Sunday School Lesson January 2, 2022
Subject: The Light and Glory of God
The Point: Jesus reveals God’s glory and love.
The Passages: Luke 2:25-35
Study The Bible: Luke 2:25-27a
1). Simeon was promised he would not die before meeting the Messiah.
- There was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon. This man was righteous and devout, looking forward to Israel’s consolation, and the Holy Spirit was on him.
- It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he saw the Lord’s Messiah.
27a. Guided by the Spirit, he entered the temple.
Lasting truths from: Luke 2:25-27a
* Simeon was a man of high character and faith, and he walked in the power of the Spirit.
* Those who live in the Spirit are filled with power and hope for the future.
* The Holy Spirit guides believers to the places they need to be to see Jesus.
2). Simeon prophesied Jesus would bring light to unbelievers.
Luke 2:27b-32
27b. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to perform for him what was customary under the law,
- Simeon took him up in his arms, praised God, and said.
- Now, Master, you can dismiss your servant in peace, as you promised.
- For my eyes have seen your salvation.
- You have prepared it in the presence of all people —
- a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to your people Israel.
Lasting truth from: Luke 2:27b.-32
* God is sovereign in bringing the gospel to the nations.
* Israel was part of God’s sovereign plan.
* Jesus brought hope to all peoples and nations as He fulfilled the plan of God.
3). Simeon prophesied that Jesus’ life and death would change the world.
Luke 2:33-35
- His father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him.
- Then Simeon blessed them and told his mother Mary, ”Indeed, this child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be opposed —
- and a sword will pierce your own soul – that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Lasting truth from: Luke 2:33-35
* Jesus created a dividing line between those who believe and those who do not believe.
* Jesus’ own family struggled with belief at times.
* Mary would witness the death of her son, and it would bring pain to her soul.
Live It Out
As you reflect on this session, respond to the following questions:
- What kept hope alive in Simeon’s life as he expected the Messiah in his old age?
- How do you think the Jews felt when they heard Simeon’s prophecy included Gentiles? How strong in your commitment to take the gospel to the nations?
- If you are a follower of Christ, at what point in your life did you move from falling in unbelief to rising in faith?
Closing Prayer:
“Dear God, I know I am a sinner. I believe Jesus died on the cross to forgive me of my sins and rose from the dead to give me new life. I’m sorry for all the wrong I’ve done and ask You to forgive me. I now accept Your gift of eternal life. Thank You for Your love, forgiveness, and a new life in Jesus Christ. From this day forward, I choose to follow You. In Jesus’ name Amen.”