Youth Bible Study
Verse of The Day
Luke 2:34 -35. And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.” (ESV)
Intro
The statement above was made by Simeon when the infant Jesus was brought to the temple for dedication. The Bible recounts that Simeon had prayed his whole life to see the Christ. As Joseph and Mary entered the temple, the spirit of God led Simeon to them. Holding the child in his hands, he uttered prophetic words, including those spoken to Mary.
Mary’s Heart.
The prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:34-35) came to pass not with a literal sword, but with a far more agonizing pain for Mary. She had to witness her son, Jesus, unjustly condemned, mocked, and tortured. She would have seen the scourging, the crown of thorns, the agonizing journey carrying the cross. And finally, the most heart-wrenching sight – Jesus crucified on the cross.
Imagine the emotional torment Mary endured. Yet, through it all, she remained silent, her strength fueled by her unwavering faith and love for Jesus. In a way, she shared His martyrdom, bearing the weight of His suffering alongside Him.
Mary’s experience challenges us to reflect on our own walk with Christ. Do we truly share in His sacrifice? Do we demonstrate our faith not just in times of joy, but also in times of hardship?
The Rising & The Falling
The prophets foretold a coming Messiah who would change countless lives. Despite the clear fulfillment of these prophecies in Jesus, the Israelite leaders, especially the religious elite, remained blind. They refused to acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God.
This pattern of rejection continues today. The Gospel message is widely preached, yet many turn a blind eye, choosing to focus on worldly pursuits. Romans 5:8 reminds us of God’s incredible love, shown through Christ’s sacrifice for us while we were still sinners. Yet, by clinging to sin, we essentially reject this love, mirroring the actions of those ancient Israelite leaders.
John 1:9-13 emphasizes this point. Jesus, the true light, came into the world, yet the world He created did not recognize Him. He came to His own people, but they rejected Him. However, for those who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He offered the incredible gift of becoming children of God.This passage reminds us to avoid repeating the mistakes of the Israelites. Let’s embrace the light of Jesus and the gift of God’s love offered through Him.
And For You My Dear Youth
Coming to our lives – The question we need to ask ourselves today is – are we among the rising or the falling? Does the birth and death of Christ mean anything to us? Have we received the light that came into this world? Are we born of God? it doesn’t matter how kind we tend to be, how generous or how friendly we are, it doesn’t matter how pious or religious we tend to be, it doesn’t matter how often we go to church. What matters is reflecting God in all we do. Jesus said “if you love me keep my commandments cos he is the way the truth and life and no one goes to the Father except through him. If the people around us can’t see Christ in us then we have failed.
Prayer
As we meditate on this word today may God grant us the grace to fight this race to the end through Christ our lord. Amen.
Overcoming Addiction
I write to you, young men and women, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you, and you have overcome the evil one (ESV 1 John 2.14)
Remain Blesses Always