PROCLAIMED - Angel proclaims to Simeon

SCRIPTURES
Luke 2:25-35 | At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people.  He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!” Jesus’ parents were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them, and he said to Mary, the baby’s mother, “This child is destined to cause many in Israel to fall, and many others to rise. He has been sent as a sign from God, but many will oppose him. As a result, the deepest thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your very soul.”


DISCUSSION

1. What was proclaimed by God to Simeon?
2. How was God’s proclamation (or promise) fulfilled?
3. How did Simeon know to be in the temple that day?

• Do you hear the Holy Spirit speak to you like Simeon did? If so, about what? If not, why do you think that is?
• When the Holy Spirit speaks to you, do you listen as obediently as Simeon did? Imagine what Simeon would have missed out on if He didn’t!  

4. When Simeon holds the baby Jesus, what does he say he has seen? How do you think he knows this?
5. Simeon was so thankful to have met the Savior. Do you reflect this same level of thanks to God? Why or why not? How can you show it?