What does Luke 1:74 mean?

That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, Luke 1:74

Explanation

Luke 1:74 is a verse within the Canticle of Zechariah, also known as the Benedictus, which is spoken by Zechariah after his speech is restored following the birth of his son John the Baptist. Here, Zechariah is prophesying about the coming Messiah (Jesus) and the salvation He will bring to the people of Israel.

The verse specifically implies that God’s intention in sending the Messiah is not only to free His people from their physical enemies but also to enable them to serve Him without the fear that often arises from oppression or danger. This service is one of worship, obedience, and a relationship untainted by the anxiety of worldly threats. It denotes liberation, both in a political and spiritual sense, and establishes the premise of worship as a central aspect of the relationship between God and His people.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke was written in the context of a Jewish people under Roman occupation, who had long histories with various oppressive regimes including the Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. The promise of deliverance from oppressors would have been deeply resonant for a people whose history was shaped by a longing for freedom and autonomy.

Zechariah was a Jewish priest, and his canticle reflects the anticipation of the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel, promises which are threaded throughout the Old Testament. He blends this hope with the insight of impending spiritual renewal and victory over sin through the ministry of Jesus.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological viewpoint, this verse encapsulates the concept of Christ’s atonement – that God sent His Son to free humanity from the bondage of sin. It also reflects the idea that Christ’s sacrifice enables believers to live a life of holiness and service to God without fear – a significant theme in the New Testament, emphasizing a relationship with God rooted in love rather than fear of punishment or retribution.

Additionally, this can be interpreted in an eschatological sense, where the ultimate deliverance from enemies and fear would occur in the end times, with the establishment of God’s kingdom. It captures the ‘already but not yet’ tension where deliverance has begun with Jesus’ first coming and will be consummated in His second coming.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse can be seen as an encouragement for individuals to live out their faith openly and confidently, without fear of persecution or oppression. It suggests that believers can find strength and boldness through their faith in God, which transcends earthly circumstances.

It also prompts believers to evaluate the quality of their service to God – whether it’s performed out of fear or love and whether they are truly experiencing the freedom that comes through faith in Christ. This verse invites practitioners to a reflective faith that actively seeks to serve God through expressions of gratitude and liberation.

Cross-References

• Isaiah 9:2 – “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light…”
• Romans 6:22 – “But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God…”
• Hebrews 2:14-15 – “…that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death…”
• Psalms 56:11 – “In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.”

Language Study

The original Greek language of this verse contains key words that enrich its meaning:

• “grant” (δῶη – dōē): could be interpreted as ‘to give’, implying a generous gift or bestowal.
• “delivered” (ῥυσθέντες – rhysthentes): means ‘to rescue’ or ‘to draw to oneself’, suggesting a deep level of salvation.
• “serve” (λατρεύειν – latreuein): implies ‘to worship’ or ‘to minister to God’, indicating not just service but a religious and spiritual dedication.
• “without fear” (ἄφοβος – aphobos): indicates the absence of fear, pointing toward a confident and secure state of being.

Understanding these words in their original context gives depth to the notion of the freedom and service that believers are called to in Christ.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the context of other religious and cultural narratives, this concept of being freed from oppressors to serve a deity is not unique. Ancient myths often tell of gods liberating their followers from tyranny or chaos. However, the Christian narrative is distinctive in its personal and intimate implications of serving a loving God without fear – as opposed to serving out of compulsion or to appease a capricious deity.

Scientific Perspectives

The mention of living “without fear” touches upon psychological and sociological dimensions. Modern psychology supports the idea that freedom from fear enables humans to function at their best, with positive implications for mental health. Studies in the field of psychology highlight how fear can be a debilitating emotion, leading to negative physiological and psychological effects. Therefore, the verse’s implication of living without fear aligns with our understanding of human flourishing.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have reflected on Luke 1:74, offering insights:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the mercy of God in the deliverance of His people and correlates this to spiritual and eternal deliverance from sin and death.
• The Expositor’s Bible Commentary discusses the context of Zechariah’s prophecy and how the redemption brought by Christ is both immediate and far-reaching.
• John Calvin comments on the service being one of “unhindered obedience to God,” and reflects on how the knowledge of redemption influences the believers’ lives.
• The IVP New Testament Commentary Series notes the political and social dimensions of this verse while also drawing attention to its spiritual significance for personal transformation and service to God.