1.How can we recognize, solely by reading what Jesus predicted in Mark 14:9, that another of Jesus’ predictions—a highly unlikely prediction given the circumstances under which it was made—is actually being fulfilled?

In Mark 14:9, Jesus predicts: “Truly I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her.”

This statement refers to the action of a woman who anointed Jesus with expensive oil. Jesus explains that this deed will become known worldwide whenever the gospel is proclaimed. Given the circumstances at the time, this prediction seemed extremely unlikely. Jesus was not yet a globally recognized leader, and the idea that his message and the memory of this woman would be proclaimed “throughout the world” was hard to imagine.

The fact that today, solely through reading the Gospels, we know about this woman and her act shows that Jesus’ prediction has indeed been fulfilled. Christianity has spread globally, and the story of this woman has been passed down through generations in many countries and cultures.

By reading Mark 14:9, we thus recognize that a seemingly unlikely prediction—the global recognition of a small, inconspicuous act—has actually come true. This reinforces our confidence in other prophecies of Jesus, including those that seemed unlikely or impossible under the circumstances at the time.

2.Compare Judas and Peter and juxtapose them. In what ways were they similar, and how did their behaviors differ in the Passion narrative?

Judas and Peter are central figures in the Passion narrative of Jesus, both closely involved in the events leading to Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion. They share similarities but also have significant differences in their behavior and responses to their actions.

Similarities:

1. Proximity to Jesus: Both Judas and Peter were among the twelve closest disciples of Jesus. They accompanied Him on His journeys, listened to His teachings, and witnessed His miracles. They both had a close relationship with Jesus.

2. Betrayal: Both disciples betrayed Jesus in the Passion narrative. Judas betrayed Jesus by handing Him over to the chief priests and Roman soldiers. Peter, on the other hand, denied Jesus three times when confronted about His followers.

3. Prediction of Betrayal: Jesus predicted their impending failures. He announced that Judas would betray Him (Mark 14:18-21) and also foretold that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed (Mark 14:30).

Differences:

1. Intent and Action: Judas’ betrayal was a deliberate and conscious act, as he made a deal with the chief priests to hand over Jesus for thirty pieces of silver (Mark 14:10-11). His betrayal was motivated by greed or political reasons. In contrast, Peter’s denial was unplanned. He acted out of fear and weakness in a stressful and dangerous situation, denying Jesus to protect himself when faced with the possibility of arrest or persecution.

2. Repentance and Reaction to Betrayal: After his betrayal, Judas reacted with guilt and deep despair. He attempted to return the money and repented for what he had done (Matthew 27:3-5). However, his remorse did not lead to repentance; instead, he committed suicide. Peter, on the other hand, showed deep regret after his denial. After the rooster crowed, he remembered Jesus’ words and “wept bitterly” (Mark 14:72). Unlike Judas, Peter sought forgiveness and later returned as one of the leading apostles in the community.

3. Outcome: The greatest difference lies in the consequences of their betrayals. Judas’ story ends tragically with his death, while Peter receives a second chance and is forgiven by Jesus after the resurrection (John 21:15-19). Peter ultimately becomes an important leader of the early church. Judas, however, is remembered in tradition as the one who handed Jesus over, marking him negatively in Christian history.

Conclusion:

Both Judas and Peter committed betrayals in the Passion story of Jesus, but they differ significantly in the intent behind their actions and their responses afterward. While Judas acted deliberately and calculatedly, Peter was overwhelmed by fear. The most important difference is how they dealt with their guilt: Judas fell into despair, whereas Peter showed remorse and sought forgiveness. This led Peter to take on a central role in the early church, while Judas’ story ended tragically.

3.Discuss the significance of the Lord’s Supper. How can we make it more meaningful in our church and involve more members in the celebration?

Significance of the Lord’s Supper

The Lord’s Supper, also known as the Eucharist or Communion, is one of the central sacraments in Christianity and commemorates the last meal Jesus shared with His disciples on the evening before His crucifixion. In Mark 14:22-24, Jesus says: “Take, eat; this is my body.” “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.”

