Luke 2:31

KJV

Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

KJV (with Strong's)

Which {G3739} thou hast prepared {G2090} before {G2596} the face {G4383} of all {G3956} people {G2992};

Complete Jewish Bible

which you prepared in the presence of all peoples --

Berean Standard Bible

which You have prepared in the sight of all people,

American Standard Version

Which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Luke 2:31 captures a pivotal moment in Simeon's prophetic prayer, known as the Nunc Dimittis, as he holds the infant Jesus in the Jerusalem temple. This verse declares that the salvation God has prepared is not for a select few, but is openly manifested and intended for the entire world, foreshadowing the universal scope of the Gospel message that would transcend ethnic and national boundaries.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Simeon's inspired declaration in [Luke 2:29-32](/luke/2-29-32 "Simeon's Prophecy - Nunc Dimittis"), often referred to as the Nunc Dimittis ("Now you dismiss"). Having been promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Messiah, Simeon's long-awaited encounter with the infant Jesus in the temple elicits a profound prayer of thanksgiving and prophecy. The preceding verses ([Luke 2:22-28](/luke/2-22-28 "Presentation of Jesus in the Temple")) describe Mary and Joseph bringing Jesus to the temple for the traditional rites of purification and presentation, setting the scene for Simeon's Spirit-led recognition of the Christ child. His prayer serves as a theological bridge, connecting Old Testament messianic expectations with the New Testament reality of Jesus's universal mission.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The setting is the Second Temple in Jerusalem, a central hub for Jewish religious life during the Roman occupation. Jewish law mandated the purification of a mother 40 days after childbirth and the presentation of the firstborn son to the Lord ([Leviticus 12:1-8](/leviticus/12-1-8 "Laws of Purification After Childbirth") and [Exodus 13:2](/exodus/13-2 "Consecration of the Firstborn")). At this time, Israel was under Roman rule, and there was a widespread yearning among devout Jews for the promised Messiah who would deliver them from foreign oppression and restore the Davidic kingdom. However, Simeon's prophecy, particularly in [Luke 2:32](/luke/2-32 "Simeon's Prophecy - Light to the Gentiles"), expands on this nationalistic expectation, indicating that the Messiah's salvation would extend beyond Israel to the Gentiles, a concept often hinted at in the Old Testament but not fully grasped by many contemporary Jews.
* **Key Themes:** Simeon's prophecy in [Luke 2:29-32](/luke/2-29-32 "Simeon's Prophecy - Nunc Dimittis") contributes significantly to several key themes within Luke's Gospel and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Preparation and Sovereignty**, emphasizing that God Himself has "prepared" this salvation, indicating a pre-ordained, deliberate plan unfolding in history. Secondly, the phrase "before the face of all people" introduces the profound theme of **Universal Salvation**, asserting that God's redemptive work through Jesus is not exclusive to Israel but is intended for all humanity, foreshadowing the inclusion of the Gentiles. This theme is further elaborated in [Luke 2:32](/luke/2-32 "Luke 2:32 - Light to the Gentiles") where Jesus is explicitly called "a light to lighten the Gentiles." Thirdly, the public nature of Simeon's declaration in the temple highlights the theme of **Public Manifestation and Revelation**, signifying that God's salvation is not a secret or hidden mystery but is openly revealed and made accessible for all to witness and embrace.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **prepared (Greek, _hetoimázō'_):** From G2090, meaning "to prepare, provide, make ready." This word emphasizes God's active, intentional, and sovereign role in bringing about salvation through Christ. It suggests a divine plan that was set in motion long before Jesus's birth, meticulously arranged and ready for manifestation.
* **face (Greek, _prósōpon'_):** From G4383, meaning "the front (as being towards view), i.e. the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person." In this context, "before the face" (κατὰ πρόσωπον, _kata prosōpon_) signifies a public, visible, and undeniable manifestation. It implies that God's salvation is not hidden or obscure but is openly displayed for all to see and encounter.
* **people (Greek, _laós'_):** From G2992, meaning "a people (in general; thus differing from δῆμος, which denotes one's own populace)." While _laós_ can refer specifically to the Jewish people in some contexts, its use here in conjunction with "all" (πᾶς, _pâs_) strongly extends its meaning to encompass all nations and ethnic groups. It points to the universal scope of God's redemptive plan, transcending the boundaries of Israel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Which thou hast prepared":** This opening clause immediately attributes the salvation to God's initiative and forethought. The relative pronoun "Which" (G3739, _hós_) refers back to "thy salvation" from [Luke 2:30](/luke/2-30 "Luke 2:30 - Thy Salvation"). The perfect tense of "hast prepared" (G2090, _hetoimázō_) underscores that this salvation is a completed work in God's eternal plan, now being revealed in the person of Jesus. It highlights divine intentionality and readiness.
* **"before the face":** This phrase, translating the Greek _kata prosōpon_ (G2596 + G4383), denotes a public and visible display. It is not a secret or exclusive salvation, but one that is openly presented. The imagery of "face" implies direct encounter and undeniable presence, suggesting that this salvation is not merely abstract but is made concrete and accessible to human experience.
* **"of all people;":** This final clause, translating _pantōn tōn laōn_ (G3956 + G2992), is critical for understanding the universal scope of Simeon's prophecy. "All" (G3956, _pâs_) leaves no room for exclusion, and "people" (G2992, _laós_), in this context, clearly refers to all nations, not just Israel. This declaration shatters any ethnocentric limitations on the Messiah's mission, proclaiming that God's salvation is for every human being, regardless of their background or origin.

