Luke 2:26

And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

And {G2532} it was {G2258} revealed {G5537} unto him {G846} by {G5259} the Holy {G40} Ghost {G4151}, that he should {G1492} not {G3361} see {G1492} death {G2288}, before {G4250}{G2228} he had seen {G1492} the Lord's {G2962} Christ {G5547}.

It had been revealed to him by the Ruach HaKodesh that he would not die before he had seen the Messiah of ADONAI.

The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

And it had been revealed unto him by the Holy Spirit, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

Commentary

Luke 2:26 describes a significant revelation given to Simeon, a righteous and devout man living in Jerusalem during the time of Jesus' birth.

Context

This verse is part of the narrative detailing Jesus' presentation at the Temple in Jerusalem, as required by Mosaic law (Exodus 13:2, Leviticus 12:6). Simeon is introduced just before this verse (Luke 2:25) as someone "just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him." This sets the stage for the divine insight he receives.

Key Themes

  • Divine Revelation: The verse explicitly states that the revelation came "by the Holy Ghost," highlighting the active role of God's Spirit in guiding and communicating with believers.
  • God's Specific Promises: God made a unique, personal promise to Simeon – that he would live to see the Messiah. This demonstrates God's attentiveness to individuals who faithfully wait upon Him.
  • Seeing the Lord's Christ: The central promise is seeing "the Lord's Christ." "Christ" is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew "Messiah," meaning the Anointed One. Simeon was promised he would see the fulfillment of Israel's hope before he died.
  • Faithful Waiting and Fulfillment: Simeon's story is one of patient waiting and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise, serving as an encouragement to those who wait on God's timing.

Linguistic Insights

The term "the Lord's Christ" uses the Greek word Christos (Χριστός), meaning "Anointed One." This directly links Jesus to the long-awaited Messianic figure prophesied in the Old Testament, who would deliver Israel and establish God's kingdom. It signifies His unique role and divine appointment.

Significance and Application

Luke 2:26 underscores God's faithfulness in keeping His promises. Simeon's life testifies that waiting on God is never in vain when guided by the Spirit. His experience is a powerful illustration of seeing God's salvation firsthand. It reminds us that God works in specific ways in individual lives and that the hope of Israel, the Messiah, has indeed come, just as God promised. Simeon's story encourages us to wait patiently for God's promises in our own lives, trusting that He will reveal His purposes in His perfect timing, much like all God's promises are "Yea and Amen" in Christ.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • John 8:51 (8 votes)

    Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.

  • Luke 9:27 (7 votes)

    But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.

  • Hebrews 11:5 (7 votes)

    By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.

  • Acts 10:38 (5 votes)

    How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.

  • Psalms 25:14 (4 votes)

    The secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.

  • Acts 2:36 (4 votes)

    Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

  • John 1:41 (2 votes)

    He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.