Luke 2:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 2:27
27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
Chapter Context
Luke 2 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, sacrifice, fellowship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-52: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 2:27
27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
Analysis
He came by the Spirit into the temple (ἦλθεν ἐν τῷ πνεύματι εἰς τὸ ἱερόν, ēlthen en tō pneumati eis to hieron)—The Holy Spirit's direct guidance brought Simeon at the exact moment of Jesus's presentation. The Greek construction en tō pneumati indicates movement under the Spirit's control, demonstrating sovereign orchestration.
To do for him after the custom of the law (τοῦ ποιῆσαι κατὰ τὸ εἰθισμένον τοῦ νόμου, tou poiēsai kata to eithismenon tou nomou)—Mary and Joseph's obedience to Leviticus 12:2-8 for purification and firstborn consecration (Exodus 13:2) demonstrates Jesus born 'under the law' (Galatians 4:4). The Lawgiver Himself submits to the law's requirements, identifying fully with His people's obligations.
Historical Context
Forty days after birth, Jewish mothers presented purification offerings at the temple (Leviticus 12:2-4). The firstborn male dedication commemorated the Passover's sparing of Israel's firstborn in Egypt. Luke's careful notation of legal observance shows Jesus's family as Torah-observant Jews.
Reflection
- How does the Spirit's guidance of Simeon model sensitivity to divine promptings in our daily lives?
- What does Jesus's submission to Levitical law from infancy teach about His identification with humanity?
Word Studies
- Law: νόμος (Nomos) G3551 - Law
Cross-References
- Spirit: Acts 10:19, Revelation 17:3
- Parallel theme: Luke 2:41, 2:48, 2:51