New Testament
Luke 2:26
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And it was revealed to him by the Holy Ghost that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
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And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
What Luke 2:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we learn about a man named Simeon who was promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah, referred to as the Lord's Christ. This revelation highlights the special relationship between God and Simeon, showing that God communicates His plans to those who are faithful. Simeon’s anticipation of seeing the Messiah reflects the hope and longing of many in Israel for the coming Savior. The phrase 'Holy Ghost' indicates the divine source of this revelation, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and revealing God's truth to individuals. This moment is significant as it sets the stage for Simeon's encounter with Jesus, the fulfillment of God's promise. It illustrates the importance of faith and patience in waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled in our lives, reminding us that God is faithful to His word and that He has a plan for each of us.
How to apply Luke 2:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to trust in God's promises and to remain faithful, even when we are waiting for answers or fulfillment. Like Simeon, we can find hope in knowing that God has a plan for our lives and will reveal it in His perfect timing.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jesus Presented at the Temple (Luke 2:21–38)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Luke 2:26
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 2:26 mean?
Luke 2:26 means that Simeon was promised by the Holy Spirit that he would not die until he had seen the Messiah, highlighting God's communication with faithful individuals.
What is the significance of the Holy Ghost in Luke 2:26?
The Holy Ghost in Luke 2:26 signifies the divine source of revelation, showing how the Holy Spirit guides and reveals God's plans to those who are faithful.
What does 'Lord's Christ' refer to in Luke 2:26?
'Lord's Christ' in Luke 2:26 refers to the Messiah, the anointed one sent by God to save His people, which Simeon was eagerly waiting to see.
How does Luke 2:26 relate to faith and patience?
Luke 2:26 relates to faith and patience by illustrating Simeon's trust in God's promise and his waiting for the fulfillment of that promise, encouraging us to remain faithful in our own lives.
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