Christ: The Fall and Rise of Many

This passage functions as testimony to Jesus as the Christ. Luke gives the witness of two faithful Jews (Simeon and Anna). Simeon prophetically declares that Jesus' life would bring much national opposition. He would split the nation. Many will see Him as Lord, but many reject Him as an offense. Regardless, the presence of Christ reveals the hearts of all who are confronted with Him. The coming of Jesus means salvation for both Jew and Gentile alike, and Simeon's praise to God makes this clear.