Upwards Church

Welcome to Day 2!   Prayers are being said for you, as you open God’s word and read along.

Today’s chapter from Luke should be familiar to most because of our celebration of Christmas.  Many songs get their inspiration from this passage along with art and entertainment, such as Linus (Charlie Brown’s Christmas) quoting from this chapter.  

 There are four major sections I will paraphrase:   Jesus’ Birth 2:1-7 ; Shepherd’s Visit 2:8-20 ;  Mary and Joseph Dedicate Jesus 2:21-40; and Jesus at age 12 2:41-52.  

 Included below is commentary, additional thoughts and explanation for each section.    Each colored verse (Example: 2:1-4) can be clicked on to allow you to see that verse.  You will find Life Application (at least two) for each section.    

Jesus is Born in Bethlehem / 2:1-7 

 Luke is the only Gospel writer who related the events he recorded to world history. His account was addressed to a predominantly Greek audience that would have been interested in and familiar with the political situation of those times.

2:1-4 The Romans ruled Palestine; Augustus (which means “holy” or “revered” a title used exclusively for the gods) was the first Roman emperor and one of the greatest of all Roman rulers. He ended the civil war in the land and brought peace and prosperity throughout the empire. He reigned from 27 b.c. to a.d. 14.

A Roman census (registration) was taken for tax and military purposes. The Jews didn’t have to serve in the Roman army, but they could not avoid paying taxes. Augustus’s decree went out in God’s perfect timing and according to God’s perfect plan to bring his Son into the world. No one had a choice about participating in the census. Thus all returned to their own towns to register. Joseph went to Bethlehem, a journey of about seventy or eighty miles. Bethlehem was where King David grew up (1 Samuel 16; 17:12; 20:6).

• LIFE APPLICATION- WHO’S IN CHARGE?
• The Romans ruled the civilized world at this time. By contrast, Joseph controlled very little. Against his better judgment and political convictions he complied with the Roman order and traveled with Mary to Bethlehem. Often people feel like Joseph, caught by forces larger than they are.   The Romans were in control insofar as human authority can get its way by exerting human power. But the Romans did not recognize their limitations. In reality, God controls the world. In all times and places, he works his will. God did not write Roman law, but used it for his purpose. God did not soften Joseph’s bumpy road, but strengthened him. God is in charge of your life too. He will guide you and provide all you need. Like Joseph, live each day by faith, trusting that God is in charge.

 God controls all history. By the decree of Emperor Augustus, Jesus was born in the very town prophesied for his birth (Micah 5:2), even though his parents did not live there. Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem because Joseph was a descendant of King David. In fact, both Joseph and Mary were descendants of David. Old Testament prophets predicted that the Messiah would be born in David’s royal line (see, for example, Isaiah 11:1; Jeremiah 33:15; Ezekiel 37:24; Hosea 3:5).

 2:5 Luke does not explain why Mary made this difficult trip with Joseph. Perhaps they understood the final outcome of God’s plan and traveled to Bethlehem where the promised child was to be born (Micah 5:2).

• LIFE APPLICATION-COMFORT ZONES
• The government forced Joseph to make a long trip just to pay his taxes. His fiancée, who had to go with him, was going to have a baby any moment. But when they arrived in Bethlehem, they couldn’t even find a place to stay. Doing God’s will often takes people out of their comfort zones. Jesus’ life began in poverty. Later, Jesus would stress to his disciples what it meant to have no place to lay one’s head (9:58). Those who do God’s will are not guaranteed comfortable lives. But they are promised that everything, even their discomfort, has meaning in God’s plan.

 2:6-7 In simple, direct language, Luke presented the Christmas story: no trees or lights, just a manger and animals and a too-crowded inn. It isn’t surprising that there was no room for them in the village inn considering the number of travelers flocking to various cities during the time of this census.

 At some time during their visit in Bethlehem, the promised child was born. Mary wrapped the baby in strips of cloth, which were bands of cloth that were used to keep a baby warm and give it a sense of security. These cloths were believed to protect its internal organs. This custom of wrapping infants is still practiced in many Mideastern countries. Then Mary laid him in a manger, an animal’s feeding trough. She may have filled the manger with hay to make a soft bed. This mention of the manger is the basis for the traditional belief that Jesus was born in a stable. Stables were often caves with feeding troughs (mangers) carved into the rock walls. Despite popular Christmas card pictures, the surroundings were dark and dirty. Everything pointed to obscurity, poverty, and even rejection. Luke showed the King of kings born into poor and humble circumstances—born as a human, born to serve.

• LIFE APPLICATION-MANGER SCENE
• Although our first picture of Jesus is as a baby in a manger, it must not be our last. The Christ child in the manger has been made into a beautiful Christmas scene, but we cannot leave him there. This tiny, helpless baby lived an amazing life, died for sinners, ascended to heaven, and will come back to this earth as King of kings. Christ will rule the world and judge all people according to their decisions about him. Do you still picture Jesus as a baby in a manger—or is he your Lord? Don’t underestimate Jesus. Let him grow up in your life.

Shepherds Visit Jesus / 2:8-20

 The angel Gabriel had announced the coming births of John and Jesus (1:5-20, 26-38); here a host of angels announced the “good news” of Jesus’ birth to ordinary shepherds. The angels also gave the shepherds a sign. They would find their Savior in “a manger”—not only a sign of Jesus’ identity but also his humble circumstances.

2:8 From the dirty manger, Luke moved to the fields outside the village. It was night. Shepherds were there, guarding their flocks of sheep. Among the occupations, shepherding had a lowly place. Luke gave this story about the shepherds for a reason. Jesus would come, not to the proud and powerful, but to the outcasts, the humble, those considered “last” on the social lists. To these men God brought the first news of his Son’s arrival.

•  LIFE APPLICATION-JUST AS YOU ARE
• The greatest event in history had just occurred! The Messiah had been born! For ages the Jews had waited for this, and when it finally happened, the announcement came to humble shepherds. The good news about Jesus is that he comes to all types of people, including the plain, the ordinary, and the outcasts of society. He comes to anyone with a heart humble enough to accept him. Whoever you are, whatever you do, you can have Jesus in your life. Don’t think that you need extraordinary qualifications—Jesus accepts you as you are.

2:9-10 As these shepherds were living in the fields under the sky, suddenly a bright light broke through the darkness. An angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. “Glory” refers to the majesty and splendor accompanying God’s presence (see also Exodus 16:7; 24:17; Psalm 63:2; Isaiah 40:5).

The stunning display of God’s glory and the appearance of the angel naturally frightened these shepherds. The angel encouraged the shepherds, saying he had come with good news of great joy for all people. This news comprised everything for which the Jews had been hoping and waiting—the Savior had come. Some of the Jews were waiting for a savior to deliver them from Roman rule; others hoped that the Christ (Messiah) would deliver them from physical ailments. But Jesus, while healing their illnesses and establishing a spiritual Kingdom, delivered them from sin.

2:11 The angel explained the substance of the “good news” that he brought: A child had just been born in Bethlehem

The child is the Savior.  For the Greeks and Romans, the word “savior” could be applied to their gods as well as to great military or political leaders. Julius Caesar was called a “savior.” The basic meaning of the word was readily understood by the Jews as well as Gentiles.

The title Messiah is Greek for “anointed one.” To be anointed meant to be set apart for some special purpose. Moses anointed Aaron and his sons as the first priests of Israel (Exodus 28:41); the prophet Samuel anointed both Saul and David as kings of Israel (1 Samuel 10:1; 16:3). The title was applied to that future one whom God would raise up. The Jews were awaiting this special deliverer, one who would be the anointed one of God, the Messiah, the Christ.

The word Lord refers here to deity. That this tiny baby was the “Lord” means that God had arrived in human form. Thus the angel gave no doubt as to the identity of this child. He was the one for whom all Israel had been waiting.

2:12 The angel apparently expected the shepherds to immediately go looking for this child, so he told them what to look for. The baby would be wrapped snugly in strips of cloth and lying in a manger. Not only would this sign help the shepherds find the right baby, it would also attest to the truth of the angel’s words to the last detail. While there might be other newborn babies in Bethlehem wrapped in strips of cloth, there would be only one “lying in a manger.”

The shepherds were not told to look in a palace or in a wealthy home—indeed, they would not have gotten past the gates if they had. But they could go to the poor stable, receive acceptance from a poor couple, and discover the miracle baby.

