What does Luke 1:68 mean?

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, Luke 1:68

Explanation

The verse Luke 1:68 comes from the New Testament of the Christian Bible and is a part of a hymn of praise known as the Benedictus, which was spoken by Zechariah, the father of John the Baptist, after his speech was restored upon the birth of his son. The verse expresses profound gratitude and worship towards the Lord God of Israel, who is being praised for his actions towards His people.

There are two key actions of God that Zechariah is praising: “visited” and “redeemed”. “Visited” suggests a personal, intimate involvement of God in the affairs of humanity, implying a compassionate and caring aspect of His nature. “Redeemed” refers to the act of saving or delivering. In the context of Israel’s history, this would evoke memories of deliverance from slavery in Egypt and other acts of salvation God provided to Israel. The redemption spoken of here is seen as both a fulfillment of past promises and the initiation of a new act of salvation through the coming Messiah, whom Christians believe to be Jesus Christ.

Historical Context

This verse is located in the Gospel of Luke, one of the four canonical gospels in the New Testament. The passage from which this verse is taken reflects the joy and relief of Zechariah following the birth of his son, John the Baptist, and the restoration of his speech – a miraculous event after he had been made mute because of his initial disbelief. The historical context sees Israel under Roman occupation, with the people awaiting the coming of a promised Messiah who would restore the kingdom to Israel.

Luke’s gospel was written for a Greek-speaking audience, potentially Gentile converts to Christianity, and its narrative often emphasizes the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy and links to the broader history of Israel. Zechariah’s words reflect these themes and are steeped in Jewish messianic expectation.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse encapsulates several significant doctrines. Firstly, it speaks of God’s faithfulness to His promises—specifically, the promise of a redeemer. To Christians, this shows God as one who keeps His covenant with His people. Secondly, it alludes to the Incarnation, in Christian theology, the ultimate visitation of God in the person of Jesus Christ.

From a Jewish perspective, the visitation and redemption may be understood in terms of God’s ongoing relationship with Israel and His interventions in history. It does not necessarily point to the arrival of a Messiah in the person of Jesus but rather the presence of God in the life of His people.

Practical Applications

The teachings of Luke 1:68 can inspire individuals to recognize and give thanks for the ways in which they perceive God acting in their own lives. It also acts as a reminder for believers to look for the fulfillment of promises and to maintain hope in times of oppression or difficulty. Moreover, the acknowledgment of God as one who “visits and redeems” can encourage acts of compassion and redemption towards others.

Cross-References

• Mary’s Song of Praise: “And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,” (Luke 1:46)
• God’s Faithfulness to Abraham: “As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.” (Luke 1:55)
• The Coming of Salvation: “To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant;” (Luke 1:72)
• God’s Deliverance from Egypt: “The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation:” (Exodus 15:2)

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek of this verse warrant attention:

• Visited (ἐπεσκέψατο, epeskepsato): This word implies more than a mere passing glance; it indicates careful attention and help given to someone.
• Redeemed (ἐλυτρώσατο, elyrōsato): It stems from the root word for ransom and conveys the idea of liberation or purchase back, often at a cost.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of gods visiting and delivering their people is not unique to Judaism or Christianity and can be found in other religious traditions. In ancient myths, gods often intervene in human affairs, offering aid or bringing salvation. However, the Judeo-Christian concept is distinct in its monotheism and in viewing such divine acts as expressions of covenantal love rather than capricious divine involvement.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science looks at biblical verses as literary rather than empirical claims, focusing on the cultural, psychological, and societal functions these narratives serve. Any intersection with science is typically tangential, as scientific methodologies do not address supernatural events or divine interventions.

Commentaries

Many biblical scholars and theologians have commented on Luke 1:68. Some focus on its connection to the Old Testament promises and the nature of God’s redemption. Others have viewed it through Christological lenses, seeing it as prophetic of the New Testament’s message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Overall, commentaries often emphasize Zechariah’s prophecy as a fulfillment of long-held messianic hopes and its significance for both Jewish and Christian audiences.