The Lord’s Supper symbolizes Jesus’ dedication and His sacrifice on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. It is an act of remembering His love and redemptive work. Furthermore, it signifies the community of believers united in Christ. By breaking the bread and drinking the wine, Christians not only share in the memory of Jesus’ death but also in the hope of eternal life made possible through His resurrection.

How to Make the Lord’s Supper More Meaningful

1. Deeper Spiritual Preparation: One way to make the Lord’s Supper more meaningful is to provide believers with more space for spiritual preparation. This could involve Bible readings, silent meditation, or prayer to reflect on the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice and their personal relationship with Him.

2. Integration into the Worship Service: The Lord’s Supper could be more deeply integrated into the worship service. Instead of a separate, quick ceremony, it could be celebrated as the highlight of the service, with sermons and hymns thematically focused on Jesus’ sacrifice. This approach would emphasize the Eucharist’s significance for the community and faith.

3. Shared Prayer and Thanksgiving: After distributing the bread and wine, the congregation could engage in a collective prayer of gratitude for Jesus’ sacrifice. This could strengthen the sense of community and highlight the spiritual value of the Lord’s Supper.

4. Visualization and Symbolism: Using symbols, such as a special table for the Lord’s Supper or displaying a cross that points to Jesus, can deepen the visual significance of the celebration. A solemn altar with candles, bread, and wine could make the ceremony more impactful.

How to Involve More Members in the Celebration

1. Children and Families: Many churches have special programs for children during the worship service. One way to involve more members in the Lord’s Supper is to actively include children and families by providing age-appropriate explanations of its significance and encouraging families to participate together.

2. Expanding Roles: More church members could be actively involved in the celebration, such as by distributing bread and wine or reading scripture passages. This involvement can help believers feel more connected to the ritual.

3. Promoting Unity and Community: The Lord’s Supper could be complemented by communal activities like a shared meal or a gathering after the service. Such settings could strengthen the fellowship of believers and foster a deeper sense of belonging.

4. Encouraging Active Participation: The church could encourage believers who might be hesitant or unsure to participate regularly in the Lord’s Supper. This could be supported through pastoral conversations, educational programs, or special prayer evenings to remove barriers and promote participation.

Conclusion

The Lord’s Supper is a deeply spiritual and meaningful celebration that centers on Jesus’ sacrifice and love. By preparing spiritually, emphasizing symbolism, and actively involving all church members, we can deepen the significance of the Lord’s Supper and encourage more people to participate. The community formed through sharing bread and wine is a powerful symbol of unity in faith and reminds us of the core message of the Gospel.

4.Discuss the fact that God said “no” to Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane. What does it mean when God says “no” to us?

God’s “No” to Jesus’ Prayer in Gethsemane

In Gethsemane, Jesus prays shortly before His arrest: “Abba, Father, everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” (Mark 14:36)

This prayer reveals Jesus’ human side, fearing the impending pain and suffering. He asks God to remove the “cup” of suffering from Him but simultaneously submits to God’s will. Ultimately, Jesus’ prayer was not answered in the way He had hoped: God said “no,” and Jesus had to endure the path of suffering to the cross.

However, God’s “no” to this prayer was not an expression of rejection or indifference to Jesus’ pain but part of God’s greater plan for humanity. Through Jesus’ suffering and death, redemption for all people was made possible. God’s “no” ultimately served a higher purpose, which Jesus accepted in obedience.

What It Means When God Says “No” to Us

1. God’s Will Is Greater Than Our Understanding: When God says “no” to our prayers, it can often be difficult to accept because we may not understand it from our limited perspective. Just as Jesus in Gethsemane could not fully comprehend the forthcoming redemption, we cannot always see God’s larger plan. A “no” often means that God has something else planned for us that is for our good or serves a greater purpose.