2:13-14 After the angel gave the great news of God’s arrival on earth, suddenly all heaven broke into praise, for the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven. John’s vision of heaven recorded in Revelation reveals that there are innumerable angels in heaven (Revelation 5:11). One of the angels’ key roles is to offer continuous praise to God. The arrival of God’s Son on earth caused all of heaven to join in an anthem of praise to God. Glory to God focuses the praise on the One who set these events in motion, the One who controls all events on earth. He is in the highest heaven and is sending peace on earth to all whom he favors. The peace referred to is the peace that only the Messiah can bring—not peace after war or conflict, but peace between sinful humanity and the holy God. Those whom God favors are those to whom he will graciously reveal his truth.

2:15-16 After their anthem of praise, the angels returned to heaven (see also 24:51; Acts 1:11), and the shepherds wanted to go and see this wonderful thing that has happened. They hurried into the village of Bethlehem to find the baby.

2:17-18 The shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said—thus becoming the first witnesses of the gospel message. They told about the child and all that the angels had said about him, and all who heard . . . were astonished. Most likely, the “everyone” and “all” refer to the people at the inn. Everyone was astonished at the shepherds’ story.

• LIFE APPLICATION-TELLING ALL YOU KNOW
• These shepherds told everyone who would listen all that they had heard and seen. Often people who try to tell all that they know are politely avoided. It can be boring to listen to someone who never stops to take a breath. But in the shepherds’ case, people listened, because:
• Shepherds were not supposed to know much, and these shepherds had startling information.
• The message was revolutionary, breathtaking, and transformative. It changed listeners’ lives.
• The shepherds spoke from the heart, and their words connected to the deepest needs of others.

When you tell about Jesus, start with what you know best: your life experience. Tell the story of God in your life. You don’t need to embellish, but don’t hold back either. Your words will change many, and God will use you to change the world.

 2:19 Surely the shepherds told Mary and Joseph what the angels had said. Mary quietly treasured these things in her heart. “Treasured” means deep reflection, keeping in mind or safely storing up; that she thought about them often refers to mulling over, seeking to understand and interpret. Mary had a lot to think about as she gazed into the face of her tiny child. Gabriel had told her that the little boy would reign forever (1:31-33); the shepherds reported the angel’s words—he is the Savior, Christ the Lord (2:11). As Mary held this tiny baby, she must have wondered at all that God was doing, and who her son would grow up to become.

2:20 The shepherds had to get back to their fields and flocks before their sheep wandered off into the night. As they did so, they were glorifying and praising God. They knew that they had received a special message and had been privileged to be the first to see the promised child.

 Mary and Joseph Bring Jesus to the Temple / 2:21-40

 Just as the story of John the Baptist’s birth began in the Temple (1:5-25), so the story of Jesus’ birth culminates in the Temple. In obedience to the dictates of Jewish law, Mary and Joseph presented Jesus to God (see Exodus 13:2-16), and they offered a sacrifice for the ritual purification of Mary (see Leviticus 12:2-6).

2:21 Every Jewish boy was circumcised and named on the eighth day after birth (Leviticus 12:3; Luke 1:59-60). Circumcision symbolized the Jews’ separation from Gentiles and their unique relationship with God (Genesis 17:9-14). So eight days later, Mary and Joseph took the child to be circumcised. They named him Jesus, just as the angel had told Mary (1:31). They did not go to Jerusalem for this ceremony; instead, a local priest most likely performed it.

2:22-24 For forty days after the birth of a son and eighty days after the birth of a daughter, the mother was ceremonially unclean and could not enter the Temple. The purification offering was given at the end of her time of separation. Mary and Joseph were to bring an offering—a lamb for a burnt offering and a dove or pigeon for a sin offering. The priest would sacrifice these animals and declare the woman to be clean. If a lamb was too expensive, the law said that the parents could sacrifice “either a pair of turtle doves or two young pigeons.”

In addition to the purification offering, another ceremony took place. A firstborn son was presented to God one month after birth (Exodus 13:2, 11-16; Numbers 18:15-16). The ceremony included buying back—”redeeming”—the child from God through an offering. Through this, the parents would acknowledge that the child belonged to God, who alone has the power to give life. Luke explained for his Gentile audience that this command came from the law of Moses (see Exodus 13:2, 12, 15; Numbers 18:15). So Mary and Joseph took Jesus to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.

2:25-26 Luke introduced another person who would be divinely told of the Messiah’s arrival and who would confirm the baby’s identity. Simeon was spiritually in tune with God: righteous, devout, expecting the Messiah to come. He had all his life held on to God’s promise of a coming deliverer, so through the Holy Spirit, God promised that Simeon would not die before seeing the Lord’s Messiah.

•  LIFE APPLICATION-SIMEON’S HOPE
• Simeon was old and had much to ponder. No doubt he had disappointments in his life to worry over, much to bemoan, lots to regret. Rather than dwelling on life’s rough ride, Simeon, even in old age, looked to God’s future with brightness and hope. Simeon’s secret was in his worship and expectation for God. Worship and praise were natural to him; they were the center of his life.
• Nothing is so bleak as a day without tomorrow. With God, however, every day has hope and good cheer. Neither old age nor grim circumstances should keep you from God’s comfort, sufficient for your needs today. Take Simeon’s example and look ahead to God’s great plan for you and the world.

 2:27-32 When Mary and Joseph brought Jesus to the Temple to present him to the Lord (2:22), Simeon was there—having been led by the Spirit to be at the Temple on that particular day. God was ordaining this meeting, in keeping with his promise to Simeon (2:26).

Mary and Joseph arrived in the Temple to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required. This obedience to the Old Testament law is mentioned several times in Luke. It points out Jesus’ credentials as one who obeyed the law, even from birth, because his parents did exactly as they were commanded. At the Temple, Mary and Joseph met an old man who took the baby Jesus in his arms and praised God. The Spirit led Simeon to recognize this baby as the Savior.

Simeon’s song is often called the “Nunc Dimittis,” the first words of its Latin translation. Simeon praised God that he had done what he promised. Luke, writing to Gentiles, pointed out that from the very beginning God’s plan was to offer salvation to all people—Gentiles as well as to Jews.

•  LIFE APPLICATION-JESUS THE LIGHT
• Simeon referred to Jesus as “a light for revelation.” Few metaphors capture Jesus’ mission as well. Light makes the stillness come alive; light settles fear; light reveals mystery; light enables relationships. Jesus is God in the flesh, eternal light breaking into a spiritually dark world.
• Jesus is your light. He is not a distant sun, remote and driven by physics’ laws. Jesus is the light of your life—your courage, your enabler. Start each day by turning on the light—a moment of meditation on God’s Word, a prayer of dedication to live for God all day.

 2:33-35 Joseph and Mary were amazed that this stranger in the Temple recognized their small son as the Savior. Simeon blessed Mary and Joseph and then prophesied that Jesus would have a paradoxical effect on Israel. He would bring light and salvation, but his coming could also cause division. There would not be overwhelming acceptance of the promised Messiah—in fact, many would not recognize him and would reject him altogether. With Jesus, there would be no neutral ground: people would either joyfully accept him or totally reject him. Simeon told Mary that a sword would pierce her soul. As Jesus’ mother, Mary would be grieved by the widespread rejection he would face; she would experience great pain when he died. Although she could not have known it and Simeon had only a hint of it, Mary would be the only person on earth who would witness both his birth and his death.

• LIFE APPLICATION-OLDER AND WISER
• Although Simeon and Anna were very old, they had never lost their hope that they would see the Messiah. Led by the Holy Spirit, they were among the first to bear witness to Jesus. In the Jewish culture, elders were respected; thus, because of Simeon’s and Anna’s age, their prophecies carried extra weight. Contemporary society values youthfulness over wisdom, and potential contributions by the elderly are often ignored. Christians should reverse those values wherever they can. Encourage older people to share their wisdom and experience. Listen carefully when they speak. Offer them your friendship and help them find ways to continue to serve God.

