What role does obedience play in Simeon's encounter at the temple? Spirit-Led Steps • Luke 2:27 sets the tone: “Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple courts…”. • Simeon’s very movement is an act of obedience—he does not stroll into the temple on a whim; he responds to direct Spirit guidance. • The Greek verb for “came” (ēlthen) carries a deliberate sense—Simeon arrives because he is sent. Obedience Opens the Door to Divine Appointments • Simeon’s obedience places him at the precise location and moment God has ordained for meeting the Messiah. • Notice the dual obedience in the scene: – Simeon obeys the Spirit’s prompting. – Mary and Joseph obey Mosaic Law by presenting Jesus (Luke 2:22-24). • Two strands of obedience converge, revealing God’s orchestration; without either, this prophetic encounter would not occur. Obedience as Worship • 1 Samuel 15:22 reminds us, “To obey is better than sacrifice.” Simeon’s obedience functions as worship more pleasing than any burnt offering he might have brought. • His response—blessing God (Luke 2:28-32)—flows naturally from that worshipful obedience. Echoes Through Scripture • Psalm 37:23: “The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD.” Simeon lives this verse literally—his steps are Spirit-ordered. • Romans 8:14: “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.” Simeon exemplifies Spirit-led sonship before the New Covenant is even in full view. • John 14:21: “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me.” Simeon’s love for God is demonstrated not by talk but by responsive action. Consequences of Obedience • Revelation: Simeon’s eyes behold the promised Savior (Luke 2:29-30). • Confirmation: His prophetic words affirm Jesus’ identity to Mary and Joseph (vv. 33-35). • Peace: “Now let Your servant depart in peace” (v. 29)—obedience ushers Simeon into a settled, fulfilled rest. Personal Takeaways • Divine appointments are often waiting on the other side of simple, timely obedience. • Obedience aligns us with God’s redemptive timetable; it is not merely compliance, but participation. • When the Spirit prompts, “coming in” (Luke 2:27) may feel ordinary, yet it can become the stage for God’s extraordinary revelation. |
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