2. Trusting in God’s Plan: A “no” from God invites us to develop a deeper trust in His plan. Just as Jesus prayed, “Not my will, but yours be done,” a divine “no” challenges us to subordinate our own will and desires to God’s will. It is a call to believe in God’s wisdom and love, even when the answer is not what we hoped for.

3. God Is Always with Us, Even in “No”: Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane shows that God is not distant or indifferent despite the “no.” God was with Jesus throughout His suffering, giving Him strength and carrying Him through the cross. Similarly, God is with us even when He says “no” to our requests. He does not abandon us but provides the strength to face the challenges ahead.

4. A “No” Can Lead to Something Greater: Often, we later realize that God’s “no” led us to something better or deeper than we could have ever imagined. The Bible has many examples where a “no” from God in the present leads to a greater blessing in the future. God’s “no” is not the end but often the beginning of something new that He wants to work in our lives.

5. Developing Patience and Obedience: A “no” from God is also an opportunity to learn patience and obedience. Just as Jesus submitted to the Father’s will, we are invited to practice patience and trust that God’s timetable is different and better than ours. It challenges us to rely not on the fulfillment of our desires but on God’s goodness.

Conclusion

When God says “no” to us, it may initially be painful or disappointing. However, Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane shows that God’s “no” can be part of a larger plan that we may only understand later. It calls us to develop trust, practice obedience, and cultivate patience, knowing that God remains with us and guides us through difficult times. A “no” from God is not the end of our relationship with Him but often the beginning of a deeper understanding of His will and love.

5.Although Peter greatly disappointed Jesus through his denials, Jesus did not reject him. What hope can you draw for yourself from this fact?

The story of Peter’s denials and his later restoration by Jesus is a powerful source of hope. It shows that even a severe failure does not mean the end of our relationship with God. Here are some aspects from which we can draw hope:

1. Forgiveness and Grace: Jesus did not reject Peter despite his three denials. This demonstrates that God’s grace is greater than our failures. No matter how severe our mistakes may be, God always offers us the possibility of forgiveness and renewal.

2. A Second Chance: After his failure, Peter was given a new opportunity to follow Jesus and play a significant role in the church. This gives us hope that God continually provides us with new chances to fulfill our callings and realize His plans in our lives.

3. God Sees Our Potential: Jesus was aware of Peter’s weaknesses but also saw his potential. This gives us hope that God does not define us solely by our failures but assesses us based on our true potential and guides us to achieve it.

4. God Remains Faithful: The fact that Jesus did not reject Peter shows that God remains with us even in our darkest moments. We can be confident that God does not abandon us when we fail but instead leads us on the path of healing and renewal.

From this story, we can draw hope that God loves us, forgives us, and always gives us the opportunity to start anew, regardless of our mistakes or weaknesses.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-taken-and-tried-11-7-questions-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

September 14, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 2

¹ And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

² (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

³ And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

⁴ And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

⁵ To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

⁶ And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

⁷ And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

⁸ And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

⁹ And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

¹⁰ And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

¹¹ For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

¹² And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

¹³ And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

¹⁴ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

¹⁵ And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

¹⁶ And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

¹⁷ And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

¹⁸ And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

¹⁹ But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

²⁰ And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

²¹ And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

²² And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;

²³ (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)

²⁴ And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

²⁵ And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.

²⁶ And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.

²⁷ And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,

²⁸ Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

²⁹ Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:

³⁰ For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,

³¹ Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

³² A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

³³ And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.

³⁴ And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;

³⁵ (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

³⁶ And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;

³⁷ And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.

³⁸ And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

³⁹ And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.

⁴⁰ And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.

⁴¹ Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.

⁴² And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.

⁴³ And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it.

⁴⁴ But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance.

⁴⁵ And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.

⁴⁶ And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.

⁴⁷ And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.

⁴⁸ And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.

⁴⁹ And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?

⁵⁰ And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them.