2:36-38 Another person who recognized this special baby arrived on the scene, as Simeon was giving his words of prophecy to Joseph and Mary. This was Anna, a prophet, indicating that she was close to God. Prophets did not necessarily predict the future. Their main role was to speak for God, proclaiming his truth. While the tribe of Asher does not stand out in Old Testament history (see Genesis 30:12-13; 35:26) and nothing is known of Phanuel, her father, apparently these details were important in establishing her credentials and her Jewishness. Anna had been a widow for most of her life; never remarrying but instead focusing her attention on worshiping God with fasting and prayer. That “she never left the Temple” means that she made her life occupation to be at worship whenever the doors of the Temple were open (see 24:53). Her lifestyle of worshiping, fasting, and praying indicates a woman of faith and strict devotion. While Luke did not record any exact words spoken by Anna, he wrote that she began praising God. As a second witness to the identity of this child, Anna praised God, as she perceived that this baby was the promised King to come and deliver Jerusalem (echoing Isaiah 52:9). Like Simeon, she, in her old age, was privileged to see the Messiah.

• LIFE APPLICATION- PRAISING GOD
• To praise God is to . . .
• Set aside all your problems and complaints in order to celebrate God’s generosity.
• Thank God for his marvelous provision for your daily needs
• Take time from business and leisure to focus on God’s magnificent power and love
• Rehearse the splendid surprise of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.
• Reorient your heart around God’s message and priorities.

2:39 Luke again mentioned the fact that Joseph and Mary had fulfilled all the requirements of the law of the Lord (see 2:22-24). Jesus was the Son of God, but his earthly parents had fulfilled everything that God’s law required regarding the birth of firstborn sons.

They then returned home to Nazareth in Galilee, from where they had come to register for the census (2:4). Did Mary and Joseph return immediately to Nazareth, or did they remain in Bethlehem for a time (as implied in Matthew 2)? Apparently there is a gap of several years between verses 38 and 39—ample time for them to find a place to live in Bethlehem, flee to Egypt to escape Herod’s wrath (Matthew 2:1-18), and return to Nazareth when it was safe to do so (after Herod had died, Matthew 2:19-23).

2:40 Jesus’ life gave the evidence of being filled with the Spirit. He grew physically, became strong spiritually, was filled with wisdom, and was the object of God’s favor. Wisdom and God’s favor indicated the presence of the Holy Spirit in his life. Jesus, like any child, developed from an infant to a toddler to a young child. He learned to crawl, sit up, walk, and finally to run. He learned to eat and talk. In many ways he was probably a typical child. Yet he was sinless in nature and certainly had uncanny wisdom for his years, as the next section reveals. For more on Jesus’ growth, see 2:52.

 Jesus Speaks with the Religious Teachers / 2:41-52

In first-century Israel, the age of twelve was considered the time when a child was beginning to reach adulthood. This section of Luke contains an incident at this crucial juncture in Jesus’ childhood to give readers an indication of what Jesus’ life would center on: the teachings of God, his true Father.

2:41-42 According to God’s law, every male was required to go to Jerusalem three times a year for the great festivals (Exodus 23:14-17; Deuteronomy 16:16). In the spring, the Passover was celebrated, followed immediately by the week-long Festival of Unleavened Bread. Passover commemorated the night of the Jews’ escape from Egypt when God had killed the Egyptian firstborn but had passed over Israelite homes (see Exodus 12:21-36). Every year, along with other Jewish families, Jesus and his parents went to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. Again there is attention to the law—Jesus grew up in a home where God’s laws were obeyed and annual festivals observed. So, the year when Jesus was twelve years old was no different, and the family set off for the festival as usual.

• LIFE APPLICATION REGULAR HABITS
• Jesus’ parents, like most devout Jews, went to Jerusalem each year. Jesus’ family had the right priorities. Families that establish regular habits of worship are less likely to have their spiritual life deflected by alternative attractions. Keep worship on top of your family’s agenda. Putting God first is a great example to children, who quickly learn what parents care about by observing how they plan and spend time.

2:43-44 Those who attended the festivals usually traveled in caravans for protection from robbers along the Palestine roads. It was customary for the women and children to travel at the front of the caravan, with the men bringing up the rear. A twelve-year-old boy conceivably could have been in either group, and both Mary and Joseph assumed Jesus was with the other one. Their caravan probably included a large number of people. So it was not until they were ready to strike camp that Mary and Joseph checked for Jesus among the other travelers, only to discover that he was not in the crowd but had stayed behind in Jerusalem.

2:45-47 When Mary and Joseph discovered that Jesus was not among the travelers, they went back to Jerusalem to search for him. The three days that elapsed probably refers to one day in travel away from the city, one day for them to return, then finding him on the third day. Certainly to their great relief, they found him in the Temple.

The Temple courts were famous throughout Judea as places of learning. At the time of the Passover, the greatest rabbis of the land would assemble to teach and to discuss great truths among themselves. The coming Messiah would no doubt have been a popular discussion topic, for everyone was expecting him. Jesus would have been eager to listen and to ask probing questions. It was not his youth, but the depth of his wisdom, that amazed these teachers.

2:48 Mary and Joseph knew the true identity of their son, yet that did not keep them from being typical concerned parents. Their son had been gone from them for three days, yet that seems not to have bothered him at all; he was absorbed in discussions at the Temple. Mary was worried, anxious, and overwhelmed by what had happened and her frustrating search for Jesus. Mary’s words indicate a hint of scolding, “Why have you done this to us?” She explained that they had been frantic ever since he turned up missing.

2:49-50 Jesus surely felt bad that he had caused his parents distress, but it made perfect sense to him that he would be in his Father’s house, that is, in the Temple. This is the first mention of Jesus’ awareness that he was God’s Son (he called God “my Father”). His relationship with his Father in heaven superseded his human family and even his human home. While he probably went to school and studied along with other boys in the synagogue in Nazareth, to be in the Temple with many learned teachers was a great opportunity for Jesus. He took full advantage of his time there, and it seems that he thought his parents would know where he would be.

Although Mary and Joseph knew he was God’s Son, they didn’t understand fully what his mission would involve. Besides, they had to rear him, along with his brothers and sister (Matthew 13:55-56), as a normal child. They knew Jesus was unique, but they did not know what was going on in his mind. They had to learn and observe the complex outworkings of Jesus’ special identity and calling even as he lived in their family.

2:51 Jesus returned to Nazareth . . . and was obedient. Jesus understood his identity with God, but also was not yet supposed to go about his earthly ministry (that did not happen until he was thirty years old). Jesus’ behavior was not disobedient, but precociously acting out his true identity which he would one day fulfill. In the meantime, Jesus lived a human life, obeying his parents, growing up, studying, and learning. As she had with the words of the shepherds at Jesus’ birth (2:19), Mary stored all these things in her heart. She did not completely understand her son, but she remembered these events, thought them over, and sought to find their meaning. One day, it all would be clear. One day her son would become her Savior, and she would understand.

• LIFE APPLICATION-BEING YOUNG
• If you are twelve years old, one of your hardest jobs in life is obeying the adults who run your home. They are called parents, and they always think they know best. It’s very tough for a twelve-year-old to keep from taking over the family and running it according to intelligent twelve-year-old standards. But when the temptation strikes, remember Jesus. . . . Even though he knew his real Father, he did not reject his earthly parents. He went back to Nazareth with them and lived under their authority for another eighteen years. God’s people do not despise human relationships or family responsibilities. If the Son of God obeyed his human parents, how much more should you honor your family members?

2:52 The Bible does not record any events of the next eighteen years of Jesus’ life, but Jesus undoubtedly was learning and maturing. As the oldest in a large family, he assisted Joseph in his carpentry work. Joseph may have died during this time, leaving Jesus to provide for the family. The normal routines of daily life gave Jesus a solid understanding of the Judean people.

The second chapter of Luke shows us that although Jesus was unique, he had a normal childhood and adolescence. In terms of development, he went through the same progression we do. He grew physically (in height) and mentally (in wisdom), he related to other people (loved . . . by all who knew him), and he was loved by God. A full human life is balanced. It was important to Jesus—and it should be important to all believers—to develop fully and harmoniously in each of these key areas: physical, mental, social, and spiritual.

Until tomorrow, Darrell

Sources:  Life Application Bible Commentary,  Life Application Concise New Testament Commentary, Teacher’s Commentary, Preaching the Word

 For more about The Ridge Fellowship or Darrell Koop, go to www.ridgefellowship.com

Thanks for joining us for 24 Days with Jesus.  I am praying for you! As you take time each day to read a chapter from the book of Luke may your heart, mind and soul be touched by God’s word.   Feel the support and encouragement as you join many others in this experience.   I am excited about what is ahead.

 Luke Chapter 1 is the longest chapter in the whole book!  80 verses is about twice as long as the rest of the chapters.  Hang in there the rest of the chapter’s average around 40.  

