Expository Thoughts On Luke - Luke 2:25-35
J.C. Ryle expounds on the faith and hope exemplified by Simeon, illustrating God's faithful presence even in dark and challenging times.
In this expository sermon on Luke 2:25-35, J.C. Ryle explores the story of Simeon, a devout man who recognized Jesus as the Messiah by the Holy Spirit. Ryle emphasizes God's faithfulness in preserving a believing remnant even during times of spiritual decline. Through Simeon's prophecy and blessing, the sermon encourages believers to trust in God's promises and the enduring nature of the true church.
Text
THE PROPHECY OF SIMEON
We have in these verses the history of one whose name is nowhere else mentioned in the New Testament, "a just and devout man" named Simeon. We know nothing of his life before or after the time when Christ was born. We are only told that he came by the Spirit into the temple, when the child Jesus was brought there by His mother, and that he "took him up in his arms and blessed God "in words which are now well-known all over the world.
We see, in the case of Simeon, how God has a believing people even in the worst of places, and in the darkest times. Religion was at a very low ebb in Israel when Christ was born. The faith of Abraham was spoiled by the doctrines of Pharisees and Sadducees. The fine gold had become deplorably dim. Yet even then we find in the midst of Jerusalem a man "just and devout"--a man "upon whom is the Holy Spirit."
It is a cheering thought that God never leaves Himself entirely without a witness. Small as His believing church may sometimes be, the gates of hell shall never completely prevail against it. The true church may be driven into the wilderness, and be a scattered little flock, but it never dies. There was a Lot in Sodom and an Obadiah in Ahab\
Sermon Outline
-
I. Introduction to Simeon
- Simeon as a just and devout man
- His unique mention in the New Testament
- The significance of his encounter with Jesus
-
II. The Spiritual Condition of Israel
- Low state of religion at Christ's birth
- Corruption of Abraham's faith by Pharisees and Sadducees
- The dimming of true faith in Israel
-
III. God's Faithful Remnant
- God's people present even in dark times
- The presence of the Holy Spirit on Simeon
- The assurance that the church will never die
-
IV. The Prophecy and Blessing of Simeon
- Simeon's recognition of the Messiah
- His blessing of God upon holding Jesus
- The prophetic words concerning Jesus' mission
Key Quotes
“We see, in the case of Simeon, how God has a believing people even in the worst of places, and in the darkest times.” — J.C. Ryle
“It is a cheering thought that God never leaves Himself entirely without a witness.” — J.C. Ryle
“The true church may be driven into the wilderness, and be a scattered little flock, but it never dies.” — J.C. Ryle
Application Points
- Trust that God preserves a faithful remnant even in spiritually dark times.
- Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to recognize and embrace Jesus as the Messiah.
- Be encouraged that the true church will never be overcome despite challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Simeon?
Simeon was a just and devout man in Jerusalem, filled with the Holy Spirit, who awaited the consolation of Israel and recognized Jesus as the Messiah.
What was the spiritual state of Israel at Jesus' birth?
Religion was in decline, with true faith dimmed by the teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees.
What does Simeon's prophecy signify?
It signifies the fulfillment of God's promise in Jesus and the salvation He brings, along with the challenges He will face.
How does this sermon encourage believers today?
It reminds believers that God always preserves a faithful remnant and that His promises are sure even in difficult times.
Why is Simeon's story important in the gospel narrative?
It highlights God's faithfulness and the recognition of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah by a Spirit-led believer.