⁵¹ And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

⁵² And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Luke Chapter 2 contains the story of the birth of Jesus, one of the most central events in the Christian faith. The account begins with the census that leads Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem and culminates in the birth of the Savior in humble and modest circumstances. Additionally, we encounter important figures such as the shepherds and Simeon, who play a special role in recognizing the significance of Jesus. This chapter emphasizes the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and divine providence, which is revealed through the birth of the Savior.

Commentary

Luke 2 begins with a historical context: the census ordered by Emperor Augustus forces Joseph and Mary to travel to Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy from Micah 5:1 that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. The circumstances of Jesus’ birth, in a manger with no room in the inn, highlight the humility and simplicity with which the Savior of the world enters the world.

The appearance of the angel to the shepherds emphasizes the fact that the good news is first proclaimed to the lowly and the outcasts. This is a strong indication that Jesus’ mission is for all people, regardless of their social status. The angel announces that the Savior, the Messiah, is born in the city of David, and the shepherds respond with faith and haste to see the child.

The presentation of Jesus in the temple and the encounter with Simeon and Anna emphasize the fulfillment of Old Testament promises. Simeon recognizes in the child the “light for revelation to the Gentiles,” confirming that Jesus came not only for Israel but for the entire world. Simeon’s prophetic words to Mary about the sword that will pierce her soul already point to the coming suffering she will endure as Jesus’ mother.

Later in the chapter, we see the twelve-year-old Jesus in the temple, where he engages in discussions with the teachers of the law. This event reveals his early wisdom and his awareness of his special relationship with God, his Father. It highlights that Jesus recognized his divine calling from a young age.

Summary

Luke 2 narrates the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, his presentation in the temple, and his early wisdom as a child. The humility of his birth and the joy of the shepherds, who are the first to hear the news, underline the universal significance of the Savior for all people. Simeon and Anna confirm that Jesus is the fulfillment of the messianic prophecies. The chapter concludes with an episode from Jesus’ childhood, demonstrating his exceptional wisdom and divine calling. Luke 2 clearly shows that Jesus is the promised Messiah, bringing light and salvation to all nations.

 

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/14-09-2024-luke-chapter-2-believe-his-prophets/

11.6 Summary
Betrayal, Denial, and Steadfastness: Jesus’ Path Before the Court

Lesson 11 addresses the decisive events in the life of Jesus shortly before his crucifixion, illuminating both the emotional and spiritual dimensions of these events. The lesson is divided into several key sections, each providing deeper insights into the challenges and lessons to be learned from the Passion narrative.

11.1 Unforgettable:
The beginning of this lesson reminds us of the unforgettable moments that shaped the course of Jesus’ Passion. These events are not only historical facts but also significant lessons for our own faith life. The memories of these moments serve as a constant reminder of the profound truths and lessons that we will encounter in the following sections.

11.2 The Last Supper:
The Last Supper, which is discussed in this lesson, is a moment of deep significance. Jesus celebrates the Passover with his disciples and establishes the Eucharist as a symbol of his sacrifice. This final meal is not only an act of community but also a solemn proclamation of the new covenant that Jesus will establish through his blood. It demonstrates his love and dedication for humanity, even in the face of the impending suffering.

11.3 Gethsemane:
In the Garden of Gethsemane, we see Jesus in deep fear and sorrow as he prepares for the upcoming suffering. His prayer, “Not my will, but yours be done,” illustrates his willingness to fulfill God’s will, even if it costs him immense pain. This scene shows us the human suffering and spiritual anguish that Jesus experiences and invites us to seek God in prayer and accept His will during times of trial.

11.4 Leaving Everything to Flee from Jesus:
The disciples’ flight after Jesus’ arrest reflects the human tendency to flee in times of danger and uncertainty. The disciples, who had previously declared their steadfastness to Jesus, show a startling fragility as they withdraw in fear and panic. This reaction highlights human weakness and the necessity to remain faithful during times of trial.

11.5 Who Are You?:
In contrast to Jesus’ steadfastness, this section depicts Peter’s denial. While Jesus stands calmly and resolutely before the High Council and confesses his identity, Peter denies his master three times out of fear and uncertainty. This scene reveals the stark contrast between divine constancy and human weakness and teaches us that even our greatest role models can make mistakes. However, Peter’s later remorse shows that there is always room for repentance and forgiveness.

