Message Notes

Circumcision of Jesus           Luke 2:21 (Cf. Genesis 17; Leviticus 12; Galatians 5:1-6)

1. Naming of the child is tied in with circumcision

2. Deep roots of the practice of circumcision

a) Sign of the covenant

b) Christ had to fulfil this law

c) Circumcision is not required in the New Covenant (Galatians 5)

Purification of Mary          Luke 2:22; Leviticus 12:2-5

1. Considered unclean for 40 days

2. Purification ceremony

a) Offering of a lamb and a dove/pigeon

b) Two turtle doves or pigeons (for the poor)

c) Mary gave an offering of the poor

Presentation of Jesus           Luke 2:23; Exodus 13:2, 11-16

1. The firstborn (male) to be consecrated           Exodus 12:2

a) Commanded by God

b) To be taught to the children of Israel

2. Explanation of why the firstborn belonged to God especially           Exodus 12:11-16

a) Remembering the time when God slew the firstborn of the Egyptians

b) Remembering how the Lord spared the firstborn of the children of Israel

Significance

1. Presentation of children to the Lord

2. Acknowledging that all children belong to God and should be dedicated

3. Equivalent: Paedo-baptism