Luke 2:22 KJV

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;

Previous Verse
« Luke 2:21

Next Verse
Luke 2:23 »

Luke 2:22 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Luke 2:22

Luke 2:22 offers a profound glimpse into the early life of Jesus and the significance of His presentation at the temple. It reads:

"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."

Context and Background

To fully appreciate the importance of Luke 2:22, it is critical to understand the Jewish customs surrounding purification and presentation at the temple. In accordance with Leviticus 12:1-8, a woman who had given birth was considered unclean for a specified period. The completion of this period necessitated a presentation in the temple along with offerings.

In this light, Mary and Joseph's compliance with the law signifies their devoutness and adherence to the customs of their faith.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry’s Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes the obedience of Mary and Joseph in fulfilling the law. He notes that their action illustrates not only their faith but also sets an important example of how believers should honor God’s commandments. The presentation of Jesus at the temple is a prophetic fulfillment, showing that even in His infancy, Christ is acknowledged as holy and set apart for His divine purpose.

Obedience to the Law: Henry remarks on how Mary and Joseph demonstrate completion of religious duties, teaching that obedience to God's Word should be paramount for all believers.
Significance of the Temple: The act of presenting Jesus in the temple signifies Jesus as the true offering, foreshadowing His ultimate sacrifice.

Albert Barnes’ Notes on the New Testament

Albert Barnes sheds light on the legal requirements and the specific time frame dictated by Mosaic Law. He points out the implications of the text, suggesting that Jesus' presentation marks His introduction into the public religious life of Israel. This is not merely a ritual, but a significant act intertwining Jesus’ earthly life with the spiritual history of His people.

Mary’s Purification: Barnes indicates that after the days of purification, presenting Jesus serves to mark the end of Mary’s period of uncleanness, thus reinstating her into the community.
Connection to Jewish Faith: He highlights how Jesus’ early life is enveloped in the traditions of the Jewish faith, reinforcing His identity as Messiah within the context of Israel’s history.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary

Adam Clarke offers a detailed examination of the legal aspects of this passage, drawing attention to the necessity of offering a lamb and a turtle dove as sacrifices. Clarke alludes to the prophetic role Jesus plays even in infancy, being presented as a "light" to the Gentiles, as further revealed in the verses that follow.

Significance of Sacrifices: Clarke elaborates on the duality of Jesus’ nature being recognized—how He perfectly fulfills the law while simultaneously pointing to a new covenant.
Foreshadowing of Redemption: Clarke connects this event to the broader narrative of redemption, indicating that Jesus is the ultimate sacrifice needed for humanity.

Theological Reflections

This passage not only contextualizes the early life of Jesus but also raises several theological themes worthy of deeper consideration:

Incarnation: The act of dedicating Jesus at the temple signifies the theological concept of the incarnation, where God becomes flesh and dwells among us.
Fulfillment of the Law: Jesus' approach to the law is not one of rebellion but fulfillment, embodying the perfect obedience required by God.
Redemptive History: The presentation establishes a link between Jesus and the redemptive narrative throughout Scripture, affirming His role in God’s plan of salvation.

Practical Applications

For contemporary believers, Luke 2:22 serves several practical applications:

The Importance of Obedience: Followers of Christ are reminded to live in adherence to God’s Word, viewing the law not merely as a set of rules, but as a guide to holiness.
Dedication to God: Just as Jesus was presented in the temple, believers are called to dedicate their lives to God’s service, recognizing their identity in Christ.
Embracing Tradition: Understanding one's spiritual heritage and traditions can enrich one’s faith, bridging the gap between the ancient texts and modern-day practice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Luke 2:22 encapsulates a significant moment in the life of Jesus and serves as a theological touchstone for understanding His identity and mission. Through His presentation at the temple, we see the intersection of law, obedience, and divine purpose, which continues to resonate in the lives of believers today. The insights gleaned from public domain commentaries articulate the depth of this verse and its relevance across generations, inviting deeper reflection and application in the journey of faith.

Luke 2 (KJV) Verse Selection

KJV Bible Books

KJV Bible Books and Chapters »