Lesson 11 provides us with a profound insight into the last hours before Jesus’ crucifixion. It shows us how Jesus remains steadfast despite the impending suffering and fulfills God’s will. The human weakness manifested in the disciples’ flight and Peter’s denial is counterbalanced by the message of forgiveness and renewal that we learn in this lesson. These events offer valuable lessons on how we can remain steadfast in our own faith journey, even when faced with our own weaknesses and challenges. The lesson encourages us to hold onto God’s plan in times of need and to accept the grace He offers us through Christ.

The connection between the events in Lesson 11 and our everyday life and faith is profound. It shows us that, similar to the disciples, we can tend to drift away from our faith and convictions in times of fear, uncertainty, or temptation. The lesson reminds us that human weakness is inevitable – as seen in Peter’s denial or the disciples’ flight – but that God’s grace and forgiveness are always ready to receive us when we repent.

In daily life, we often encounter situations where our faith is tested, whether by external pressure, personal challenges, or doubts. Jesus’ steadfastness amid condemnation and suffering inspires us to remain faithful in such times and to seek God’s will, even when it is difficult. At the same time, Peter’s denial and later remorse offer comfort: mistakes are part of our faith journey, but there is always the possibility to repent and be renewed.

This lesson teaches us that, despite our human weaknesses, we can always return to God through His infinite grace and forgiveness to start anew. It encourages us to firmly trust in God’s plan and rely on His love during times of need and trials.

God’s grace triumphs over our weaknesses and always offers us a new chance for repentance and renewal.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-11-taken-and-tried-11-6-summary-the-book-of-mark-living-faith/

The Message of the Book of Luke

The central message of the Gospel of Luke in the Bible is that Jesus Christ is the Savior for all people. Luke emphasizes God’s universal salvation and mercy, which extend not only to the Jewish people but to all humanity, including the poor, the outcast, and the Gentiles.

Here are some key themes and messages of Luke’s Gospel:

Jesus as the Savior of the Whole World: Luke underscores that Jesus came to bring salvation to all people, regardless of social status, ethnicity, or gender. This is particularly evident in stories like the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37) and the encounter with Zacchaeus, the tax collector (Luke 19:1–10).

God’s Mercy and Love: Luke strongly emphasizes God’s mercy. Many parables and events in this Gospel show how God forgives sinners and seeks them out. A notable example is the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32), which illustrates the Father’s unconditional love for a lost son.

Jesus and the Poor: Luke places special emphasis on the poor and socially disadvantaged. Jesus dedicates himself in a particular way to the needy and the weak, as seen in his first public appearance in the synagogue of Nazareth, where he reads from Isaiah: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor…” (Luke 4:18).

Prayer and Closeness to God: Prayer plays an important role in Luke. Jesus is often shown praying, and the Gospel also contains key passages about prayer, such as the Lord’s Prayer (Luke 11:1–4) and the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1–8), which teaches us to always persevere in prayer.

The Role of the Holy Spirit: Luke highlights the Holy Spirit and its role in guiding and empowering Jesus throughout his ministry. From the announcement of Jesus’ birth to the fulfillment of the apostles on Pentecost (continued in the Book of Acts, also written by Luke), the Holy Spirit is a central theme.

Joy and Praise: Joy and praise are present throughout the entire Gospel. From the joyful reactions to Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:10) to the many occasions where people praise and glorify God after witnessing Jesus’ miracles.

In summary, Luke presents Jesus as the merciful Savior who has come to draw people from all walks of life to himself and to bring them salvation and hope.

 

September 13, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Luke Chapter 1

¹ Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us,

² Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;

³ It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,

⁴ That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.

⁵ There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth.

⁶ And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

⁷ And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.

⁸ And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest’s office before God in the order of his course,

⁹ According to the custom of the priest’s office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.

