September 14, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 2
1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.
21 And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
22 And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;
23 (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)
24 And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.
25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
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,
28 Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:
30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
33 And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
36 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;
37 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
39 And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.
40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.
42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.
43 And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.
44 But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.
45 And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.
46 And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.
47 And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.
48 And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.
49 And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?
50 And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.
51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.
52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
Luke Chapter 2 contains the story of the birth of Jesus, one of the most central events in the Christian faith. The account begins with the census that leads Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem and culminates in the birth of the Savior in humble and modest circumstances. Additionally, we encounter important figures such as the shepherds and Simeon, who play a special role in recognizing the significance of Jesus. This chapter emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and divine providence, which is revealed through the birth of the Savior.
Commentary
Luke 2 begins with a historical context: the census ordered by Emperor Augustus forces Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy from Micah 5:1 that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. The circumstances of Jesus’ birth, in a manger with no room in the inn, highlight the humility and simplicity with which the Savior of the world enters the world.
The appearance of the angel to the shepherds emphasizes the fact that the good news is first proclaimed to the lowly and the outcasts. This is a strong indication that Jesus’ mission is for all people, regardless of their social status. The angel announces that the Savior, the Messiah, is born in the city of David, and the shepherds respond with faith and haste to see the child.
The presentation of Jesus in the temple and the encounter with Simeon and Anna emphasize the fulfillment of Old Testament promises. Simeon recognizes in the child the “light for revelation to the Gentiles,” confirming that Jesus came not only for Israel but for the entire world. Simeon’s prophetic words to Mary about the sword that will pierce her soul already point to the coming suffering she will endure as Jesus’ mother.
Later in the chapter, we see the twelve-year-old Jesus in the temple, where he engages in discussions with the teachers of the law. This event reveals his early wisdom and his awareness of his special relationship with God, his Father. It highlights that Jesus recognized his divine calling from a young age.
Summary
Luke 2 narrates the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, his presentation in the temple, and his early wisdom as a child. The humility of his birth and the joy of the shepherds, who are the first to hear the news, underline the universal significance of the Savior for all people. Simeon and Anna confirm that Jesus is the fulfillment of the messianic prophecies. The chapter concludes with an episode from Jesus’ childhood, demonstrating his exceptional wisdom and divine calling. Luke 2 clearly shows that Jesus is the promised Messiah, bringing light and salvation to all nations.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 61—Zacchaeus
This chapter is based on Luke 19:1-10.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction:
The story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-10 is a powerful narrative of conversion, repentance, and forgiveness. It takes place in Jericho, a wealthy city known for its lush vegetation and economic prosperity. At the center of the story is Zacchaeus, a tax collector who is despised by society for his profession and wealth. However, his encounter with Jesus becomes a turning point in his life, as he experiences a radical transformation through the grace of Jesus.
Commentary:
Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector, was a man who possessed wealth and power but was inwardly dissatisfied and guilty. His profession, often associated with injustice and extortion, had alienated him from his people. Yet, Zacchaeus was open to change. When he heard about Jesus, the teacher who welcomed even the outcasts, a hope for a better life was kindled within him. This shows that in every person, even the most despised, there is a desire for renewal.
The circumstances under which Zacchaeus encounters Jesus are symbolic of his inner state: he is small in stature and cannot see over the crowd. This reflects his social standing, but he overcomes this obstacle by climbing a tree—a sign of his intense desire to see Jesus. This gesture is rewarded when Jesus speaks to him directly and announces that he will stay at his house.
The reaction of the crowd, criticizing Jesus for staying with a “sinner,” is typical of the religious elites of that time who excluded people like Zacchaeus. But Jesus makes it clear that his mission is to save those who are lost, not just the righteous. Zacchaeus’ repentance is deep and sincere; he offers to give half of his wealth to the poor and repay those he has wronged four times over.
This encounter reveals the transformative power of forgiveness and grace. Zacchaeus’ conversion is an example of true repentance, which manifests in concrete actions. It is not enough to confess mistakes; they must also be corrected, just as Zacchaeus does. His decision to support the poor and make restitution shows that he has internalized Jesus’ teachings.
Summary:
The story of Zacchaeus is a narrative about conversion, grace, and the power of forgiveness. Although he was a wealthy and despised tax collector, his encounter with Jesus shows that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy. Zacchaeus’ repentance is radical and sincere, as he is willing to correct his wrongs and help those in need. This story teaches us that true conversion is not only visible in words but also in concrete actions, and that Jesus comes to those who seek a new beginning. It reminds us that God’s grace can transform even the hardest hearts.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 62—The Feast at Simon’s House
This chapter is based on Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-11; Luke 7:36-50; John 11:55-57; John 12:1-11.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction:
The feast at Simon’s house in Bethany, based on the Gospel accounts (Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-11; Luke 7:36-50; John 11:55-57; John 12:1-11), is a profound episode in the life of Jesus. This feast, hosted by Simon, a healed Pharisee, shows us the connection between gratitude, repentance, and divine forgiveness. The accounts highlight the tensions between genuine expressions of love and the selfishness present in the hearts of the disciples and other attendees.
Commentary:
The feast at Simon’s house is particularly marked by Mary’s action of anointing Jesus with expensive nard oil. This gesture represents deep love and devotion to Christ, as Mary wanted to thank him for the forgiveness of her sins and the raising of her brother Lazarus. Her act demonstrates how true gratitude is expressed through concrete, selfless actions, regardless of external criticism. However, Judas, who considered the anointing a waste, revealed his selfish nature, which ultimately led him to betray Jesus.
It is interesting to see how Jesus gently corrects Simon’s self-righteous thoughts. While Simon had been healed by Jesus, he had not yet fully understood the depth of forgiveness. Through the parable of the two debtors, Jesus illustrates that forgiveness and love are interconnected. Those who receive great forgiveness also show greater love. Simon’s pride and judgment were exposed, and through Jesus’ gentle rebuke, he recognized his own guilt.
The reaction of the disciples, who initially criticized Mary’s action, reveals their immaturity in understanding devotion. Jesus’ acknowledgment of Mary’s deed teaches us that true devotion and love are never wasted. Jesus recognized the anointing as a symbolic act pointing to his impending death, and he blessed Mary for her prophetic insight.
Summary:
The feast at Simon’s house is a moving example of the contrast between genuine devotion and selfishness. While Mary anointed Jesus out of deep gratitude and love, Judas was driven by greed and self-interest. Through his parable and reaction to Mary’s action, Jesus shows that love and forgiveness are central to faith. Simon’s pride and Judas’ betrayal stand in stark contrast to Mary’s selfless love, which serves as a model for future generations. This episode teaches us the importance of expressing our faith through acts of love and devotion.
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