25 And there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon ; and this man was righteous and devout , looking for the consolation of Israel ; and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ . 27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple ; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus , to carry out for Him the custom of the Law , 28 then he took Him into his arms , and blessed God , and said , 29 "Now Lord , You are releasing Your bond-servant to depart in peace , According to Your word ; 30 For my eyes have seen Your salvation , 31 Which You have prepared in the presence of all peoples , 32 A LIGHT OF REVELATION TO THE GENTILES , And the glory of Your people Israel ." 33 And His father and mother were amazed at the things which were being said about Him. 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary His mother , "Behold , this Child is appointed for the fall and rise of many in Israel , and for a sign to be opposed - 35 and a sword will pierce even your own soul -to the end that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed ."
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 2:25-35
Commentary on Luke 2:25-35
(Read Luke 2:25-35)
The same Spirit that provided for the support of Simeon's hope, provided for his joy. Those who would see Christ must go to his temple. Here is a confession of his faith, that this Child in his arms was the Saviour, the salvation itself, the salvation of God's appointing. He bids farewell to this world. How poor does this world look to one that has Christ in his arms, and salvation in his view! See here, how comfortable is the death of a good man; he departs in peace with God, peace with his own conscience, in peace with death. Those that have welcomed Christ, may welcome death. Joseph and Mary marvelled at the things which were spoken of this Child. Simeon shows them likewise, what reason they had to rejoice with trembling. And Jesus, his doctrine, and people, are still spoken against; his truth and holiness are still denied and blasphemed; his preached word is still the touchstone of men's characters. The secret good affections in the minds of some, will be revealed by their embracing Christ; the secret corruptions of others will be revealed by their enmity to Christ. Men will be judged by the thoughts of their hearts concerning Christ. He shall be a suffering Jesus; his mother shall suffer with him, because of the nearness of her relation and affection.