What did Simeon mean in Luke 2:35?
Question:
In Luke 2:25-35, it tells of Simeon who saw Jesus as a baby when Mary and Joseph took Jesus to the temple. I am wondering about the last verse, verse 35. Is this saying that the Holy Spirit also gave Simeon knowledge of what Mary would suffer as a mother? Is this what he was telling her when he said a sword would pierce her soul? I am not sure I completely understand this passage. Would you please explain it further?
Thank you so much.
Answer:
"Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, "Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed" (Luke 12:34-35).
Simeon warned Mary that, though her child was the Messiah all looked for, things would not go smoothly with this child of hers. The Holy Spirit through Simeon gave Mary a glimpse of the future. This would help her to bear the burden, but it would also strengthen her faith and the faith of others when they saw God's prophecies coming true. Jesus would cause great turmoil in Israel and become a point of derision (Isaiah 8:14; Psalm 22:6-8). As a result, Mary will also suffer great grief (John 19:25). Because of who Jesus is, people would be forced to make a choice and their choice will reveal the nature of their hearts (John 8:42-47; 15:22-24).
