Luke 1:13

But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, because your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John.

Study Bible

But the angel said to him
This phrase introduces a divine messenger, an angel, who is delivering a message from God. In the biblical context, angels are often seen as God's messengers, bringing important news or instructions. The Greek word for angel, "ἄγγελος" (angelos), means "messenger." This highlights the role of angels as intermediaries between God and humans. The presence of an angel signifies the importance and divine origin of the message being delivered.

Do not be afraid, Zechariah
The angel's first words are a reassurance, "Do not be afraid." This is a common phrase used by angels in the Bible, indicating that their presence, though awe-inspiring, is not meant to cause fear. The name "Zechariah" means "Yahweh remembers" in Hebrew, which is significant in this context. Zechariah, a priest, is reminded that God has not forgotten him or his prayers. The reassurance is both personal and spiritual, emphasizing God's care and attention to individual lives.

for your prayer has been heard
This phrase is a powerful reminder of God's attentiveness to human prayers. The Greek word for prayer, "δέησις" (deēsis), implies a heartfelt petition or request. Zechariah and his wife Elizabeth had been praying for a child, and this message confirms that God has heard their plea. It underscores the biblical truth that God listens to and answers prayers, though His timing and methods may differ from human expectations.

and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son
The promise of a son is a direct answer to Zechariah's prayers. Elizabeth, whose name means "God is my oath," is to bear a child despite her old age, which is a testament to God's miraculous power. This echoes other biblical narratives where God grants children to barren women, such as Sarah and Hannah, highlighting His ability to bring life and fulfill promises against all odds.

and you are to give him the name John
The instruction to name the child "John" is significant. In Hebrew, "John" (Yohanan) means "Yahweh is gracious." This name is prophetic, reflecting the role John the Baptist will play in preparing the way for Jesus Christ. It signifies the grace of God being extended to humanity through the coming of the Messiah. Naming in biblical times often carried deep spiritual and prophetic meanings, indicating the child's future role and God's purpose for their life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zechariah
A priest from the division of Abijah, serving in the temple. He is the father of John the Baptist and husband to Elizabeth.

2. Elizabeth
The wife of Zechariah, described as righteous and blameless. She is a relative of Mary, the mother of Jesus.

3. The Angel
Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, delivers the message to Zechariah.

4. The Temple
The holy place in Jerusalem where Zechariah was serving when he received the angelic visitation.

5. John
The son promised to Zechariah and Elizabeth, who would become John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

God Hears Our Prayers
Zechariah's experience reminds us that God listens to our prayers, even when the answer seems delayed.

Divine Timing
God's timing is perfect. Zechariah and Elizabeth's long wait for a child was part of God's greater plan.

Fear Not
The angel's message to Zechariah, "Do not be afraid," is a common biblical reassurance that God is in control.

Names Have Meaning
The name "John" means "God is gracious," reflecting the grace bestowed upon Zechariah and Elizabeth.

Faith in God's Promises
Despite Zechariah's initial doubt, God's promise was fulfilled, encouraging us to trust in His word.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zechariah's reaction to the angel's message reflect our own struggles with doubt and faith?

2. In what ways can we see God's perfect timing in our own lives, similar to the timing of John's birth?

3. How does the account of Zechariah and Elizabeth encourage us to remain faithful in prayer, even when answers are delayed?

4. What significance does the name "John" hold in the context of God's plan, and how can we see God's grace in our own lives?

5. How can we apply the angel's message, "Do not be afraid," to situations where we face uncertainty or fear?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 1:20
The account of Hannah, whose prayer for a child was answered by God, parallels Elizabeth's experience.

Malachi 4:5-6
Prophecy about Elijah's return, which is fulfilled in John the Baptist's ministry.

Luke 1:76-77
Zechariah's prophecy about John's role in preparing the way for the Lord.

Matthew 11:11
Jesus' affirmation of John the Baptist's greatness among those born of women.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encouragement to present requests to God, as Zechariah's prayer was heard.