There are 5 major sections in Chapter 1.  I have included commentary, additional thoughts and explanation below for each section – there is a lot of information!!  And each colored verse 1:1-2 can be clicked on to allow you to see that verse.  

 Also I have included a LIFE APPLICATION in each section.  (PS I am a HUGE fan of the Life Application^® Bible’s and Commentaries.)   You may only want read the LIFE APPLICATION sections. 

 Please read and use the stuff that’s most helpful to you.

 Lastly, please feel free to join the discussion and add your own comments and personal insights at the bottom of each day’s post.  It would be great to hear from you. 

 1.     Luke’s Purpose in Writing / 1:1-4

 Luke is the only one of the four Gospel writers who stated his method and purpose at the beginning of his book. He was familiar with other writings about Jesus’ life and the message of the gospel (v. 1). His purpose was to show the certainty of the things he had been taught by writing out an orderly account of the events in Christ’s life. Luke identified himself with the believers (v. 1).

*LIFE APPLICATION- DECIDE FOR YOURSELF -Because truth was important to Luke, he relied heavily on eyewitnesses. Christianity doesn’t say, “Close your eyes and believe,” but rather, “Check it out for yourself” (John 1:46; 21:24; Acts 17:11-12). No halfhearted investigation will do, however. Approach the life and impact of Jesus with expectation and intensity. Thoroughly investigate the Bible’s claims about Jesus because your conclusion about him is a life-and-death matter.

1:1-2. The Gospels of Matthew and Mark were written at about the same time as Luke, and apparently many other witnesses and writers had also written about the events that took place during Jesus’ life and ministry, using as their source material the reports circulating from the disciples and other eyewitnesses. Luke perceived a need to put the facts from these other written sources into an account written especially for a Gentile believer who needed to understand Jesus’ story. Believers today owe the Gospels and the book of Acts to writers who, like Luke, took the carefully preserved oral information from eyewitnesses and wrote it down.

Theophilus literally means “one who loves God.” While this may be a general term for all believers, it is a proper name and with the title, most honorable, indicates a person of some rank or distinction. The book of Acts, also written by Luke, is likewise addressed to Theophilus (Acts 1:1).

 1:3-4 Luke, as an educated Gentile believer and a medical doctor, paid attention to details: he carefully investigated all of these accounts from the beginning, and then wrote a careful summary. Luke wanted to reassure Theophilus of the truth of all he had been taught.

 2.     An Angel Promises the Birth of John to Zechariah / 1:5-25

 Luke started at “the beginning” (1:3). But for Jesus’ life, the beginning was not his birth, but instead the announcement of the birth of John the Baptist—the person who would prepare the way for Jesus.

1:5 As a good historian should, Luke gave his readers the historical setting. The story begins when Herod was king of Judea. This was Herod the Great, confirmed by the Roman Senate as king of the Jews but never accepted by the Jewish people as their king (although half-Jewish, Herod was not part of the royal line of David). For the Jews living in Judea, this was a time of oppression. Although they were not in slavery, they were not completely self-governing either. Herod had expanded and beautified the Jerusalem Temple, but he had placed a Roman eagle over the entrance and also had built pagan Temples. When he helped the Jews, it was for political purposes—not because he cared about them or their God. Evil and ruthless, Herod the Great later ordered a massacre of infants in a futile attempt to kill the infant Jesus, whom some were calling the new “king of the Jews” (Matthew 2:1-2). Herod the Great ruled from 37–4 b.c.

Zechariah was a priest, a minister of God who worked at the Temple managing its upkeep, teaching the people the Scriptures, and directing the worship services. At this time there were about twenty thousand priests throughout the country. Priests were divided into twenty-four separate groups of about one thousand each, according to David’s instructions (1 Chronicles 24:3-19). Zechariah was a member of the order (or division) of Abijah. Each division served in the Jerusalem Temple twice each year for one week.

Zechariah’s wife, Elizabeth, was also from the priestly line of Aaron. Elizabeth descended directly from Aaron, brother of Moses and Israel’s first high priest (Exodus 28:1). As a priest, Zechariah would have been required to marry a virgin Israelite, but not necessarily one from a priestly family. Zechariah was especially blessed to have a wife with such a background.

1:6-7 Zechariah and Elizabeth both were righteous in God’s eyes. This does not mean that they were sinless, but that they loved God and obeyed him. But they had no children. To ancient readers, this would have seemed like a contradiction. Children were considered to be God’s greatest blessings. Certainly such God-fearing and God-honoring people as Zechariah and Elizabeth should have been blessed with children. But Elizabeth was barren. Not only that, but Luke adds the detail that they were both very old, meaning that they could not expect any change in their situation. For Elizabeth, being childless in old age would be painful and lonely; but during this time she remained faithful to God.

*LIFE APPLICATION – BLAMELESS  -Zechariah and Elizabeth didn’t merely go through the motions in following God’s laws; they backed up their outward compliance with inward obedience. Unlike the religious leaders whom Jesus called hypocrites, Zechariah and Elizabeth did not stop with the letter of the law. Their obedience was from the heart, and that is why God viewed them as righteous. Does your life reflect careful obedience and high regard for God’s will? As your life shows your love for God, others will be drawn to him.

1:8-9 Zechariah’s division of priests was on duty in the Temple during this particular week (see 1:5). Each morning, one of the priests would enter the Holy Place in the Temple to burn incense, which was burned twice daily. Lots were cast to decide who would enter the sanctuary, and one day during that week Zechariah was chosen by lot. Offering the incense before the Lord was considered a great privilege. A priest was allowed to do so only once in his lifetime; many priests never had the opportunity. But it was not by chance that Zechariah was on duty and that he was chosen that day to enter the Holy Place.

1:10 The other priests and people would wait outside for the chosen priest to offer the incense and pray on behalf of the nation. When the people would see the smoke from the burning incense, they would pray. The smoke drifting heavenward symbolized their prayers ascending to God’s throne. This great crowd were the faithful in Israel who were waiting and praying for deliverance. Faithful believers had been doing this since their captivity in Babylon six centuries before. This time, their prayers received a very special answer.

1:11 As Zechariah discharged his duty in the Holy Place, an angel of the Lord appeared. That the angel was standing to the right of the incense altar indicates a position of favor or blessing, perhaps indicating that the message was good. The exact location where the angel stood is a detail passed along by Zechariah himself and kept intact by writers (1:1-3). Gabriel (1:19) delivered a special message to Zechariah. This was not a dream or a vision; the angel was a royal herald of God. The angel appeared in visible form and spoke audible words to the priest.

*LIFE APPLICATION-ANGELS – Angels are spirit beings who live in God’s presence, do his will, and carry out his work on earth. They bring God’s messages to people (as here to Mary, 1:26), protect God’s people (Daniel 6:22), offer encouragement (Genesis 16:7), give guidance (Exodus 14:19), carry out punishment (2 Samuel 24:16), patrol the earth (Zechariah 1:9-14), and fight the forces of evil (2 Kings 6:16-18; Revelation 20:1-2). There are both good and bad angels (Revelation 12:7). Bad angels are allied with the devil and thus have considerably less power and authority than good angels. Eventually the main role of angels will be to offer continuous praise to God (Revelation 7:11-12).

1:12-13 Angels are powerful beings, certainly awesome in their appearance. No wonder Zechariah was overwhelmed with fear. So the angel’s first words to him were, “don’t be afraid.” While Zechariah had been burning incense on the altar, he had also been praying, most likely for Israel’s deliverance and for the coming of the Messiah. The angel’s awesome words must have astounded him: “God has heard your prayer.” Then the angel made a seemingly unrelated statement: “Your wife, Elizabeth, will bear you a son.” The angel even told Zechariah what to name the baby. John means “the LORD is gracious.” Through the birth of this son, God was gracious to Zechariah and Elizabeth, and ultimately to all people, for this son would prepare people’s hearts for the Messiah.

*LIFE APPLICATION-GOD’S TIMING – God answers prayer in his own way and in his own time. He worked in an “impossible” situation—Elizabeth’s barrenness—to bring about the fulfillment of all the prophecies concerning the Messiah. If you want to have your prayers answered, you must be open to what God can do in impossible situations. And you must wait for God to work in his way and in his time.

1:14-15 The special son to be born to Zechariah and Elizabeth would fulfill a predetermined purpose before God. John was to be set apart for special service to God. He may have been forbidden to drink wine as part of the Nazirite vow, an ancient vow of consecration to God (see Numbers 6:1-8).

