The Song of Simeon “Nunc Dimities”
Text: Luke 2:25-35 (NIV)
THE PREPARATIONS FOR THE SONG (2:25-27)
Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.
As Simeon waited for “the consolation of Israel,” he remained:
Devoted to God’s Service
Open to God’s Spirit
It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts.
THE PROCLAMATIONS OF THE SONG (2:28-32)
When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the law required, Simeon took him in his arms and p[raised God, saying: Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace.
Hope in Death…i.e. “It is not death to die”
Hope for ALL
For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.
THE PREDICTIONS FROM THE SONG (2:33-35)
The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother:
A Prediction for Mankind in general: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed.
A Prediction for Mary in particular: And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”