What does Luke 1:75 mean?

In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. Luke 1:75

Explanation

The verse Luke 1:75 comes from the New Testament of the Christian Bible, specifically from the Gospel of Luke. It is part of Zechariah’s prophecy, often called the “Benedictus,” which he proclaimed after his speech was restored following the birth of his son, John the Baptist. Literally, this verse speaks to living a life of piety and moral integrity (“holiness and righteousness”) before God for all of one’s days. On a deeper level, it underscores the lifelong devotion and commitment to the service and worship of God. It implies that living in such a way in the presence of God is a desirable and commendable goal for believers.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke was written around the late 1st century CE, possibly between 80-110 CE, and the audience was primarily Greek-speaking Christians of Gentile (non-Jewish) origin. Zechariah, a priest of the order of Abijah, and his wife Elizabeth were considered righteous before God. Upon the miraculous birth of John, who would later be known as John the Baptist, Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and made this prophecy. This context is filled with Jewish customs and messianic expectations and reflects the transition period where early Christian thought was emerging from Jewish traditions.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse encapsulates several key concepts:

• Holiness: This can be seen as separation from sin and dedication to the service of God; a key attribute of God that humans are called to share.

• Righteousness: Typically understood as living in a way that is in accordance with God’s laws and moral principles.

• Presence of God: The idea that living one’s life “before him” suggests constant awareness of and communion with the divine.

Different theological traditions interpret this verse in varying ways. For instance:

• Catholic View: It could be viewed as a call to sanctity and a reminder of the need for grace to live a holy life.

• Protestant View: It’s often seen as part of the assurance of salvation and living a life that reflects one’s faith.

• Orthodox View: It could be understood in the context of theosis, the process of becoming more like God in one’s life.

Practical Applications

Luke 1:75 provides a roadmap for believers in their personal conduct and spiritual journey. It calls for:

• Pursuing a lifestyle that honors God consistently.
• Aiming for moral and ethical uprightness in various aspects of life.
• Sustaining a deep-seated commitment to faith across one’s lifespan.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 4:24 – “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.”
• 1 Peter 1:15-16 – “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.”
• Psalms 23:6 – “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.”

Language Study

• Holiness: The Greek word “ἁγιότητι” (hagioteti) refers to the state of being holy, consecrated, or set apart for sacred use.
• Righteousness: The Greek term “δικαιοσύνῃ” (dikaiosyne) relates to justice, virtue, and rectitude in dealing with others and with God.
• All the days: Implies a continuous, lifelong commitment. The Greek phrase could be translated as “throughout all our days.”

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison with other ancient religions, the emphasis on holiness and righteousness is not unique to Christianity. For example, in Judaism, the pursuit of holiness is central, as it is in various ways to Hinduism and Buddhism, where moral and ethical living is key to spiritual progress. However, the Christian emphasis on grace and faith as the enablers of such a life is distinctive.

Scientific Perspectives

Science, focusing primarily on empirical evidence and the material world, does not typically address concepts such as holiness and righteousness directly. However, the fields of psychology and sociology study the effects of religious belief and moral living on individual well-being and societal health.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have interpreted Luke 1:75 as follows:

• Matthew Henry: He sees this as a universal call to holiness and righteousness, not limited to the priests or a religious elite.
• John Calvin: Emphasizes God’s mercies prividing people the capacity to live such a life.
• William Barclay: Focuses on the idea that it is only in the service of God that we can achieve true happiness and fulfillment, as implied by this life of holiness and righteousness.