This is Luke’s first mention of the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity. Luke refers to the Holy Spirit more than any other Gospel writer does; it was a major focus for him (see 1:35, 41). That John would be filled with the Holy Spirit, even before his birth, indicates a special choice of this child. This also signals the restoration of the prophetic work of the Holy Spirit that had not been present in Israel for over four hundred years (since the days of the prophet Malachi).

1:16-17 John’s role was to be almost identical to that of an Old Testament prophet—to encourage people to turn away from sin and back to the Lord. The angel explained to Zechariah that John would go before God with the spirit and power of Elijah, a great prophet who was known for not mincing words and for standing up to evil rulers (1 Kings 17–19; 2 Kings 2:9, 15; see also Matthew 11:14; 17:10-13).

*LIFE APPLICATION- HEART TRANSPLANT – In preparing people for the Messiah’s arrival, John would “turn people’s hearts”—in effect, he would do “heart transplants.” Through John’s words, God would take stony hearts and exchange them for hearts that were soft, pliable, trusting, and open to change. (See Ezekiel 11:19-20 and 36:25-29 for more on “heart transplants.”) Are you as open and receptive to God as you should be? Or do you need a change of heart?

John’s mission would be turn the hearts of the fathers to their children. This phrase comes directly from the prophecy of the Messiah’s forerunner found in Malachi 4:5-6. The meaning of the phrase is not immediately clear, but it may mean that John’s messages of repentance would unify broken family relationships, help fathers in their parental responsibilities, or change the lives of disobedient children so that their fathers would approve of them. In light of the Malachi reference, “fathers” may refer to the patriarchs, great men of faith who would be greatly displeased with their descendants’ faithlessness toward God. John’s call to repentance would change the disobedient minds to accept godly wisdom by bringing many of his contemporaries back to God.

1:18 Zechariah’s response to the angel’s word came perilously close to doubt. Zechariah wanted more than the word of this heavenly visitor, he wanted a sign: How can I know this will happen? Zechariah saw only the obstacle—he and Elizabeth were both past childbearing years, so he reminded the angel of this fact as if it had somehow been overlooked. Contrast his response with that of Mary who saw the opportunity and merely asked how God would perform the miracle (1:34).

1:19 The angel explained that he himself was sign enough for Zechariah. “I am Gabriel,” he exclaimed, “I stand in the very presence of God.” Gabriel had come with an extremely important message—Gabriel himself described it as good news. The old priest ought not have doubted anything the angel said.

1:20 Unbelief ultimately results in punishment. Zechariah asked for a sign, and received it. He would be unable to speak until the child is born (in light of 1:62, it appears that he was deaf as well as mute). The angel’s words would certainly come true at the proper time, whether Zechariah believed or not. God’s plan had been set in motion, and nothing could stop it.

1:21-22 The people were waiting outside (1:10) for Zechariah to come out and pronounce the customary blessing upon them as found in Numbers 6:24-26. It seemed that the priest was taking an unusually long time in the Holy Place, so they became anxious. Finally, when Zechariah appeared, he could not pronounce the blessing because he couldn’t speak to them. The angel’s words had already begun to come true; the sign of fulfillment had taken place right in Zechariah’s life. Apparently he made gestures to them and they realized that he must have seen a vision. Zechariah knew that God was moving forward in his plans to bring the Messiah to his people. But Zechariah would remain silent until his promised son arrived.

1:23-24 Zechariah completed his term of service (a week) and then returned home to the hill country (see 1:39) south of Jerusalem. The promise of a son to Zechariah and Elizabeth came even before this child was conceived. But, true to the angel’s words, Elizabeth became pregnant. She may have gone into seclusion until her condition would be obvious to others.

1:25 Zechariah and Elizabeth had been childless for many years, but God was waiting for the right time to encourage them and take away their disgrace. Elizabeth realized that in this impossible pregnancy, God had performed a miracle. She praised God for taking away her disgrace of having no children (see 1:7).

 3.     An Angel Promises the Birth of Jesus to Mary / 1:26-38

Luke placed the story of the announcement of Jesus’ birth right after the announcement of John’s birth. By doing so, he highlighted the similarities and differences between the two births.

1:26-27 Six months after Gabriel delivered God’s message to Zechariah (1:11-20), God sent the angel with another message, this time to a virgin named Mary. The angel Gabriel had also appeared to the prophet Daniel more than five hundred years earlier (Daniel 8:15-17; 9:21). Each time Gabriel appeared, he brought important messages from God. This time was no exception.

Nazareth in Galilee was Joseph’s and Mary’s hometown. Mary was not a prophet or a priest; she was not in God’s Temple performing acts of service. Instead, she was simply a young woman who was living at home and planning her wedding, for she was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph. In ancient Jewish marriages, the word “engaged” (or “betrothed”) had a different meaning than today. First, the two families would agree to the union and negotiate the betrothal, including a price for the bride which would be paid to the bride’s father. Next, a public announcement would be made. At this point, the couple was “pledged” to each other. This is similar to engagement today, except that it was much more binding. At this point, even though the couple was not officially married, their relationship could be broken only through death or divorce. Sexual relations were not yet permitted. This second step lasted for a year. During that time, the couple would live separately, with their parents. This waiting period would demonstrate the bride’s purity. If she were found to be pregnant during that time, the marriage could be annulled. After this waiting time, the couple would be married and begin living together. What Mary was about to hear from the angel would have significant impact on her engagement.

*LIFE APPLICATION-WAIT FOR THE LORD -Zechariah thought it unbelievable that he and his wife, at their old age, could conceive a child. But what God promises, he delivers. And God delivers on time! You can have complete confidence that God will keep his word. His promises may not be fulfilled the next day, but they will be “at the proper time.” If you are waiting for God to answer some request or to fill some need, remain patient and “wait for the Lord” (Psalm 27:14; Isaiah 40:31). No matter how impossible God’s promises may seem, what he has said in his Word will come true at the right time.

That Joseph was a descendant of King David is important for Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem (2:1-4) and for the fact that Jesus would be born into the royal line of David. (Although Joseph was not his father, Jesus would be considered in the royal line through the rights of adoption.)

1:28-29 When Gabriel appeared to Mary, he called her favored woman because she would be a special recipient of God’s grace. This young maiden was confused and disturbed as to why she was being greeted in such a way by this heavenly visitor.

 *LIFE APPLICATION-GOD’S CHOICES – Mary was young, poor, female—all characteristics that, to the people of her day, would make her seem unusable by God for any major task. But God chose Mary for one of the most important acts of obedience he has ever demanded of anyone. You may feel that your ability, experience, or education makes you an unlikely candidate for God’s service. Don’t limit God’s choices. He can use you if you trust him. Take him at his word.

1:30-33 Gabriel told Mary that God had decided to bless her. The words did not point out any special virtue in Mary—she was not sinless. God chose Mary, blessed her, and she humbly accepted his call to be the mother of Jesus. The result of this blessing came in God’s choice of Mary to be the mother of Jesus. Gabriel explained that this child would grow in her womb, be born as all human children are born, and be named Jesus. This son will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The word “Son” was a designation of the Messiah, the long-awaited Savior (Genesis 49:10; 2 Samuel 7:9-16; Psalm 2:7; Isaiah 7:14; 9:1-7; 11:1-3). Jesus, a Greek form of the Hebrew name Joshua, was a common name meaning “Yahweh saves.” Just as Joshua had led Israel into the Promised Land (see Joshua 1:1-2), so Jesus would lead his people into eternal life. The symbolism of Jesus’ name was not lost on the people of his day, who took names seriously and saw them as a source of power. In Jesus’ name people would be healed, demons would be banished, and sins would be forgiven.

Centuries earlier, God had promised David that his kingdom would last forever (2 Samuel 7:16). This promise was fulfilled in the coming of Jesus, a direct descendant of David (1:27). Jesus was born in the line of David and thus could be a king to reign over Israel forever. His will be an eternal Kingdom that will never end. God had promised to continue the dynasty of David forever. David’s earthly dynasty ended four centuries after his reign, but Jesus Christ, a direct descendant of David, was the ultimate fulfillment of this promise (Acts 2:22-36). Christ will reign for eternity—now in his spiritual Kingdom and in heaven, and later, on earth, in the new Jerusalem (Luke 1:30-33; Revelation 21).

