New Testament
Luke 2:33
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Joseph and his mother were amazed at the things Simeon said about the child.
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And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
What Luke 2:33 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see Joseph and Mary, the parents of Jesus, experiencing a moment of wonder and amazement. Simeon, a devout man, had just prophesied about Jesus, revealing His significance as the Messiah. Their reaction indicates that they were deeply moved by the words spoken about their child, highlighting the extraordinary nature of Jesus' birth and mission. This moment reflects the fulfillment of God's promises and the anticipation surrounding Jesus' life. It also emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the divine purpose in our lives, even when it may be unexpected or beyond our understanding. Joseph and Mary's amazement serves as a reminder that faith often involves awe and wonder at God's plans, which can surpass our expectations. This verse invites us to reflect on our own responses to God's revelations and the ways He works in our lives, encouraging us to remain open to His guidance and the extraordinary things He can do through us.
How to apply Luke 2:33 to your life
This verse encourages us to remain open to the surprising ways God works in our lives. Just as Joseph and Mary were amazed by Simeon's words, we should cultivate a sense of wonder and gratitude for God's guidance and the unique paths He lays out for us. Embrace the unexpected.
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 2:33
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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 2:33 mean?
Luke 2:33 describes the amazement of Joseph and Mary at the prophetic words spoken by Simeon about their child, Jesus. This reaction highlights their recognition of Jesus' significance and the extraordinary nature of His birth.
What is the significance of Simeon's prophecy in Luke 2:33?
Simeon's prophecy in Luke 2:33 reveals Jesus as the Messiah and emphasizes the fulfillment of God's promises. It underscores the importance of recognizing the divine purpose in Jesus' life and the impact He would have on the world.
Why were Joseph and Mary amazed in Luke 2:33?
Joseph and Mary were amazed in Luke 2:33 because Simeon spoke profound truths about Jesus' future and His role as the Savior. Their amazement reflects their understanding of the extraordinary mission their child was destined for.
What does this verse teach about faith?
This verse teaches that faith often involves moments of awe and wonder, as seen in Joseph and Mary's reaction. It encourages us to remain open to God's revelations and the unexpected ways He works in our lives.
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