Luke 1a Commentary
The first section is an introduction to the gospel authored by Luke. He is a historian. He has interacted with eyewitnesses of the events surrounding the birth, early life, ministry, death, and resurrection of the LORD Jesus Christ. The interest with which we read this volume increases as we realize that many of the eyewitnesses were actually participants in these events.
The birth of John the Baptist is detailed. It is a miracle as both parents are very old, Zechariah and Elizabeth, probably Elizabeth is well past her fertility. The LORD God seems to thrive in barren conditions: Check the case of Isaac’s birth to Abraham and Sarah; Samson’s birth to Manoah and his wife; and Samuel’s birth to Elkanah and Hannah.
John’s father Zechariah was actually a priest! You would guess John was raised up to function as a priest. He should know all about the scriptures. They were based around or not too far from Jerusalem because of the mention of Zechariah’s work at the temple of the LORD.
Check verse 15. John was never to take wine or any other fermented drink. These were the same instructions for Samson, who was also born under barren conditions. Like Samuel, John would live like a Nazirite. You would guess he was never to cut his hair unless the rules were relaxed for the Nazirites during this time!
John would operate in the spirit and power of Elijah! Verse 17. Elijah confronted King Ahab and his wicked wife Jezebel over their wickedness. John confronted King Herod and his wicked wife Herodias, as we read in both Matthew and Mark. In fact, John died at the request of Herodias after her daughter’s wicked dance.
There is another baby whose birth is announced by the angel of the LORD, Gabriel. He would be called Jesus, Son of the Most High. Now this is big! Jesus would sit on David’s throne! His dynasty would never end!
This is interesting. Yes, the events in this chapter have fulfilled the scriptures, but they have also ripped apart the script. The LORD promised that David’s son would have an everlasting dynasty, first Samuel 7. (Of course we know it wasn’t the mortal Solomon). It is not actually David’s son but God’s Son, the son born to us with the government on His shoulders. Isaiah 9.
The baby would be born to a young virgin called Mary – a slight improvement from the usual barren situations! An impossible situation, nevertheless! Technically and based on Jesus’ virgin birth, David’s claim to this child is zeroed. This is peaceful confusion but we understand.
Mission successfully completed. The angel has a better report this time. No one is left mute because of doubt. We guess the angel made the right decision to talk to the woman this time! They have more faith and fewer questions. No such good results with Zechariah!
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