1:34 Unlike Zechariah who desired a sign as proof of the angel’s words (1:18), Mary’s question displayed her faith. She merely asked how this miraculous event could occur because she was a virgin. She was engaged to be married and probably planned on having children. Engagements usually occurred when girls were in their early teens. Mary may have been as young as thirteen when this event took place. Her question reveals spiritual perceptiveness; she understood that Gabriel was referring to a miracle child to be born while she was still a virgin, prior to her marriage to Joseph. She naturally wondered how this was going to occur.

The birth of Jesus to a virgin is a miracle that many people find difficult to believe. Jesus’ miracles, transfiguration, and resurrection were all actual, historical events that defy explanation. They were acts of God in a human world. Christians’ faith, however, rests not on the virgin birth—indeed two of the four Gospels don’t even mention it. Faith rests on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, not on his virgin birth. However, the virgin birth reveals two important facts:

 (1) In Jesus, God began a “new creation,” for through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, sin’s power would be broken. In Jesus, people can come to God for a personal relationship and be freed from the power of sin.

(2) Jesus was God’s Son before he was even conceived in Mary’s womb. He did not become God’s Son at a later time. He was not accepted as God’s Son because of good behavior or obedience. He was not a man promoted to that position. God’s Son was born God’s Son. In the birth of Jesus, God himself became human and entered the world—for fallen human beings! Therein lies the miracle! People are not meant to explain it, prove it, or ignore it—they are meant to believe it and worship God who made it happen.

1:35 Gabriel explained how Mary would become pregnant and yet remain a virgin. The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you—these words picture the powerful presence of God coming upon Mary (see Matthew 17:5; Mark 9:7; Luke 9:34). This would indeed be a special baby, for he will be holy. Jesus was born without the sin that had entered the world through Adam. He was born holy, just as Adam had been created sinless. Believers must be careful not to explain that Jesus was sinless simply because he did not have a human father. To do so would mean that Mary would have been sinless, which she was not. Jesus’ sinlessness rests not on his miraculous birth to a virgin girl, but on the basis of his position with God. Through the birth of Jesus, God himself entered the world in human form.

The title, Son of God, shows that Jesus has a special role in God’s purpose, and that he is the expected Messiah. The mention of the Holy Spirit gives the name greater significance for it shows that God, through the Spirit, has a special role in creating this child. The connection of “Son of God” to “Son of the Most High” states Jesus’ divinity. In contrast to Adam, who disobeyed God, Jesus would completely obey his Father, enabling him to absolve the sins of the world (Romans 5:14-19).

*LIFE APPLICATION –JESUS UNDERSTANDS – Why is the Virgin Birth important to the Christian faith? Jesus Christ, God’s Son, had to be free from the sinful nature passed on to all other human beings by Adam. Because Jesus was born of a woman, he was a human being; but as the Son of God, Jesus was born without any trace of human sin. Jesus is both fully human and fully divine. Because Jesus lived as a man, human beings know that he fully understands their experiences and struggles (Hebrews 4:15-16). Because he is God, he has the power and authority to deliver people from sin (Colossians 2:13-15). People can tell Jesus all their thoughts, feelings, and needs. He has been where they are, and he has the ability to help.

1:36-37 Mary did not ask for a sign, but it seems that Gabriel gave her one by stating that Mary’s relative Elizabeth was also pregnant as the result of God’s grace. Gabriel gave Mary a person to whom she could go for support during what could prove to be a difficult time for Mary as she humbly fulfilled God’s will. This also illustrated for Mary the fact that nothing is impossible with God.

1:38 God’s announcement of a child to be born was met with various responses throughout Scripture. Sarah, Abraham’s wife, laughed (Genesis 18:9-15). Zechariah doubted (1:18). By contrast, Mary submitted, knowing that she was merely the Lord’s servant. She believed the angel’s words and agreed to bear the child, even under humanly impossible circumstances, even with difficult social consequences. A young unmarried girl who became pregnant risked disaster. She risked losing Joseph, her family, and her reputation. And her story about being made pregnant by the Holy Spirit risked her being considered crazy as well. Still Mary said, despite the risks, “May everything you have said come true.” She took the risk of faith, for she knew that God was asking her to serve him.

*LIFE APPLICATION–FAVOR WITH GOD – God’s favor does not automatically bring instant success or fame. His blessing on Mary, the honor of being the mother of the Messiah, would lead to much pain: her peers would ridicule her; her fiancé would consider leaving her; her son would be rejected and murdered. But through her son would come the world’s only hope, and this is why Mary has been praised by countless generations as the young girl who “found favor with God.” Mary’s submission was part of God’s plan to bring about salvation. If sorrow weighs you down and dims your hope, think of Mary and wait patiently for God to finish working out his plan.

1. 4.     Mary Visits Elizabeth / 1:39-56

Mary is the type of woman who puts her faith into action. She not only says “Lord, your will be done” (see 1:38), but she also “hurries” to see God at work in the life of her relative Elizabeth. The journey to Judea that Mary undertook was not a simple drive to the next town; it was a difficult journey that would have taken at least three days at that time. Mary did not let that stop her from going to Elizabeth, rejoicing with her, and praising the Lord for fulfilling his promises.

1:39-40 Elizabeth and Mary were related (1:36). Perhaps Mary felt the need to take her news to someone who would understand. So Mary left Nazareth and hurried to the hill country of Judea, although the town where Zechariah lived is unknown. The trip from Nazareth to the hill country was probably fifty to seventy miles—a major trip for a young woman alone and on foot.

1:41 The visit from Mary no doubt came as a surprise, but the Holy Spirit made Elizabeth suddenly aware of both Mary’s pregnancy and the identity of Mary’s baby. The beautiful interweaving of the lives of Elizabeth and Mary before their children were born is a touching picture of God’s grace upon his servants. Mary stayed with Elizabeth for three months (1:56). How they must have talked, wondering at what God was doing in their lives and what he was planning for their very special children.

*LIFE APPLICATION– FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT -Christians are urged to be filled with the Spirit as part of normal growth in the Lord (see Ephesians 5:18), but the filling Elizabeth experienced was different, spontaneous, entirely God-given, much like that of Peter in Acts 4:8. This filling captures the emotions with a God-centered joy and creates in the heart an excited sense of God’s loving purpose in your life. This filling makes you want to sing, pray, shout, and dance. When God moves your heart this way, let it show.

1:42-45 Elizabeth had not even yet been told that Mary was pregnant. Elizabeth spoke words given to her by the Spirit (1:41) as she recognized Mary’s blessed condition, knowing that Mary had been specially chosen by God, much as Elizabeth had. As Mary had rushed off to visit her relative, she must have been wondering whether the events of the last few days were real. Elizabeth’s greeting surely strengthened her faith. Mary’s pregnancy may have seemed impossible, but her wise relative believed in the Lord’s faithfulness and rejoiced in Mary’s condition. The Spirit also showed Elizabeth the identity of Mary’s child, for she knew that this child was also blessed—God’s Son, the promised Messiah, with a unique identity and role to fulfill. Mary would be the mother of the Lord. Only the Holy Spirit could have revealed this to Elizabeth. Mary and Elizabeth (and Zechariah—although he had been stricken deaf and mute, 1:20) were the first people on earth to see God’s hand moving to fulfill hundreds of years of promises.

Under inspiration of the Spirit, Elizabeth interpreted the movement in her womb as the child’s joy at hearing Mary’s greeting. Elizabeth repeated that Mary was blessed because she believed that the Lord would do what he said.

1:46-50 This song is often called the “Magnificat,” the first word in the Latin translation of this passage. Mary’s song has often been used as the basis for choral music and hymns. Like Hannah, the mother of Samuel (1 Samuel 2:1-10), Mary glorified God in song for what he was going to do for the world through her. Notice that in both songs, God is pictured as a champion of the poor, the oppressed, and the despised.

As Mary journeyed from Nazareth to visit her relatives, she had much time to think about what she had heard from the angel and what she understood about God’s plan for the Jewish people. When she arrived and Elizabeth spoke to her, Mary’s joy overflowed and she could say with her whole heart, “How I rejoice in God my Savior!” Mary humbly understood that she was just a lowly servant girl chosen by God. She recognized that what he was doing in her life would have a profound impact on the world and future generations. Mary focused on God’s power, holiness, and mercy. Her insight into God’s character formed the basis for her confidence in him.

