Luke 2:33-35
Suggested further reading: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25
What Simeon said of the results that follows when Jesus and His gospel came into the world deserves serious meditation. It is a prophecy that is still being fulfilled daily.
Christ was to be “a sign spoken against”, receiving intense verbal and physical persecution. And so it proved. Those who could not agree on anything could agree to hate Him. From the beginning there has been a multitude of persecutors and unbelievers.
Christ would cause many in Israel to fall. He was to be an offence to many who were proud and self-righteous and in rejecting Him perish in their sins. And so it was proved—then and still today.
Christ would cause many in Israel to rise. He became the Savior of many who at one time rejected, blasphemed, and reviled Him, but afterwards repented and believed. And so it proved—then and still today. He who changed the water into wine, changed lives into something beautiful and useful.
Christ would reveal the thoughts of many hearts. His gospel brings to light our true character. When pressed, some will reveal their utter contempt of God but others because of their weariness and hunger for truth, love, and life, find in the preaching of the cross the answer to their questions, the solution to their problems. And so it proved—then and today.
What do you think of Christ? That is the supreme question in life. What thoughts and feelings does He call forth in our minds and hearts? This question demands our thoughtful answer. Are we for Him or against Him? Do we love Him or neglect Him? Do we stumble at His doctrine or do we find it to be life in this world of death?
Lanny Tanton is the Pastor at The Bible Church of the Lakes in Horseshoe Bay, Texas – just outside of Marble Falls. Pastor Tanton welcomes you to our website and hopes that you’ll enjoy reading these insightful blog posts. Please contact us if you have further questions!!
