Luke 1:57-80
Q.1. What unusual events surrounded John’s circumcision? What did the people conclude about John’s future? – (Lk.1:57-66)
Everyone rejoiced with Elizabeth on the birth of her son (Lk.1:57-58). The parents did what all Jews did on the eight day after he was born. They had him circumcised at his consecration when he was named. Elizabeth said his name was John (Lk.1:59-60 c.f. Lev.12:3). The family protested – There is no one among your relatives who is called by that name (Lk.1:61). They checked with the mute Zacharias, who wrote – His name is John (Lk.1:63). Upon this announcement, Zacharias miraculously began speaking once more, giving praise to God. The people were astounded and concluded that – the hand of the Lord was certainly with him (Lk.1:66).
Q.2. Why did God send John? What would John’s role be in Israel? What was unique about the way in which John grew up? – (Lk.1:67-80)
Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied about his son, that – the Lord God of Israel has visited us and accomplished redemption for His people … as He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from of old … to remember His holy covenant, the oath which He swore to Abraham our father (Lk.1:68, 70, 72-73). John’s birth signalled the people’s rescue from their enemies. As for John – you child shall be called the prophet of the Most-High; For you will go on before the Lord to prepare His ways; To give to His people the knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins (Lk.1:76-77 c.f. Mal.4:5-6). This was an astounding prophecy of God’s visitation to bring mankind salvation through forgiveness. It was based on God’s promise to Abraham, given long before the giving of the Law. It highlighted – the tender mercy of our God, with which the Sunrise from on high will visit us (Lk.1:78). Thus, Zacharias foresaw the coming of the Lord Jesus. He had been told about John – he will be filled with the Holy Spirit while yet in his mother’s womb (c.f. Lk.1:15). It was thus recorded that – the child continued to grow and to become strong in spirit … until the day of his public appearance to Israel (Lk.1:80).