Scripture (NIV): (Luke’s Introduction)1 Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, 2 just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. 3 With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.
Note: Luke opens with a dedication to Theophilus, emphasizing his thorough investigation and reliance on eyewitness testimony. His purpose is to provide an accurate, orderly account of events surrounding Jesus’ life, ensuring confidence in the truth of the Gospel. This highlights the intentionality and reliability of Scripture.
- Cross-References:
- John 20:31: “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah…”
- Acts 1:1: Luke begins his second volume by again addressing Theophilus.
The Setting: Zechariah and Elizabeth’s Righteousness (Verses 5-7)
Scripture (NIV):5 In the time of Herod king of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah, who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah; his wife Elizabeth was also a descendant of Aaron. 6 Both of them were righteous in the sight of God, observing all the Lord’s commands and decrees blamelessly. 7 But they were childless because Elizabeth was not able to conceive, and they were both very old.
Note:: Luke introduces Zechariah and Elizabeth, highlighting their faithfulness and blamelessness before God despite their inability to have children. This cultural context magnifies the miracle God is about to perform and foreshadows His redemptive power in impossible situations.
- Cross-References:
- Genesis 17:15-19: God promises Abraham and Sarah a child despite their old age.
- Psalm 113:9: “He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children.”
Zechariah’s Service in the Temple (Verses 8-10)
Scripture (NIV):8 Once when Zechariah’s division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God, 9 he was chosen by lot, according to the custom of the priesthood, to go into the temple of the Lord and burn incense. 10 And when the time for the burning of incense came, all the assembled worshipers were praying outside.
Note: Zechariah’s selection to burn incense in the temple was a significant and rare honor, symbolizing intercession for the people. The setting underscores God’s divine orchestration of events as He prepares to reveal His plan to Zechariah.
- Cross-References:
- Exodus 30:7-8: Burning incense is an act of worship and intercession.
- Revelation 8:3-4: Incense represents the prayers of God’s people ascending to Him.
Gabriel’s Announcement (Verses 11-17)
Scripture (NIV):11 Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. 12 When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear.13 But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. 14 He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, 15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born. 16 He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. 17 And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”
Note: Gabriel’s message reveals God’s plan to answer Zechariah’s prayers by giving him a son, John, who will prepare the way for the Lord. John’s role as a prophet in the spirit of Elijah emphasizes the continuity of God’s redemptive work from the Old Testament to the New.
- Cross-References:
- Malachi 4:5-6: Prophecy of Elijah’s return to turn hearts.
- Isaiah 40:3: “A voice of one calling: ‘In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord.’”
Zechariah’s Doubt and Temporary Muteness (Verses 18-20)
Scripture (NIV):18 Zechariah asked the angel, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.” 19 The angel said to him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. 20 And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their appointed time.”
Note: Zechariah’s doubt contrasts with the faith God expects from His servants. Gabriel’s authority and rebuke emphasize the importance of trusting God’s Word. Zechariah’s muteness serves as both a sign and a consequence of his disbelief.
- Cross-References:
- Genesis 18:12-14: Sarah doubts God’s promise of a child due to her old age.
- Romans 4:19-21: Abraham’s unwavering faith in God’s promise.
The People Await Zechariah (Verses 21-23)
Scripture (NIV):21 Meanwhile, the people were waiting for Zechariah and wondering why he stayed so long in the temple. 22 When he came out, he could not speak to them. They realized he had seen a vision in the temple, for he kept making signs to them but remained unable to speak. 23 When his time of service was completed, he returned home.
Note: Zechariah’s prolonged absence and inability to speak confirmed to the people that he had encountered a divine vision. His experience underscores the sacredness of God’s revelation and its transformative impact.
- Cross-References:
- Daniel 10:15-17: A vision leaves Daniel speechless.
- Acts 2:12-13: God’s interventions often leave people amazed and questioning.
Elizabeth’s Joyful Seclusion (Verses 24-25)
Scripture (NIV):24 After this his wife Elizabeth became pregnant and for five months remained in seclusion. 25 “The Lord has done this for me,” she said. “In these days he has shown his favor and taken away my disgrace among the people.”
Note: Elizabeth’s response reflects gratitude and recognition of God’s mercy. Her seclusion likely symbolizes a period of reflection and worship, highlighting the personal nature of her encounter with God’s grace.
- Cross-References:
- Genesis 21:6-7: Sarah rejoices in God’s fulfillment of His promise.
- Psalm 126:3: “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.”
Key Takeaways
- God Works Through the Faithful
- Zechariah and Elizabeth’s righteousness demonstrates that God accomplishes His purposes through those who live in obedience, even in the face of challenges.
- God’s Power in Impossible Circumstances
- God specializes in making the impossible possible, as seen in Elizabeth’s miraculous conception.
- Faith and Trust in God’s Word
- Zechariah’s doubt serves as a cautionary example, reminding us to trust God’s promises, even when they seem unlikely.
- God’s Timing Is Perfect
- God’s plans unfold according to His appointed time, fulfilling His promises with precision and purpose.
- Preparation for the Messiah
- John the Baptist’s mission exemplifies the importance of preparing hearts to receive Jesus, emphasizing repentance and reconciliation.This passage reminds us of God’s sovereignty, His faithfulness, and the joy that comes from trusting in His promises.
1 Corinthians 1:27-29 NIV [27] But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. [28] God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, [29] so that no one may boast before him.