What does Luke 1:80 mean?

And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel. Luke 1:80

Explanation

The verse Luke 1:80 pertains to John the Baptist in his childhood. It describes his growth not only physically but also in his spiritual life. The term “waxed strong in spirit” suggests a development of character and a deepening of his spiritual acumen, indicating his preparation for a life of ministry. The mention of his being in the deserts until his public appearance, or ‘shewing’, to Israel indicates that he lived a life of relative solitude. This time in the wilderness is thought to be a time of preparation, where he was away from the distractions of everyday society, possibly living an ascetic life, which would later be reflected in his preaching and teachings.

Historical Context

Lucas 1:80 is within the Infancy Gospel section of the Book of Luke, which was likely composed between AD 80 and 110. The desert reference could connote the desert of Judea, which has significant religious and cultural symbolisms in Jewish history as a place of testing, divine encounter, and prophetic activity. Many important Biblical figures had wilderness experiences, including Moses and Elijah.

Theological Insights

From a Christian theological perspective, this verse foreshadows John the Baptist’s role as the forerunner of Jesus, preparing the way for the Messiah. His time in the wilderness symbolizes a purification process and a time of close communion with God, akin to how prophets in the Old Testament prepared for their ministry. This also indicates the special calling and divine providence over John’s life from a young age.

Practical Applications

The verse can be seen as a lesson in the value of spiritual development and the importance of periods of solitude for personal growth. It suggests that time away from the distractions of the world can be beneficial for strengthening one’s spiritual resolve and preparing for future tasks or ministries. It also speaks to the importance of growing and maturing before taking on significant responsibilities.

Cross-References

• Matthew 3:1-3: “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea…”
• Mark 1:3-4: “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.”
• Luke 3:2-3: “…the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.”
• Isaiah 40:3: “The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the phrase “waxed strong in spirit” is “ἐκραταιοῦτο πνεύματι,” where “ἐκραταιοῦτο” (ekrataiouto) is a verb that means to grow strong or become powerful. “πνεύματι” (pneumati) refers to spirit, which in this context, can imply the human spirit empowered by the Divine Spirit. The word “deserts” (ἐρήμοις – eremois) not only refers to a deserted or uninhabited place but also has connotations of a place of spiritual encounter and testing.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Many ancient religions and mythologies have figures that undergo a period of solitude or wilderness experience before taking on an important role. For instance, in Greek mythology, heroes often undertake quests or trials. John’s time in the desert can be compared to such themes, emphasizing preparation and transformation before one’s significant life work.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific perspective, the benefits of time spent in solitude, as described in this verse, can be supported by studies on meditation and reflection leading to increased self-awareness and reduced stress. Although the scientific perspective does not speak directly to spiritual strength, the mental and psychological benefits of contemplation are well-documented.

Commentaries

Commentators often highlight the purpose of John’s upbringing and its preparation for his later ministry. For example, the Pulpit Commentary observes that Luke wishes to draw attention to the divine character of John’s mission from its earliest days, while the Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges suggests that the life of John in the desert was part of God’s plan for raising up a prophet who would be disentangled from the affairs of the world. Simplified, these interpretations underline the significance of John’s growth in both spiritual maturity and physical stature, specifically within the solitude of the desert, as part of his unique calling to herald the coming of Jesus.