What does Luke 1:18 mean?

Explanation

The verse in question, Luke 1:18, captures a moment of doubt and questioning by Zechariah (also spelled Zacharias), who is a priest serving in the temple of Jerusalem.

An angel of the Lord, identified as Gabriel, has just given him astonishing news, the promise that his wife, Elizabeth, will bear a son even though both of them are well beyond childbearing age.

This child is to be John the Baptist, who plays a crucial role in the New Testament as the forerunner of Jesus Christ.

Zechariah's response to this heavenly message is one of skepticism. His question, "Whereby shall I know this?" reflects his disbelief in the possibility of such a miracle happening to him and his wife due to their advanced age.

The phrase "well stricken in years" is an old expression indicating that Elizabeth was past the age of childbearing.

This verse underscores the human tendency to doubt and seek signs as reassurances of God's promises, a theme that is prevalent throughout the Bible. Zechariah is asking for a sign, some physical or tangible evidence to prove that the extraordinary proclamation will indeed come true.

Historical Context

The Gospel of Luke was written in approximately 60-110 AD, a time when early Christians were both Jews and Gentiles.

In the cultural context of that era, not only was barrenness considered a shame or misfortune for women, but the ability to have children was especially significant.

Offspring were seen as a promise for the future, a way to continue one's lineage and to have support in old age.

Zechariah was a priest of the division of Abijah, and his wife was a descendant of Aaron. They were both righteous before God, observing all the commandments and ordinances blamelessly.

The setting of Luke 1:18 is the temple in Jerusalem, a sacred and highly significant place for the Jewish people, where Zechariah was chosen by lot to enter the sanctuary and offer incense.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse can be viewed through various lenses.

In the Christian tradition, it is often seen as an example of human doubt in contrast to divine faithfulness.

The demand for a sign is understood as a lack of faith, as seen later in how Zechariah is temporarily struck mute as a consequence for his disbelief.

The incident can also be interpreted as a lesson in humility and trust in God's power. It serves as a reminder that God's plans are not limited by human understanding or natural laws.

From a theological perspective, Zechariah's doubt is juxtaposed with Mary's faith in the later narrative when she readily accepts the angel Gabriel's announcement of Jesus' birth.

Practical Applications

Practically, Luke 1:18 encourages modern believers to trust in the possibilities of God's power even when circumstances seem impossible. It speaks to the importance of faith and the recognition that divine providence often transcends human reasoning.

This verse can also serve as encouragement to those who have been waiting a long time for the fulfillment of a promise or hope.

Zechariah and Elizabeth waited for many years and had reached an age where the promise seemed impossible.

This reflects the spiritual truth that God's timing is different from ours, and His plans can defy expectations.

Cross-References

• Luke 1:20: "And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season."
• Hebrews 11:11: "Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised."
• Genesis 18:12: "Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?"

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word translated as "Whereby" is "κατὰ τί" (kata ti), which literally means "according to what" or "by what." This phrase showcases Zechariah's seeking of a sign or evidence.

"Know" here comes from the Greek “γνώσομαι” (gnōsomai), which is a future tense verb meaning to learn or perceive, revealing his request for confirmation.

The term "old man" translates the Greek word "πρεσβύτης" (presbytēs), which refers to someone advanced in years, and “well stricken in years” translates to "προβεβηκυῖα ἐν ἡμέραις πολλαῖς" (probebēkuia en hēmerais pollais), which literally means "advanced in many days." These descriptions emphasize the aged state of Zechariah and Elizabeth and their lengthy wait.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The narrative echoes similar stories from the Hebrew Bible, where God blesses a barren couple with a child.

The most famous of these is the story of Abraham and Sarah in Genesis, who also receive divine promise of a child in their old age.

In many ancient cultures, including the Jewish culture of the time, having children was seen as a divine blessing and a sign of continuity.

In other ancient myths and cultures, the gods often intervene in human affairs in miraculous ways, but the biblical tradition is unique in its emphasis on monotheism and the personal, covenant relationship between God and His people.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern science confirms that natural childbearing becomes increasingly unlikely with age, especially after a woman passes through menopause. This scientific understanding highlights the miraculous nature of the birth of John the Baptist as suggested in the narrative.

The account does not align with scientific observations about fertility, indicating a supernatural intervention.

commentaries

Various biblical experts and theologians have commented on this passage:

• John Calvin remarks on Zechariah's unbelief and how it did not annul the promise of God, emphasizing divine mercy despite human doubt.
• Matthew Henry highlights the frailty of human nature in Zechariah's response to the angel, alongside a contrast with Mary's submission when she received her own annunciation.
• The Pulpit Commentary points out that Zechariah's role as a priest should have made him ready to believe the message, yet his doubt demonstrates how even the devout can struggle with faith.
• Adam Clarke notes how Zechariah's questioning of Gabriel contrasts with his wife's later response of gratitude and faith upon conceiving John, illustrating different responses to God's interventions.