¹⁰ And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.

¹¹ And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense.

¹² And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.

¹³ But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.

¹⁴ And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.

¹⁵ For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother’s womb.

¹⁶ And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.

¹⁷ And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.

¹⁸ And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years.

¹⁹ And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.

²⁰ And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.

²¹ And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple.

²² And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple: for he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.

²³ And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house.

²⁴ And after those days his wife Elisabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying,

²⁵ Thus hath the Lord dealt with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.

²⁶ And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth,

²⁷ To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary.

²⁸ And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

²⁹ And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.

³⁰ And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.

³¹ And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus.

³² He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:

³³ And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

³⁴ Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?

³⁵ And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

³⁶ And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

³⁷ For with God nothing shall be impossible.

³⁸ And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.

³⁹ And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda;

⁴⁰ And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.

⁴¹ And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:

⁴² And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

⁴³ And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

⁴⁴ For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.

⁴⁵ And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.

⁴⁶ And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,

⁴⁷ And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

⁴⁸ For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.

⁴⁹ For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name.

⁵⁰ And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation.

⁵¹ He hath shewed strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

⁵² He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.

⁵³ He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.

⁵⁴ He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy;

⁵⁵ As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.

⁵⁶ And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.

⁵⁷ Now Elisabeth’s full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.

⁵⁸ And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.

⁵⁹ And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.

⁶⁰ And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.

⁶¹ And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name.

⁶² And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.

⁶³ And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.

⁶⁴ And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.

⁶⁵ And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.

⁶⁶ And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.

⁶⁷ And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying,

⁶⁸ Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people,

⁶⁹ And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;

⁷⁰ As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began:

⁷¹ That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us;

⁷² To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;

⁷³ The oath which he sware to our father Abraham,

⁷⁴ That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear,

⁷⁵ In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.

⁷⁶ And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways;

⁷⁷ To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,

⁷⁸ Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us,

⁷⁹ To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

⁸⁰ And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Luke 1 serves as the opening of one of the four Gospels and lays the foundation for the narrative of Jesus’ birth and ministry. Luke, as a meticulous historian, addresses his Gospel to Theophilus to provide an orderly and reliable account of the events surrounding the coming of the Messiah. This chapter recounts two significant announcements by the angel Gabriel: the birth of John the Baptist and the birth of Jesus. It speaks of divine providence, grace, and the fulfillment of ancient prophetic promises.

Commentary

Luke begins his Gospel with a detailed and carefully structured narrative that demonstrates how God intervenes in history. The births of John the Baptist and Jesus are not described as ordinary events but as part of God’s grand plan of redemption. This is especially evident in the encounters between the angel Gabriel and Zechariah, as well as Gabriel and Mary.

Zechariah, the priest, and his wife Elizabeth are examples of faith and obedience to God, despite their long-standing childlessness. Their story illustrates that God’s timing often surpasses our expectations, but His promises are always fulfilled. The announcement of the birth of John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ, is a sign of the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy.

The encounter between the angel Gabriel and Mary reveals God’s willingness to accomplish great deeds through humble and modest people like Mary. Mary is portrayed as a model of faith as she willingly accepts the role God has set for her, despite the challenges involved.

The chapter concludes with the prophetic songs of praise from Mary (the Magnificat) and Zechariah, both exalting the greatness and mercy of God. These songs express deep trust in God’s plan and anticipation of the coming salvation.

Summary

Luke Chapter 1 portrays God’s providence in preparing for the birth of Jesus and his forerunner, John the Baptist. Through the angelic announcements and the miraculous pregnancies of Elizabeth and Mary, it becomes clear that God is actively involved in the lives of people to fulfill His plan of salvation. The obedience and faith of the key figures—Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, and later John—are central to this chapter and highlight the importance of trusting in God’s plan. God’s mercy and faithfulness are a recurring theme throughout the chapter, which concludes with praise and anticipation for the imminent fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/13-09-2024-luke-chapter-1-believe-his-prophets/