34 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 35 (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
In verses 34-35, Simeon prophesied about Jesus’ confrontation with His enemies and the exaltation of some who received Him in Israel.
2:34
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
Simeon predicted that Jesus would experience opposition to His Messiahship. The “falling and rising of many in Israel” pertains to two classes of people, one that rejects the Messiah and one that embraces Him as the Messiah (Isa 8:14-15). Jesus is a “sign” whereby Israel would reject Him.
2:35
(yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
Simeon prophesied that Mary would experience the grief of a sword piercing her heart because of opposition to her son. Mary would experience the extreme pain of watching her son crucified and die (Jn 19:25).
PRINCIPLE:
God distinguishes between people.
APPLICATION:
God distinguishes between the saved and the lost. Jesus became destined to determine the destiny of people. He provided a Redeemer, but people must accept Him by believing His work on their behalf; He died for their sins on the cross. If they believe that, they will have eternal life.
When Jesus came in His first coming, Israel rejected Him. He came to His “own things” (neuter), but His “own people” rejected Him as Messiah (Jn 1:11). Only a remnant in Israel would believe in Him.