1:51-53 The arm of God is used in the Old Testament to describe his strength and power (see, for example, Exodus 6:6; Isaiah 51:5). Mary pictured God’s strength being revealed to the sinful world as he scatters the proud, brings down the princes, and sends the rich away with empty hands. By contrast, God’s power shows in his mercy to his own—lifting up the lowly and filling the hungry with good things. The tense of the verbs indicates that, while yet future, Mary was speaking prophetically of these events so certain to occur that they could be spoken of as having already happened.

*LIFE APPLICATION – YOUR GIFTS – When Mary said, “From now on all generations will call me blessed,” was she being proud? No, she was recognizing and accepting the gift God had given her. If Mary had denied her privileged position, she would have been throwing God’s blessing back at him. Pride is refusing to accept God’s gifts or taking credit for what God has done; humility is accepting the gifts and using them to praise and serve God. Don’t deny, belittle, or ignore your gifts. Thank God for them and use them to his glory.

1:54-55 The words he has helped . . . Israel are in the same verb tense as the previous verses—this is a future event so certain that it is mentioned in the past tense. This “help” for Israel is the Messiah, who will come according to the promise God made to the Jews’ ancestors, specifically Abraham (Genesis 22:16-18). Jesus’ birth fulfilled the promise, and Mary understood this as the Spirit revealed it to her. Some of God’s promises to Israel are found in 2 Samuel 22:50-51; Psalms 89:2-4; 103:17-18; Micah 7:18-20.

1:56 Because travel was not easy, long visits were customary. Mary must have been a great help to Elizabeth, who was experiencing the discomforts of being pregnant in her old age. In addition, Elizabeth certainly helped Mary. During these three months, Mary surely discussed with Elizabeth how to handle what would be an extremely difficult social predicament. She would have to return home and explain her pregnancy to her family and her fiancé. Hopefully, when Mary went back to her own home, three months pregnant, she was even more strengthened in her faith by Elizabeth’s faith (1:6), ready to face all that the future would hold.

 5.     John the Baptist Is Born / 1:57-80

 Zechariah’s song prophesied about the coming Messiah—Jesus. He was the promised One from David’s royal household, the One who would provide salvation for all of God’s people. Zechariah’s son, John, would be the one who would prepare the way for Jesus (1:76).

1:57-58 Elizabeth gave birth to a boy, just as the angel had said (1:13). From the wording of this verse, it seems that no one had known about Elizabeth’s pregnancy. So when the neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had been very kind to her, they rejoiced.

*LIFE APPLICATION– MERCY  It seems like an outdated word.But where God is worshiped and honored, mercy may still be found—in the close call that could have been tragic, in the phone call that lifted your spirit, or as for Elizabeth here, in the fulfillment of a dream.

Look around today for moments of God’s mercy to you. Be God’s channel of mercy for someone else. Surprise someone with a quality all but forgotten in the rush to get more done.

1:59-60 In observance of the law, when the baby was eight days old, he was circumcised. God had commanded circumcision when he was beginning to form his holy nation (Genesis 17:4-14), and he had reaffirmed it through Moses (Leviticus 12:1-3). The circumcision ceremony was an important event for the family of a Jewish baby boy. This ceremony was a time of joy when relatives and friends came to celebrate the baby’s becoming part of God’s covenant nation.

The day of circumcision was also the day when parents would formally announce the child’s name. Family lines and family names were important to the Jews. The people naturally assumed the child would receive Zechariah’s name or at least a family name. Thus, they were surprised that Elizabeth wanted to name the boy John. Apparently Zechariah had communicated to Elizabeth all that the angel had told him, so she knew what the child’s name was to be (1:13). Zechariah and Elizabeth knew what family and friends did not know—that John had been given his name by God, and that he had a God-given mission to fulfill.

*LIFE APPLICATION –CONVICTION – Stubbornness wants its own way at any price. It’s the quality of someone who will not listen to a better idea, who acts simply in order to exert the power of his or her will.  Conviction is the settled confidence that God is leading and you intend to follow, come what may. Conviction isn’t your will against the sound advice of others; it’s your will surrendered to God’s will in a way that other Christians verify as good. Elizabeth had a conviction to name her son John.  Stubbornness compensates for a feeling of weakness. It’s an “I’ll show you” strategy of empowering the self. Conviction—Elizabeth’s quality in the naming of her son—is the courage to depend on God’s strength alone, the confidence that God has said, “I’ll show you the way.” Trade your stubbornness for God-guided conviction.

 1:61-64 After Elizabeth gave the surprising name to her son, the relatives and friends took the situation to the head of the household who had been unable to speak since the day he had seen the vision in the Temple (1:20). It was customary to name a child after his father or grandfather, especially when they were esteemed men. The people could not believe that Elizabeth would choose a name that no one in the family had ever had. Apparently Zechariah had been stricken deaf as well, because they had to communicate to him by making gestures, asking him to name the child. In writing, Zechariah agreed with his wife in naming their son “John.” After fulfilling God’s command spoken through the angel that he name the child John, instantly Zechariah could speak again. With his first words, he began praising God. The last words Zechariah had spoken months before had been words of doubt; his first words when all was being fulfilled, even the name of the child, were words of praise to God for all God had done and all he would do through this special child.

1:65-66 This baby’s birth to an elderly couple, their strange insistence on an unusual name, the supernatural muteness and then the instantaneous cure caused wonder to fall upon the whole neighborhood. Unusual news travels fast, and as the story spread, everyone reflected on these events. Certainly this was a special child with a special destiny. It was obvious to everyone that the hand of the Lord was on John in a special way.

1:67-68 Zechariah praised God with his first words after months of silence. In a song that is often called the “Benedictus” after the first words in the Latin translation of this passage, Zechariah, filled with the Holy Spirit (see also 1:41) gave a prophecy of the coming of a Savior who would redeem his people. All the Old Testament prophecies were coming true—no wonder Zechariah praised God. These words were a common way to introduce a thanksgiving (see 1 Kings 1:48; 1 Chronicles 16:36; Psalms 41:13; 72:18; 106:48), thus Zechariah’s words offered thanksgiving to God. Like Mary, Zechariah spoke of the coming redemption of Israel as though it was occurring: God has visited his people and redeemed them. Indeed, the Messiah was already on the way—although few people knew it. In Zechariah’s song is a reminder that Jesus came as the fulfillment of all God’s purposes and promises in the Old Testament.

The word redeemed literally means “accomplished redemption.” In the Old Testament, “redemption” pictured the rescue by God of the Israelites from Egypt and their return from captivity in Babylon (see Deuteronomy 7:8; Jeremiah 31:11). “Redemption” means recovery of something or someone upon payment of a ransom. The climate of Israel in the first century was again a “captivity,” for the Jews were subject to the Romans. The Jews were looking for a political Messiah to “redeem” them once again. But Messiah’s redemption would be different from current expectations. Jesus would bring redemption from sin.

1:69-71 Zechariah praised God because he has sent us a mighty Savior from the royal line of his servant David. Again, Zechariah was speaking in the past tense about an event still future, albeit in the near future. The Messiah was already being “sent,” for God had begun to set his plan into motion. The “royal line of . . . David” refers to the ancestral line through whom the Messiah was to come, as God had said through his holy prophets (see, for example, 2 Samuel 7:11-13, 26; Psalms 89; 132:17; Ezekiel 34:23-24; Amos 9:11-12; Hebrews 1:1).

The words, saved from our enemies and from all who hate us, clearly indicate what was happening in that society. Zechariah prophesied that the Messiah would bring deliverance. The Jews were eagerly awaiting the Messiah, but they thought he would come to save them from the powerful Roman Empire. They were ready for a military Savior, but not for a peaceful Messiah who would conquer sin. Zechariah’s words would come true, but in a different manner than most expected. Thirty years later, when Jesus began his public ministry, he would be misunderstood and rejected for not being the mighty warrior for whom the Jews had been hoping.

1:72-75 Through the coming Savior, God has been merciful to the Jewish people and their ancestors by remembering his sacred covenant with them, specifically the covenant that he gave to Abraham. Recorded in Genesis 22:16-18, the oath to Abraham promised that the enemies of Abraham’s descendants would be subdued and that blessing to his descendants would result from Abraham’s obedience. God keeps his promises (see Micah 7:20). Yet the fulfillment of these promises means opportunity for God’s people—that they might serve God without fear, in holiness and righteousness forever.

