Christmas · Second Sunday after Christmas · Year B
Luke 2:40-52
Jesus Presented in the Temple
January 3, 2027
Overview & Insights
“My eyes have seen your salvation, a light for revelation to the Gentiles.” (Luke 2:30-32)
This scene completes the account of Jesus’s infancy. His circumcision and naming echo those of John in 1:59–63, but, as with the account of his birth, the subsequent incidents are unique, and they lift the reader’s expectations and theological understanding to a higher level. This scene provides the setting for the third of Luke’s canticles in chapters 1–2, Simeon’s song of praise, the Nunc Dimittis. This song, with its explicit recognition that Jesus is to be the Savior of the world, not just of the Jews, brings into the open a theme that so far has been only hinted at.
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Commentary
Commentary on Luke 2:41-52 Working Preacher
Luther Seminary exegesis on the boy Jesus among the temple teachers, the RCL page for this same temple pericope.
Luke 2:41-52 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed preaching commentary on Jesus in his Father's house and growing in wisdom and favor.
Luke 2 Commentary: The Childhood of Jesus Enduring Word · David Guzik
David Guzik's evangelical verse-by-verse study covering the return to Nazareth and the visit at age twelve.
Luke 2:40 Commentaries BibleHub
Classic commentators aggregated on the child growing strong and filled with wisdom.
The Boy Jesus at the Temple (Luke 2:41-52) JesusWalk · Ralph Wilson
Ralph Wilson's study of the temple episode, useful for character detail and devotional preparation.
The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, Cycle C Sunday Connection Loyola Press · Sunday Connection
Catholic reflection and household activities on this exact boy-Jesus Gospel for all ages.
Background & Word Study
Enter the Bible: Luke Enter the Bible
Luther Seminary background on Luke's audience and the shape of the infancy narrative.
Luke 1-9 Overview BibleProject
Animated overview of the first half of Luke that frames the boy Jesus in the temple.
Luke 2:40 Interlinear BibleHub
Greek text with parsing and Strong's numbers for growing, wisdom (sophia), and grace (charis).
The Church Fathers
Sermons & Reflections
Worship & Prayers
Questions preachers ask
What is the Presentation in the Temple?
Mary and Joseph bring the infant Jesus to be presented to the Lord, where old Simeon takes him up and sings the Nunc Dimittis, and the prophet Anna gives thanks.
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