All these people died still believing what God had promised them. They did not receive what was promised, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed it. They agreed that they were foreigners and nomads here on earth.
I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, but they didn’t see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn’t hear it.
The real children of Abraham, then, are those who put their faith in God.What’s more, the Scriptures looked forward to this time when God would make the Gentiles right in his sight because of their faith. God proclaimed this good news to Abraham long ago when he said,“ All nations will be blessed through you.”So all who put their faith in Christ share the same blessing Abraham received because of his faith.
I tell you, many prophets and kings longed to see what you see, but they didn’t see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn’t hear it.”
This salvation was something even the prophets wanted to know more about when they prophesied about this gracious salvation prepared for you.They wondered what time or situation the Spirit of Christ within them was talking about when he told them in advance about Christ’s suffering and his great glory afterward.They were told that their messages were not for themselves, but for you. And now this Good News has been announced to you by those who preached in the power of the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. It is all so wonderful that even the angels are eagerly watching these things happen.
Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying,“ Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised.I have seen your salvation,