The bull of St Luke

THE GOSPEL OF LUKE

The Presentation in the Temple: Lk 2,22-39

Read through the episode. We have seen in the chapter overview the bracket formed at beginning and end. How many verses describe the presentation itself? What scene dominates this episode? What expression is repeated several times and emphasised in these verses? See if you can spot what will be a familiar characteristic of this Gospel which is now making its appearance for the first time.

Those introductory comments now need a response from me.

The Purifcation and Presentation: 2,22-24

Purification according to the law of Moses is described in Leviticus chapter 12. Who is purified? What are the two themes in these verses?

For the other theme here, see Exodus 13,2. However, there is a requirement not mentioned by Luke: Numbers 3,46-48. What is the significance of this omission? See also 1 Samuel 1,28.

Look at at my response.

Simeon: 2,25-35

We have noted that this encounter of Simeon with Jesus is the centre piece of this episode. How is Simeon introduced? See Isaiah 40,1. Also look back at 1,41.67. What does this tell us about Simeon? What do we learn from verse 26? What is the significance of the emphasis on the Spirit?
What are we told in the two parts of verse 27?

Then from verse 28, Simeon blessed God in the words of his canticle, known traditionally at the Nunc Dimittis.

As with the other canticles, it is the scriptural echoes which we need to pick up. Genesis 15,15 or Tobit 11.9, for example, for verse 29.

Then in verse 30, look back to see the importance of the theme (eg 1,47; 1,69; 2,11). It is the language of Isaiah which comes to the fore: Is 40,5 or 52,10.

Verse 31 brings out the note of universal salvation: Ps 117,2 or Is 52,7-10; 56,6-7.

Finally, for verse 32, look at Isaiah 42,6; 46,13 or 49,6

Simeon then turns to the parents and specifically Mary, 2,34-35 and gives them his blessing (as in 1,42). The controversial role of the child is highlighted as well as the cost to the mother. This will unfold in the story to be told.

Anna: 2,36-38

How is Anna described in a way similar to Simeon? Note the comment in Acts 2,17. How do these two reflect another couple who have already appeared in the Gospel?

See how portrayal of Anna recalls Judith, (Jud 8,1-8), an earlier saviour of Israel. Consider what we know of Anna in light of Jud 16,23.

How does verse 39 bring this episode to its conclusion?

Look now at my response.

We can now continue and read what Luke tells us about the childhood of Jesus, Lk 2,40-52.