and others, and recognize that increased authority over their own lives means
responsibility for honoring commitments and making wise choices. God
commands children to honor their parents and to obey God’s laws, regardless of
age (Eph. 6:1–3).
See also Gen. 37:1–36; Matt. 18:3, note; Luke 15:11–32; notes on Children (2
Sam. 21; Ps. 128; Prov. 22; Luke 15); Dating (1 Tim. 4); Family (Gen. 32; 1 Sam.
3; Ps. 78; 127); Girlhood (Prov. 1); Parenthood (Prov. 10); Siblings (Gen. 37)20
19 Barton, B. B., Veerman, D., Taylor, L. C., & Osborne, G. R. (1997). Luke. Life application Bible commentary (59). Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House Publishers. 20 Thomas Nelson, I. (1997). Woman's study Bible . Nashville: Thomas Nelson.