“Now Dismiss Your Servant in Peace” (Nunc Dimittis)

Simeon, old and worn but still buoyed by expectation, holds in his arms the Messiah he has been longing for. He cannot hold it in, speaking praise over all who can hear and offering a prophetic word over Jesus. Anna the prophetess stands nearby and speaks a word over this wonder-child as well. (Luke 2:22-38)

Sermon Outline

The First Habit of a Faithful Finisher: Seek the Holy Spirit’s presence and Obey His Leading

• Three times the Spirit mentioned with Simeon: Luke 2:25; 2:26; 2:27
• “I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.” (Luke 24:49)

The Second Habit of a Faithful Finisher: Learn God’s Word

• Simeon’s quoting Psalm 98: 2-3 and three prophecies from Isaiah 601-3, 42:1-4 & 49:6
• “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” (Joshua 1:8)

The Third Habit of a Faithful Finisher: Expect God’s Promises to Come True!

• Simeon and Anna were both “waiting” and ready
• “Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.” (Joshua 21:45)

1. He gives strength to the weary. Isaiah 40:31 “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
2. God gives wisdom to those who ask. James 1:5 “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
3. The devil will flee from you if you resist. James 4:7 “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
4. He forgives us when we confess our sins. 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
5. He will set you free. John 8:36 “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

Faithful Finishers are Ready to Receive the Promised Prize:

• “…for I am now ready to be offered and the time of my departure is at hand.” (2 Timothy 4:6)
• “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day–and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Open Up

1. Who is the oldest person you know? What do you think they would they say is their “secret” to a long life?
2. Who do you remember from your childhood that believed in you the most?

Dig In

1. Have someone (or a few people) read Luke 2: 22-40 aloud. Verses 22-35 are about Simeon, verses 36-40 about Anna.
2. Verses 1-21 of this chapter describe the birth and circumcision of Jesus. Now it is time for his “presentation.” How is this ceremony described in verses 22-24? Why do you think it was important that we see Mary and Joseph taking Jesus to be presented in the temple?
3. How do you think Simeon felt when he saw Jesus?
4. Now look at his “song” in verses 29-32. What does he say about the salvation that is brought by Jesus? If this “light of revelation” that Jesus will bring is for the Gentiles, and also for the glory of Israel, what is Simeon really saying about the revelation of Jesus?
5. Look at Simeon’s further prophesy in verses 34-35. Why do you think there will be opposition to someone bringing the revelation of God? What do you think he meant when he said to Mary that “a sword will pierce your own soul”?
6. How is Anna described in verses 36-37? Do you know any older people who are very godly, who seem to worship God with genuine power? Share a bit about them.
7. What is inspiring about Anna’s life to you?
8. In verse 38, as soon as Anna saw Jesus, what are two things she does immediately in response? How is this similar to the shepherds’ response in verses 17 and 20? What seems to be the first thing people do when they truly encounter Jesus? Have you encountered Jesus in such a way that would make you want to tell others about him?
9. Compare Simon and Anna. What did they have in common? What was their response to encountering Jesus?

Live it Out

1. Sight/Light is a theme is Simeon’s first song. What had God “shown” you that gives you hope and peace as your approach 2023?
2. Have you know anyone like Simeon or Anna in your life? (older, widowed or single woman committed to serving/worshipping God). What wisdom or encouragement have your received from them?