1:76-77 After recalling hundreds of years of God’s sovereign work in history, beginning with Abraham and going on into eternity, Zechariah personalized the story. His son had been chosen for a key role in the drama of the ages. Although God has unlimited power, he chooses to work through frail humans who begin as helpless babies. Zechariah proclaimed what the angel had told him (1:16-17), words that Zechariah had at first doubted. John will be called the prophet of the Most High. Zechariah speaks these same amazing words in a land where the voice of prophecy had been silent for over four hundred years. John would prepare the way for the Lord, as had been predicted by Israel’s last prophet, Malachi (Malachi 3:1; 4:5-6), telling his people how to find salvation through forgiveness of their sins. The “salvation” referred to in 1:69-71 is here spelled out as “forgiveness of sins.” John would explain this to people as he prepared the way for the Messiah. His message would be “repent,” for only through repentance can sinners find forgiveness (see 3:3-18).

*LIFE APPLICATION –A PARENT’S PRAYER – As Zechariah looked at his baby son, so full of potential and promise, could he see what John would become—how John would challenge Roman immorality, how John would die in prison? No, Zechariah could see none of that—only John’s little life to be blessed and used by God.

Every Christian parent can echo Zechariah’s dreams. Before Jesus comes again, many prophets (preachers, teachers, enablers) will tell the world about God’s salvation. Will your child endure hardship along the way? Don’t worry, God is in control. Pray that your child will prepare the way of the Lord, helping many find God’s mercy and eternal life.

1:78-79 The light from heaven refers to that visitation of God to humanity in the form of the Messiah. These words echo Old Testament promises (Isaiah 9:2-3 ). This message of light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death was fulfilled in the birth of Christ and the establishment of his eternal Kingdom. He came to deliver all people from their slavery to sin. (See also Isaiah 58:8, 10; 60:1-3.) He will also guide us to the path of peace. This peace would not merely be political, but spiritual. All of this would occur because of God’s tender mercy and compassion on sinful humankind.

1:80 Luke briefly gave a glimpse of John’s growing-up years. Became strong in spirit could refer to moral development, but could also refer to strengthening in God’s Spirit. That John lived out in the wilderness refers to his isolation from people as he prepared for ministry. His parents, already old when he was conceived, presumably did not live very long into his growing-up years. John would have been on his own. Some scholars have suggested that John may have joined the community of the Essenes (a Jewish sect that required communal living) after his parents passed away. It’s possible, but not mentioned.

 Thanks again for joining this journey!  Today is the longest chapter, but it’s still good stuff.  Remember, I am praying for you.  Please make any comments or posts of how God’s word is speaking to you. Until tomorrow,

Darrell

How would you like grow spiritually in 24 days?  Join us as we are going to read a chapter day from the book of Luke.  24 chapters about Jesus in 24 days!  It’s going to be a great journey with lots of discovery, insight and fun. 

Each day’s post will contain expanded thoughts, some background, and commentary for each chapter in Luke.   If you see a verse reference in blue underlined text (1:2), you may click on it to read it immediately.  Your life will change after 24 days with Jesus.

 For those who like to read introductions this next section is for you.  Here is general overview of the book of Luke.   Although it was written in the past be sure to see the sections, “Importance for Today”   We will look at the following questions:

 1.        Who is the Author?

Luke: he was a doctor, a Gentile (non Jewish) Christian, a traveling companion of Paul, a historian and the writer of the book of Acts.  His name occurs in the New Testament in Colossians 4:14; 2 Timothy 4:11; and Philemon 24. Luke also referred to himself directly in the “we” sections of Acts (16:10-17; 20:5-21:18; 27:1-28:16).

2.        What Sources did Luke use?

Luke claimed to be a historian (Luke 1:1-4). He carefully researched his material for specific reasons. He consulted eyewitnesses for information (1:2). He seems to have gathered certain details, such as facts on Jesus’ youth, from Mary herself (cf. 2:51). Luke also seemed to have had contacts with the Herodian court (cf. 3:1, 19; 8:3; 9:7-9; 13:31; 23:7-12). He had various source materials that he used in order to create a unified whole, written in his style, which reflected his purpose. All this, of course, was done under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

3.        When was it written?

Most biblical scholars agree the book of Luke was written between a.d. 58 and 60.  Paul was martyred in the time of Nero’s persecution (a.d. 64). Acts closes with Paul still alive and in prison. The Book of Luke was written several years before that, since Acts was Luke’s second book.  

4.        What was the Purpose of writing this book?

Luke had two purposes in writing this book. One was to show that faith in Christ rested on firm historical fact (1:3-4). His other purpose was to present Jesus as the Son of Man for all people, not just Jewish people.

5.        Was Luke really written for a non Jewish audience?

Several truths point to the fact that Luke wrote primarily for Gentiles.

1. Luke frequently explained Jewish localities (4:31; 8:26; 21:37; 23:51; 24:13). This would be unnecessary if he were writing to Jews.
2. He traced Jesus’ genealogy (3:23-38) all the way back to Adam (rather than to Abraham, as in Matthew’s Gospel). The implication is that Jesus was representing all mankind rather than just the Jewish nation.
3. Luke referred to Roman emperors in designating the dates of Jesus’ birth (2:1) and of John the Baptist’s preaching (3:1).
4. Luke used a number of words which would be more familiar to Gentile readers than the comparable Jewish terms found in Matthew’s Gospel. An example is Luke’s use of the Greek didaskalos rather than rabbi for “teacher.”
5. Little is said about Jesus’ fulfilling prophecies because that theme was not nearly so important to Gentile readers as it was to Jewish readers.

 6.        How does Luke compare with the other Gospels?

Luke has some material in common with the gospels of Matthew and Mark. But, Luke has a lengthy section that is only found in his book (9:51-19:27), which includes 15 parables of Jesus not found an any other gospel.   He also has written the most about Jesus birth, and the record of Jesus at age 12 (1:5-2:52). It is assumed that Luke knew of and used both Matthew and Mark or sources common to Matthew and/or Mark. (John was written after Matthew, Mark and Luke)  The differences in accounts we read in each gospel can be explained on the basis of the purposes of the various authors. 

 7. What are the characteristics of the Book?

1.  Luke emphasized the universal message of the gospel more than the other Gospel writers. He often wrote about sinners, the poor, and outcasts from Jewish society. He also referred many times to Gentiles who shared in the blessings of the Messiah. Samaritans were presented as coming to faith in the Messiah. And Luke wrote frequently of women and children and their faith.

Importance for today: Jesus’ love for people is good news for everyone. His message is for all people in every nation, and each person has the opportunity to respond to him in faith. In addition, Jesus’ example teaches that his followers should love people, regardless of their sex, race, age, or worldly status.  You may feel as if you are a second-class citizen in your community or neighborhood, but not in Jesus’ eyes. Regardless of your status in society, know that you are important to him.

 2. Luke’s Gospel gives a reader a more comprehensive grasp of the history of the period than the other Gospels. He presented more facts about the earthly life of Jesus than did Matthew, Mark, or John.

Importance for today:  Christians today can believe in the reliability of Luke’s history of Jesus’ life. Even if approached as a secular document, this Gospel presents solid evidence for its historicity and accuracy.

3. Luke emphasized forgiveness (3:3; 5:18-26; 6:37; 7:36-50; 11:4; 12:10; 17:3-4; 23:34; 24:47).

Importance for today: Jesus is the unique Son of God, humanity’s perfect leader and only Savior. He offers forgiveness to all who will accept him as Lord of their lives and who believe that what he says is true. Christians know this profound truth. Christ has changed their lives, forever. They also have the great responsibility to share the Good News with others. The world is lost, with millions heading for eternal separation from God. These men, women, and children need to meet and know the Savior. What can you do to share this news of forgiveness with others?

 4. Luke emphasized prayer. At many points in His ministry Jesus prayed (3:21; 5:16; 6:12; 9:18, 29; 22:32, 40-41).

Importance for today:  We can approach our heavenly father as Jesus taught us and modeled. He cares about our needs, our concerns and listens to us.  Do you pray often?

5.  Luke often spoke of joy that accompanies faith and salvation (1:14; 8:13; 10:17; 13:17; 15:5, 9, 32; 19:6, 37).

Importance for today:  Salvation in Jesus Christ the best news in the world.  All of our sins were placed on Jesus Christ at the cross.  We are forgiven.  The angels throw a party; we should celebrate too when someone comes to faith in Christ.   

Until tomorrow, Darrell

 Sources:   Bible Background Commentary, Bible Knowledge Commentary,  Life Application Bible Commentary

For more about The Ridge Fellowship or Darrell Koop, go to www.ridgefellowship.com