Luke 1:5-25

The Birth of John the Baptist Foretold

As I have said before, Luke is very detail oriented.  Here he provides us with a time, place, and background information:

First, we are given a time frame - during the reign of Herod king of Judea.  Herod ruled from 73 B.C. - 4 B.C.

Secondly, a place:  Jerusalem.  Both Zechariah & Elizabeth are from the line of Aaron- this is the line of priests.  Zechariah was a priest in the division of Abijah.  There were 24 priestly divisions that served in a rotating system.  Each division served for one week twice a year.  According to commentary by David Guzik,
"There were several lots cast to determine who did what at the morning sacrifice. The first lot determined who would cleanse the altar and prepare its fire; the second lot determined who would kill the morning sacrifice and sprinkle the altar, the golden candlestick, and the altar of incense. The third lot determined who would come and offer incense. This was the most privileged duty; those who received the first and second lots would repeat their duty at the evening sacrifice, but not with the third lot. To offer the incense would be a once in a lifetime opportunity."

Finally, a background:  even though Zechariah & Elizabeth were blameless, they were childless.  This was a mark of disgrace in these times. 

So, Zechariah is serving in the Temple, lighting the incense (a once in a lifetime event) & an angel appears, telling him that he will have a son.  Not just any son, but a son that will fulfill a prophecy - this son (to be named John) will usher in the coming of the Messiah.  As a priest, Zechariah is very aware of this prophecy.  Pretty interesting stuff!

However, Zechariah questions the angel.  He doesn't take the angel at his word, he wants some sign of assurance.  So, the angel strikes him mute until the child is born.  Talk about a sign! 

Zechariah finishes his serve in the temple, goes home, & Elizabeth becomes pregnant.  Now, watch the time line.  Luke tells us that Elizabeth was pregnant for 5 months before . . . well, we'll get to that tomorrow.