#### Literary Devices
Luke 2:31 employs several significant literary devices. **Prophecy** is central, as Simeon, filled with the Holy Spirit, foretells the universal reach of God's salvation through Jesus. The phrase "before the face" uses **Synecdoche**, where "face" (a part) stands for the whole person's presence or public view, emphasizing the open and undeniable manifestation of God's prepared salvation. Furthermore, the verse utilizes **Inclusivity** through the emphatic use of "all people," highlighting the expansive nature of the Gospel message that breaks down barriers between Jew and Gentile. This inclusive language sets the stage for the broader narrative of Luke-Acts, which consistently emphasizes the worldwide scope of Christian mission.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Luke 2:31 is a profound theological statement, asserting the universal nature of God's redemptive plan through Jesus Christ. It dismantles the notion of a salvation exclusive to one nation, proclaiming that God's prepared deliverance is for "all people." This truth is foundational to Christian theology, emphasizing God's boundless love and His desire for all humanity to come to Him. Simeon's prophecy anticipates the Great Commission, where the Gospel would be proclaimed to every tribe, tongue, and nation. It underscores the biblical theme of God's covenant faithfulness extending beyond Abraham's physical descendants to embrace all who believe, fulfilling ancient promises of a global blessing.

* [Luke 2:32](/luke/2-32 "Luke 2:32 - Light to the Gentiles")
* [Isaiah 49:6](/isaiah/49-6 "Isaiah 49:6 - Light to the Nations")
* [Acts 13:47](/acts/13-47 "Acts 13:47 - Paul's Mission to the Gentiles")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Simeon's declaration in Luke 2:31 serves as a powerful reminder of the expansive and inclusive nature of God's love and salvation. It challenges us to move beyond any narrow or exclusive understanding of the Gospel, recognizing that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world, prepared by God for all humanity. This truth should ignite within us a passionate desire to participate in God's global mission, sharing the good news with people from every background, culture, and nation. It calls for humility, empathy, and a willingness to cross cultural boundaries, just as God's salvation transcended the boundaries of Israel. When we grasp the universal scope of God's plan, our hearts are enlarged, our prayers become more global, and our efforts in evangelism and discipleship are infused with a greater sense of purpose and urgency.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Simeon's prophecy of "salvation for all people" challenge any exclusive or limited views of God's love or the Gospel that you might hold?**
* **In what practical ways can you participate in making God's "prepared" salvation known "before the face of all people" in your sphere of influence?**
* **Considering that God prepared this salvation, what does this tell you about His intentionality and commitment to humanity's redemption?**

### FAQ
**What does "before the face of all people" truly signify in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "before the face of all people" (Greek: _kata prosōpon pantōn tōn laōn_) signifies that God's salvation, embodied in Jesus, is publicly and visibly manifested for everyone to see and experience. It emphasizes that this salvation is not hidden, secret, or exclusive to a select group, but is openly displayed and accessible to all humanity. The "face" here implies presence and direct encounter, highlighting the undeniable reality and universal availability of God's redemptive work. It anticipates the global reach of the Gospel, as seen in [Matthew 28:19](/matthew/28-19 "Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission") and [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Witnesses to the Ends of the Earth").

**Who are the "all people" Simeon refers to in his prophecy?**

Answer: While _laós_ (people) can sometimes refer specifically to the Jewish people, the context of Simeon's prophecy, especially when combined with "all" (Greek: _pâs_), clearly indicates a universal scope. Simeon explicitly clarifies this in the very next verse, [Luke 2:32](/luke/2-32 "Luke 2:32 - Light to the Gentiles"), where he states that Jesus is "a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel." Therefore, "all people" refers to all humanity, encompassing both Jews and Gentiles, signifying that God's salvation through Jesus Christ is intended for every nation, tribe, and tongue. This inclusive vision aligns with Old Testament prophecies of a global Messiah, such as [Isaiah 42:6](/isaiah/42-6 "Isaiah 42:6 - Covenant to the Nations").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Luke 2:31, spoken by Simeon, is a profound Christ-centered prophecy that finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "salvation" that God "prepared before the face of all people" is none other than Jesus Himself, the incarnate Son of God. He is the visible manifestation of God's eternal plan to redeem humanity, fulfilling the Old Testament promises of a Messiah who would not only be the glory of Israel but also a "light to lighten the Gentiles" ([Luke 2:32](/luke/2-32 "Luke 2:32 - Light to the Gentiles")). Jesus's life, death, and resurrection, openly displayed for all to witness, constitute the very means by which this universal salvation is made available. His atoning sacrifice on the cross, as described in [John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God So Loved the World"), demonstrates God's love for "the world," not just a select few. The Great Commission, given by the resurrected Christ in [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission"), directly flows from this universal preparation, commissioning His followers to take this prepared salvation to "all nations." Thus, Jesus is the embodiment and the agent of the salvation prepared by God for all humanity, making Him the central figure in God's redemptive history.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 42:1

¶ Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, [in whom] my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.

Isaiah 42:4

He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law.

Psalms 98:2

The LORD hath made known his salvation: his righteousness hath he openly shewed in the sight of the heathen.

Psalms 98:3

He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

Isaiah 62:1

¶ For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp [that] burneth.

Isaiah 62:2

And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the LORD shall name.

Isaiah 45:21

Tell ye, and bring [them] near; yea, let them take counsel together: who hath declared this from ancient time? [who] hath told it from that time? [have] not I the LORD? and [there is] no God else beside me; a just God and a Saviour; [there is] none beside me.